Study suggests animals think probabilistically to distinguish contexts
New statistical model may help scientists understand how animals infer whether surroundings are novel or haven’t changed enough to be a new context.
SMART research enhances dengue vaccination in mice
Sequential immunization might be safer and more effective than the existing tetravalent vaccine.
Proteins — and labs — coming together to prevent Rett syndrome
Disruption of condensates in the neurodevelopmental disorder provides insights into how cells compartmentalize chromosomes, as well as new potential therapies.
3 Questions: Jonathan King on the future of nuclear weapons testing
Professor of biology discusses a scientist’s responsibility to speak out about important issues that affect our nation and the world.
Bringing RNA into genomics
ENCODE consortium identifies RNA sequences that are involved in regulating gene expression.
Gene-controlling mechanisms play key role in cancer progression
Study finds “epigenomic” alterations evolve as lung tumors become more aggressive and metastasize.
3 Questions: Ibrahim Cissé on using physics to decipher biology
A physicist employs super-resolution microscopy to peer inside living cells and witness never-before-seen phenomena.
Seemingly similar, two neurons show distinct styles as they interact with the same muscle partner
Diversity in how cells talk to the muscle they innervate reveal distinct propensities for change, or “plasticity.”
LEAH Knox Scholars Program kicks off fourth summer
The science program for local high school students is remote this year, as MIT instructors create at-home lab experiences.
Flatworms muscle new eyes' wiring into their brains
Peter Reddien's lab at the Whitehead Institute takes a step forward in understanding how neural circuits could be regenerated in adults.
Twelve MIT faculty honored as “Committed to Caring” for 2020-2021
Honor recognizes faculty mentors who devote true attention to students’ well-being.
Learning during lockdown
Whether seeking a career change or rediscovering intellectual pursuits, learners worldwide turn to MITx courses.
Biology community holds daylong program to address diversity and inclusion
In honor of #ShutDownSTEM, students, faculty, and staff facilitated virtual discussions to understand and combat anti-Black racism in academia.
How cancer drugs find their targets
Certain cancer therapeutics concentrate within cells — a finding that could change the way scientists think about drug design.
Like a treasure map, brain region emphasizes reward location
The lateral septum encodes spatial information with a special emphasis on where the reward lies.