Matthew Shoulders named head of the Department of Chemistry
A leading researcher in protein folding biochemistry and next-generation protein engineering techniques will advance chemistry research and education.
Chemists create red fluorescent dyes that may enable clearer biomedical imaging
The new dyes are based on boron-containing molecules that were previously too unstable for practical use.
A simple formula could guide the design of faster-charging, longer-lasting batteries
MIT researchers developed a model that explains lithium intercalation rates in lithium-ion batteries.
The first animals on Earth may have been sea sponges, study suggests
MIT researchers traced chemical fossils in ancient rocks to the ancestors of modern-day demosponges.
This MIT spinout is taking biomolecule storage out of the freezer
Cache DNA has developed technologies that can preserve biomolecules at room temperature to make storing and transporting samples less expensive and more reliable.
“Bottlebrush” particles deliver big chemotherapy payloads directly to cancer cells
Outfitted with antibodies that guide them to the tumor site, the new nanoparticles could reduce the side effects of treatment.
A boost for the precision of genome editing
Researchers develop a fast-acting, cell-permeable protein system to control CRISPR-Cas9, reducing off-target effects and advancing gene therapy.
A new model predicts how molecules will dissolve in different solvents
Solubility predictions could make it easier to design and synthesize new drugs, while minimizing the use of more hazardous solvents.
Planets without water could still produce certain liquids, a new study finds
Lab experiments show “ionic liquids” can form through common planetary processes and might be capable of supporting life even on waterless planets.
AI helps chemists develop tougher plastics
Researchers created polymers that are more resistant to tearing by incorporating stress-responsive molecules identified by a machine-learning model.
New system dramatically speeds the search for polymer materials
The platform identifies, mixes, and tests up to 700 new polymer blends a day for applications like protein stabilization, battery electrolytes, or drug-delivery materials.
New machine-learning application to help researchers predict chemical properties
ChemXploreML makes advanced chemical predictions easier and faster — without requiring deep programming skills.
New AI system uncovers hidden cell subtypes, boosts precision medicine
CellLENS reveals hidden patterns in cell behavior within tissues, offering deeper insights into cell heterogeneity — vital for advancing cancer immunotherapy.
MIT chemists boost the efficiency of a key enzyme in photosynthesis
The enzyme, known as rubisco, helps plants and photosynthetic bacteria incorporate carbon dioxide into sugars.
Inspiring student growth
Professors Xiao Wang and Rodrigo Verdi are honored as “Committed to Caring.”