Tracing a cancer’s family tree to its roots reveals how tumors grow
Family trees of lung cancer cells reveal how cancer evolves from its earliest stages to an aggressive form capable of spreading throughout the body.
Structures considered key to gene expression are surprisingly fleeting
Study finds genome loops don’t last long in cells; theories of how loops control gene expression may need to be revised.
Yukiko Yamashita, unraveler of stem cells’ secrets
The MIT biologist’s research has shed light on the immortality of germline cells and the function of “junk DNA.”
An “oracle” for predicting the evolution of gene regulation
Researchers create a mathematical framework to examine the genome and detect signatures of natural selection, deciphering the evolutionary past and future of non-coding DNA.
Probing how proteins pair up inside cells
MIT biologists drilled down into how proteins recognize and bind to one another, informing drug treatments for cancer.
Making RNA vaccines easier to swallow
A pill that releases RNA in the stomach could offer a new way to administer vaccines, or to deliver therapies for gastrointestinal disease.
In Down syndrome cells, genome-wide disruptions mimic a senescence-like state
Extra chromosome alters chromosomal conformation and DNA accessibility in neural progenitor cells; study establishes senescence as a potentially targetable mechanism for future treatment.
Speeding up directed evolution of molecules in the lab
Using a new robotic platform, researchers can simultaneously track hundreds of microbial populations as they evolve new proteins or other molecules.
How molecular clusters in the nucleus interact with chromosomes
A new study finds the clusters form small, stable droplets and may give the genome a gel-like structure.
Engineers devise a way to selectively turn on RNA therapies in human cells
A new RNA-based control switch could be used to trigger production of therapeutic proteins to treat cancer or other diseases.
Cellular environments shape molecular architecture
Researchers glean a more complete picture of a structure called the nuclear pore complex by studying it directly inside cells.
RNA-targeting enzyme expands the CRISPR toolkit
Exploring diversity among bacterial immune systems, McGovern Institute scientists uncovere a programmable system for precisely targeting and modifying RNA.
New programmable gene editing proteins found outside of CRISPR systems
Researchers find RNA-guided enzymes are more diverse and widespread than previously believed.
Playing with proteins
At the MIT Edgerton Center, educators are quietly transforming the way biology is taught in schools.
Scientists harness human protein to deliver molecular medicines to cells
Made of components found in the human body, the programmable system is a step toward safer, targeted delivery of gene editing and other molecular therapeutics.