Neuroscientists discover a molecular mechanism that allows memories to form
Modifications to chromosomes in “engram” neurons control the encoding and retrieval of memories.
Scientists discover new rules about “runaway” transcription
Findings related to bacterial gene expression overturn fundamental assumptions about basic biological pathways.
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.
3 Questions: Seychelle Vos on detangling DNA
An unconventional geneticist uses cryogenic electron microscopy and crystallography to understand gene expression and cell fate.
Nature-inspired CRISPR enzymes for expansive genome editing
Applied computational biology discoveries vastly expand the range of CRISPR’s access to DNA sequences.
SHERLOCK-based one-step test provides rapid and sensitive Covid-19 detection
New CRISPR-based research tool delivers results in an hour; researchers share protocol and kits to advance research and move toward clinical validation.
Newly discovered enzyme “square dance” helps generate DNA building blocks
MIT biochemists can trap and visualize an enzyme as it becomes active — an important development that may aid in future drug development.
Historic migration patterns are written in Americans' DNA
Genetic, geographic, and demographic data from more than 30,000 Americans reveal more genetic diversity within ancestry groups than previously thought.
Whitehead Institute receives $10 million to study sex chromosomes’ impact on women’s health
Gift establishes the Brit Jepson d’Arbeloff Center on Women's Health.
Screen could offer better safety tests for new chemicals
Using specialized liver cells, a new test can quickly detect potentially cancer-causing DNA damage.
A new way to regulate gene expression
Biologists uncover an evolutionary trick to control gene expression that reverses the flow of genetic information from RNA splicing back to transcription.
How biomarkers can record and reconstruct climate trends
Scientists reveal the genes and proteins controlling the chemical structures underpinning paleoclimate proxies.
Technique can image individual proteins within synapses
Rapid imaging method could help reveal how conditions such as autism affect brain cells.
Understanding genetic circuits and genome organization
Assistant professors Pulin Li and Seychelle Vos are investigating how cells become tissues and the proteins that organize DNA.