Sallie “Penny” Chisholm awarded the 2019 Crafoord Prize
Institute Professor honored for discovering Prochlorococcus, the most abundant photosynthesizing organism on Earth.
Technique identifies electricity-producing bacteria
Microbes screened with a new microfluidic process might be used in power generation or environmental cleanup.
Engineering "capture compounds" to probe cell growth
Researchers develop a method to investigate how bacteria respond to starvation and to identify which proteins bind to the “magic spot” — ppGpp.
Surviving one of Earth’s most extreme environments
New research finds a unique component of cell membranes in an archaea species conveys protection against acidic surroundings.
Tracking the footprints of protein synthesis
Researchers refine a method to quantify protein production, show that the precision with which bacteria and eukaryotes tune their gene expression is remarkably similar.
3Q: Eric Alm on the mysteries of the microbiome
“A diet or treatment of the microbiome may lead to increased diversity, but that does not mean it's better or healthier for you,” says the engineering professor.
MIT engineers repurpose wasp venom as an antibiotic drug
Altered peptides from a South American wasp’s venom can kill bacteria but are nontoxic to human cells.
Bursting bubbles launch bacteria from water to air
Study illuminates new mode of bacteria dispersal.
Studying the hotbed of horizontal gene transfers
Global Microbiome Conservancy research reveals surprising new insights into human gut microbiomes.
Probiotics and antibiotics create a killer combination
Delivered together, the two join forces to eradicate drug-resistant bacteria.
Detangling DNA replication
Researchers identify an essential protein that helps enzymes relax overtwisted DNA so each strand can be copied during cell division.
How phytoplankton survive in ocean gyres with low nutrient supplies
Model of nutrient recycling may explain longstanding mystery.
Biological engineers discover new antibiotic candidates
Screen of human proteins reveals some with antimicrobial power.
Scene at MIT: PhD baby and her amazing mama
A new daughter helped Alejandra Falla PhD ’18 gain perspective on life — and her tiny MIT regalia stole the show at Commencement.
A single-injection vaccine for the polio virus
Nanoparticles could offer a new way to help eradicate the disease worldwide.