New findings reveal how neurons build and maintain their capacity to communicate
Nerve cells regulate and routinely refresh the collection of calcium channels that enable them to send messages across circuit connections.
Whether speaking Turkish or Norwegian, the brain’s language network looks the same
Studying speakers of 45 languages, neuroscientists found similar patterns of brain activation and language selectivity.
How a shape-shifting receptor influences cell growth
Insight into the way the EGF receptor sends signals into cells could help researchers design new cancer drugs that target this protein.
Tissue model reveals key players in liver regeneration
By tracing the steps of liver regrowth, MIT engineers hope to harness the liver’s regenerative abilities to help treat chronic disease.
New model helps identify mutations that drive cancer
The system rapidly scans the genome of cancer cells, could help researchers find targets for new drugs.
Nanoparticle sensor can distinguish between viral and bacterial pneumonia
Using this diagnostic, doctors could avoid prescribing antibiotics in cases where they won’t be effective.
Three distinct brain circuits in the thalamus contribute to Parkinson’s symptoms
Targeting these circuits could offer a new way to reverse motor dysfunction and depression in Parkinson’s patients.
Molecules found in mucus can thwart fungal infection
Harnessing the strength of these specialized sugar molecules could help researchers develop new antifungal drugs.
Chemists reveal how tau proteins form tangles
Two types of tau proteins mix together in a nearly random way to generate the tangles seen in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.
Early sound exposure in the womb shapes the auditory system
Modeling study suggests that the muffled environment in utero primes the brain’s ability to interpret some types of sound.
MIT students and postdocs advocate for increased federal support of scientific research on Capitol Hill
Students and postdocs from MIT's Science Policy Initiative meet with lawmakers on science-engineering-technology Congressional Visit Days 2022.
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.
Joystick-operated robot could help surgeons treat stroke remotely
The system could provide teleoperated endovascular treatment to patients during the critical time window after a stroke begins.
New tool reveals how immune cells find their targets
MIT biological engineers have developed a simple way to identify B or T cells that interact with viral or bacterial proteins.
Study reveals the dynamics of human milk production
A new analysis shows how milk-producing cells change over time in nursing mothers.