Researchers glimpse the inner workings of protein language models
A new approach can reveal the features AI models use to predict proteins that might make good drug or vaccine targets.
A shape-changing antenna for more versatile sensing and communication
You can adjust the frequency range of this durable, inexpensive antenna by squeezing or stretching its structure.
How AI could speed the development of RNA vaccines and other RNA therapies
MIT engineers used a machine-learning model to design nanoparticles that can deliver RNA to cells more efficiently.
Study sheds light on graphite’s lifespan in nuclear reactors
Scientists have discovered a link between the material’s pore size distribution and its ability to withstand radiation.
Using generative AI, researchers design compounds that can kill drug-resistant bacteria
The team used two different AI approaches to design novel antibiotics, including one that showed promise against MRSA.
A new way to test how well AI systems classify text
As large language models increasingly dominate our everyday lives, new systems for checking their reliability are more important than ever.
Would you like that coffee with iron?
New microparticles containing iron or iodine could be used to fortify food and beverages, to help fight malnutrition.
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.
Surprisingly diverse innovations led to dramatically cheaper solar panels
New research can identify opportunities to drive down the cost of renewable energy systems, batteries, and many other technologies.
Eco-driving measures could significantly reduce vehicle emissions
New research shows automatically controlling vehicle speeds to mitigate traffic at intersections can cut carbon emissions between 11 and 22 percent.
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.
MIT tool visualizes and edits “physically impossible” objects
By visualizing Escher-like optical illusions in 2.5 dimensions, the “Meschers” tool could help scientists understand physics-defying shapes and spark new designs.
Ultrasmall optical devices rewrite the rules of light manipulation
Nanophotonic devices developed at MIT are compact, efficient, reprogrammable, adaptive, and able to dynamically respond to external inputs.
How government accountability and responsiveness affect tax payment
Study participants in an in-person tax-paying experiment in China were more likely to pay their taxes if government officials were monitoring and punishing corruption.
How the brain distinguishes oozing fluids from solid objects
A new study finds parts of the brain’s visual cortex are specialized to analyze either solid objects or flowing materials like water or sand.