New formulation helps RNA vaccines withstand high temperatures
MIT engineers have found a way to stabilize the lipid nanoparticles used to deliver RNA vaccines, which could allow the vaccines to be more widely distributed.
A new technique could accelerate the development of RNA therapies
MIT chemical engineers found a way to rapidly produce lipid nanoparticles of varying sizes, which could make it easier to develop new vaccines and therapeutics.
Unmasking “zombie cells” in aging tissue with an AI-powered barcode
Tracking down senescent cells, which accumulate as we age, could help diagnose age-related disorders and guide researchers working on new treatments.
A new understanding of how enzymes influence bacterial protein production
Novel research expands scientific understanding of how RNA shapes the reading of genetic information.
New method allows scientists to follow gene activity over time in the same cells
In the new method, cells package and export their RNA, enabling researchers to sequence and analyze the RNA without killing the cells.
Giving farmers a more sustainable way to protect crops
Led by Andee Wallace PhD ’20, Robigo uses cutting-edge biotechnology to engineer microbes to fight pests, reducing the need for harmful chemical pesticides.
Cells use a little-known molecule to protect themselves from iron overload
This discovery points toward new combination strategies against cancer, and may explain the iron buildup seen in disorders such as early-onset Parkinson’s disease.
Flipping the script on biology education, and scaling it up
Using a modular kit, the MIT Edgerton Center is bringing a hands-on biology curriculum to Massachusetts’ second-largest school district.
Why are some bacterial genes high in purines?
In certain species of bacteria, the answer lies in shielding RNA transcripts from a quality-control factor called Rho. Understanding the requirements for expressible sequences is critical for expression engineering of therapeutic agents.
A new approach to cancer vaccination yields more powerful T cells
Using immune-remodeling mRNA molecules, researchers generated T cells that can slow tumor growth and, in some cases, eradicate tumors.
Biologist Joey Davis explores how cells build complex structures
His studies have shed light on the assembly instructions that govern ribosomes, the critical protein-building machines of the cell.
Study: Gene circuits reshape DNA folding and affect how genes are expressed
When genes are transcribed, they suppress or activate their neighbors, coupling expression between the two genes.
Study reveals “two-factor authentication” system that controls microRNA destruction
Researchers uncovered how cells selectively destroy certain microRNAs — key gene regulators — through a mechanism that requires two RNA signals working together.
Scientists discover genetics behind leaky brain blood vessels in Rett syndrome
By showing the problem derives from genetic mutations that lead to overexpression of a microRNA, MIT researchers’ study points to potential treatment.
Studying the genetic basis of disease to explore fundamental biological questions
Eliezer Calo’s studies of craniofacial malformations have yielded insight into protein synthesis and embryonic development.