Rapid test for Covid-19 shows improved sensitivity
A CRISPR-based test developed at MIT and the Broad Institute can detect nearly as many cases as the standard Covid-19 diagnostic.
Covid-19 scientific leaders share expertise in new MIT class
MIT course on the Covid-19 pandemic, available to the public online, brings together top experts to educate students on up-to-date science.
A primer on viruses, vaccines, and therapies
New book for the general public explains how novel viruses such as SARS-Cov-2 emerge and how we can fight them.
Covid-19 testing ramps up as MIT enters next phase of campus reopening
Over 8,000 tests were performed last week by MIT Medical.
SMART research enhances dengue vaccination in mice
Sequential immunization might be safer and more effective than the existing tetravalent vaccine.
HIV genome bends over backwards to help virus take over cells
Differently shaped RNA molecules allow HIV to express different genes from the same RNA sequence.
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.
3 Questions: Michael Yaffe on treating Covid-19 patients with acute respiratory distress
MIT professor and intensivist/trauma surgeon explains the new challenges that Covid-19 brings to treating patients in acute respiratory distress.
CRISPR-based diagnostic chips perform thousands of tests simultaneously to detect viruses
Diagnostic platform CARMEN combines microfluidics with CRISPR-based detection technology SHERLOCK, and could one day be used for public health efforts.
Study analyzes contamination in drug manufacturing plants
Report offers guidelines to help prevent viruses from tainting biopharmaceutical drugs.
Researchers identify cells likely targeted by Covid-19 virus
Study finds specific cells in the lungs, nasal passages, and intestines that are more susceptible to infection.
3 Questions: Hadley Sikes on searching for a Covid-19 protein test
Chemical engineer aims to create a test that can work in 10 minutes and doesn’t require specialized instruments or laboratory infrastructure.
Proteins may halt the severe cytokine storms seen in Covid-19 patients
Team designs antibody-like receptor proteins that can bind to cytokines, as possible strategy for treating coronavirus and other infections.
3Q: Robert Macfarlane on cleaning your smartphone screen
Materials scientist explores why some household cleaners could harm the protective coating on a smartphone screen.
3 Questions: How Covid-19 tests work and why they’re in short supply
MIT scientists Omar Abudayyeh and Jonathan Gootenberg explain the current state of Covid-19 testing, and how a CRISPR tool may help solve the supply problem.