Researchers at TUM developed a computer model of acoustic coding in the inner ear and neuronal information processing by the brain stem, allowing for improved coding strategies and faster testing of new devices. This advancement has the potential to significantly reduce development cycles and provide better hearing outcomes for patients.
Researchers at the Salk Institute created a new approach to determine the structure of key cellular receptors using artificial amino acids, revealing crucial details about their binding pockets. This breakthrough could aid in designing drugs that target diseases such as diabetes and osteoporosis.
A study published in The FASEB Journal reveals that obesity is associated with an abnormal amount of the inflammatory protein PAR2 on abdominal fat tissues, which can be blocked by a new oral drug. This finding suggests that obesity may be an inflammatory disease and that controlling inflammation could lead to weight loss.
A study found that 52.9% of older adults in the US have experienced bothersome pain, with multiple sites common among those with pain. Pain is strongly associated with decreased physical capacity, including weaker muscle strength and slower walking speed.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that patients with PTSD are at higher risk of cardiac ischemia, with no correlation to other cardiovascular risk factors. Researchers detected elevated rates of myocardial ischemia in 17% of participants with PTSD, highlighting the need for tailored treatments.
Researchers found that potassium current density increased sharply after 2 weeks of neural stem cell differentiation, indicating functional neurons. Neural stem cells from newborn rat hippocampus can be cultured and induced to differentiate into mature neurons in vitro.
A new study found that men with a specific genetic mutation are more than 50% likely to die from prostate cancer if they're overweight or obese. The researchers analyzed data on 1,243 participants and discovered that obesity was linked to higher levels of insulin and growth factor receptors in tumors containing the mutation.
Researchers identified a distinct Treg cell population expressing ICOS that predicts better clinical outcomes in melanoma patients treated with high-dose IL-2 therapy. A SOD1 pharmacological inhibitor reduced tumor growth in mice, suggesting inhibition of antioxidants as a viable chemotherapeutic option.
Researchers analyzed minute movements to diagnose autism and determine its severity in children and young adults. The study found that fluctuations in hand movements can indicate the degree of autism spectrum disorder, allowing for subtyping and improved diagnosis. This breakthrough may lead to more tailored treatments.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that HIV-positive men who have sex with men are at a higher risk of developing anal cancer due to Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The researchers discovered that taking antiretroviral therapies as prescribed can lower the risk of HPV infections among HIV-infected men.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered aluminum's valuable plasmonic properties, which make it suitable for harvesting solar energy and creating large-area optical devices. The study also found that aluminum exhibits quantum mechanical effects stronger than gold in certain nanomatryushka structures.
A recent Arctic study reveals that tiny crustaceans, known as copepods, may not survive if ocean acidity rises due to increased CO2. Copepods with a wide natural habitat range are likely to be better equipped to handle the changes.
A new study reveals that a high-protein diet can help preserve muscle mass during weight loss by slowing the ubiquitin proteasome system, which is primarily responsible for degrading skeletal muscle. Researchers found that adequate protein intake can minimize muscle loss during weight loss efforts.
Tel Aviv University researchers have discovered a protein that kills bacteria, potentially offering a new antibiotic substitute. The protein, produced by a virus that attacks bacteria, impedes cell division in E. coli and causes cells to elongate and die.
Researchers found that toddlers who interacted with food in a high chair learned words for nonsolid objects more effectively due to familiarity with the setting. The study showed that changes in environment and exploration help children acquire early vocabulary, linked to better later cognitive development.
A new algorithm, relational social image search, can find individuals in untagged photos by quantifying relationships between people based on tag locations. The algorithm achieves high reliability without using computationally intensive software and is more efficient than standard approaches.
Researchers found that transplantation of olfactory ensheathing cells improved autonomic nerve function in patients with spinal cord injury. The study used a simple electrophysiological detection method to assess sympathetic skin response, which showed significant recovery after treatment.
The Burmese python genome study found large numbers of rapidly evolved genes linked to extreme characteristics such as rapid increases in metabolism and organ growth after feeding. The researchers discovered that snakes have undergone incredible changes at all levels of their biology, including physiological and molecular changes.
The NASA airborne mission is using a low-frequency radar instrument to map the sub-glacial bedrock hidden beneath thick ice sheets. The Multichannel Coherent Radar Depth Sounder (MCoRDS) measures ice thickness and maps sub-ice rock by sending radar waves down through polar ice.
A computer algorithm predicts breast cancer type with 93% accuracy by identifying three genes involved in estrogen signaling. The technique has the potential to replace traditional lab tests, potentially becoming more affordable and accessible in the future.
A new technique uses whole genome sequencing to identify pathogens in patient samples in just 18 hours, allowing for rapid diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract infections. This approach also enables the detection of emerging infections and prevention of hospital-acquired diseases.
Researchers at the University of Arizona have discovered a surprisingly diverse ecosystem of microbes living in the perpetual darkness of Kartchner Caverns, a limestone cave system. The microbes thrive on limited nutrients, including nitrogen-containing compounds, and can even harness energy from minerals dissolved in rock fissures.
CONRAD and Eastern Virginia Medical School will receive $80 million in funding to develop new HIV prevention products, including microbicides and objective measures of adherence. The project aims to address the high risk of HIV infection among young women in South Africa.
Researchers found vitamin D supplementation significantly improved depression symptoms and reduced neuropathic and sensory pain in women with type 2 diabetes. The study also showed a notable decrease in pain at three and six months following supplementation.
A new study published in PNAS sheds light on the functional importance of dinosaur beaks, revealing they helped stabilize the skull structure during feeding. The research, led by Drs Stephan Lautenschlager and Emily Rayfield, used CT scanning and computer simulations to analyze a therizinosaur's beak.
A newly discovered human peptide called humanin may become a new treatment for diabetes by increasing insulin secretion and improving glucose metabolism in beta cells. Humanin levels naturally decline with age, suggesting potential benefits for patients with other conditions like stroke, heart disease, and Alzheimer's.
A study using MRI technology found that veterans with mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) caused by blasts have long-term brain differences, including changes in white matter structure. This suggests a potential link between blast exposure and ongoing cognitive symptoms in veterans.
Computer scientists at Princeton University have developed a method that allows researchers to identify quickly the connections between seemingly disparate groups in large collections of information. By using a mathematical method to calculate the likelihood of a pattern repeating throughout a subset of data, the tool can cut dramatica...
Researchers have discovered a specialized sound-producing organ in koalas, located outside the voice box, which enables extremely low-pitched mating calls. The organ produces continuous sounds on inhalation and exhalation, similar to a donkey's braying.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that mixing energy drinks with alcohol leads to heavier drinking and more severe alcohol-related issues. The study, published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, analyzed data from over 650 college students and suggests that the combination may lead to 'wide awake drunk' situations.
A new UK study published in Free Radical Biology and Medicine found that a diet low in vitamin D causes free radical damage to the brain, leading to decreased cognitive performance. The researchers also discovered that vitamin D deficiency is linked to Alzheimer's disease, certain cancers, and heart disease.
A study presented at the Radiological Society of North America annual meeting found that ultrasound-guided PRP therapy improves functionality by 80% and pain by 75% in athletes with Achilles and patellar tendinosis. The therapy also normalizes MRI signal intensity in 90% of patients.
A study found that ICOS+ Treg populations expand after HD IL-2 treatment, predicting better clinical outcomes for patients. The distinct Treg population identified may help determine which patients benefit from high-dose IL-2 therapy.
Researchers found that oxygen levels alter the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory glucocorticoid drugs in neutrophil lifespans. This discovery may help tailor anti-inflammatory agents to specific diseases, improving treatment outcomes for patients with severe asthma, COPD, and other inflammatory conditions.
The American College of Physicians recommends that individuals with heart disease should only receive red blood cell transfusions if they have severe anemia. Additionally, researchers found that the concept of 'healthy and overweight' is a myth, as individuals in the same BMI category can have varied metabolic features. The study's fin...
Research by Plymouth University and the University of Exeter found that microplastic ingestion can decrease energy reserves in marine worms. The study also revealed that ingested plastic can deliver harmful chemicals to organisms, leading to reduced health. This has significant implications for the food chain and marine ecosystems.
A Penn Medicine brain imaging study found greater neural connectivity from front to back and within one hemisphere in males, while females displayed greater connectivity between the left and right hemispheres. This difference may explain why men excel at single-tasking and women are better at multitasking and social cognition.
Researchers discovered that bacteria that complement each other's nutritional needs grow faster and are more fit than solo individuals. This finding supports the widespread model of cooperation in nature.
A new Rice University study explores the complex relationship between self-evaluations and supportive behaviors towards environmental issues. Researchers found that individuals who experience mixed self-evaluations, including both positive self-assets and negative self-doubt, tend to exhibit less extensive issue-supportive behavior.
A recent Loyola Medicine study compared the efficacy of denosumab and zoledronic acid in treating osteoporosis. Denosumab was found to have a significantly greater effect on increasing spine bone mineral density, while zoledronic acid caused more flulike symptoms.
A new model suggests that characteristics like phenotype and interaction mechanisms are key to understanding the chances of an invasive species succeeding. The study challenges Darwin's original theory on naturalization conundrum, indicating that ecological relationships alone are a weak predictor of invader success.
LSU has received a $2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to continue its Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD) program, which provides research training and career development opportunities for underrepresented minority graduate and undergraduate students.
Researchers found that aerobic fitness and hormones, including BDNF, predict recognition memory in healthy young adults. High levels of BDNF at high fitness predicted improved memory accuracy.
Researchers found that ALS protein Fus promotes the translation of RNAs in cells with cytoplasmic granules similar to those in ALS patients. This suggests a new mechanism contributing to disease symptoms, where misdirection of RNA translation rather than silencing drives pathology.
Researchers found compelling evidence that gout clusters in families, with a significant increase in risk for those with first and second-degree relatives affected. The study also highlights the role of shared environmental factors, such as diet and lifestyle, in predisposing individuals to gout.
HS3 gathered data on the Saharan Air Layer, studying its effects on Tropical Storm Gabrielle. The mission also identified a unique hybrid core in a redeveloped storm and measured hurricane Ingrid's heavy rain and strong winds.
A study by the University of South Carolina's Arnold School of Public Health found that US mothers are less physically active than previous decades, spending more time watching TV than cooking, cleaning, and exercising. This decline in physical activity has led to a decrease in energy expenditure, potentially predisposing children to o...
The Bagrada bug, an invasive stink bug, can be managed through Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques. IPM strategies include understanding the bug's biology and host range to develop effective control methods. Farmers and growers can benefit from downloading this free, open-access article for guidance on managing this invasive pest.
Researchers found that the risk of developing diverticulitis from diverticulosis is significantly lower than previously thought, with only 1% over seven years. Younger patients diagnosed with diverticulosis are more likely to progress to diverticulitis.
Large pharmacogenomic studies have inconsistent results due to lack of standardization in experimental assays and data analysis methods. Standardization is necessary to identify reliable genomic predictors of drug response and effectively identify a drug's mechanism of action.
Researchers discovered a modified pacemaker-like enzyme, GSK-3 beta, that mimics CRT's biological effects on heart muscle cells. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for heart failure patients who don't qualify for traditional CRT therapy.
Researchers found that culling vampire bat colonies has minimal effect on containing the virus, and can actually increase its spread by driving infected bats into neighboring colonies. Coordinated efforts to control vampire bat-transmitted rabies virus in Latin America require understanding the mechanisms of persistence.
A new study demonstrates that ingested microplastic delivers pollutants and additives into animal tissue, compromising key functions sustaining health and biodiversity. The findings show toxic concentrations of pollutants and additives in the tissues of animals that have eaten microplastic.
Research suggests that decreasing winter winds are a primary driver of streamflow declines and reduced precipitation in the Pacific Northwest mountains. This decrease can lead to increased wildfire risk, earlier and lower streamflows, and decreased water availability for communities and industries.
The EASAC report highlights a 60% rise in extreme weather events in Europe over the last 30 years, including heatwaves, floods, and storms. The report emphasizes the need for immediate EU-driven action to adapt to future climate disruption and reduce uncertainties in regional climate models.
A special issue of the Journal of the American College of Radiology addresses imaging-based screening and radiology's role in preventive medicine. The issue explores breast density legislation, digital breast tomosynthesis, lung cancer screening, and CT colonography reimbursement, highlighting both benefits and controversies.
Scientists have discovered the detailed molecular dance of a membrane transporter, revealing new insights into multi-drug resistant cancers. The study's findings provide a more complete picture of how transporters work, including their movements and interactions with surrounding molecules.
The CompGen initiative brings together top faculty in genomic and computational sciences to analyze trillions of nucleotides and better understand the human genome. The facility will enable more accurate and efficient analysis of DNA, incorporating visualization components to visualize genetic data in real time.
A new project at the University of Houston aims to incorporate art into STEM education to increase the quality of STEM graduates. Jay Young's research focuses on how creativity can be used to solve problems in math and science, with findings suggesting that artistic endeavors are essential for better problem-solving skills.
A novel, multipurpose pod-intravaginal ring (pod-IVR) delivers up to five different antiretroviral drugs and two hormonal contraceptives, showing promise in preventing HIV and unintended pregnancy. This innovative device could empower women in resource-poor areas to protect themselves from infections.
Researchers from Monash University and RMIT University found that Himalayan flowers evolved to attract bees as pollinators in response to bee colour vision. The study reveals the impact of climate change on plant-pollinator interactions in mountainous environments.
The RH5-basigin interaction is crucial for the invasion of red blood cells by Plasmodium falciparum parasites. The team found that this interaction allows P. falciparum to infect humans but not chimpanzees or gorillas, mirroring its known infection profile.
Scientists have discovered that mice can pass on learned sensitivity to a specific odor to their offspring via epigenetic alterations in the sperm or eggs. This phenomenon has significant implications for understanding psychiatric disorders and developing therapeutic strategies for intergenerational trauma effects.
Current Plant Biology publishes articles on interdisciplinary plant science research, combining physics, mathematics, and chemistry disciplines. The journal aims to facilitate the growth of quantitative, interdisciplinary plant biology by publishing work openly and sharing research datasets.
A team of researchers from the Tufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute emphasize the importance of translating biomedical research into real-world healthcare solutions. By likening the Affordable Care Act to traditional clinical trials, they highlight its potential to advance health care and wellness in the United States.
A new report illustrates a surprisingly large global burden of anemia, characterized by low hemoglobin levels and impaired oxygen delivery to the body. Despite decreasing prevalence between 1990 and 2010, anemia remains a significant health issue, particularly among young children and women in low- and middle-income regions.
A single dose of oxytocin has been shown to temporarily normalize brain regions responsible for social deficits in children with autism. The hormone facilitates social attunement, allowing brain regions involved in social behavior and cognition to activate more for social stimuli.
A Mount Sinai study found that age-related cognitive decline is linked to energy in synapses in the prefrontal cortex. Estrogen treatment restored synaptic health and improved working memory in rhesus monkeys.
A Syracuse University biologist has developed a system to track ships and monitor underwater noise levels in a protected marine mammal habitat. The techniques focus on the bottlenose dolphin population in Scotland's Moray Firth, where increasing shipping activity may negatively impact resident marine mammals.
A new study refutes the theory that lions are a major predator of cheetah cubs and finds that big cats can coexist in protected areas. Cheetah cub survival rates were found to be higher in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park than previously thought.
A new low-cost 3D printer developed by Michigan Technological University's Joshua Pearce can lay down thin layers of steel to form complex geometric objects. The printer is less expensive than commercial metal printers and is affordable enough for home use, but requires more safety gear and fire protection equipment.
The Genetics Society of America has awarded 11 undergraduate students with travel grants to present their research at the 55th Annual Drosophila Research Conference in San Diego. The students will be presenting their work to over 1,500 researchers and gaining invaluable experience.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that patients with more premature atrial contractions have a substantially higher risk for developing atrial fibrillation. The researchers used a 24-hour Holter monitor to detect PACs and compared the results with an established prediction model from the Framingham Heart Study.
A study investigates how athletes' high-level motor expertise affects the brain's understanding of actions. The research reveals that expert subjects showed a modulating effect on motor activity in response to positive but impossible commands.
Researchers at MIT and Brigham and Women's Hospital have successfully grown unlimited quantities of intestinal stem cells that can differentiate into mature cells. These cells hold promise for treating diseases such as ulcerative colitis and could be used for drug development and testing.
A novel rehabilitation device converts thoughts into electrical impulses to improve motor function in stroke patients, enabling them to perform activities of daily living. The device showed promising results in improving motor skills and quality of life for patients with moderate severity strokes.
Researchers found a protein, Sprouty-2, that causes loss of function in immune cells combatting HIV, but disabling it restored their ability to fight the virus. Disabling both Sprouty-2 and PD-1 in exhausted T cells reversed exhaustion completely.
Researchers suggest that focusing on a country's age and history can increase citizens' confidence in its enduring future, leading to increased environmental concern. A lab-based study found that participants who viewed the US as having a longer history donated more money to an environmental organization.
Researchers created CNT structures with optimal blend of characteristics required in thermal stress junctures. Longer, less entangled CNTs showed best combination of flexibility, heat conductivity and strength.
Researchers at the Cardiovascular Institute found that unfolded protein response contributes to sudden cardiac death in heart failure. Blocking this response may significantly reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death.
A new method to detect and identify molecules has been discovered by Richard Martel's team, enabling the use of optical scanners to pinpoint particles. The technique uses nanoprobes composed of dye molecules aligned inside carbon nanotubes, which amplify Raman signals up to a million times stronger than other molecules.
A new class of drugs has been shown to reduce the risk of graft-vs.-host disease, a serious complication of bone marrow transplants. In a study of 61 older adults undergoing reduced-intensity bone marrow transplants, vorinostat was found to be safe and effective in preventing GVHD.
A 115- to 125-million-year-old flowering plant fossil, named Potomacapnos apeleutheron, has been discovered in a Virginia canal bank where freed slaves were forced to dig a canal. The find raises questions about the evolution of flowering plants and pollen.
A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that bronchial thermoplasty reduces severe asthma exacerbations, emergency department visits, medication use, and missed workdays for at least 5 years. The treatment also shows stable rates of respiratory adverse events and respiratory-related hospitalizations.
The American College of Physicians recommends restricting red blood cell transfusions to severe anemia cases in patients with heart disease. ACP also advises against using erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in mild to moderate anemia with heart conditions due to increased risks of thromboembolic events and stroke rates.
A new model from Uppsala University predicts how bacteria can rapidly adapt to environmental changes through smart regulation of gene expression. The study shows the ultimate limit for bacterial protein level adjustments in response to changing environments.
A study found that First Nations adults with diabetes are more than double the risk of developing end-stage kidney disease. The high rates of kidney disease among First Nations people are attributed to younger onset of diabetes, leading to increased survival time and likelihood of progression to end-stage renal disease.
Scientists at Aarhus University and Duke University have developed a DNA nanorobot that can encapsulate and release active biomolecules, including enzymes. The nanorobot uses temperature changes to open and close its structure, allowing for targeted drug delivery to diseased cells.
A new study explores the experiences of patients suffering from chronic pain, highlighting themes of body image issues, uncertainty about the future, and feeling lost in the healthcare system. Building a new relationship with the body and redefining normality can aid the process of living with musculoskeletal pain.
The Fleet Integrated Synthetic Training/Testing Facility (FIST2FAC) enables affordable, adaptive training for naval forces. Sailors can interact with artificially intelligent forces in various settings, developing strategies for complex missions and operations.
A strong sense of ethnic identity can help Latina girls feel positive about their body and appearance by acting as a buffer against the media's barrage of unrealistic images. The study found that cultural pride can be partially protective against body dissatisfaction, but it's not a panacea.
DNA polymerase epsilon's unique P-domain enables it to build long DNA strands without falling off, a crucial property for genome reproduction. The study identifies specific mutations linked to colorectal and cervical cancers, offering insights into their development.
A new MRI technique found significantly lower brain iron levels in ADHD patients who had never been on medication, compared to those who had been medicated. This discovery may help guide optimal treatment for ADHD and identify potential risks of addiction.
A study by USC scientists found that air pollution exposure amplifies the risk of developing autism spectrum disorder in children who carry a genetic variant associated with the disorder. The research, published in Epidemiology, suggests that gene-environment interactions play a significant role in autism risk.
Mary Ann Liebert, President and CEO of Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., will receive the 2013 Education Award from the Genetics Policy Institute. She is being honored for her work educating patients, researchers, and the broader stem cell community about the promise and applications of stem cells in medicine.
Research reveals that congenital heart defects can have a lasting impact on brain development in children, with smaller brain volumes associated with learning difficulties. Brain changes may already exist before surgery, reducing the risk of neurological complications.
Researchers used 18F-FDOPA PET imaging to differentiate between radiation-induced lesions and new tumor growth in brain metastases patients, achieving an accuracy of 83% with visual scoring. The study found that 18F-FDOPA PET imaging was highly prognostic of progression-free survival and overall survival.
Innovative information technologies may remove the 'shroud of secrecy' around private health care costs by providing transparent price data. Reference pricing, a concept introduced in Germany, involves setting a fixed price range for medical procedures to control costs.
Comet ISON's size reduced significantly as it approached the sun, with observations revealing a potential debris field and unclear nucleus remnants. The comet's unprecedented observation history will provide valuable data for scientists to study in the years to come.
Synaptosomal-associated protein-25 expression is significantly lower after subarachnoid hemorrhage, which may relate to cognitive disorders that follow. The study found lower expression levels in the temporal lobe, hippocampus, and cerebellum at days 1 and 3.
A study by Hyun-Woo Lee and colleagues found that skiing and snowboarding experiences enhance happiness and satisfaction. Flow, or losing oneself in the activity, had the greatest direct impact on satisfaction, followed by involvement. The research supports positive psychology's benefits of physical activity in enhancing well-being.
Researchers found a six percentage point higher probability of small women-owned businesses obtaining loans than those with male owners. However, women-owned companies have lower profit rates and similar productivity as men's companies, suggesting no immediate reason to favor loans for women.
Research finds that children whose bond with mother was disrupted early in life show similar responses to adoptive mother and strangers in the amygdala, indicating potential long-term effects on social interaction. Longitudinal study of 67 youths aged 4-17 reveals reduced amygdala differentiation and increased indiscriminate friendliness.
A study using cardiac MRI found that energy drink consumption increased peak strain and systolic strain rates in the left ventricle of the heart. The researchers advise caution for children and individuals with heart disease, highlighting the need for further studies on long-term effects.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have developed a novel co-catalyst system that efficiently converts carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide, a useful starting material for synthesizing fuels. The system uses inexpensive and easy-to-fabricate carbon-based nanofiber materials, offering a promising solution for producing synth...
Researchers have successfully inserted custom genes into mouse sperm, which are then inherited by their offspring and subsequent generations. The study paves the way for a new frontier in genetic medicine, where diseases can be effectively cured and new human attributes may be possible.
Researchers at the American Dental Association's Anthony Volpe Research Center have received a $2.2 million grant to develop new resin composite dental fillings. The goal is to create self-healing systems that can significantly extend the life of composites, addressing the issue of current materials degrading over time.
NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center researchers are part of a new virtual institute focusing on space science and human exploration. They will apply models to understand plasma interactions with asteroids, small bodies, and the effects of solar wind and radiation.
Researchers found that inhibiting antioxidant proteins reduced tumor growth and induced cell death in lung cancer cells. In a mouse model, the inhibitor ATN-224 also reduced tumor sizes when combined with another drug.
Researchers have found that blocking two proteins on smooth muscle cells can cause complete male infertility without affecting long-term sexual behavior. A potential oral male contraceptive drug could be developed within ten years, offering a safe and reversible alternative to current methods.
Researchers found that oxycodone is the most popular drug due to its high quality, while hydrocodone remains a favorite despite lower euphoric qualities. Hydrocodone's popularity stems from its affordability, ease of access, and perceived safety, making it an attractive option for risk-averse users.
A modeling study by US Forest Service researchers shows that reforesting the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley can significantly reduce runoff from agricultural lands and sediment entering rivers and streams. Converting agricultural lands to forests in or near battures can greatly lessen water outflow and reduce sediment load, with a t...
Researchers have sequenced and analyzed the Burmese python genome, revealing genes that enable extreme feats of organ remodeling and digestion. The study sheds light on the evolutionary biology of snakes and may hold vital clues for treating human diseases such as metabolic disorders and cancer.