Researchers have compared the genes of 240 species of mammals, including a famous sled dog named Balto, to gain insights into biological and evolutionary processes. The study identifies pinpointing genes that underlie complex traits like hibernation and brain size.
Researchers at Janelia have developed the fastest calcium indicators yet, allowing them to tease out individual neuronal signals with unprecedented speed and sensitivity. The new jGCaMP8 sensors can detect calcium ions nearly as fast as they are released from neurons, enabling scientists to study neural computations at the molecular le...
The Janelia FlyLight Project Team has released over 74,000 images of fruit fly brain neurons, generated from more than 5,000 different genetically modified fly strains. These images are now freely available for scientists to quickly and easily find the neurons they need to test theories about the nervous system.
Scientists discovered a new multiregional hindbrain circuit that enables zebrafish to compute their location and correct course. The study used whole-brain imaging to reveal the circuits involved in this process, which may apply to other vertebrates.
The study uses 3D electron microscopy and live cell imaging to observe molecular tethers between organelles. These dynamic structures are constantly binding and unbinding, altering contact site configuration in response to cellular changes.
Researchers at HHMI's Janelia Research Campus have discovered a new type of synapse between neurons and their primary cilia, which allows for long-term changes in the cell's chromatin. This discovery could help scientists better understand how cells communicate and may lead to the development of more selective medications.
Research by Leslie Vosshall's team has overturned the conventional model of the mosquito olfactory system, revealing that individual neurons can detect multiple types of smells. This unexpected result shows that it's even harder than previously thought to confuse mosquitoes as they relentlessly search for human blood.
A new theory developed by a collaboration between a former cosmologist and a computational neuroscientist has identified essential connections between brain cells. The theory, published in Physical Review Research, uses geometric framework to predict structure from function in neural networks.
The Freeman Hrabowski Scholars Program aims to build a more inclusive scientific workforce by supporting outstanding basic biomedical researchers from underrepresented backgrounds. Each Scholar will receive up to $8.6 million over 10 years, including full salary and benefits.
Researchers have finally solved the structure of the plant protein NPR1, a key regulator of plant immunity. The new findings reveal that NPR1 forms a shape resembling a gliding bird and binds to molecules in the cell's nucleus to turn on immune genes. This breakthrough could lead to better crops with improved disease resistance.
Researchers found that restricting calories and eating at the right time of day can lead to a longer, healthier life. Mice on a reduced-calorie diet lived up to 35% longer when fed at night, extending their median lifespan by nine months.
Scientists have successfully sequenced an entire human genome, filling in gaps that were previously unknown or difficult to read. The achievement marks a major breakthrough in understanding the complexities of human genetics and has the potential to reveal new insights into evolution, disease, and adaptation.
Researchers have solved the full-length structure of a crucial signaling protein in cells, known as a Janus kinase. The breakthrough could lead to new and better drugs against certain cancers, allowing healthy versions of the proteins to keep performing their normal duties.
Researchers have discovered how bacteria clean up after molecular crashes, revealing a universal rescue mechanism that works in both bacteria and yeast. The study identifies a molecule called SmrB as the key player in this process.
Researchers discovered that gut bacteria can awaken dormant viruses by producing colibactin, leading to cell-killing infections. This finding suggests a possible link between colibactin-producing bacteria and cancer, potentially benefiting the bacteria's own survival.
Researchers are working tirelessly to develop vaccines against the Omicron variant, a crucial step in combating the pandemic. By understanding the biology of Omicron, scientists hope to create effective treatments and boosters to protect against future pandemics.
A new machine learning algorithm has enabled researchers to automatically identify and map the inner structures of cells, including organelles, with unprecedented precision. By processing tens of thousands of high-resolution images, scientists have gained insights into how these structures interact and are arranged within the cell.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) has invested $300 million in 33 new investigators, who will focus on tackling tough questions in biology and medicine. The scientists, from 21 US institutions, will receive funding over a seven-year term to explore uncharted scientific territory.
Researchers discover that tumor suppressor genes can prevent the immune system from spotting and destroying malignant cells in mice. The study reveals a surprising new action for many of these defective genes, which trigger mechanisms that prevent the immune system's T-cells from targeting tumors.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute announces 50 new Gilliam fellowships to support graduate students conducting research in life sciences. The program aims to create an inclusive academic environment through mentorship and financial support.
Researchers have discovered a human cell protein that uses detergent-like action to dissolve bacterial membranes, killing invading pathogens. The protein, APOL3, is found in non-immune cells and offers wide protection against infections.
A genetic analysis of leopard geckos has identified a cancer gene linked to skin tumors, shedding light on the animals' unique coloration patterns. The study, published in PLOS Genetics, suggests that the geckos' bright colors may be caused by an error in the gene, leading to overproduction of white skin cells and reflective crystals.
Researchers found glycoRNAs, sugar-coated RNAs, decorating the surface of mammalian cells, interacting with other molecules. This discovery upends the current understanding of how cells handle RNAs and glycans, opening a possible role for glycoRNAs in immune disease.
Researchers have deciphered brain activity associated with trying to write letters by hand and developed an algorithm to identify letters. The system displayed the text on a screen in real time, allowing the participant to type 90 characters per minute, more than double the previous record for typing with a brain-computer interface.
The Vertebrate Genome Project has reported first discoveries in reading the entire genome of every bird, mammal, lizard, fish, and other creatures with backbones. The project achieved near complete, high-quality genomes for 25 species, including the greater horseshoe bat, Canada lynx, platypus, and kākāpō parrot.
The new Neuropixels 2.0 probes have improved recording-site density and long-term stability, allowing scientists to track individual neurons for weeks. This enables the study of complex phenomena like learning and memory in mice.
Research reveals that teeth contain cold-sensitive proteins called odontoblasts, which detect temperature changes and trigger pain signals to the brain. This discovery explains how clove oil eases toothaches and may lead to new treatments for tooth sensitivity.
A mouse study suggests that intense behavioral training before symptoms develop can delay the onset of Rett syndrome, a devastating neurological disorder. The training improved memory loss and motor control decline in mice with the genetic disorder.
Researchers identified insect genes that directly guide gall development in aphids, transforming ordinary plant parts into intricate shelters. The discovery of "bicycle genes" reveals a novel mechanism by which insects reprogram plant growth.
The HHMI Hanna Gray Fellows Program awards $1.4M to 21 early-career researchers from diverse backgrounds to tackle life sciences challenges. The program fosters a community that encourages research freedom and networking, aiming to increase academic diversity in the US.
A new imaging technology allows researchers to see multiple intracellular signals simultaneously, revealing their relationships and interactions. This breakthrough could illuminate complex processes like learning and memory, as well as diseases such as Alzheimer's and cancer.
Scientists use a custom robot to survey how mutations in regulatory regions of the genome affect animal development, revealing that most mutations alter gene expression in some way. The study finds that regulatory regions encode valuable information densely and that single mutations can have several different effects.
Researchers have discovered that female mosquitoes use four distinct types of neurons to detect the unique flavor of human blood, which may lead to new methods for preventing mosquito-borne illnesses. By studying these taste neurons, scientists hope to develop a drug or treatment that could deter mosquitoes from biting humans.
Researchers have created the first atlas of human heart cells, detailing nearly half a million cells and their functions. The database provides a new basis for studying heart disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide.
A study found that at least 3.5% of patients with severe COVID-19 have genetic mutations in antiviral defense genes and 10% create 'auto-antibodies' that harm the immune system. These findings provide a potential explanation for why some people develop severe forms of the disease.
Researchers have discovered a novel cell type called PRIME cells that accumulate in the blood before rheumatoid arthritis flares, allowing for potential early prediction of disease onset. The findings could lead to better management of the condition and its symptoms.
A new precision gene editor for mitochondrial DNA has been developed, allowing scientists to make targeted changes without the need for CRISPR technology. This breakthrough could enable researchers to study rare diseases and basic mitochondrial biology in animals.
Testing is vital to identify cases, track superspreading events, and spot previously infected individuals. Innovative approaches are helping to overcome bottlenecks in testing efforts, with the US still struggling to match countries like New Zealand and South Korea.
Scientists have identified long-concealed genetic mutations in tomatoes using a new technique called long-read sequencing. The analysis reveals that these mutations can alter key characteristics such as flavor and weight. By studying the impact of these mutations, researchers hope to create new tomato varieties with improved traits.
A new clinical trial is testing an alpha blocker treatment to prevent severe COVID-19 symptoms by targeting the body's overactive immune response. The trial aims to lower ICU admission rates and ventilator use in patients with COVID-19, offering a secondary form of prevention until vaccines are available.
Scientists have discovered that malaria parasites have an intrinsic clock controlling their invasion of human cells. This finding opens up new avenues for treating the disease by disrupting its biological rhythms.
Researchers have discovered a potential treatment for synaptotagmin-1-associated neurodevelopmental disorder, a rare condition affecting neurotransmitter release. By analyzing mutated proteins and their effects on neuron communication, the team identified a familiar drug, 4-AP, as a possible therapeutic option to alleviate symptoms.
A gut-to-brain circuit, identified in mice studies, shows signals from sugar molecules travel to the brain, nurturing an appetite for more. The pathway appears picky, responding only to glucose-like molecules, but ignores artificial sweeteners.
Researchers have resurrected ancient forms of two cell division proteins to study their evolution. They found that one protein boosted the activity of the other through allosteric regulation, a mechanism that has become crucial for cells.
The Cross-Border Science Journalism Project will award financial support to a team of Latin American science writers to produce a cross-border environmental investigative project. The project will be published in Spanish by media partners in Latin America and in English by U.S. media partners.
A new microscopy technique, cryo-SR/EM, combines images from electron microscopes and super-resolution light microscopes to reveal the intricate 3D structure of cells. This allows researchers to study the relationships between cellular structures and their surroundings with unprecedented clarity.
Research in mice reveals the motor cortex needs continuous feedback to generate dexterous movements, unlike other neural circuits that can operate with sustained input. The study found blocking incoming signals or disrupting rhythmic patterns impaired grasping skills, highlighting the importance of precise timing and signal processing.
Researchers found that fruit flies can build and update mental maps of their surroundings by linking visual features to compass neurons, allowing them to adapt to changing environments. This flexible mapping ability has implications for how other animals navigate in the wild and may even influence human navigation.
A recent study published in Science reveals that measles virus infection can eliminate up to 73% of a child's protective antibodies, rendering them defenseless against other viruses. The discovery underscores the importance of widespread vaccination and highlights the potential consequences of measles infection on the immune system.
Scientists have discovered that human gut bacteria require a unique genetic code to thrive, which is different from person to person. The study found that immunity genes from one bacterium are often shared by others, suggesting a complex and adaptive immune system in the gut.