Researchers have developed a new tool to silence neurons with high reliability and efficiency. The new channelrhodopsin variant, iC1C2, allows neuroscientists to both activate and inactivate neurons in deep brain structures using dim pulses of light.
Researchers developed a new adaptive optics technology that rapidly corrects for light-bending distortions in microscopic images. The technique, inspired by astronomy and ophthalmology, brings into focus fine structures and subcellular organelles in nerve cells deep within living brain tissue.
Researchers have found that humans are capable of discriminating between an vast number of complex odors, with estimates suggesting at least 1 trillion possible scents. This new understanding challenges the long-held assumption that humans can only detect around 10,000 different smells.
New research by HHMI scientists shows that as temperatures rise in tropical regions, malaria can spread to populations at higher elevations previously unaffected. Without increased control measures, climate change will increase the burden of malaria, particularly in densely populated areas at higher elevations.
Researchers found that humans in east Asia have more of their genome originating from Neanderthals than Europeans, while Africans have little or none. The genetic changes most often inherited from Neanderthals were disproportionately in genes related to keratin, a component of skin and hair.
A team of scientists at the University of California, San Francisco has identified a previously unknown pocket on the K-Ras protein that can be targeted by a new compound. This compound inhibits only mutant K-Ras and leaves normal protein untouched, offering real translational implications for cancer patients.
Researchers at Howard Hughes Medical Institute discovered that the pool of inactive HIV viruses in a patient's body is larger than expected, with some retaining the ability to become active even after treatment. This finding suggests that targeting the inactive viruses, known as proviruses, is crucial for achieving a complete cure.
Researchers found that certain genes, such as CXCL12 and IGF1, make breast cancer cells more likely to survive in bone tissue by mimicking the environment of their preferred organ. This discovery could lead to new drugs that prevent cancer spread to bone or other organs.
A team of scientists has mapped the complex neural connectivity in a fly's brain essential for vision, revealing new insights into how flies detect motion. The researchers used a high-throughput approach to chart neuronal connections involved in motion detection, identifying 379 cells and 8,637 connections between them.
A new drug has been shown to prevent PTSD-like symptoms in mice by targeting the Oprl1 receptor, a gene variant linked to increased risk of developing PTSD in humans. The results suggest that the drug could have a similar preventive effect on PTSD in humans.
Researchers genetically engineered mosquitoes, altering their response to odors, including human scent and insect repellent DEET. The study reveals the insects' unique attraction to humans and paves the way for understanding why they are so attracted to humans, potentially leading to new repellants.
Research finds that spontaneous genetic mutations are a major cause of congenital heart disease, accounting for 10% of severe cases. The mutations affect genes involved in regulating gene expression and DNA packaging, leading to increased risk of heart defects.
Researchers have identified a core group of bacterial types consistently found inside Arabidopsis roots, while others depend on soil type. The study establishes a framework for examining how plants interact with microbial communities influencing growth and development.
New research suggests that short stretches of piRNA evaluate cells' genetic history by recognizing sequences that have been expressed before. The study found that the silencing pattern is permanent and passed stably between generations, with each individual establishing its own pattern.
Researchers have discovered an RNA-based complex that guides a DNA-cutting enzyme to specific sites, enabling easy customization for laboratory applications. This breakthrough could revolutionize genome editing and gene function studies, offering a powerful tool for biotechnology efforts.
A new imaging technology captures unprecedented speed and precision of embryogenesis, enabling quantitative analyses of developmental processes. The SiMView light sheet microscope allows users to track each cell in an embryo as it takes shape over hours or days.
Scientists have determined the three-dimensional structure of CLOCK and BMAL1 proteins, which regulate gene expression in response to daily cycles. The discovery provides new understanding into the intricacies of biological clocks and may lead to breakthroughs in treating circadian-related disorders.
Researchers at Howard Hughes Medical Institute solved the first structure of a Wnt protein, offering insights into its function and therapeutic potential. The breakthrough provides a new era for understanding the role of Wnt proteins in biology and disease, including their potential as cancer therapies.
The study reveals that changes to both genes and DNA stretches controlling gene activity have driven sticklebacks' adaptation to fresh water. Reused genetic regions, including armor genes and those involved in metabolism and developmental signaling, helped remodel fish into forms better suited to freshwater environments.
A new study reveals that an overactive enzyme called HDAC2 is responsible for memory problems in Alzheimer's disease. When genetically blocked, the enzyme 'reawakens' neurons and restores cognitive function in mice. The findings suggest that drugs inhibiting HDAC2 could be effective treatments for some devastating effects of the disease.
The phase III clinical trial shows that men treated with MDV3100 had a median survival of 18.4 months compared to 13.6 months for those receiving placebo, resulting in a 37% reduction in mortality risk. This breakthrough treatment tackles drug-resistant prostate cancer, providing new hope for patients.
New research reveals that many bacteria try to fend off fluoride by throwing it out, and that the presence of this transport system indicates fluoride has antimicrobial properties. The discovery also highlights a genetic switch called riboswitches, which can be used to enhance fluoride's effects against bacteria.
Scientists have identified a key player in regulating fetal hemoglobin levels, paving the way for new treatments of sickle cell disease. Silencing a specific protein called BCL11A can reactivate fetal hemoglobin production, effectively reversing the condition in adult mice.
A potential vaccine against tuberculosis has been found to completely eliminate the disease-causing bacteria from infected tissues in mice. The vaccine uses a modified strain of bacteria that triggers a specific immune response, providing longer protection and bactericidal immunity.
Research reveals that four basic tastes are processed by distinct areas of the brain, with unique taste receptors and neurons arranging discretely in a gustotopic map. This discovery sheds light on how our brains represent the last of the classical five senses.
A newly discovered human antibody recognized multiple strains of the flu virus, providing a promising lead for developing a longer-lasting vaccine. The antibody, dubbed CH65, binds tightly to the receptor pocket on the influenza virus, making it less affected by mutations.
A study published in Science Express reveals that RNA sequences in human cells diverge from DNA sequences, generating proteins with different sequences. The findings suggest unknown cellular processes are acting on RNA to create genetic diversity, which may contribute to differences in disease susceptibility.
Adult planarians possess pluripotent stem cells capable of producing diverse tissue types, allowing for the rebuilding of entire organisms from a single cell. The discovery could lead to insights into human regenerative medicine, as many genes in the planarian genome have human counterparts.
New study provides clearer picture of cellular signals contributing to aortic aneurysm progression in Marfan syndrome. Losartan alters these signals by blocking TGF-beta's partner, angiotensin II receptor.
Researchers found two new proteins that accelerate melanoma in zebrafish models, SETDB1 and DHODH, which could lead to new treatments. Leflunomide, an arthritis drug, also showed promise by blocking the production of RNA nucleic bases, a key step in cancer cell growth.
Researchers found that natural variations in several genes affect how quickly worms leave a lawn of bacteria. The tyra-3 gene is involved, producing a receptor activated by adrenaline-like hormones derived from the amino acid tyrosine.
Research suggests that cerebrospinal fluid contains a complex mix of proteins that change with age, supporting or hindering neural stem cell growth. The protein Insulin-like growth factor 2 (Igf2) strongly correlates with cell division levels.
Researchers identified 510 missing genetic segments that distinguish humans from chimpanzees and other animals. These segments affect gene regulation, enabling traits like large brains and sensory whiskers. The study reveals how human evolution occurred through subtle DNA changes.
The new microscope allows researchers to study the dynamic inner lives of living cells without damaging them. It uses a combination of structured illumination and two-photon microscopy to create high-resolution, three-dimensional images of cellular landmarks.
Graham Walker's education research group developed resources to address science education challenges, including a protein folding software that sparks creativity and engagement. Their work aims to transform science education into an interdisciplinary endeavor that reflects the excitement of real research.
Researchers have developed a new strategy to improve microscopy by following the astronomers' guide star technique, allowing for sharper images of biological samples. This method uses adaptive optics and two-photon fluorescence microscopy to correct for light waves hitting cells in different directions.
HHMI is launching a $60 million initiative to produce high-quality, compelling documentary films on scientific topics for television. The program aims to inspire people and nourish curiosity about science.
The study reveals that the bacteria causing the current Haitian cholera epidemic originated in South Asia, supporting the notion of transmission from an infected individual. The strain was found to be more virulent than average, with a higher potential for severe diarrhea and increased mortality rates.
Experts recommend stocking up on cholera vaccines to rapidly deploy to high-risk areas, complementing treatment efforts in Haiti. A ready supply could limit the impact of an outbreak and promote humanitarian benefits.
A new study found that many pancreatic tumors are slow-growing, taking nearly 20 years to become lethal after the first genetic perturbations appear. This challenges previous theories and suggests a potential window of opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment.
The new research program aims to address pressing concerns in the plant sciences, including food production and human health. It will provide critical support to up to 15 plant scientists over five years, selecting those with exceptional talent and innovative ideas.
A new study reveals that resistant pathogens can trigger protective mechanisms in non-resistant neighbors, increasing overall colony survival. The team identified an enzyme called tryptophanase, which produces indole, a signaling molecule offering protection against antibiotics.
The Foldit game harnesses distributed thinking to predict protein structures, outperforming computers in some cases. Non-scientists excel at the game due to its reliance on visualization skills, and humans have proven better than computers in certain tasks.
Researchers found that prostate basal cells can spawn tumors in the prostate gland, providing a new originator of prostate cancer. The study used human prostate tissue samples to develop new techniques and identified unique cell surface markers to distinguish luminal cells from basal cells.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute has awarded $79 million to 50 research universities in 30 states, supporting the development of creative, research-based courses and curricula. The grants aim to improve science teaching from elementary school through college and provide students with vital lab experience.
Researchers have developed a new vaccine strategy using the Giardia parasite's surface proteins to prevent or mitigate future infections. The engineered parasites work as effective vaccines when given orally to gerbils, offering a promising approach for delivering oral vaccinations in developing countries.
Researchers identified differences in transcription factor binding to DNA that affect gene expression in different people. Variability in these regulatory regions can influence disease susceptibility and gene product levels.
The HHMI's Gilliam Fellowships program aims to increase diversity in the sciences by supporting students from underrepresented groups. The five new fellows will receive $44,000 in graduate school support annually for up to five years, with a focus on promoting research and teaching careers.
Researchers may be able to induce apomixis in sexually reproducing plants, a process that produces genetically identical seeds without meiosis. This breakthrough has significant implications for crop improvement and could reduce the need for expensive seed purchases.
Researchers have discovered exactly how one type of New World hemorrhagic fever virus latches onto and infects human cells, offering a much-needed lead toward new treatments. The finding identifies the apical domain of the transferrin receptor as an attractive target for drugs.