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Rockefeller University


New clues to hepatitis B species restriction could help build a novel model for studying infection and testing therapies

Researchers have overturned decades-long assumptions about why HBV fails to infect mouse liver cells, pointing towards a new disease model. The study suggests that the problem lies in a late step during the viral entry process, which could be disrupted by certain mechanisms.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2026

How ants distinguish friend from foe

Researchers found that ants continually update their sense of nestmate identity and tolerance for outsiders through repeated exposure, revealing a flexible behavioral foundation for studying social recognition. This discovery opens the door to exploring the neural circuits behind ant social behavior.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 20, 2026

In rare cases, autoantibodies can cause severe reactions to a live-attenuated virus Chikungunya vaccine that has been discontinued in the U.S.

A new study suggests that preexisting autoantibodies in a small subset of the population can cause severe reactions to the live-attenuated Chikungunya vaccine. Researchers recommend screening people with these autoantibodies before vaccination, especially for those over age 65.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2026

How the brain creates facial expressions

Researchers at Rockefeller University have made a breakthrough in understanding how the brain controls facial expressions, discovering a complex network of neural circuits involved. Contrary to long-held assumptions, both lower-level and higher-level brain regions are involved in encoding different types of facial gestures.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateJan 8, 2026

New study reveals how tiny but powerful gatekeepers guard the nucleus

Researchers unveiled an integrative experimental and computational map of macromolecular transport through nuclear pore complexes. The model identifies key design features that ensure NPC efficiency and resilience, revealing new avenues for medical innovation. It also provides insight into diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's, and ALS.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 2025