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Weill Cornell Medicine


A new kind of cold sensor

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have discovered a novel mechanism for sensing cold temperatures in a bacterial protein called SthK. This finding suggests that similar mechanisms may exist in other organisms, including humans, and could provide new insights into disorders related to faulty temperature regulation.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 6, 2026

Nerves in skin can slow melanoma growth

Researchers found that nerves of the sympathetic nervous system inhibit tumor growth by reducing local tumor-supportive macrophages, a type of immune cell. The findings may inform future therapeutic strategies targeting sympathetic nerves within tumors or alpha adrenergic receptors on tumor-associated macrophages.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateApr 29, 2026

Catching a scramblase in the act

Researchers have successfully imaged the detailed workings of a cell membrane protein, called TMEM16 scramblase, which has essential roles in all animals. The discovery could lead to new therapeutic strategies for blood coagulation disorders, cancers, and other conditions in which the protein works abnormally.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateApr 17, 2026

Dr. Y. Michael Shim named Chief of the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center

Dr. Y. Michael Shim has been named chief of the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, expanding access to comprehensive care for patients with chronic lung conditions. He will lead research and education efforts, including developing innovative imaging technologies to better understand lung disease.

Pain-sensing neurons kick-start immune responses

Researchers found that pain-sensing neurons activate tuft cells, which release parasite-fighting immune molecules, initiating an immune response. Silencing or removing these neurons reduces tuft cell numbers, indicating their crucial role in fighting parasites and potentially driving allergic diseases.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 7, 2026

Researchers unveil a powerful new gene-switch tool

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have developed a powerful new gene-switch tool called Cyclone, which allows scientists to turn on or off target genes with precision. The tool uses a non-toxic molecule acyclovir to suppress gene activity, and has the potential to be adopted throughout biomedical research and gene therapies.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Methods·DateNov 3, 2025

Keeping pediatrics afloat in a sea of funding cuts

Researchers warn that Medicaid funding cuts will have significant spillover effects on children's health due to a lack of consideration for their coverage. Experts suggest policies such as loan repayment and increased investment in pediatric workforce development can help mitigate the issue.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2025