Basic Research
Articles tagged with Basic Research
Transferring cytoplasmic contents and organelles between living cells
A Waseda University research team developed a nanotube membrane-based injector to directly and reliably manipulate the cytoplasmic composition of living cells. The system successfully transferred cytoplasmic contents, including mitochondria, into target cells with high efficiency and minimal damage.
NIH researchers discover pain-relieving drug with minimal addictive properties
Researchers at NIH have identified a novel opioid compound that shows potential as a therapy for both pain and opioid use disorder. The new drug, called DFNZ, has high pain-relieving effects without causing respiratory depression or addiction.
MSK Research Highlights, March 27, 2026
Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center discovered that skin stem cells possess a remarkable form of inflammatory memory that can last over a year. This finding has implications for understanding how repeated inflammation affects skin aging and disease susceptibility. The study used MSK-IMPACT, a tumor sequencing test, to...
Three University of Missouri faculty honored as 2025 AAAS Fellows
The University of Missouri is honoring three distinguished faculty members as 2025 AAAS Fellows. Paul de Figueiredo is being recognized for his contributions to microbiology, while Roman Ganta advances research on tick-borne diseases. Wesley Warren's expertise in genome-scale data analysis has reshaped research across multiple fields.
Broad collaboration produces high-resolution atlas of developing human brain
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have created a detailed cellular roadmap of human brain development, utilizing data from nearly 200 studies and 30 million cells. The atlas provides insight into genetic links and pathways involved in conditions like autism spectrum disorder and Alzheimer's disease.
Gladstone Institutes expands research footprint with 105,000 square feet of new laboratory space
Gladstone Institutes has secured over 105,000 square feet of future laboratory space in a newly constructed building, empowering its scientists to create medicines of the future. The new space will be home to approximately 300 scientists across 20 labs, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and computational abilities.
New trial seeks to improve sharing of genetic colorectal cancer risks
A new clinical study aims to improve communication between patients and families about genetic risks of colorectal cancer. The trial will compare two methods of sharing genetic test results with close relatives, with the goal of learning which approach helps more family members get necessary genetic testing.
MSK Research Highlights, March 2, 2026
New MSK research reveals that the TCA cycle's waste-management function may present an opportunity against cancer, microplastics impair immune 'housekeeping' functions and TOX plays different roles in different immune cells. A new combination approach for treating advanced kidney cancer after immunotherapy has also been identified.
The giant fire tornado that could save our oceans
Researchers have developed a new method for cleaning oil spills using massive fire whirls, which can burn through crude oil nearly twice as fast as in-situ fire pools. The results show that fire whirls produce 40% less soot and consume up to 95% of the fuel, leaving fewer harmful particles behind.
Aviv Regev to deliver keynote address at ISSCR 2026 Annual Meeting in Montréal
Aviv Regev, a pioneering computational biologist, will deliver a keynote address on tissue stem cells at the ISSCR 2026 Annual Meeting. Her work has transformed our understanding of cell and tissue function in health and disease.
Korea University College of Medicine Physician-Scientist Training Program hosts International Symposium and Inauguration Ceremony
The Korea University Medical Scientist Training Program marks a significant milestone in nurturing future physician-scientist leaders. The program's comprehensive system bridges basic science and clinical practice, expanding global research collaboration networks.
University of Ottawa launches medical hub to accelerate AI-driven health breakthroughs
The University of Ottawa has launched the Ottawa Medical Artificial Intelligence Research Institute (OMARI), a center for research, education, and innovation in medical Artificial Intelligence. Led by Dr. Khaled El Emam, OMARI aims to facilitate cross-cutting collaborations and sharpen the university's competitive edge in AI-driven hea...
Small number of ‘highly plastic’ cancer cells drive disease progression and treatment resistance
A small subset of highly plastic cancer cells drives cancer progression and treatment resistance, study finds. Targeting these cells may make current treatments more effective and prevent aggressive tumors from forming.
MSK Research Highlights, January 20, 2026
New MSK research reveals that the gut uses immune cells to sense bacteria, triggering protective responses. A subtype of glioma-associated macrophages may play a pivotal role in tumor progression. Additionally, reduced thyroid surgery is an option for some patients.
Stowers Institute appoints former Cerner legal chief as new general counsel
Dan Devers joins the Stowers Institute with over 20 years of experience in law and business. He will lead all legal matters across the Institute, ensuring governance, compliance, intellectual property strategy, and partnerships support the Institute's mission to diagnose, treat, and prevent disease.
Researchers create cells that help the brain keep its cool
Scientists at Lund University have created a new method to directly reprogram glial cells into parvalbumin neurons, which can help regulate brain activity and potentially treat disorders such as schizophrenia and epilepsy. The breakthrough could lead to therapies that replace lost or damaged brain cells in the future.
Stem Cell Reports most downloaded papers of 2025 highlight the breadth and impact of stem cell research
The International Society for Stem Cell Research published its most downloaded papers of 2025, reflecting the field's scientific range from pluripotency to regenerative medicine. The journal's mission is to publish rigorous, transparent, and consequential science advancing discovery while informing clinical translation.
MSK researchers solve a key colorectal cancer mystery
Researchers from MSK discovered that two distinct subtypes of regulatory T cells play opposing roles in colorectal cancer, with one restraining tumor growth and the other fueling it. The study suggests that selective approaches to targeting these cells could improve immunotherapy treatment for most patients with colorectal cancer.
MSK research highlights, November 20, 2025
Researchers at MSK found that Foxp3 degradation can inhibit cancer growth and enhance immune response. They also developed a system to detect loss of heterozygosity during gene editing, which is a common problem in DNA double-strand breaks.
Aged blood vessel cells drive metabolic diseases
Researchers found that senescent blood vessel cells play a key role in developing metabolic disorders like diabetes. Transplanting these cells into lean mice caused inflammation and metabolic dysfunction.
Solving a 70-year-old medical mystery surrounding a vasodialator may yield a novel way to treat brain cancer
A team at the University of Pennsylvania has solved the mechanism of action of hydralazine, revealing its potential to halt the growth of brain cancer cells. By blocking an oxygen-sensing enzyme, hydralazine can reduce intracellular calcium levels, causing blood vessels to relax and tumor cells to enter a dormant state.
The genome editing playbook is different in neurons
Researchers found that CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing persists longer and produces more predictable results in non-dividing neurons. They also discovered new DNA repair genes that can be used to control gene editing outcomes, which could lead to safer and more effective therapies for genetic diseases.
MSK Researchers Make Strides Against VEXAS Syndrome
Researchers at MSK Cancer Center developed laboratory models of VEXAS syndrome, a confounding inflammatory disease. They identified new insights into the disease's mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets by mapping molecular circuitry and blocking parts of the
Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation Experimental Physics Investigators awards to UCSB experimentalists opens the door to new insights and innovations
Three UCSB physicists, Sebastian Streichan, David Patterson, and Andrea Young, are among the selected researchers receiving funding to investigate the physics of tissue morphogenesis, chiral molecules, and quantum materials. This award aims to unlock new insights into fundamental research in experimental physics.
Pennington Biomedical researchers head to Atlanta for ObesityWeek 2025
Pennington Biomedical researchers will participate in numerous panels and presentations during the conference, sharing their latest findings on obesity treatment and prevention. The institution is well-represented at the event, with faculty members among the experts leading courses, presentations, and speaker panels.
Recognising excellence in endocrinology, ESE announces the deserving winners of the 2026 Awards
The European Society of Endocrinology (ESE) has announced the winners of the 2026 ESE Awards, which recognize outstanding contributions to improving knowledge and expertise in endocrinology. This year's winners include Martin Reincke for his work on neuroendocrinology and Maria-Christina Zennaro for her research on hypertension.
Allison Institute’s third annual scientific symposium highlighted by panel discussion with five Nobel laureates
The Allison Institute's third annual scientific symposium featured a panel discussion with five Nobel laureates, highlighting breakthroughs in cancer vaccines, immunotherapy, and immunology research. The event also recognized scientific achievement and leadership through award presentations.
How constant is the fine structure constant?
Researchers have utilized a thorium atomic clock to measure the fine structure constant with unprecedented precision, allowing for the investigation of its constancy. The study found that the fine structure constant can be detected three orders of magnitude more precisely than previous methods.
MSK Research Highlights, September 25, 2025
New MSK research explores the importance of tumor location in metastasis, regulatory T cells' role in pain management, and the effectiveness of proton therapy for leptomeningeal metastasis. The study found that different organ sites select for different cell types present in primary tumors, affecting their viability.
Complete brain activity map revealed for the first time
Researchers created a comprehensive brain-wide activity map of decision-making in mice, revealing that signals are distributed across multiple brain regions. The study challenges traditional hierarchical views and highlights the importance of prior expectations in guiding behavior.
Cell’s ‘antenna’ could be key to curing diseases
Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have identified two transcription factors, SP5 and SP8, that play a crucial role in the formation of primary cilia. The discovery could lead to new treatments for diseases caused by missing or malfunctioning primary cilia, which affect millions worldwide. By understanding how these ...
The ISSCR and Novo Nordisk Foundation collaborate to host the Society’s 2028 Annual Meeting in Copenhagen
The ISSCR will host its 2028 Annual Meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark, bringing together researchers, clinicians, industry leaders, and policymakers from over 80 countries. The event will support new frontiers in stem cell science and regenerative medicine, fostering global collaboration and discovery of cutting-edge scientific advances.
The ISSCR and STEMCELL Technologies partner to launch free, on-demand course on standards for human stem cell use in research
The International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) and STEMCELL Technologies have partnered to develop a free, on-demand course on the ISSCR Standards for Human Stem Cell Use in Research. The course will provide practical guidance on applying the standards to enhance rigor and reproducibility in human stem cell research worldwide.
MSK Research Highlights, August 8, 2025
A new resource, EuPRI, maps RNA sequences for nearly 35,000 RBPs across nearly 700 species, offering insights into evolutionary history and potential therapeutic targets. Researchers also uncover how oxygen sensors regulate ferroptosis and how a specific transcription factor influences natural killer cell responses.
The Drug Target Discovery Institute of Korea University successfully held opening symposium
The institute held a symposium with leading global scholars to discuss metabolic disease treatment research and drug target discovery. It aims to discover new drug targets through interdisciplinary convergence researches and build a global cooperation network.
MSK Research Highlights June 18, 2025
Scientists at MSK found that certain metabolites play a key role in driving differentiation in stem cells, potentially leading to improved tissue regeneration and healing for conditions involving chronic inflammation. APOBEC3 enzymes were linked to breast cancer resistance and growth, with implications for treatment.
Sriram Gubbi of NIDDK wins Endocrine Society’s 2025 Endocrine Images Art Competition
Sriram Gubbi, a physician-scientist at NIDDK, won the Endocrine Society's 2025 Endocrine Images Art Competition with his image 'The Cosmic Bubble', showcasing follicular thyroid carcinoma cells. The competition celebrates the beauty of endocrine science through microscopy.
How membranes may have brought about the chemistry of life on earth
The study investigates how early membranes may have selected the right-handed sugars and left-handed amino acids used in all life today. The researchers found that right-handed DNA and RNA sugars more easily passed through membranes with properties similar to those of archaea.
Korea University College of Medicine selected for ‘2025 Interdisciplinary Physician-Scientist Training Program’
Korea University College of Medicine has been awarded $2.3M to support physician-scientist training and research infrastructure development through the 2025 Interdisciplinary Physician-Scientist Training Program.
Korea University’s College of Medicine was selected by the Ministry of Science and ICT for 24 basic research projects, receiving research fund of 17.3 billion won
Korea University's College of Medicine has been selected for 24 basic research projects, receiving a total of 17.3 billion won in research funds. Eleven professors will conduct research in six project fields.
MRC of Korea University’s College of Medicine held an international symposium with Harvard University’s BIDMC
The Myokine Research Center (MRC) at Korea University College of Medicine recently hosted an international symposium with the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), Harvard University. Researchers shared their latest findings on Myokine's role in brain-organ interactions and potential clinical applications.
Pioneering scientist reveals breakthrough link between psychedelics and immune system in treating fear
Researchers have found that psychedelic compounds can reverse a cascade involving brain-resident cells and immune cells, increasing fear behavior when chronic stress disrupts signaling. This finding represents a paradigm shift in understanding psychedelics' therapeutic potential.
The ISSCR announces Montréal as the location for its 2026 Annual Meeting 8-11 July 2026
The ISSCR 2026 Annual Meeting will bring together global stem cell experts to discuss key scientific themes and applications. The meeting will take place at the Palais des congrès de Montréal from July 8-11, 2026.
Beyond psychedelics: New journal broadens the scope of consciousness research
The Psychedelics journal has expanded its focus to include all psychoactive drugs, challenging traditional classifications and embracing a broader understanding of consciousness-altering substances. This move aims to reveal novel therapeutic applications and deepen human knowledge of the mind.
Neuroendocrinology pioneer celebrated at 100: A personal tribute reveals Dr. Seymour Reichlin's lasting legacy
Dr. Seymour Reichlin's remarkable career spanned five decades, marked by scientific excellence, mentorship, and generosity. His influence on neuroendocrinology has been profound, with ongoing contributions at age 100 revealing new insights into Alzheimer's disease and ecstatic mysticism.
2025 Searle Scholar Andrew Yang to expand inquiry into blood-brain barrier
Andrew Yang will study proteins crossing the blood-brain barrier and their role in brain health, seeking new therapies for neurological diseases. The 2025 Searle Scholar's research could lead to a better understanding of age-related disorders.
Short-term synchronous-asynchronous ambient noise tomography: A new tool for urban karst investigation
Researchers developed a new method to investigate karst features in urban areas using ambient noise tomography. The technique improved the resolution of seismic imaging and provided high-resolution images of subsurface structures, contributing to better geological hazard prevention and control.
Influenza virus hacks cell's internal system
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg discovered that the influenza A virus exploits a protein called AGO2 to regulate gene activity and weaken the immune system. An existing drug, arsenic trioxide, showed promise in increasing interferon production and reducing viral loads.
Atomically dispersed catalysts are tough puzzles to solve, but worth the effort
Researchers are developing atomically dispersed catalysts to make industrial processes cleaner and more efficient. However, the field is plagued by common pitfalls, including inadequate testing and characterization. Experts like Jason Bates and E. Charles Sykes emphasize the need for repeatable, rigorous science.
Researchers create ‘super stem cells’, seeing potential for improved fertility treatment
Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have created 'super stem cells' that outperform regular stem cells by developing into multiple cell types. These 'super stem cells' show promise in improving fertility treatment, particularly IVF success rates, by producing essential tissue for early embryonic development.
Cancer research reveals how chemo impact cells at the molecular level
Scientists have developed a cutting-edge technology to analyze protein turnover in individual cells, enabling them to identify treatment-resistant cancer cells and understand the impact of specific drugs. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in disease diagnostics and treatment strategies.
Air-Sea interaction modeling mystery solved, researchers report
A new study has discovered that increasing ocean resolution is key to accurately simulating AMO variability, particularly at multidecadal timescales. High-resolution ocean experiments correctly showed the AMO lasting 40-80 years, while low-resolution ocean experiments showed unrealistic cycles every 10-20 years.
Ultrafast plasmon-enhanced magnetic bit switching at the nanoscale
Scientists demonstrate ultrafast plasmon-enhanced magnetic bit switching, enabling faster and more robust memory devices. The study uses plasmonic gold nanostructures to confine light and achieve magnetization switching with single femtosecond laser pulses.
Quantum sensors tested for next-generation particle physics experiments
Researchers developed quantum sensors capable of precisely detecting single particles, improving time and spatial resolution. The sensors demonstrated efficiency in detecting high-energy beams of protons, electrons, and pions.
Karen Lozano, Eduardo Salas elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences
Karen Lozano and Eduardo Salas have been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences for their groundbreaking research in materials science and industrial-organizational psychology. Their work has pushed the boundaries of STEM fields, improving team performance and advancing innovation.
Revolutionary microscope reveals quantum dance of atoms in twisted graphene
Researchers have observed the interactions between electrons and a unique atomic vibration in twisted graphene, called a 'phason', for the first time. The Quantum Twisting Microscope has provided unprecedented insight into electron-phonon dynamics, shedding new light on superconductivity and 'strange metallicity'.
MSK Research Highlights, April 23, 2025
Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have made significant breakthroughs in understanding Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and early brain development. They identified a rare quiescent population of stem cells responsible for disease persistence and therapy resistance, as well as shedding light on gene expression patterns ...
A legacy unlocked: Mendel-inspired breakthrough that could transform global pea farming
Researchers have mapped the diversity of a globally important pea collection, revealing secrets behind Mendel's famous traits and uncovering agriculturally useful genetic diversity. The new set of gene bank and genomic resources could revolutionize pea breeding and research.
Silicon carbide: a promising material for high-temperature pressure sensors
SiC-based pressure sensors offer promising solutions for extreme environments due to their wide bandgap, high carrier saturation drift rate, and strong chemical stability. The review highlights key technologies, including epitaxial layers, piezoresistive effect, ohmic contacts, etching, and sensor packaging.