Seeing more in expansion microscopy
New methods light up lipid membranes and let researchers see sets of proteins inside cells with high resolution.
AI system predicts protein fragments that can bind to or inhibit a target
FragFold, developed by MIT Biology researchers, is a computational method with potential for impact on biological research and therapeutic applications.
AI model deciphers the code in proteins that tells them where to go
Whitehead Institute and CSAIL researchers created a machine-learning model to predict and generate protein localization, with implications for understanding and remedying disease.
Kingdoms collide as bacteria and cells form captivating connections
Studying the pathogen R. parkeri, researchers discovered the first evidence of extensive and stable interkingdom contacts between a pathogen and a eukaryotic organelle.
An abundant phytoplankton feeds a global network of marine microbes
New findings illuminate how Prochlorococcus’ nightly “cross-feeding” plays a role in regulating the ocean’s capacity to cycle and store carbon.
Tiny, wireless antennas use light to monitor cellular communication
As part of a high-resolution biosensing device without wires, the antennas could help researchers decode intricate electrical signals sent by cells.
Cellular traffic congestion in chronic diseases suggests new therapeutic targets
Chronic diseases like diabetes are prevalent, costly, and challenging to treat. A common denominator driving them may be a promising new therapeutic target.
A blueprint for better cancer immunotherapies
By examining antigen architectures, MIT researchers built a therapeutic cancer vaccine that may improve tumor response to immune checkpoint blockade treatments.
When a cell protector collaborates with a killer
New research reveals what it takes for a protein that is best known for protecting cells against death to take on the opposite role.
When muscles work out, they help neurons to grow, a new study shows
The findings suggest that biochemical and physical effects of exercise could help heal nerves.
A causal theory for studying the cause-and-effect relationships of genes
By sidestepping the need for costly interventions, a new method could potentially reveal gene regulatory programs, paving the way for targeted treatments.
“Wearable” devices for cells
By snugly wrapping around neurons, these devices could help scientists probe subcellular regions of the brain, and might even help restore some brain function.
A new method to enhance effectiveness of cartilage repair therapy
SMART researchers find mesenchymal stromal cells are an attractive alternative to current costly, time-intensive treatments.
A new framework to efficiently screen drugs
Novel method to scale phenotypic drug screening drastically reduces the number of input samples, costs, and labor required to execute a screen.
Jane-Jane Chen: A model scientist who inspires the next generation
A research scientist and internationally recognized authority in the field of blood cell development reflects on 45 years at MIT.