An ancient RNA-guided system could simplify delivery of gene editing therapies
The programmable proteins are compact, modular, and can be directed to modify DNA in human cells.
A protein from tiny tardigrades may help cancer patients tolerate radiation therapy
When scientists stimulated cells to produce a protein that helps “water bears” survive extreme environments, the tissue showed much less DNA damage after radiation treatment.
MIT biologists discover a new type of control over RNA splicing
They identified proteins that influence splicing of about half of all human introns, allowing for more complex types of gene regulation.
Mapping mRNA through its life cycle within a cell
Xiao Wang’s studies of how and where RNA is translated could lead to the development of better RNA therapeutics and vaccines.
Photos: 2024 Nobel winners with MIT ties honored in Stockholm
Laureates participated in various Nobel Week events, including lectures, a concert, a banquet, and the Nobel ceremony on Dec. 10.
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.
Killing the messenger
A newly characterized anti-viral defense system in bacteria aborts infection through a novel mechanism by chemically altering mRNA.
Cancer biologists discover a new mechanism for an old drug
Study reveals the drug, 5-fluorouracil, acts differently in different types of cancer — a finding that could help researchers design better drug combinations.
Victor Ambros ’75, PhD ’79 and Gary Ruvkun share Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine
The scientists, who worked together as postdocs at MIT, are honored for their discovery of microRNA — a class of molecules that are critical for gene regulation.
A new way to reprogram immune cells and direct them toward anti-tumor immunity
MIT scientists’ discovery yields a potent immune response, could be used to develop a potential tumor vaccine.
Study across multiple brain regions discerns Alzheimer’s vulnerability and resilience factors
Genomics and lab studies reveal numerous findings, including a key role for Reelin amid neuronal vulnerability, and for choline and antioxidants in sustaining cognition.
License plates of MIT
Custom plates display expressions of scholarship, creativity, and MIT pride among Institute affiliates.
New technique reveals how gene transcription is coordinated in cells
By capturing short-lived RNA molecules, scientists can map relationships between genes and the regulatory elements that control them.
Scientists identify mechanism behind drug resistance in malaria parasite
SMART researchers find a cellular process called transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNA) modification influences the malaria parasite’s ability to develop resistance.
Taking RNAi from interesting science to impactful new treatments
Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, founded by MIT professors and former postdocs, has turned the promise of RNAi research into a new class of powerful therapies.