Researchers found that targeted electrical stimulation can alter the activity of specific cell assemblies in the human brain that are linked to gene expression. The discovery, published in Nature, clarifies how brain stimulation may influence neural circuitry and could inform future therapies for neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Researchers developed a virtual tissue foundation model that can analyze spatial proteomics data — the locations of proteins within tissues — across different scales. This AI tool helps scientists understand tissue architecture and cell interactions in health and disease, potentially accelerating biological discovery and diagnostic research.
Researchers have identified the molecular process governing female restitution in sugarcane hybrids, a key factor in how chromosomes are passed on. This discovery clarifies how certain offspring inherit complete maternal chromosome sets. The finding could help breeders develop improved sugarcane varieties with desirable traits.
Nature has issued an editorial expression of concern about a prominent study claiming tumor exosome integrins determine where cancer spreads. The notice flags potential issues with the paper's data but does not retract it. This matters because the study has influenced cancer biology research and its integrity is now in question.
Researchers identified a subset of astrocytes expressing CD40 and MHC-II that can act as antigen-presenting cells. These cells promote autoimmune responses in the central nervous system, offering a potential new target for treating diseases like multiple sclerosis.
Researchers have published a compendium of next-generation patient-derived 3D cancer models spanning diverse tumor types, paired with a detailed dependency map. These models allow systematic identification of genetic vulnerabilities in cancers that are difficult to study in standard 2D cultures. The resource is expected to accelerate precision oncology by revealing new therapeutic targets and improving drug testing.
Researchers discovered that primary cilia on astrocytes in the amygdala, a brain region tied to emotion, regulate stress-related behaviors. The findings reveal a new cellular mechanism underlying stress responses. This could open avenues for targeted therapies for stress-induced psychiatric conditions.
Researchers have developed a chemical process to upcycle polyvinyl chloride (PVC) into polyalphaolefin lubricants, transforming problematic plastic waste into useful industrial oils. This approach offers a sustainable route to manage PVC waste and reduce reliance on fossil-derived lubricants.
Researchers have developed a method where hydrogel particles transform into continuous fibres during 3D printing, enabling finer control over printed structures. This technique could improve the fabrication of soft materials for biomedical applications such as tissue scaffolds and flexible devices. The advance addresses a key limitation in printing hydrogels with both structural integrity and biological compatibility.