A Human-Specific Gene May Help Explain Our Extraordinary Brainpower

Microglia are the brain’s most abundant immune cells. They protect against invading threats, remove damaged neurons and help shape neural circuits as the brain develops. Scientists at Columbia’s ...

Humans have a 'highly abundant' number of stable proteins that are not all predicted by genetic code

In 1968, the American biochemist and geneticist Marshall Nirenberg and his colleagues won the Nobel Prize in physiology or ...

DNA repair enzymes favor specific sequences, shaping mutation patterns in the human genome

When a wound does not heal properly, it leaves a scar. Similarly, mutations—which are permanent changes to genetic code—are ...

People carrying a rare gene variant have naturally low body fat, healthier livers and better blood sugar levels

There are people around us who can maintain their weight despite what they eat. This has led scientists to believe that a person's metabolism and tendency toward obesity may have genetic factors ...

The power of genetic testing: new screening methods are catching rare diseases before symptoms start

Genetic testing is helping doctors identify rare diseases earlier, opening the door to treatment options before symptoms appear.

AI News Tracker: Stanford scientists use AI to create new synthetic viruses, while one more AI agent goes rogue

Stanford scientists have created history by using AI agents to create new synthetic viruses that can kill E. coli bacteria.

First mRNA flu shot approved by FDA bodes well for improving drugs of the future – though a few hurdles remain before mRNA can move beyond vaccines

But the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines brought a new approach to vaccine development. And on Aug. 5, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved another mRNA vaccine – a season ...