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Following the retraction of a high-profile paper, the US research agency that supports research on drug abuse needs to ensure its independence from intense political pressure to prove that recreational drugs are harmful.
Shape-shifting RNAs that sense the environment — 'riboswitches' — can alter gene activity. Jonathan Knight reports on a discovery that is explaining some of the mysteries of gene regulation.
US research universities, with their enormous classes, have a poor reputation for teaching science. Experts agree that a shake-up is needed, but which strategies work best? Kendall Powell goes back to school.
A centuries-old technique for transporting timber is the inspiration for a new method of assembling nanowires into large-scale, ordered patterns that could form the basis of a new generation of electronic devices.
A form of gene regulation that uses small RNA molecules to bind to longer RNAs was first described over a decade ago, but was thought to be of little significance in controlling cellular processes. No longer.
A laser that operates through repeated emission from a single atom is very different from the lasers we know. The beam of light produced has a more orderly photon stream than even the quietest laser.
Lack of oxygen causes the cells of certain tumours to spread to new locations. It also activates a homing mechanism that enables the migrating cells to target specific organs.
Information about atmospheric conditions far back in Earth's history is embedded in the isotopic composition of fossil microbes. Such studies are technically demanding, but hold considerable promise.
Pairs of viral genomes work together to destroy their hosts more quickly. How this might occur remains unknown, but study of the phenomenon should provide insight into how genetic systems evolve.
Steady philanthropic support, new federal funding and increased commercial interest are mixing in the United States to create a large and growing number of opportunities for a new breed of multidisciplinary researcher, says Virginia Gewin.
