What's up in

DNA

Latest Articles

RNA Is the Cell’s Emergency Alert System

July 14, 2025

How does a cell know when it’s been damaged? A molecular alarm, set off by mutated RNA and colliding ribosomes, signals danger.

How the Universe Differs From Its Mirror Image

May 14, 2025

From living matter to molecules to elementary particles, the world is made of “chiral” objects that differ from their reflected forms.

How Metabolism Can Shape Cells’ Destinies

March 21, 2025

A growing body of work suggests that cell metabolism — the chemical reactions that provide energy and building materials — plays a vital, overlooked role in the first steps of life.

How ‘Idle’ Egg Cells Defend Their DNA From Damage

May 13, 2024

How do immature egg cells maintain genetic quality for decades before they mature? Scientists find unusual safeguards in this quiescent cell that may inform research into fertility.

A ‘Lobby’ Where a Molecule Mob Tells Genes What to Do

February 14, 2024

Highly repetitive regions of junk DNA may be the key to a newly discovered mechanism for gene regulation.

The Year in Biology

December 19, 2023

In a year packed with fascinating discoveries, biologists pushed the limits of synthetic life, probed how organisms keep time, and refined theories about consciousness and emotional health.

To Defend the Genome, These Cells Destroy Their Own DNA

September 26, 2023

Under a microscope, cells in a worm embryo deliberately eliminated one-third of their genome — an uncompromising tactic that may combat harmful genetic parasites.

Selfish, Virus-Like DNA Can Carry Genes Between Species

August 3, 2023

Genetic elements called Mavericks that have some viral features could be responsible for the large-scale smuggling of DNA between species.

A Mutation Turned Ants Into Parasites in One Generation

May 8, 2023

A new genetics study of ant “social parasites” shows how complex sets of features can emerge rapidly and potentially split species.

Get highlights of the most important news delivered to your email inbox