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This study challenges the longstanding assumption that embryonic stem cells remain quite plastic and malleable during the earliest stages of cell commitment.

Thanks in part to the popular film Finding Nemo, clownfishes are well known to the public and well represented in scientific literature. But the same can't be said for the equally colorful sea anemones--venomous, tentacled animals--that protect clownfishes and that the fish nourish and protect in return. That is, until now.

Relying strictly on genetic data from those of European descent, rather than more diverse populations, can exacerbate existing disease and increase health care disparities, according to new research.

The sweet, starchy orange sweet potatoes are tasty and nutritious ingredients for fries, casseroles and pies. Although humans have been cultivating sweet potatoes for thousands of years, scientists still don't know much about the protein makeup of these tubers, until now.

A new study has characterized distinct populations of immune cells that contribute to inflammatory bowel disease It is hoped that the findings will aid in developing treatments targeting inflammation while preserving healthy gut function.

Geneticists exploring the dark heart of the human genome have discovered big chunks of Neanderthal and other ancient DNA.

Scientists have tried developing scaffolds or structures from various materials, including plastic and textile fibers, to lay a foundation for new cells. Duke scientists now describe a more organic model – a scaffold derived from a pig’s meniscus, which performed better in lab tests than healing without a scaffold.

Toxoplasma gondii, a single-celled parasite, can invade virtually all types of cells in the body. The parasite extracts most of the nutrients it needs for replication from its host cell, including essential amino acids like arginine.

A new experimental system has been designed that can rapidly assess the pathogenic effects of a drug on a baby's developing brain. The system uses embryonic stem cells reprogrammed into neurons, and offers a powerful tool for probing genetic and molecular underpinnings of drug-induced neurodevelopmental disorders.

An investigational drug for the treatment of sickle cell disease shows early promise in Phase 2a clinical trial. The orally administered drug, given to adult patients with sickle cell disease, is demonstrating tolerability and the ability to impact both red and white blood cell biomarkers of the disease.