The Membrane Metro

Cells are nature's protein factories. They build enzymes, antibodies, and a host of other critical molecules on a nanoscale assembly line. Professor Randy Schekman has devoted his career to researching the intricate systems that pack and transport these proteins between organelles and beyond the cell walls.... read more


Habitat for Human Stem Cells

Scientists hope someday to be able to transplant stem cells into the body to repair injured nerve cells, regenerate diseased organs, and replace defective tissues. But stem cells are also prima donnas, tricky to keep alive in the lab and difficult to control. Professor David Schaffer is developing ways to mimic their natural habitats and cultivate stem cells for tomorrow's medical therapies.... read more


The Making of T Cells

T cells are the linchpins of the human immune system. They fight infections and budding cancers as well as ensure immune tolerance for the body's own cells. But ninety-nine percent of immature T cells that begin the maturation process don't make the grade. Professor Ellen Robey is uncovering how T cells mature and how to grow them from scratch using stem cells.... read more


 

ScienceBeat

Sea mollusks taste their memories to build shells    ... read more

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