Paleontologists from the University of Kansas have described for the first time a species of ancient near-marsupial discovered in Texas’ Big Bend National Park. Dubbed Swaindelphys solastella, the new species is much larger than similar species of Swaindelphys known from that period.

Problems with cranial base growth, which supports the skull’s structure, can lead to several chronic conditions of the face and upper airway. However, the molecular mechanisms regulating this process remain poorly understood. In a recent study, researchers from the United States use a sophisticated mouse model to understand the role of RUNX2, a master regulator protein, in cranial base growth. Their findings offer new insights into craniofacial malformations and may contribute to identifying potential therapeutic targets.