Published in PLOS Genetics, new research from MDI Biological Laboratory introduces a transgenic zebrafish that rapidly reproduces the molecular and cellular hallmarks of age-related muscle decline (sarcopenia). By conditionally activating a single atrophy-linked gene, the model—dubbed “atrofish”—compresses years of muscle aging into days or weeks. The platform reveals early protein loss in muscle fibers, uncovers a surprising link between muscle degeneration and nerve loss, and offers a fast, cost-effective way to test interventions aimed at preserving muscle and neuromuscular health during aging.

A Japanese research team has discovered a new compound that can advance the body’s internal clock—offering hope for faster recovery from jet lag and better adaptation to night-shift work. The compound, called Mic-628, specifically activates the transcription of a clock gene named Period1 (Per1). When given orally to mice, it advanced their body clocks and activity rhythms, regardless of dosing time. The findings suggest a new approach to controlling circadian rhythms through drug action rather than light exposure.

Scientists have identified a molecule that blocks the gene responsible for glioblastoma, raising hopes that the molecule could become a much-needed new treatment.

New research by scientists from William & Mary's Batten School & VIMS shows that oyster filter feeding can significantly reduce the spread of a common blue crab parasite.

Researchers in UConn's College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources have developed a novel line of bovine embryonic stem cells, which have significant potential for a variety of new innovations, from lab-grown meat to models for human tissue replacement.

This work, led by Xiuchun “Cindy” Tian, professor of biotechnology in the Department of Animal Science, and her former and current graduate students Yue Su, Jiaxi Liu, and Ruifeng Zhao, was published in Stem Cells.

A new genetic study has revealed that the people of Deep Mani, who inhabit one of the remotest regions of mainland Greece, represent one of the most genetically distinctive populations in Europe, shaped by more than a millennium of isolation. The findings, published today (4 February) in Communications Biology, reveal that many lineages can be traced back to the Bronze Age, Iron Age and Roman period of Greece.