Choosing the optimal donor for severe aplastic anemia remains a key challenge in stem cell transplantation. In a large multicenter study of 795 patients in China, researchers found that donor age had a stronger impact on long-term survival than genetic matching. Younger haploidentical donors achieved outcomes comparable to, and in some cases better than, older fully matched sibling donors, suggesting donor age should be prioritized in clinical decision-making.

BETHESDA, MD – The tiny fatty capsules that delivered COVID-19 mRNA vaccines into billions of arms may work better when they’re a little disorganized. That’s the surprising finding from researchers who developed a new way to examine these drug-delivery vehicles one particle at a time—revealing that cramming in more medicine doesn't always mean better results. The research will be presented at the 70th Biophysical Society Annual Meeting in San Francisco from February 21–25, 2026.