Cell biology
Acorn worm reprogrammes larval cells during metamorphosis
During metamorphosis in an acorn worm, many larval cells are retained whilst their gene activity changes dramatically – suggesting they are capable of adopting a different cellular identity.
Extraordinary organoids in the making
Organoid technology has now advanced to the point where even less obvious tissues can be grown, opening up a wide range of interesting applications.
How do white blood cells migrate?
White blood cells are the first line of defence against infections. These immune cells circulate in the blood, but must be able to travel...
Beating heart actively suppresses tumour growth
Contraction of the heart alters gene expression and protein production, making it difficult for cardiac tumours to develop.
New CRISPR variant cuts tumour DNA by reading methylation patterns
A modified CRISPR variant can distinguish between tumour DNA and healthy DNA in cultured cells on the basis of chemical differences, and then selectively cuts the tumour DNA.
Cell volume in 2D or 3D culture shapes cell behaviour
'After the transition from 2D to 3D culture, we saw the cells shrink', says PhD candidate Marieke Meteling. Cells in a 3D cell culture...
Computer simulation captures a complete cell cycle
American researchers have succeeded in creating a computer simulation of the complete life cycle of a minimal cell.
Questions on ‘Breaking antibiotic resistance
This quiz accompanies the article 'We're breaking antibiotic resistance' and links to the themes of cell biology, genetics, and immunity.
Cell size is the result of an energetic trade-off
A rare recording of a Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) – a long-lived species with enormously large cells – at Admiralty Inlet, Nunavut. Photo: Hemming1952.
Cell...
Protein keeps cell division on track
Human oocyte in metaphase, with chromosomes shown in grey and microtubules in various colours. Photo: Kruno Vukušić, Ruđer Bošković Institute
During cell division, the protein...