immunity

The latest CRISPR deactivators to be discovered turn off the Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 widely used in genome editing.

A metagenomics analysis finds Cas9 in archaea for the first time, along with two previously unknown Cas nucleases from bacteria.

Researchers tap into ongoing dengue studies to improve antibody-based diagnostic tests for Zika and address unanswered questions about the emerging virus’s epidemiology.

The immune cells—known for clearing dead cells—also chew up live progenitors in neurogenic regions of mouse brains. 

The maternal gut microbiome guides neo- and postnatal immune system development, a mouse study shows. 

Endogenous retroviruses in the human genome can regulate genes involved in innate immune responses.

A small pilot study suggests exposure to maternal vaginal fluids could restore infant microbiota following Cesarean-section delivery.

In yew trees, Taxol-producing fungi function as an immune system to ward off pathogens.

To protect the global food supply, scientists want to understand—and enhance—plants’ natural resistance to pathogens.

How plants fight off pathogens

Health officials suspect recently reported cases of the disease in Liberia might stem from a flare-up of the virus in a survivor who became pregnant.

The makeup of an individual’s microbiome correlates with genetic variation in immunity-related pathways, a study shows.

Arabidopsis thaliana defense hormones shape the plant’s root microbiome. 

Scientists devise an antibody-based test that can generate a person’s complete “viral history” with just one drop of blood.

A newly discovered protein promotes immunity to viruses and cancer by triggering the production of cytotoxic T cells.

A smaller Cas9 protein enables in vivo genome engineering via viral vectors.

Sequencing cells from human fetal blood samples, researchers track the development of the adaptive immune system throughout gestation.   

Twin study shows environmental factors play a greater role than genetic ones in shaping individual immunity.

Gut microbes enhance response to the seasonal flu shot in mice.

Low doses of antibiotics early in life lead to adult obesity in mice, a study shows.