Proteins

Researchers have finally seen how some smell receptors bind to odor molecules. The work yields new insights into one of the most mysterious and versatile senses.

Glycans, the complex sugars that stud cellular surfaces, are like a language that life uses to mediate vital interactions. Researchers are learning how to read their meaning.

Unusual proteins that can quickly fold into different shapes provide cells with a novel regulatory mechanism.

Inside cells, droplets of biomolecules called condensates merge, divide and dissolve. Their dance may regulate vital processes.

Mistletoes have all but shut down the powerhouses of their cells. Scientists are still trying to understand the plants’ unorthodox survival strategy.

The simple insight that most changes are random had a profound effect on genetics, evolution and ecology.

Researchers see structural changes in genetic material that allow memories to strengthen when remembered.

Neural networks have been taught to quickly read the surfaces of proteins — molecules critical to many biological processes.

Maintaining perfect stability through negative feedback is a basic element of electrical circuitry, but it’s been a mystery how cells could do it — until now.