Immune cells called double negative T cells are abundant in the intestine but have been poorly understood till date. In a recent study, researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo report that these cells actually have an indispensable role in suppressing intestinal inflammation. Through cutting-edge microscopy that allows live imaging, the movement and functioning of these cells were visualized for the first time, providing insights into conditions such as Crohn’s disease.

Phospholipids, essential components of cell membranes, are increasingly recognized for their active roles in regulating innate immunity and inflammation. A new review is published to outline how phospholipid metabolism shapes immune cell behavior, influences the outcome of host defense and tissue homeostasis. The authors also discuss how dysregulation of phospholipid metabolism contributes to inflammatory diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases and cancers, and highlight the potential strategies of restoring phospholipid homeostasis for disease treatment.

Two distinct stem cell lineages that drive tooth root and alveolar bone formation have been identified by researchers from Science Tokyo. Using genetically modified mice and lineage-tracing techniques, the team shed light on the cell signaling mechanisms guiding differentiation in stem cells in the developing teeth, offering key insights for future regenerative dental therapies.

Certain nutrients in food can trigger a mild stress response in nematodes. But instead of making them sick, this actually helps them stay healthier as they age, according to researchers at the University of Basel, Switzerland.

Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, Boston Medical Center, and Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, have developed a software platform to help scientists more easily analyze the molecular structure of tissue in both healthy and disease states. Details on the platform, called Giotto Suite, were reported in the October 1 online issue of Nature Methods [DOI: 10.1038/s41592-025-02817-w].