The CRISPR “gene scissors” have become an important basis for genome-editing technologies in many fields, ranging from biology and medicine to agriculture and industry. A team from the Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI) in Würzburg has now demonstrated that these CRISPR-Cas systems are even more versatile than previously thought. In cooperation with the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) in Braunschweig and Utah State University (USU) in Logan (USA), the scientists have discovered a novel CRISPR defense mechanism: Unlike known nucleases, Cas12a3 specifically destroys transfer ribonucleic acids (tRNA) that are vital for protein production to shut down infected cells. The team published its findings today in the journal Nature.

Mass General Brigham investigators found an association between negative experiences during pregnancy and risk of mental health problems, such as depression, as children reached their teenage years

A new Nature study suggests chronic nerve pain could be eased by an unexpected source: healthy mitochondria. Duke University School of Medicine researchers found that delivering this fresh energy supply to damaged nerve cells sharply reduced pain, in some cases for up to 48 hours. The approach, tested with human tissue and mouse models, showed promising relief for diabetic neuropathy and nerve damage caused by chemotherapy.

A large national and international study has identified dozens of blood proteins linked to prostate cancer risk, some shared across populations, some unique to specific groups. Published in Nature Communications, the study seeks to improve understanding the various causes of prostate cancer across different populations. The study is led by Dr. Lang Wu, Associate Director of Population Science - LSU LCMC Health Cancer Center, highlighting Louisiana’s growing role as a national leader in cutting-edge cancer research. The study can be viewed here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-66250-5.

The Publications Division of the American Chemical Society (ACS) is proud to announce that Environmental Health Perspectives (EHP) has joined the ACS Publications portfolio. EHP is a globally respected journal with a legacy as a premier source for research findings at the intersection of the environment and human health.

Researchers at the University of Maine found that when Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) interacts with Candida albicans (C. albicans), GBS is more likely to spread disease and become harder to treat in newborns. This may significantly increase the risk of severe and potentially fatal infections in newborns, while also making standard treatments less effective. GBS cells grow faster when they reside in the same environment as C. albicans. When combined with C. albicans, GBS is also more resistant to antibiotic treatments.