mRNA fragments reveal a hidden process that protects cells from harmful mutations
Feb 12, 2026
Some genetic mutations that are expected to completely stop a gene from working surprisingly cause only mild or even no symptoms. Researchers in previous studies have discovered one reason why: cells can ramp up the activity of other genes that perform similar functions to make up for the loss of an
important gene's function. A new study from the lab of Whitehead Institute Member Jonathan Weissman now reveals insights into how cells can coordinate this compensation response. The findings are published in the journal Science. ...read more read less