Scientists at Pacific Northwest Research Institute (PNRI) report that pairs of genetic variants previously classified as damaging can frequently restore normal protein function when present together, overturning a core assumption in human genetics. In a large experimental study of a rare-disease gene, more than 60% of damaging variant pairs rescued enzyme activity. The findings could improve genetic diagnosis and risk prediction for rare disorders by revealing when standard interpretations overestimate disease severity.

Over the past two decades ENSO, a climate pattern in the equatorial Pacific Ocean that includes El Niño and La Niña, has been the dominant driver of  total water storage extremes at the global level. What’s more, the researchers found that ENSO has a synchronizing effect on water storage extremes across continents.

Key Study Highlights: 

Demonstrates how dual-purpose therapeutic targets may address both hepatocellular carcinoma progression and cellular senescence, supporting emerging strategies that link disease treatment with aging biology

Identifies PRPF19 and MAPK9 as targets that suppress tumor cell proliferation while reducing senescence-associated signaling in relevant cellular models

Provides evidence of senomorphic activity, reducing harmful senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) signaling without marked cytotoxicity

Illustrates the effectiveness of integrating AI-driven target discovery, multi-omic human datasets, and experimental validation to prioritize biologically relevant and translationally promising targets

Reinforces Insilico’s broader AI-guided discovery approach for uncovering shared mechanisms across disease and aging

A Carnegie Mellon University-led team has received up to $28.5 million to develop a functional, 3D bioprinted liver for patients with acute liver failure. The temporary, immune-compatible liver is designed to support regeneration of a patient’s own liver, reducing the need for full organ transplants.

Ultraviolet-B (UV-B) semiconductor lasers are highly sought for medical, biotechnology, and precision manufacturing applications; however, previous UV-B laser diodes were limited to pulsed operation or required cryogenic cooling, making continuous room-temperature operation unattainable. Researchers in Japan report the world’s first continuous-wave UV-B semiconductor laser diode operating at room temperature on a low-cost sapphire substrate. This breakthrough advances compact, energy-efficient UV light sources, potentially replacing bulky gas-based lasers in healthcare, industrial, and scientific research applications worldwide.

The ACET–Estonian Islands Community Energy Partnership unites the University of Victoria (UVic)-led Accelerating Community Energy Transformation (ACET) initiative with the Estonian Islands Energy Agency (EISEA) to co-design and deliver applied clean energy research that responds directly to local priorities.