News Archive - Biological Sciences

New Insight Into Genesis of Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is the most common structural disorder of the human nervous system. The causes are largely unknown, but University of California San Diego researchers led a study that points to a link involving a chromosomal microdeletion — and also underscores the value of folic acid as a preventive measure.

Scholarship Recipient Solange Jackson Advocates for Public Health

Undergraduate student Solange Jackson, a recipient of the UC San Diego UJIMA Network Black History Month Scholarship, hopes to make a positive impact on health care policies in underrepresented or marginalized communities.

Researchers Discover Key Functions of Therapeutically Promising Jumbo Viruses

Viruses known as “jumbo” phages are seen as a potential tool against deadly bacterial infections. But scientists must first decipher the extraordinary makeup of these mysterious viruses. Researchers have now uncovered a key piece of jumbo phage development that helps them counter bacteria.

There is an Art to Communicating Scientific Research

UC San Diego's Research Communications Program focuses on practical training to help scientific researchers shine as they share their findings on and off camera.

Leaders in Their Fields

Five UC San Diego graduate students recently joined the ranks of the Bouchet Graduate Honor Society, a prestigious national organization that recognizes scholars whose commitment to social justice, diversity, leadership and academic excellence pushes the boundaries of doctoral education.

Scientists Discover a New Signaling Pathway and Design a Novel Drug for Liver Fibrosis

Scientists from the University of California San Diego discovered a novel signaling pathway in liver cells, leading to a treatment for fibrosis.

Liquid Droplets Shape How Cells Respond to Change

New research by scientists at University of California San Diego has shown that cells regulate cAMP/PKA signaling by forming liquid droplets that segregate excess PKA catalytic subunits where they can do no harm. Some cancers may block the formation of liquid droplets, leading to hyperactive signaling and tumor formation.