News Archive - Research Alerts

Surf’s Up: How the Seafloor Shapes Breaking Waves

A new study spearheaded by surfing scientists with Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego revealed the physical relationships underlying a pattern familiar to generations of surfers.

Breakthrough Helps Expand Genetic Alphabet

Researchers at UC San Diego have demonstrated that one of biology’s most essential enzymes can accurately read and transcribe an expanded genetic alphabet containing eight DNA letters instead of the four used by all known life.

A New Frontier in X-Rays and Quantum Sensing

Until now there was an upper limit to the energy produced by atoms irradiated with laser light. Now UC San Diego researchers have crossed the threshold using helium atoms and intense UV lasers.

Researchers Use AI to Decode Key DNA Sequence in Gene Activation

Scientists have revealed the DNA identity of the “initiator,” a crucial sequence that kickstarts gene activation. AI analysis of a half million data points deciphered the initiator’s identity. Researchers can use the new information to scan for mutations that may lead to diseases such as cancer.

Study Identifies Previously Missed DNA Mutation Pattern in Colorectal Cancer

Researchers identified a previously overlooked pattern of DNA mutations in colorectal cancer. The pattern had been detected in large cancer-genome datasets before, but researchers had interpreted it as a combination of other, already known mutation patterns.

How Do Cells Learn to Move in Unison?

Scientists have long-wondered how sheets of cells begin to move together to form organs. UC San Diego researchers used live imaging, genetic experiments and mathematical modeling to understand how cells in the fruit fly egg chamber synchronize movement with each other.