Scientists probing life’s deepest origins have uncovered evidence that the first free-living cells may have emerged not once, but twice. The findings suggest a striking possibility: life may share one ancient genetic code, yet have undergone two separate transitions into free-living existence.| More info

Before seedlings can photosynthesize, they depend on fatty acids—and on peroxisomes to process them. Researchers discovered that the protein PEX11 not only helps these structures divide but also controls their size during early growth. When key genes were altered, peroxisomes grew abnormally large, suggesting internal vesicles normally keep them in balance. Remarkably, a yeast version of the protein fixed the problem, pointing to a deeply conserved mechanism across species.| More info

Researchers have revealed how bacteria precisely control the genes that trigger cell division. The study shows that the MraZ protein, which normally forms a donut-shaped structure, must bend and partially break apart to bind key DNA sequences that activate division genes. Using cryo-electron microscopy, scientists captured this interaction in remarkable detail. The mechanism appears to be widespread across bacteria, offering a new window into how microbes regulate growth.| More info

Researchers have created a method called optovolution that uses light to guide the evolution of proteins with dynamic behaviors. By engineering yeast cells so their survival depended on proteins switching states at the right time, scientists could rapidly select the best-performing variants. The technique produced new light-sensitive proteins that respond to different colors and improved optogenetic systems. It even evolved a protein that behaves like a tiny logic gate, activating genes only when two signals are present.| More info

A large genetic study shows that many people carry DNA sequences that slowly expand as they get older. Common genetic variants can dramatically alter how fast this expansion happens, sometimes multiplying the pace by four. Researchers also identified specific DNA expansions linked to severe kidney and liver disease. The findings suggest that age-related DNA instability is far more common than previously realized.| More info

Scientists record the stepping motion of RNA polymerase along DNA using long-lasting fluorescent DNA origami nanostructures that track life’s smallest movements.| More info

An all-optical memory stores digital data in circulating light for over 20 ms, using Raman amplification and multiple wavelengths to boost capacity.| More info

A reprogrammable mechanical metamaterial converts continuous deformation into digital states, processes signals, and changes logic functions after fabrication, expanding the possibilities for material-based computing.| More info

A modular polymer network creates sub-3 angstrom transport pathways, boosting hydrogen permeability and selectivity while maintaining strength and stability.| More info

A programmable metasurface controls 2500 pixels across a full phase range, enabling tunable lenses, vortex beams and dynamic terahertz holograms.| More info