News & Views in 2013

Technologies developed for genome editing are repurposed to study functions of chromatin modifications.

Genome sequencing is improved by information on long-range chromatin interactions.

Combining genotyping and the data locked in medical records yields a large number of known genotype-phenotype associations.

A dual-view light-sheet microscope combines isotropic spatial resolution with high speed and minimal phototoxicity.

Pools of cell lines carrying a variety of known mutations are used to validate the performance of a cancer diagnostic test based on next-generation sequencing.

A genetically encoded voltage indicator enables robust optical recording of membrane voltage changes in the fly brain.

Correcting for mutational heterogeneity within and between tumor samples improves cancer genome analyses.

Antibodies specific to phosphorylated peptides are readily generated through structure-based engineering and in vitro selection.

The survival of mice after experimental heart attack is greatly improved by a pulse of RNA therapy.

The use of coiled coils could facilitate the modular, predictable design of protein nanocages.

Four independent studies shed light on the specificity of RNA-guided genome editing tools based on the Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 protein.

Viral vectors that elicit CD8 T-cell responses of unprecedented breadth and promiscuity may aid the design of improved HIV vaccines.

Photoreceptor precursors generated from embryonic stem cells integrate and mature after transplantation into the diseased mouse retina.

Extensive metabolic engineering of the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica results in a sustainable and commercially viable alternative to fish oil for the supply of eicosapentaenoic acid.