Why gain-of-function research matters

The research community is taking a closer look at the lab-leak hypothesis for the origin of COVID-19, prompting discussion about the risks and benefits of engineering viruses.

Rebecca Moritz, Biosafety Director and Responsible Official, Colorado State University • conversation
June 21, 2021 • ~10 min

Working with dangerous viruses sounds like trouble – but here's what scientists learn from studying pathogens in secure labs

Scientists get up close and personal with deadly pathogens to give doctors the tools they need to treat people sickened by germs. The key is keeping the researchers – and everyone around them – safe.

Jerry Malayer, Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Education and Professor of Physiological Sciences in the College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University • conversation
June 10, 2021 • ~10 min

Plant pandemics threaten future food supply

Researchers are calling for comprehensive efforts to stop plant pandemics, which could devestate the global food supply.

Shirley Cardenas-McGill • futurity
May 26, 2021 • ~6 min

Think like a virus to understand why the pandemic isn't over yet – and what the US needs to do to help other countries

Viruses want to pass on their genetic material. Recognizing this about SARS-CoV-2 provides insight into how the world is still vulnerable to COVID-19.

Karen Levy, Associate Professor of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington • conversation
May 26, 2021 • ~10 min

Did a new coronavirus go from dog to human?

If confirmed as a pathogen, a new canine-like coronavirus could represent the eighth unique coronavirus known to cause disease in humans.

Gregory Phillips-Duke • futurity
May 20, 2021 • ~4 min

Environmental DNA – how a tool used to detect endangered wildlife ended up helping fight the COVID-19 pandemic

Technology that can identify stray bits of genetic material in the environment can help scientists monitor human and animal health.

Liam Whitmore, PhD Candidate, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick • conversation
April 21, 2021 • ~8 min

Social lives of wolves affect spread of pathogens

The social lives of wolves affect how disease spreads among them, new research shows. The findings could apply to any social species.

Sara LaJeunesse-Penn State • futurity
March 25, 2021 • ~6 min

Model may shield Chincoteague ponies from ‘swamp cancer’

A pathogen on Assateague Island puts wild Chincoteague ponies at risk for a deadly infection. A new model may offer a way to save them.

Tracey Peake-NC State • futurity
March 12, 2021 • ~4 min

Vaccines should end the pandemic, despite the variants, say experts

Can the current crop of vaccines get us to herd immunity even if variants become widespread? A Harvard immunologist says yes.

Alvin Powell • harvard
Feb. 25, 2021 • ~6 min

Bee diversity keeps colonies healthy

The most diverse bee communities have the lowest levels of viral pathogens. "Promoting diverse bee communities may be a win-win strategy..."

Jim Erickson-Michigan • futurity
Feb. 18, 2021 • ~7 min

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