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Scientists have uncovered a hidden immune system "brake" that may help cancers avoid being destroyed. The molecule, called SLAMF6, weakens the body's cancer-fighting T cells and can leave them exhausted over time. Researchers developed antibodies that block this brake, allowing immune cells to stay stronger and attack tumors more effectively in mice.

The largest review ever conducted on opioids for acute pain found that these widely prescribed drugs often deliver only small, short-lived benefits. For many common conditions, including some surgeries and kidney stone pain, opioids performed no better than a placebo. Researchers also found higher rates of side effects and warned that dependence can begin after only a short period of use.

Chikwe Ihekweazu, on the ground in Congo, discusses challenges of bringing the outbreak under control

Independent vlogger Geng Hongwei galvanizes often-sluggish institutions to investigate and punish prominent scientists

Government proposal to speed up development could harm protected plants and animals, scientists say

Researchers say changes could further burden the understaffed agency

Researchers have identified a new Alzheimer’s target and created an experimental compound that blocks a damaging process inside brain cells. In mice, the treatment slowed nerve cell loss, reduced Alzheimer’s-related changes, and even appeared to promote healthier aging.

Scientists have uncovered a key brain signal that helps us break old habits and adapt when circumstances suddenly change. By watching mice navigate a virtual maze, researchers found that disappointment—when an expected reward failed to appear—triggered a surge of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, making the animals more likely to try a new strategy. When acetylcholine was blocked, the mice became less flexible and were more likely to stick with outdated choices.