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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