Scientists have identified a long‑sought enzyme that controls a fundamental chemical process critical for healthy bones and cartilage, according to a study accepted to Nature Chemical Biology. The enzyme, MESH1, regulates levels of PAPS, the chemical “fuel” cells use to add sulfate tags to proteins and other molecules. The researchers found that MESH1 breaks down PAPS, reducing sulfation; when sulfation is too low, cartilage and bone don’t form properly, contributing to skeletal disorders and possibly osteoarthritis. Lowering MESH1 activity boosted sulfation and improved bone density in a mouse model with a sulfation defect. By also solving the enzyme’s 3D structure bound to PAPS, the study opens the door to drug development, suggesting that inhibiting MESH1 could help restore sulfation in patients with related diseases.

The next generation of researchers are driving discoveries focused on ensuring longer lives are healthier, more active, and more vital.

Researchers from Duke University and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center used ultra-high-resolution magnetic resonance (MR) microscopy to map volume changes throughout the brain in a carefully crafted collection of genetically engineered mouse models. The results provide new insight into the evolution of Alzheimer's disease and make it easier for scientists to test potential Alzheimer’s treatments in preclinical trials.

A “produce prescription” is a promising Food ‑ is ‑ Medicine approach that provides direct resources to help families afford healthy foods.

Consuelo H. Wilkins, MD, HS’96–’99, has been named a recipient of a 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award by the Duke Medical Alumni Association in recognition of her visionary leadership, transformative community-engaged research, and national impact on advancing health equity.

David A. Spiegel, BS’85, MD’90, HS’90-’96, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Humanitarian Award by the Duke Medical Alumni Association in recognition of his extraordinary global impact and commitment to advancing pediatric orthopaedic care.

Danny Benjamin, MD, HS’98-’01, PhD, has been named a recipient of a 2026 Distinguished Faculty Award by the Duke Medical Alumni Association in recognition of his transformative leadership in pediatric clinical research, his national impact on child health, and his deep commitment to mentoring the next generation of investigators.

Ronald N. Goldberg, MD, has been named a recipient of a 2026 Honorary Alumni Award by the Duke Medical Alumni Association in recognition of his transformative impact on neonatal/perinatal medicine and his longstanding commitment to improving outcomes for critically ill newborns.

Durga S. Borkar, MD, MMCi’21, has been named a recipient of a 2026 Emerging Leader Award by the Duke Medical Alumni Association in recognition of her exceptional impact at the intersection of vitreoretinal surgery, clinical data science, and health‑technology innovation.

Kathryn M. Andolsek, MD, HS’76-’79, has been named the recipient of a 2026 Distinguished Faculty Award by the Duke Medical Alumni Association in recognition of her transformative contributions to medical education, community health, and institutional leadership.