Basic Science News at Duke School of Medicine

Nuo Li, PhD in his lab

One Way Your Brain Beats AI:  Learning Motor Tasks  

Research from Duke Science and Technology scholar Nuo Li, PhD, used a novel technique for tracking learning to reveal that the brain’s storage of certain memories is more complex and stable than previously thought.
striped pattern on purkinje cells

Striped Gene Expression Pattern Provides Clues for Neurodegenerative Movement Disorders

Spinocerebellar ataxias are a group of neurodegenerative disorders that impact muscle coordination and control. Due to the complexity of the brain, these disorders have been poorly understood. Duke researchers are now using single-cell RNA sequencing technologies to gain a deeper understanding of how these diseases develop, which may lead to better treatment options for patients.
Joseph Heitman

Heitman Elected to National Academy of Medicine

Joseph Heitman, MD, PhD, James B. Duke Professor and chair of the Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, has been elected to the U.S. National Academy of Medicine (NAM).
Richard Brennan, PhD

An Intentional Mentor: Richard G. Brennan Steps Down After 13 Years as Biochemistry Chair

Richard G. Brennan, PhD, James B. Duke Distinguished Professor of Biochemistry, can count many successes during his 13 years as chair of the Duke Department of Biochemistry, including celebrating two Nobel Laureates from the department, as well as playing a pivotal role in bringing the vital technology of cryogenic electron microscopy (Cryo-EM) to Duke.
Evon DeBose-Scarlett

Closing in on the Causes of a Dangerous Bleeding Disorder

A new study led by a Duke graduate student points the way toward strategies for developing more targeted and effective treatments for patients suffering from Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, which can cause serious, even life-threatening, bleeding.