Alzheimer's tau protein has a surprising secret role in memory

Researchers found that tau is essential for turning new experiences into lasting memories by helping organize the brain’s memory-storing cells. The mouse study also revealed how abnormal tau may contribute…

Alzheimer's tau protein has a surprising secret role in memory

Researchers found that tau is essential for turning new experiences into lasting memories by helping organize the brain’s memory-storing cells. The mouse study also revealed how abnormal tau may contribute…

The Surprising Source of America’s Success

Driving on I-79 south from Pittsburgh toward Charlottesville, I started composing this birthday card in my head—a love letter to America on its 250th birthday. The hills of Pennsylvania were…

Columbia scientists discover surprising link between serotonin and heart valve disease

Scientists have uncovered evidence that serotonin, the chemical best known for regulating mood, may also speed the progression of a common heart valve disease in some people. The research suggests…

Bobby Portis Jr reveals the surprising reason behind his new Miami Heat jersey number

It’s always interesting to hear how athletes come up with their jersey numbers. Sometimes there’s a deep story, or it’s a tribute to another player. Other times, as is the…

Second pregnancy changes the brain in surprising new ways

Researchers found that every pregnancy rewires the brain in its own way, with a second pregnancy bringing a different pattern of changes than the first. The discoveries could lead to…

The Surprising Unity of Soccer

This is an edition of The Wonder Reader, a newsletter in which our editors recommend a set of stories to spark your curiosity and fill you with delight. Sign up…

Scientists found a surprising cancer fighter hiding inside tumors

Scientists at the University of Illinois Chicago have turned an unlikely source into a potential new weapon against cancer: bacteria that naturally live inside tumors. They developed a peptide called…