Helen Pearson

Genetics: what is a gene?

The idea of genes as beads on a DNA string is fast fading. Protein-coding sequences have no clear beginning or end and RNA is a key part of the information package, reports Helen Pearson.Genes wilderThe genetic code ‘cracked’,protein synthesis ‘solved’ and complete genomes sequenced: surely we now know what a gene is and what it does. That may be true for those safely outside the field. But for geneticists close to the action, the concept of a gene is getting very complicated indeed.

Translational research: A case history

The Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research is focused on translating research into cures. Helen Pearson investigates whether its sometimes unusual methods are producing results.

Surviving a knockout blow.

Disabling a gene in one mouse strain can be fatal — but in another strain it can produce animals that seem normal. Making sense of such results requires stamina and skill, says Helen Pearson.

SARS: what have we learned?

Its less than four months since the World Health Organization issued global warnings about a mysterious and deadly form of pneumonia. Natures reporters pose key questions about the outbreak, and assess our preparedness to deal with future viral threats.Its less than four months since the World Health Organization issued global warnings about a mysterious and deadly form of pneumonia. Natures reporters pose key questions about the outbreak, and assess our preparedness to deal with future viral threats.

Biology's name game.

The confused nomenclature of genetics is blighting the field — some genes have multiple names whereas unrelated genes often share a common moniker. Helen Pearson examines attempts to bring order to the chaos.

The regeneration gap

Newts grow new legs, Hydra new heads. These remarkable creatures may hold clues for researchers developing human cellular therapies. But the connections are only now starting to be made. Helen Pearson reports.

Human genetics: One gene, twenty years

When the cystic fibrosis gene was found in 1989, therapy seemed around the corner. Two decades on, biologists still have a long way to go, finds Helen Pearson.

'Virophage' suggests viruses are alive.

Evidence of illness enhances case for life.

Developmental biology: Your destiny, from day one

The mammalian body plan starts being laid down from the moment of conception, it has emerged. Helen Pearson considers the implications of a surprising shift in embryological thinking.

Your destiny from day one

The mammalian body plan starts being laid down from the moment of conception, it has emerged. Helen Pearson considers the implications of a surprising shift in embryological thinking.