mRNA fragments reveal a hidden process that protects cells from harmful mutations

Some genetic mutations that are expected to completely stop a gene from working surprisingly cause only mild or even no symptoms. Researchers in previous studies have discovered one reason why: cells can ramp up the activity of other genes that perform similar functions to make up for the loss of an important gene's function. A new study from the lab of Whitehead Institute Member Jonathan Weissman now reveals insights into how cells can coordinate this compensation response. The findings are published in the journal Science.