reproduction

The findings answer the longstanding question of where these cells hold the mRNA needed to cope with the transcriptional halt preceding meiosis.

An honorable mention in the 2022 Nikon Small World in Motion competition shows thale cress sperm being released into the ovule.

Researchers say they've figured out how some reproductive ants live up to 30 years—far longer than workers.

The cells’ mitochondria skip a key metabolic reaction that takes place in other cells in the body, a study finds.

Agarwood fruit smells like prey, luring carnivorous hornets, a study suggests.

Cloning and parthenogenesis of humans wouldn’t align with bioethical principles.

Two glands increase steroid production after female California two-spot octopuses mate, a study finds. Those hormones may be responsible for the animals’ self-destructive behavior.

Nearly all mouse sperm have hooks on their heads. But new research suggests the structures slow them down—so what exactly is their purpose?

During their escape, male spiders can reach speeds in excess of 3 kilometers per hour thanks to their springy front legs.

Researchers report they were able to make functional sperm in a dish, a feat previously only possible for mice.

Studies have found that organisms can inherit mitochondria from male parents in rare instances, and both theoretical and experimental work hint that this biparental inheritance is more than just a fluke.

A look back at some of the articles we most enjoyed reading, writing, and editing this year

Biological robots made from frog cells can replicate by smooshing loose cells into new robots—a reproduction method not seen in any other organism.

Scientists are banking various samples from recipients of donated uteruses to learn all they can about the biology of the organ, and about transplantation more generally.

With human research trials resulting in dozens of successful deliveries in the US and abroad, doctors move toward offering the surgery clinically, while working to learn all they can about uterine and transplant biology from the still-rare procedure.

CRISPR and other innovations are likely to open up a wealth of new options for how people have children.

A combination of approaches, including uterus transplantation and the joining of two animals’ circulatory systems, allowed males to bear pups, according to a preprint. But some experts say the experiments were not justified.  

The hardy animals were pulled from the permafrost in Siberia, giving scientists the opportunity to study how they survive extreme conditions.