Temperature-controlled switch activates sperm, is key to fertility
WashU Medicine researchers led by Polina Lishko have identified a temperature-controlled switch in mouse sperm that changes their movements. The findings may offer new approaches for contraception and infertility treatment.
Copycat evolution
Biologist Jonathan Losos, in Arts & Sciences, has documented evidence of a kind of “copycat” evolution between extremely short-faced breeds of cats and dogs. Generations of intentional breeding have led these animals to converge on a rounded, flat-nosed head shape that humans prefer — even though the shape causes a variety of health ailments.
Inspired by nature
Faculty at WashU follow the natural world for inspiration and ideas for innovative and “wild” solutions.