Scientists have discovered that cells once thought to be useful, and even a liability, could be important tools in the fight against disease — including the development of a vaccine against HIV. [ + ]

Replacing two naturally occurring molecules in the body could reverse symptoms of ageing, potentially influencing how the body responds to and performs exercise. [ + ]

Exposure of pregnant women and children to common thyroid-hormone-disrupting toxins may be linked to the increased incidence of brain development disorders. [ + ]

Vitamin D plays an important role in the brain development of children, according to Western Australian researchers. [ + ]

US researchers have evaluated a new device, worn like a visor, which can detect emergent large-vessel occlusion in patients with suspected stroke with 92% accuracy. [ + ]

The first non-human primate trials of a dual vaccine developed in Australia for the zika and chikungunya viruses are about to begin in the United States. [ + ]

A new drug is said to slow the progression of disability in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS), according to a double-blind, randomised, phase III trial. [ + ]

One in four pharmaceuticals have been found to inhibit the growth of bacteria in the human gut, according to a large-scale international study. [ + ]

Researchers have developed a new drug screening technique that could lead to the rapid identification of fentanyl, as well as a vast number of other drugs of abuse. [ + ]

Scientists have used CRISPR gene-editing technology to target RNA — as opposed to DNA — and in the process corrected a protein imbalance in cells from a dementia patient. [ + ]

A Melbourne researcher has helped design what is claimed to be the world's first modular hearing aid — a breakthrough that took 130 prototypes to get right. [ + ]

A national survey has revealed that female scientists are not getting the same opportunities for promotion or seniority as their male peers with similar qualifications and experience. [ + ]

Scientists have discovered that Cas9 'DNA scissors' can also readily target RNA, in a breakthrough that could have far-reaching ramifications. [ + ]

Gold Coast researchers are using a 3D computer-simulated biomechanical model and an electroencephalogram (EEG) to stimulate movement in quadriplegics. [ + ]

Scientists have discovered the process, and filmed the actual moment, that can change the body's response to a dying cell. [ + ]