Understanding the playbook that those in power use to twist numbers, and how they make others complicit, is only becoming more important in the post-truth world.

Potato ‘pangenome’ could allow easier sequencing of new varieties — plus, a Nature analysis reveals the most cited paper written in the twenty-first century.

Neutron-scattering experiments have revealed a predicted high-pressure phase of ice called ‘plastic ice VII’, in which molecules form crystals, as they do in normal ice, but rotate as in liquid water. These data highlight the role of hydrogen dynamics in defining exotic ice phases and could have implications for the geodynamics of icy planets.

A method for examining RNAs in blood samples offers a clinical tool to detect and monitor cancer and to assess immune responses to vaccination.

Metformin could reduce people’s risk of certain age-associated blood cancers, but more work is needed to identify who is likely to benefit.

Transplanting dopamine-releasing neurons into the brain is a promising regenerative therapy for Parkinson’s disease. Two clinical trials show that it is safe, but more evidence is needed to prove its effectiveness.

Potential treatments need to be subject to the highest standards of safety and efficacy.

Studies show the therapy is safe, but bigger trials are needed to prove its efficacy.

Induced pluripotent stem cells are being tested to treat blindness, paralysis, Parkinson’s disease and more. Approvals might be around the corner.

The World Health Organization accord promotes sharing scientific data in exchange for more equitable distribution of drugs and vaccines.

Inked scientists choose scientific images to mark career accomplishments and illustrate their research passion.

Fatal blood clots can arise in people who have cancer. The discovery of a cue that underlies these clots offers a therapeutic target and a way to assess clot risk.

A powerful and unbiased way to identify links between genetic variants and biological traits has changed scientists’ understanding of complex diseases and how to treat them.

To combat long-overlooked fungal pathogens, researchers and regulators must embrace innovative science and policy.

Graduate students are not machines. Behaving like one during your programme will leave you frustrated and unfulfilled, says Gauthier Weissbart.

Two books discuss how these space rocks are entwined with science, commerce, policy and life.