Two synthetic molecules developed to help elucidate cellular functions

A sugar-based molecule naturally produced by the body can help cells grow, differentiate into different types, self-destruct if need be and much more. It helps protect the cell's genome, repair DNA, and regulate how genes are passed down. The molecule, called poly(adenosine diphosphate ribose) or poly(ADP-ribose), can potentially inform disease prevention and treatments—if scientists can figure out exactly how it works.