Recombining domains across an entire protein family, rather than relying on natural sequences shaped by evolution, generates synthetic “DESynR” transcription factors with enhanced function. DESynR AP-1 TFs reprogram CAR T cells into non-natural, therapeutically optimized states and outperform natural AP-1 factors in antitumor immunity.

Ancient DNA from 149 individuals at 11 sites in Gansu, China, dated to around 4,700–3,000 years ago, reveals human population history during early transcontinental exchanges of agriculture and technology, as well as contemporary social practices, at the large Mogou cemetery.