A mathematical modeling study suggests that a new approach could reduce or eliminate the deadly disease African trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness, by creating a genetically modified version of the Sodalis bacteria to kill the parasite. The approach, which uses Wolbachia bacteria to drive the GMO version into fly populati...
A study published in Vaccine suggests that genetically engineered malaria parasites can be used as a vaccine to protect against infection. The attenuated parasites, which are stunted through precise gene deletions, induce robust immune responses that provide long-lasting protection.
Researchers recommend accelerated radiotherapy as standard treatment for un-resected non-small cell lung cancer patients not receiving concurrent chemo-radiotherapy, citing its efficiency over current practice. However, cost-effectiveness of different modified schemes remains uncertain and requires further research.
New research shows that female birds maximize offspring health by mating with multiple males, increasing disease resistance through 'cryptic female choice'. This internal mechanism favors sperm from genetically different males, boosting MHC diversity and enhancing disease resilience.
A new journal issue introduces guidelines for GMP monitoring using faunal species data. The VDI guidelines aim to detect environmental effects of GM plants in agricultural landscapes.
Researchers have successfully used a new class of genetically engineered proteins, called genetically encoded fluorescent voltage indicators (GEVIs), to monitor nerve cell electricity in live brains. These proteins enable researchers to watch brain cells spark and fire while the flies were awakening and smelling.
A significant association between maternal smoking during pregnancy and offspring conduct problems was observed among genetically related and unrelated mothers. Conduct disorder is a significant concern globally, and the study sheds light on prenatal risk factors for child psychological problems.
A recent study by a MU, K-State research team disproved the theory that Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) binds to CD169 molecules in pigs. This discovery will help scientists narrow their search for an ultimate cure.
Researchers have successfully used a genetic vector to efficiently transduce bone marrow cells from SCD patients, suggesting a potential treatment method. The study's findings support the use of autologous HSC transplant with genetically modified patient cells to treat sickle cell disease.
Researchers engineered dendritic cells to recognize protein fragments from cancer-specific antigens, eliciting an immune response that led to partial and complete clinical responses in patients with active disease. The study suggests a promising approach for enhancing immune recognition of melanoma cells.
A global assessment of genetically modified crops reveals why some pests have adapted to Bt proteins in a few years, while others resisted for over 15 years. The study found conditions favoring sustained efficacy include rare resistance genes and abundant refuges.
Small-scale farming households in India experienced improved calorie consumption and dietary quality after adopting genetically modified (GM) cotton. The technology enabled these households to afford more and better food, reducing food insecurity by 15-20%. GM crops may be an important component of a broader food security strategy.
Researchers genetically engineered mosquitoes, altering their response to odors, including human scent and insect repellent DEET. The study reveals the insects' unique attraction to humans and paves the way for understanding why they are so attracted to humans, potentially leading to new repellants.
A PLOS ONE study has confirmed that Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) technology is suitable for routine analysis of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food, feed, and seeds. The study found that ddPCR is more accurate and reliable than real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for quantifying GMOs, especially at low levels.
Scientists at Whitehead Institute have developed a new method for creating genetically altered mice using the CRISPR/Cas technique, which can produce mice with multiple mutations in just three to four weeks. This breakthrough enables the study of human diseases in mice more efficiently and cost-effectively.
The European Union's current policies on genetically engineered crops are undermining its competitiveness and humanitarian activities in the developing world. The authors recommend adopting rational, science-based principles to prevent economic decline and lower standards of living across the continent.
A novel thermo-sensitive injectable hydrogel engineered with gene modified bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) successfully repairs articular cartilage defects in rabbits. The study demonstrates the potential of tissue engineering combined with gene therapy for managing defective articular cartilage.
Researchers have discovered a new therapy for fragile X chromosome syndrome by modulating the cerebral endocannabinoid system. The treatment has shown promise in normalizing cognitive alterations and sensitivity to pain in genetically modified mice, suggesting a potential new strategy for treating patients with FXS.
Scientists have developed a new method to create genetically modified mice that accelerates the process by four months, using TALEN enzymes. This technique allows for the efficient production of mouse models for diseases like dementia, reducing the need for numerous test animals.
A new study by University of Arizona entomologists reveals that the pyramid strategy for genetically modified crops may not be as durable as previously assumed. The research found that critical assumptions underlying the strategy do not always apply, and that some degree of cross-resistance between toxins can reduce its effectiveness.
Researchers at UCLA and Caltech have successfully monitored the change in genetically modified immune cells, showing a promising treatment for melanoma. A new group of non-engineered T cells arose with a similar tumor-killing effect that lasted even longer than the engineered cells.
Researchers characterized how the functionality of genetically engineered T cells administered therapeutically to patients with melanoma changed over time. A new population of T cells emerged at around one month that exhibited tumor-killing characteristics through epitope spreading, suggesting a potential cause for the transient response.
Researchers at UC Davis found that goats' milk carrying higher levels of the antimicrobial protein lysozyme successfully treated diarrhea caused by bacterial infection in young pigs. The study suggests that such milk may eventually help prevent human diarrheal diseases, which claim millions of lives annually.
Researchers have found a virus that can adapt to hosts with modified nuclear genetic codes, contrary to the long-held assumption that such changes prevent new viral infections. The discovery provides evidence of co-evolution between viruses and hosts with altered genetic codes.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a process to produce fatty acids from plant biomass using genetically modified E. coli bacteria. The new method has shown significant improvements in yield and efficiency, with the potential to produce millions of tons of fuel per year.
Researchers developed a genetically modified protein that reverses vitiligo in mice and shows similar effects on human skin tissue samples. The modified protein, called mutant HSP70i, supplants normal HSP70i, thereby reversing the autoimmune response that causes vitiligo.
A food science expert argues that genetically modified foods pose no special risks to consumers or the environment. The overregulation of GM crops wastes resources and diverts attention from real food safety issues.
Researchers at California Institute of Technology have identified a specific class of skin sensory neurons that react to massage-like stroking, paving the way for further study of pleasurable sensations. The discovery uses genetically modified mice and novel recording techniques to pinpoint individual neurons activated by touch.
Researchers at the University of Jyväskylä Nanoscience Center used computational modeling to understand how redox chemistry affects the binding of gold particles on modified calcium oxide surfaces. They found that the energy released during a redox reaction correlates with the ability of the dopant metal atom to donate an electron.
Researchers have successfully transplanted genetically modified adipose cells into mice with liver disease, demonstrating their potential as a therapy. The study used bioluminescent imaging to track the cells' migration and engraftment in the liver, revealing their ability to persist for up to two months.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new process to convert soybean byproducts into succinic acid, a valuable chemical used in various industries. The process uses genetically modified E. coli bacteria to metabolize soluble carbohydrates from soybeans, achieving a high yield and a 1:1 ratio of feedstock to product.
Research at CARB has shown that plants use protein receptors to detect modified Nod factors, leading to root nodule development and nitrogen production. Legumes employ a sophisticated detection system to distinguish between pathogenic and beneficial microorganisms.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered that glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) can originate from cortical neurons, challenging previous assumptions about its origins. This finding suggests potential new targets to treat these deadly brain tumors and may help slow progression and recurrence.
A study published in European Journal of Wildlife Research has confirmed the genetic uniqueness of captive lions at Addis Ababa Zoo in Ethiopia. The research team recommends establishing a captive breeding program to preserve this vulnerable lion population and conserve its genetic heritage.
Researchers at UCI have developed a genetically modified mouse model to study degenerative diseases like Lou Gehrig's, Paget's and dementia. The model will allow researchers to study disease progression in vivo and develop novel treatment strategies.
Researchers found that VEGF-modified bone marrow stem cells sustain pancreatic recovery in a laboratory mouse model of insulin-dependent diabetes. The study provides new insights into mechanisms involved in regeneration of insulin-producing cells and offers evidence for using diabetic patients' own bone marrow as a source of treatment.
A study by Washington State University finds that genetically modified crops have led to a 25% increase in herbicide use, driven by the emergence of glyphosate-resistant weeds. The annual herbicide usage has grown from 1.5 million pounds in 1999 to 90 million pounds in 2011.
A new clinical trial at Loyola Medicine uses a genetically engineered immune system to fight melanoma. The treatment involves removing killer T cells from a patient and modifying them to recognize tumor cells as abnormal.
Scientists at Uppsala University have successfully cloned a T-cell receptor that binds to an antigen associated with both prostate and breast cancers. This breakthrough enables genetically modified T cells to specifically kill these cancer cells, offering hope for new treatment possibilities.
Researchers found that enzyme-modified coconut oil strongly inhibited the growth of Streptococcus bacteria, a major cause of tooth decay. The study suggests that incorporating this natural compound into dental hygiene products could be a promising approach to combating microbial infection.
Researchers have genetically engineered a type of house plant to be long-lived and produce flowers without pollen. The modified plants also exhibit improved growth characteristics, such as increased branching and leaf density. This breakthrough is great news for gardeners who want to enjoy their plants for longer periods.
Ecologists warn of potential unintended consequences of genetically engineered algae for biofuel production. Researchers argue for independent studies and adequate funding to explore potential risks, including survival in the wild, hybridization, and ecosystem disruption.
Scientists emphasize collaboration between industry, academics and regulators to substantiate product claims with scientific evidence. The FDA is seeking reliable data on modified risk tobacco products to create regulatory science and protect public health.
Researchers found that abnormal proteins and antibodies in blood levels increase according to disease severity. High antibody levels are associated with higher risk of kidney failure and premature death.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes found that levetiracetam, an FDA-approved anti-epileptic drug, reverses memory loss and alleviates other Alzheimer's-related impairments in mice genetically modified to simulate key aspects of the disease. The study shows how levetiracetam suppresses abnormal brain activity and restores memory function.
The collaboration has already demonstrated great potential for the field with initial behavioral studies showing hallmark characteristics of autism in rats. New genetically modified rat models will be generated to accelerate translational research and drug development.
Researchers found that IL-10 production by keratinocytes in donor skin is crucial for successful skin grafting between genetically identical mice. Monitoring IL-10 levels may improve therapeutic success in human patients.
Modified human stem cells helped enhance the activity of an enzyme called telomerase, which elongates telomere length. This technique increased telomere length and activity, as well as increasing cardiac stem cell proliferation, vital steps in combating heart failure.
Researchers find that hippocampal NMDA receptors are crucial for detecting conflicts in spatial orientation problems. The study used genetically modified mice to demonstrate that the receptors are necessary for resolving conflicts, contradicting a central tenet of neuroscience.
Researchers have developed genetically modified bacteria that can prevent mosquitoes from transmitting malaria by killing the parasite. The modified bacteria were found to be 98% effective in reducing the malaria parasite burden in mosquitoes, with an 84% decrease in mosquito prevalence.
Researchers have developed a technique to reprogram adult cells from patients with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy into stem cells, which can then be genetically modified and transplanted into mice. The study shows promise for treating this rare form of muscular dystrophy.
A new study found that modified bariatric surgery can resolve or improve Type 2 diabetes in obese and diabetic patients, regardless of body mass index (BMI). The procedure showed high success rates in reducing blood sugar levels and eliminating insulin needs.
Researchers developed a gluten-free pasta product from green banana flour, which tasters found more acceptable than regular whole wheat pasta. The product has less fat and is cheaper to produce, making it a potential option for patients with celiac disease.
Scientists at Harvard University have created a comprehensive list of inputs that connect directly to dopamine neurons in the brain, revealing new connections and insights into Parkinson's disease and addiction. The study uses genetically-modified rabies virus to track neural pathways, providing quantitative data for future investigati...
Researchers developed a technique to genetically differentiate Plasmodium falciparum parasites, linking infection with new parasites to the risk of clinical disease. This tool could help evaluate new prevention strategies and vaccines, as well as understand how anti-malarial treatments work.
A recent study found that a specific gene linked to fat tissue inflammation may protect against diet-induced obesity-related health problems. The researchers discovered that overexpressing this gene increased fat deposition while suppressing inflammatory responses and improving insulin sensitivity in genetically modified mice.
Researchers genetically modified kidney cells to produce a protein that promotes cell growth and regeneration. The transplanted cells engrafted themselves into damaged kidneys, resulting in improved function and limited physical damage. This breakthrough has significant implications for the treatment of human kidney failure.
Researchers have successfully developed a genetically modified microorganism that produces high levels of arachidonic acid, a key fatty acid essential for infant nutrition. The microorganism, produced through ion beam mutation breeding, has shown promise for industrial application and potential use as a sustainable bio-diesel source.
A new biohybrid device can reprogram the inflammatory response at the whole-organism level, offering a foundational concept for genetically modified cells and tailored clinical applications. This innovation holds potential to prevent sepsis and other life-threatening complications associated with acute inflammation.
The Dip Chip technology uses genetically modified microbes to detect toxicity in real time, providing a quick and accurate diagnosis. The device can identify overall toxicity levels, picking up on any toxic materials, including those that have not been discovered yet.