Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have successfully created synthetic circuits in yeast cells using gene-regulated communication. This breakthrough could lead to the development of complex biological systems for detecting diseases and monitoring environmental pollutants.
A new data-driven statistical model incorporating the surrounding landscape, pollinating insects, and human seed dispersal accurately predicts gene flow between crop plants. The study finds that human farming activity has a significant impact on gene transfer rates, while the influence of pollinators is relatively small.
Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine introduce a potent anti-tumor gene into mice with metastatic melanoma, resulting in complete remission and permanent immune reconfiguration. The gene therapy uses modified lentivirus to deliver a T cell receptor gene that recognizes specific melanoma proteins.
Researchers found that anthrax bacteria use CMG2 receptors to impair the scavenging action of neutrophils and macrophages, allowing the bacteria to multiply and overwhelm the body's defenses. Studying genetically modified mice revealed that mice without CMG2 receptors on immune cells were completely resistant to infection.
USDA scientists have developed vaccines to protect farm-raised catfish against key diseases, including Streptococcus iniae and S. agalactiae. The modified live vaccine has been shown to create a lifelong immunity in fish, with previous research breakthroughs benefiting the catfish industry.
A clinical trial is underway at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center to test a genetically reprogrammed herpes simplex virus (HSV1716) as a treatment for rare and aggressive forms of childhood cancer. The Phase I trial aims to assess the safety of the agent in young patients with solid tumors.
A new study from the University of Minnesota found that genetically modified Bt corn reduces pest losses in both transgenic and non-transgenic corn. The study found that areawide suppression of European corn borer populations resulted in estimated annual losses of $1 billion, but also benefited non-Bt corn by 28-73% in neighboring states.
A study found that Bt corn's pest suppression benefits non-Bt farmers in Wisconsin by up to 75%, with total economic benefits exceeding $6.9 billion across the Midwest. The primary benefit of Bt corn is reduced yield losses, which non-Bt farmers also experience without paying Bt technology fees.
Researchers propose strategies to increase plant efficiency in absorbing light, altering root carbon conversion, and boosting bioenergy crops to combat climate change. The use of genetically engineered plants for carbon sequestration is part of a broader effort to enhance natural biological processes.
Researchers have developed a novel strategy for creating patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that exhibits significant advantages over current methods. The new approach uses synthetic modified messenger RNA molecules to reprogram adult cells into iPSCs with high efficiency and safety.
A study by the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies reveals that streams in the Midwest are contaminated with insecticidal proteins from genetically modified corn, which can persist in the landscape. The research highlights the need for further investigation into the effects of agricultural practices on freshwater ecosystems.
Researchers used imaging mass spectrometry to map signaling molecules between organisms, discovering metabolites involved in bacterial cannibalism. SDP and SKF were found to be essential for identifying and killing genetically identical cells.
For the first time, researchers have identified and isolated adult mammary stem cells in mice using a genetically modified mouse model. The tagged stem cells exhibit bright green fluorescence under a microscope, representing a new alternative to induced pluripotent stem cells for various medical applications.
Researchers found established populations of genetically modified canola plants outside agricultural fields in North Dakota, reproducing and adapting to local environments. This discovery highlights concerns about the spread of biotech products and their impact on native species.
A new tagging technique developed by researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago provides a clearer and more dynamic view of protein-protein interactions in living mammalian cells. The technique uses luminescence resonance energy transfer to label proteins with differently colored, luminescent molecules, allowing for faster data ...
Researchers implanted genetically engineered stem cells with cytokines HGF, SDF-1, and VEGF to reduce organ damage and improve cardiac function after a heart attack. The results showed that two therapies - SDF-1 and Akt1 overproduction - limited cardiac damage.
Researchers have developed a functional implantable artificial salivary gland to treat xerostomia in cancer patients. The new treatment uses modified hydrogels to regenerate functional salivary acinar cells, restoring saliva production and improving oral health.
Italian scientists have successfully completed preclinical trials for a gene transfer treatment that can correct the lack of beta-globin in patients' blood cells, a major step towards treating beta-thalassemia. The treatment uses genetically corrected stem cells to restore haemoglobin production and overcome the disorder.
Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine successfully treated acute kidney injury in laboratory experiments using genetically reprogrammed cells producing a protein that aids kidney development. The treatment, administered intravenously, showed significant improvements in kidney function and reduced physical damage.
Researchers found that amino acid residues form a barrier to help electron transfer by keeping water molecules away from the bridge, reducing the rate of transfer. This discovery provides fundamental insight into biochemical reactions and has potential applications in genetically modified organisms.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a novel technique to produce genetically modified rats, offering potential for biomedical research on human diseases. The new method enables the creation of rat lines with mutations in specific genes, including those linked to cancer, diabetes, and mental illness.
A modified measles virus has been shown to effectively kill medulloblastoma cells in laboratory studies and mouse models, suggesting its potential as a new treatment option for childhood brain tumors. The vaccine strain targets the CD46 receptor, which is highly expressed in multiple tumor types.
A new meta-analysis reports that hyperfractionated and accelerated radiotherapy regimens improve overall survival in non-small-cell lung cancer patients by 3% after 5 years. Modified fractionation of radiotherapy also shows benefits for small-cell lung cancer patients, although the difference is not statistically significant.
Research finds that long-distance pine pollen can travel up to 1800 miles and still germinate, making it difficult to prevent transgenic traits from spreading to wild counterparts. This has profound implications for the approval of genetically modified trees.
A new plant-based system has been developed to help hemophilia patients build tolerance to their treatment, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. The system, made from genetically modified plants, can be ingested and releases a tolerated protein into the small intestine, where it can be acted on by the immune system.
Researchers at Rutgers University developed a modified PlayStation 3-based system to improve hand functions in teenagers with cerebral palsy. The system improved participants' abilities to perform daily activities such as brushing teeth and dressing.
A team of researchers has analyzed over 70,000 galaxies to test two modified gravity theories that aim to explain dark matter's effects on the universe. The study found that one theory, TeVeS, can be excluded due to large uncertainty in measurements, while another theory, f(R), still allows for exclusion of dark energy with current data.
A genetically modified tobacco plant can produce antibodies to toxic MC-LR, rendering it harmless. This innovative technology could serve as a major tool in keeping water sources safe in developing nations.
A team of LMU researchers has created a genetically modified strain of pigs that consistently develop the essential symptoms of type 2 diabetes. The pigs' physiology is similar to humans', making them an ideal model system for studying the disease, testing new treatments and diagnostic methods.
Researchers at UTHealth have demonstrated that transplanting genetically modified adult stem cells into an injured spinal cord can help restore electrical pathways associated with movement. The new cells, called oligodendrocyte precursor cells, facilitate remyelination and increase behavioral recovery.
Iowa State University researcher is developing a micro-algal platform to stack desirable traits in algae, leading to increased oil production and hydrocarbon conversion for more sustainable biofuels. The goal is to create a flexible source of biofuels with reduced environmental impact.
Researchers have identified calcineurin as a critical enzyme in controlling normal development and function of heart cells. The near total absence of calcineurin leads to heart arrhythmia, failure and death in genetically modified mice.
A study using genetically modified mice reveals a previously unidentified mechanism contributing to heart failure, specifically the decreased release of neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This finding opens up a new avenue for treating failing hearts and highlights the significance of acetylcholine regulation in cardiac function.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have created a genetically modified mouse that can walk when exposed to blue light. The study provides insight into the neural control of locomotion and has potential implications for treating spinal cord injuries.
Researchers have developed an efficient way to genetically modify human embryonic stem cells using bacterial artificial chromosomes, which can increase the yield by up to 20%. This approach enables the rapid development of stem cell lines that can serve as models for human genetic diseases and testbeds for potential treatments.
Researchers at UCLA have genetically modified a cyanobacterium to consume carbon dioxide and produce isobutanol, a potential gasoline alternative. This method recycles carbon dioxide, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and uses solar energy, making it an efficient and less expensive approach than current biofuel production methods.
Researchers have successfully transplanted genetically modified hematopoietic stem cells into mice, allowing their developing red blood cells to produce a critical lysosomal enzyme and preventing or reducing organ and central nervous system damage from Hurler's syndrome. This approach has the potential to improve treatment options for ...
Researchers found genetically modified squash are more susceptible to bacterial wilt disease due to increased feeding by cucumber beetles. The study suggests that the fitness advantage of virus-resistant crops comes at a price, with unintended consequences for biodiversity.
A German study has found that wild pigs and deer do not spread genetically modified (GM) corn through their feces or accumulate transgenic residues in their meat. The researchers fed GM-fed wild boars and fallow deer conventional maize, but found no evidence of germinable seeds in their feces.
The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute has received a US$100,000 Grand Challenges Explorations grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop a genetically attenuated live malaria vaccine. The project aims to provide strong and lasting immunity against Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes deadly human malaria.
Monash researchers found that antioxidants can prevent beneficial effects of ROS on insulin action in early stages of Type 2 diabetes. Elevated ROS levels in genetically-modified mice prevented insulin resistance and diabetes induced by a high-fat diet.
Researchers developed a modified catheter with side holes and slits to reduce the force of contrast material exiting the end hole. The study found a nine to 30 percent reduction in velocity and a more cloud-like dispersal of contrast material, resulting in improved patient safety.
Researchers at Iowa State University are exploring a new method of controlling soybean aphids without using chemical pesticides. They aim to genetically modify soybeans to produce a toxin that is lethal to aphids but harmless to mammals.
Scientists have developed a therapy using genetically engineered Bacteroides ovatus that activates a human growth factor to treat bowel disorders like inflammatory bowel disease. The treatment reduces rectal bleeding, accelerates gut lining healing, and prevents disease onset.
Genetic analysis reveals African village dogs have directly descended from indigenous dogs, with higher genetic diversity than modern breeds. This challenges the claim that dogs were first domesticated in East Asia.
The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is developing drought-tolerant rice to help farmers cope with water shortages affecting 15-20 million hectares of irrigated rice. Genetically modified rice may also play a role in boosting production and improving grain quality during postharvest
Researchers genetically engineered mice to lack two genes responsible for repairing DNA damage caused by oxidation, leading to various types of tumors. The study emphasizes the role of DNA repair in preventing carcinogenesis.
The development of genetically modified trees is being obstructed by anti-biotech groups and regulations that prioritize process over product. Researchers argue that a regulatory environment focused on scientific case-by-case assessments is necessary to unlock the full potential of forest biotechnology.
A study published in PLoS Biology reveals that fruit flies can detect and avoid the plant toxin L-canavanine using a modified glutamate receptor called DmXR. This detection is crucial for their survival, as consuming the toxin can lead to reproductive failure.
Researchers have created a genetically modified fruit fly that mimics key features of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a neurodegenerative disorder. The study may reveal new information on how the disease develops in humans and provide a tool for discovering potential new drugs.
A study using genetically modified mice found a link between low levels of inositol and neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. The research suggests that increasing inositol doses may help prevent these birth defects.
Researchers successfully engineer MSCs to deliver cancer-killing protein TRAIL, destroying tumor cells while sparing normal cells. In mouse models, the genetically modified stem cells reduced breast and lung cancer growth by up to 80%.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a new genome engineering tool to make model crop plants herbicide-resistant without significant DNA changes. This approach has the potential to provide sustainable solutions for producing food, fuel and fiber while minimizing concerns about genetically modified organisms.
Researchers develop method to target genes in Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite responsible for malaria and diarrhea. The breakthrough enables the creation of safe and effective genetically modified vaccines and drug therapies.
Engineers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a method to disperse chemically modified graphene in a wide variety of organic solvents. This breakthrough enables the use of graphene in various materials and applications, including conductive films, polymer composites, and energy storage devices.
Scientists successfully produced biologically-active interleukin-10 in genetically modified tobacco plants, offering a potential new treatment for autoimmune diseases. The transgenic plants can produce the active cytokine at high levels without lengthy extraction and purification processes.
Researchers identified acyl CoA: monoacylglycerol acyltransferase 2 as a critical enzyme in fat absorption. In mice genetically modified to lack this enzyme, high-fat diets failed to induce obesity and related symptoms.
Over 200,000 genetically modified rice mutant lines are now available for researchers to study the function of approximately 57,000 genes in Oryza sativa. The vast repository is expected to accelerate the understanding of gene function and biological processes in rice and other commercially important grasses.
A new strategy to enhance the BCG vaccine's effectiveness has shown superior protection against tuberculosis in a pre-clinical test. By neutralizing the bacteria's evasive mechanisms, researchers have increased the number of TB organisms killed and duration of protection by threefold.
A new study reveals that black wolves, the first genetically modified predators, have adapted to changing environments thanks to human dog breeding. The trait, which originated from domesticated dogs, has proven valuable for wolf populations as their arctic habitats shrink.