Researchers engineered bacteria to produce bixin, a plant product used in foods and cosmetics, by replicating the plant's biosynthetic pathway. The genetically modified E. coli can produce the same compound as the natural source, providing an alternative for expanding supply and addressing challenges in non-biological synthesis.
Researchers have discovered that heat shock proteins from deep ocean vent microbes can increase the sensitivity of DNA tests by up to ten times. These unique proteins also enable genetically modified bacteria to survive at higher temperatures.
The International Council for Science (ICSU) has released a report synthesizing over 50 science-based reviews on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food and agriculture. The report addresses key questions on the safety, environmental impact, and regulations of GM foods.
Using a modified version of a naturally occurring human protein, researchers were able to significantly reduce the spread of disease and decrease tumor growth without evidence of toxicity. The modified protein was able to interfere with cancer cells' ability to stick to one another and other healthy cells.
Researchers have developed genetically modified fat that protects mice from obesity and insulin resistance by increasing adiponectin production. The study suggests that knocking out the Dgat1 gene perturbs the metabolic function of fat tissue, leading to increased energy expenditure and improved insulin sensitivity.
Researchers found that a genetically modified wheat transgene in sunflowers has little effect on wild relatives, suggesting a glacial pace of gene movement. The study suggests examining each transgene and crop on a case-by-case basis to determine potential ecological impacts.
A field study by Vanderbilt University and Indiana University found that wild sunflowers already possess some level of resistance to white mold, reducing the need for genetic modification. The study suggested that transgenes may not spread widely through wild populations if they do not confer a reproductive advantage.
A modified adenovirus, Delta-24-RGD, has shown improved infectivity and replication efficiency compared to the unmodified Delta-24. This leads to increased cytopathic effects and prolonged survival rates in mouse models of human glioma. The authors conclude that Delta-24-RGD may be an effective agent in treating gliomas.
Researchers successfully integrated genes into hematopoietic stem cells to produce normal red blood cells in mice with beta-thalassemia and sickle cell disease. The technique uses a non-pathogenic AIDS virus gene to ferry DNA into the cells, selectively enriching genetically modified stem cells.
Researchers used genetically modified mice to understand cocaine's brain mechanisms, revealing the drug's actions go beyond dopamine and norepinephrine transporters. The findings suggest the serotonin system may also be a target for cocaine treatment.
Researchers found that ethylene is vital for plant protection against microorganisms, enabling plants to detect and respond to infections. Modified ethylene-insensitive tobacco plants were more susceptible to diseases due to the lack of ethylene's protective mechanism.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a stable, DNA-modified diamond film that can detect biological molecules with high accuracy. The sensor, which is about the size of a postage stamp, has the potential to be used in early warning systems for defense against biological weapons.
A recent study by Imperial College London found that genetically modified mosquitoes (GM) lose their test marker gene rapidly when interbred with unmodified mosquitoes, posing challenges for malaria control. The researchers suggest using crossing regimes to minimize deleterious mutations and improve the competitiveness of GM mosquitoes.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center successfully eradicated cancer in mice using targeted immunotherapy with engineered human T cells. The study, published in Nature Medicine, demonstrates the first-in-vivo efficacy of adoptive immunotherapy with engineered human T cells in mice.
A new study found that genetically modified crops in India produced yields up to 80% greater than non-Bt counterparts, while also reducing pesticide use. This breakthrough has implications for small-scale farmers in developing nations who struggle with crop losses due to pests.
Mathematical theory explains how high dose/refuge strategy works, allowing farmers to protect crops in refuges. The analysis leads to unexpected results, including minimal impact of insecticides on refuge value for some Bt crops and pests.
Researchers found that nornicotine permanently modifies proteins, affecting their function, and reacting with steroids to form advanced glycation endproducts, linked to diseases like diabetes and Alzheimer's. The study highlights the need for more research into nicotine metabolites' consequences.
A new study suggests that future extreme rain events could cause significant crop losses and damages, particularly in the US Corn Belt. The researchers used a modified crop model to simulate the effects of excess soil moisture on corn crops, finding potential damages up to $3 billion per year by the 2030s.
Scientists are exploring how molecular genetics can improve classical biological control by finding natural enemies well adapted to target invasive pests. Genetically modified crops with toxins like Bt may also be compatible with natural enemies, offering a new approach to controlling unwanted insect pests.
Researchers developed a model predicting increased cancer cure rates by 15-70% using genetic radiotherapy, combining radiation and viral infection. The technique makes tumor cells more sensitive to x-rays, potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes.
Researchers at Ohio State University have found that genetically engineered sunflowers can transfer their insect-killing gene to wild sunflower relatives, increasing seed production and fitness. The study suggests that this could be a concern for the spread of transgenes in natural environments.
A new study from Duke University Medical Center found that smokers who knew they were genetically susceptible to smoking-related cancers were no more likely to quit than those who didn't know. However, the study also showed that this knowledge did not undermine motivation to quit, contrary to initial concerns. The research suggests tha...
Students from Middle Atlantic states won a science essay contest with articles on shrinking doctors to nanobot size, genetically modified healthy chocolate, and new materials that can smell. The winners received $300 US Savings Bonds in each category.
A computer model reveals that genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can lead to the extinction of natural populations in as few as 20 generations. The research also identifies an 'invasion risk' where introduced genes spread through the population without reducing overall size.
Researchers at Rutgers University have created a new approach to increase protein content in corn without using genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The discovery has the potential to improve nutritional health in Third World countries where corn is a staple food.
A team of NYU biologists developed a new method to silence neurons by controlling electrical activity, revealing the central role of electrical activity in governing circadian rhythms. The breakthrough may lead to more effective treatments for diseases caused by aberrant electrical activity.
Research in Italy has successfully engineered seedless eggplants using genetic modification, producing 30-35% more fruit than conventional varieties. The genetically modified eggplants have improved productivity, reduced cultivation costs, and can thrive in cooler conditions.
A recent study found that Europeans are largely unaware of the genetic modifications in their food products, despite high levels of opposition to GMOs. Consumers tend to bid lower prices for genetically modified foods only when they perceive a significant difference in taste or quality.
Researchers at Stanford University Medical Center have developed a novel approach to fighting cancer using a modified cold virus that targets cancer cells while leaving normal cells unharmed. In a phase I study, 28 patients who received the highest dose of the virus survived for nearly a year and saw significant tumor shrinkage.
In a three-month study, ARICEPT significantly improved cognition and daily living skills compared to Reminyl. The treatment was better tolerated by patients taking ARICEPT, with fewer gastrointestinal adverse events.
University of Minnesota researchers successfully genetically modify a mouse by injecting a transposon containing the gene for yellow coat color, utilizing the Sleeping Beauty transposase enzyme. This breakthrough technology has far-reaching implications for treating diseases such as cancer and genetic disorders, including hemophilia an...
Research reveals wheat contains antioxidants that combat free-radicals, potentially fighting cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Modified wheat strains with high levels of these antioxidants could be created to fight cancer through dietary inclusion.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne have developed a potential allergy vaccine using a modified rye grass protein that reduces allergenic response while boosting immune system. The vaccine, delivered in its pure form, may significantly reduce risk of anaphylactic shock and increase immunotherapy efficacy.
Researchers plan to use cycler spacecraft, which would constantly ferry people and materials between Earth and Mars, to enable human exploration and colonization of the Red Planet. The cyclers would rotate slowly to create artificial gravity and provide comfortable accommodations for passengers on long trips.
Researchers found transgenic DNA in four out of six native Mexican corn samples, including the presence of a popular insecticidal bacterium. The contamination is believed to have occurred through multiple pollinations over time, threatening the region's diverse genetic heritage.
Researchers at Rotterdam University Hospital develop genetically engineered T cells to target kidney cancer. The therapy combines the cellular immune system with the humoral immune system, offering a promising treatment option for patients with metastases.
A new study found that early parenting difficulties are associated with the development of asthma in genetically at-risk children between six and eight years old. Parenting difficulties, including maternal depressed mood and coping problems, were significantly and independently linked to asthma at school age.
Genetic modified organism (GMO) crops can benefit from a 'refugia strategy' that preserves susceptible insect genes. This approach aims to counteract potential insect resistance by allowing certain pests to survive and breed in GMO-free areas.
Prominent plant scientists share their perspectives on genetically modified crops, exploring their potential to address world hunger and improve nutrition. The publication addresses concerns over safety, regulation, and social impact, offering a science-based understanding of the GMO controversy.
A Clemson-led team led by Linda J. Gahan has made a breakthrough in tracking genetically the tobacco budworm's efforts to become resistant to biotechnological pest controls. The discovery opens the door for monitoring resistance mechanisms and management strategies in insect pests.
Researchers have identified a gene that confers high levels of resistance in the tobacco budworm moth to genetically engineered crops with built-in insecticides. This discovery will enable farmers and government officials to take early steps to prevent uncontrollable outbreaks by detecting the early signs of pests evolving resistance.
A team of scientists has genetically engineered a salt-tolerant tomato plant that can grow in irrigation water with high salt concentrations. The plant produces a naturally occurring protein that removes salt from the soil, allowing it to maintain quality and productivity.
Researchers found that consuming pork with a higher proportion of polyunsaturated fats led to significant reductions in serum total cholesterol (10%) and LDL cholesterol (24%) in young women. The modified pork diet also showed no adverse effects on glucose, insulin, or triacylglycerol levels.
Dr. Ingo Potrykus is being recognized for his research on genetic engineering technology and its applications to crop plants like rice, wheat, sorghum, and cassava. His work has the potential to address Vitamin A deficiencies in developing nations and improve food security.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has launched a web-based forum on the debate over genetically modified foods, providing a balanced scientific view on related issues. The site features commentaries from top scientists, a glossary of terms, and a model curriculum for teaching genetic modification.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center have discovered a genetic mutation in the MAD2 protein that makes cancer cells genetically unstable and resistant to chemotherapy drugs. This finding may lead to new treatments and diagnostic markers for aggressive tumors.
A genetically modified monkey, ANDi, carrying an extra gene may suggest a way to speed new treatments for human conditions. The modification method used could lead to laboratory animals carrying genes associated with specific medical conditions.
A new pancreatic cancer vaccine has been found to be safe and successful in reaching immune system cells, with several patients remaining disease-free over 30 months after diagnosis. The vaccine uses lab-grown pancreatic cancer cells genetically-modified with the immune-boosting gene GM-CSF.
Researchers discovered a modified antioxidant enzyme that delayed onset and increased survival of mice with familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease). The study found that the polyamine-modified catalase better penetrated the blood-brain barrier, reducing levels of hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide.
A novel therapy employing the immune system to attack prostate cancer cells has been found to slow disease progression in some men and decrease PSA levels. The study's results show that modified dendritic cells can train lymphocytes to recognize prostate cancer cells, leading to a stronger immune response.
Researchers are creating new strains of rice plants with insect-killing proteins, eliminating the need for insecticides. The genes are designed to escape gene silencing mechanisms, allowing them to produce proteins in plant roots that prevent water weevils from eating the roots.
Researchers at Dendreon Corporation have developed a method for generating enhanced immune responses with potentially important implications for therapeutic cancer vaccines. The approach involves modifying antigens to optimize uptake and processing by dendritic cells, resulting in significant cytotoxic T-cell activity.
A recent CSIRO Australia trial found genetically modified lupins increased wool growth by eight percent and live weight gain by seven percent in Merino sheep. The modified protein stimulates the production of sulfur amino acids, essential for growth, making it a valuable boost to Australian wool production.
The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center is developing a new strategy for obtaining plants with desirable genetic mutations using the TILLING method. This approach allows for rapid and large-scale analysis of mutations without introducing genetically modified material.
A new study in Science predicts that genetically modified herbicide-tolerant (GMHT) crops may severely reduce bird populations on a small percentage of farms, particularly those with high seed densities. The consequences depend on which farmers adopt the new crop types, with intensive farms experiencing more significant declines.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have created a new compound that helps delay the onset and reduce the number of skin cancers in lab mice. The compound, a modified form of vitamin D, does not cause calcium loss, making it a potential alternative approach to reducing cancer risk.
Scientists have successfully cloned a piglet using microinjection, marking a significant step towards xenotransplantation and genetically modified organs. The breakthrough could lead to human-friendly pig organs, reducing rejection rates and increasing the success of organ transplants.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a vaccine approach to fight the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) by infusing it into genetically modified cherry tomatoes. The study found that mice fed with these vaccine-containing tomatoes showed increased antibody production, providing protection against the virus.
Researchers found that genetically modified Bt corn pollen had no adverse effect on black swallowtail caterpillars in field tests. The study's results contradict previous findings for monarch caterpillars, suggesting a safer genetic modification option for non-target species.
Selected studies focus on administering oral vaccines through edible transgenic plants, modifying foods to boost healthful content of fatty acids and antioxidant values, and introducing synthetic storage protein genes into sweet potatoes. Researchers also discuss a process to raise the quality and purity of plant-based herbal medicines.