Researchers at Duke University Medical Center used a modified cold virus to deliver a nitric oxide-producing gene to key liver cells in rats, reversing portal hypertension. This approach may eventually prove feasible for humans suffering from liver cirrhosis.
Genetically engineered rice can produce essential micronutrients to combat malnutrition. Biotechnology has the potential to improve the nutritional status of millions worldwide.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine verified Down syndrome in a genetically modified mouse model, finding identical skull and facial deformities as seen in humans. The study used sophisticated statistical techniques to match the mice' data with well-established characteristics of DS patients.
A University of Florida researcher has developed a genetically altered bacteria strain, called an effector strain, that can permanently prevent tooth decay. The new strain, constructed from the naturally occurring bacterium Streptococcus mutans, breaks down food sugars and thrives on high-sugar diets.
A study by Purdue University researchers found that transgenic fish can threaten native populations due to their larger size, which gives them a mating advantage. The
Researchers found that genetically modified Bt corn releases the insecticidal toxin into the soil through its roots, posing a risk to beneficial insects. The toxin was shown to retain its insecticidal activity for 234 days and can affect soil communities in unknown ways.
Researchers found a gene, gata5, that can reprogram embryonic cells to become beating heart cells. The discovery suggests using this technique to cultivate and transplant genetically modified heart cells into people with failing hearts.
Biologists warn that genetically modified fish carrying the human growth hormone gene could turn Darwinian evolution upside down and lead to population decline. A single transgenic individual can cause a population to dwindle and eventually become extinct due to the rapid spread of the 'Trojan gene'.
Cooperative Extension specialists from the University of Delaware discussed the scope of issues surrounding genetically modified foods, including science, ethics, and production. They addressed concerns about resistance to GMOs in European Common Market and debated how to advise farmers on planting GMO crops for next year's harvest.
A new CRADA and licensing agreement have been signed between NREL and Arkenol Holdings, which could further bring down the cost of making ethanol from biomass and boost the US biofuels industry. The agreements focus on developing new strains of genetically altered bacteria for use in converting rice straw to ethanol.
Researchers have successfully delivered a therapeutic gene for peripheral neuropathy using a modified herpes virus, which can produce nerve growth factor (NGF) in non-neuronal cells and enter the bloodstream. This approach may offer a long-term solution for patients with peripheral neuropathy resulting from diabetes or chemotherapy.
A panel of GMO experts will discuss the differences between genetic engineering and traditional breeding methods, as well as the regulatory frameworks for GMOs in the US and Europe. Key findings include varying attitudes towards labeling and education about rDNA technology across regions.
Researchers at Princeton University genetically modified mice to have improved learning and memory by adding a single gene, NR2B. The results show that the brain uses a common biochemical mechanism for forming associations, and this finding could lead to human gene therapy for dementia.
Researchers have developed a one-step process to create thermoplastic nanocomposites from cellulose fibers. The resulting material retains the virtues of cellulose fibers while combining them with thermoplastics' strengths, including resistance to water and heat.
A University of Toronto research team has isolated a gene that allows plants to grow in highly saline conditions. The gene encodes a transport protein called Na+/H+ antiport, which prevents sodium ions from harming the cell and draws water into the plant.
Researchers have genetically modified rice grains to improve supply of iron and vitamin A. IDA and VAD are major contributors to childhood and maternal mortality primarily in developing countries. The transgenic material will be freely available for further development into publicly available rice breeding lines.
A symposium by the Ecological Society of America explores the delicate balance between the benefits and risks of genetically engineered organisms. The discussion will cover case studies on engineered plants, arthropods as tools in disease control, and risk assessment in ecosystems.
Researchers at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center successfully controlled incontinence in animal model of diabetes using gene therapy approach. The treatment, involving delivery of nerve growth factor gene via modified herpes virus, showed promising results by repairing damaged bladder nerves and improving bladder function.
A NIAAA-led study confirms that environmental factors can significantly impact the behavior of genetically identical mice, challenging traditional assumptions about genetic determinism. The research highlights the need for laboratories to replicate tests locally and standardize behavioral tests to minimize environmental influences.
Researchers used genetically modified mice to elucidate the mechanism underlying hereditary breast cancer. The study found that mutations in the BRCA-1 gene lead to genetic instability, favouring further mutations and tumour growth.
Researchers at UCSF Cancer Research Institute have made an observation that could explain the ability of modified cold virus ONYX-015 to kill cancer cells. The finding suggests that ONYX-015 targets a genetic vulnerability in tumor cells, specifically those with mutations or defects in p53 and p14ARF genes.
Scientists have developed a technique to produce green fluorescent silk fibers by infecting silkworm larvae with a genetically engineered virus. This approach opens doors for genetic researchers to engineer silk proteins and produces potential economic applications.
A team of Canadian scientists identified a potentially useful target for drugs to treat type II diabetes and obesity by genetically engineering mice lacking a specific enzyme. The results showed that these mice resisted weight gain and insulin resistance on a high-calorie diet, suggesting a possible approach for treating the disease.
Researchers successfully modified adenovirus, a common cold virus, to carry corrective genes to defective cells. The modified virus persisted for over two months in mice, overcoming a major barrier to widespread use of adenovirus as a genetic delivery vehicle.
Researchers successfully treated genetically modified mice with Parkinson's disease using gene therapy, restoring motivation to eat and drink. The study suggests a potential treatment strategy for patients with Parkinson's disease, eliminating the need for daily L-dopa treatments.
Researchers have genetically modified Salmonella bacteria to reduce virulence and increase safety while retaining tumor-targeting properties. The modified bacteria exhibit reduced ability to induce TNF-alpha and cause septic shock, making them safer for human use.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have found that vitamin E confers potent protection from atherosclerosis in genetically modified mice. The study demonstrates that free radicals play a central role in heart disease, and the antioxidant action of vitamin E significantly reduces atherosclerotic damage.
Researchers aim to prevent leukemia relapse by educating the immune system using immunotherapy and genetically modified cells. The new technology could eliminate second rounds of chemotherapy, reducing toxicity and hospital stays.
Kansas State University researcher Xiuzhi Susan Sun has developed a new soy protein adhesive that is water resistant, strong, and non-toxic. The modified soy protein molecule unfolds to promote water resistance and increases adhesive strength. This adhesive performed well in various tests, including ASTM standard tests for adhesives.
Researchers at Purdue University have successfully modified yeast to ferment both glucose and xylose from plant matter, producing more ethanol from the same amount of material. This breakthrough could make ethanol production cheaper and more sustainable.
Scientists found that genetically-engineered oilseed rape produces hybrid, transgenic weeds resistant to herbicides, which reproduce as prolifically as unaltered weeds. These weeds may carry beneficial traits from the crop parent and still exhibit weed-like characteristics.
Researchers have made progress toward a gene therapy for HIV infection by genetically altering virus-fighting T-cells to recognize and attack HIV-infected cells. The study found that engineered T-cells persisted in the bloodstream for at least 100 days after infusion, proliferating and providing long-term immunity.
A Cornell University study reveals that 6.4 million homes have modifications to accommodate elderly residents' physical limitations. The most common types of modifications include bathroom grab bars and wheelchair ramps, with 60% of homes with someone over 90 modified for mobility.
University of Washington researchers successfully use a modified virus to perform novel gene replacement, targeting mutated genes with high accuracy. The new method achieves efficient gene correction, allowing for precise control over the expression of the corrected gene.
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts have successfully created two healthy, genetically modified cloned calves using a combination of cloning techniques with genetic engineering. The calves, named Charlie and George, were born last week after four years of research by James Robl and Steven Stice.
Scientists have discovered a new catalyst that enables the production of alpha-olefins at lower temperatures and pressures, resulting in higher-purity products. The modified metallocene catalyst simplifies the manufacturing process for plastics and other consumer goods, potentially reducing costs and improving safety.
A team of researchers has developed a virus that controls HIV infection by targeting infected T cells. The modified virus, VSV, tricks infected cells into fusing with it instead of normal cells, allowing it to destroy the virus. This approach could lead to new treatments for HIV and other diseases.
Eukarion's antibody lipidation technology successfully blocks HIV-1 viral replication in human lymphocytic cells by targeting the Tat protein. The modified anti-Tat antibody is effective against laboratory and patient-strain viruses, offering new potential for cell-specific AIDS immunotherapies.
Researchers at the University of Washington have discovered that removing a brain chemical called neuropeptide Y (NPY) can help reduce body fat in genetically obese mice. The study found that mice lacking NPY become only half as fat, eat less, and have a higher metabolic rate compared to their morbidly obese cousins.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center report a genetically modified version of hemoglobin as a safe blood substitute during surgery. The product, rHb 1.1, is designed to carry oxygen efficiently and eliminate disease transmission and immunosuppression, potentially reducing medical costs for patients and hospitals.