Scientists can now better study human disease using induced pluripotent stem cells (IPS), which can generate any cell type. This technology reduces the risk of organ/tissue rejection in cell transplants and allows for the correction of mutations in IPS cells.
Researchers have invented a new way to zip and unzip DNA strands using electrochemistry, enabling fast control at constant temperatures without dramatic changes in solution conditions. This method uses DNA intercalators that bind differently to DNA depending on their electrical state, allowing for rapid and precise control.
A team of scientists has successfully revived the DNA of an extinct Australian frog species, Rheobatrachus silus, using somatic cell nuclear transfer. The 'Lazarus Project' aims to bring back the bizarre gastric-brooding frog, which uniquely swallowed its eggs and gave birth through its mouth.
Researchers at RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology successfully cloned mice multiple times using somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) technique, overcoming previous limitations. The study published in Cell Stem Cell reveals no accumulation of genetic or epigenetic abnormalities after repeated cloning.
The March 2013 issue of Genetics journal highlights several key findings, including a study on oocyte-expressed genes that support early cloned embryo development and the role of cytoskeletal proteins in controlling clone quality. Additionally, research on self-incompatibility genes in Arabidopsis thaliana reveals the structural and fu...
Donors to biobanks have a moral stake in what happens to their tissue samples, requiring ongoing updates and protection of their rights. Tomlinson recommends biobanks provide donors with plain language summaries of research projects and inform them about potentially controversial uses.
A study published in PNAS reveals that inflammation enhances the activity of enzyme ADAR1, leading to increased self-renewal and therapeutic resistance in cancer stem cells. Targeting this pathway with a small molecule inhibitor may help prevent relapse and progression of chronic myeloid leukemia.
A team of USC researchers has successfully grown carbon nanotube semiconductors with predefined structures, paving the way for their potential use in future electronics. The breakthrough, known as 'nanotube cloning,' involves using pre-selected and separated carbon nanotubes as seeds to control the growth of longer nanotubes.
A team of researchers has successfully cloned single-wall carbon nanotubes with identical structures using a DNA-based technique. This breakthrough solves the challenge of producing nanotubes of specific structure for nanoelectronics.
PaR-PaR allows researchers to create complicated protocols for robots within an hour after minimal training. The language is based on computer science principles and enables sharing of robotic protocols across laboratories.
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology identified a specific enzyme, CYP337B3, responsible for the cotton bollworm's resistance to pyrethroids. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding the genetic mechanisms behind insecticide resistance.
A new computational design process allows researchers to automatically design synthetic skin for animatronic characters, resulting in highly realistic facial expressions. The method uses optimization schemes and 3D scanning to create custom-designed skin that matches real individuals.
Researchers develop SPAdes, a new algorithm to sequence genomes from single cells, enabling analysis of 'dark matter' bacteria and human pathogens. The breakthrough could lead to early detection of cancer progression by monitoring normal cells before they turn malignant.
Researchers identify a causal link between the oncometabolite metabolite2-hydroxyglutarate and the onset of acute myeloid leukemia. The study demonstrates how a metabolite can cause cancer, setting the stage for developing inhibitors to block the mutation.
A study by University of California - San Diego researchers blocks the NOTCH1 signaling pathway in cancer cells, reducing their ability to replicate and self-renew. The findings suggest that therapies targeting this pathway could be effective in treating various types of cancer stem cells.
Researchers found that plant species reproducing sexually have stronger disease resistance due to increased adaptive evolution of the chitinase gene. This supports the theory that sex provides a genetic advantage in adapting to environmental changes.
Researchers at University of York and GlaxoSmithKline have identified a complex gene cluster responsible for producing the medicinal compound noscapine. This discovery will accelerate breeding of high-noscapine poppy varieties, which could provide a reliable source of this valuable medicine.
Researchers identify Sh1 gene as key control point for seed shattering in sorghum, finding parallel selection across multiple cereals. The study provides insights into the domestication process of crops like rice and maize, with implications for breeding and increasing crop yields.
James Hoch's research aims to understand bacterial signaling interactions and their role in disease. His work has identified strategies for disrupting virulence factors and essential bacterial functions, suggesting potential approaches to treating antibiotic-resistant infections.
A study by University of Edinburgh researchers found that sexual reproduction allows for the weeding out of damaging DNA elements within a few generations. This leads to healthier individuals flourishing and passing on their DNA, while weaker ones are more likely to die without reproducing.
Biologists at the University of Rochester used a genetic tool from jewel wasps to find changes in cell regulator genes that affect wing growth. This discovery could help understand cell growth regulation and underlying causes of some diseases.
Researchers at Van Andel Research Institute have discovered a predictive marker for patient sensitivity to MET inhibitors in glioblastoma. The study may lead to the development of improved therapies for this deadly brain cancer.
A new web-based application, Pyromaker, has been developed to accurately identify complex genetic mutations. The tool uses simulated pyrograms to generate a virtual trace of the expected signal, allowing for clearer interpretation of ambiguous results from current testing methods.
Researchers generated induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells from ear tissue of adult snow leopards, paving the way for cryopreservation and cloning techniques to save endangered species. This breakthrough raises hopes for the conservation of the snow leopard and other cat family members.
A study published by researchers at the University of Oregon reveals that two distinct populations of rainbow trout share a genetic trait that enables them to adapt to their native rivers in Alaska and Idaho. This gene variant, identified using RAD technology, may hold key to saving struggling fish populations from extinction.
Researchers have developed a theory for a quantum cloning machine that can produce four approximate copies of an initial quantum state, overcoming previous limitations to two or three copies. This advancement has significant implications for message encryption systems and analyzing security using shared secret quantum keys.
A study found that amino acid concentrations were reduced in cloned embryos compared to in vitro fertilized pregnancies. This may explain developmental abnormalities and complications leading to embryo death. The findings highlight the importance of researching maternal-embryo interactions.
Researchers at Washington State University have discovered how a barley plant recognizes an invader within five minutes of an attack, triggering its defenses. This breakthrough could lead to new ways to battle crop diseases, potentially defeating evolving threats like Ug99.
Scientists have identified a unique protein in an insect gut microbe that stores iron, regulating the concentration of molecules important for plant-insect interactions. The discovery sheds light on the survival strategies of the microbe and its relationship with the host insect.
Xiaohong Wang's diagnostic test can identify the type of nematode infesting a field, crucial for developing resistant potato varieties. The test is 1000 times more sensitive than traditional methods, enabling reliable results from small amounts of nematode material.
A new DNA construction software, j5, streamlines the process by identifying cost-effective strategies and automating protocols. This enables researchers to focus on primary interests while reducing labor-intensive tasks.
Researchers develop a method to convert human skin cells into neurons, offering a potential shortcut for generating replacement therapies. The new approach has already yielded insights into Alzheimer's disease and could be used for testing new drug candidates.
Researchers at NIST describe using tailored DNA strands to purify armchair carbon nanotubes, essential for 'quantum wires'. This breakthrough enables mass production of these nanotubes, promising 10x better conductivity and lower loss.
Aging causes muscle weakness due to calcium leakage from ryanodine receptor channel complex, leading to reduced muscle function. An experimental drug called S107 stabilizes calstabin1, improving muscle force and exercise capacity in aged mice.
A recent Nevada study found that over two-thirds of respondents approved using therapeutic cloning and stem cells to cure cancer or treat heart attacks. For treatment of less-serious conditions, approval rates were lower but still significant. The study suggests a strong public support for stem cell research in the US.
A Washington State University student's research has challenged a widely held assumption on the best way to analyze ancient DNA in anthropological and forensic investigations. Direct sequencing was found to be as effective as cloning in analyzing degraded DNA, with potential cost savings and time efficiency benefits.
Scientists at the University of Gothenburg have discovered how certain sea squirts can activate telomerase, an enzyme that protects DNA, leading to exceptional health. These organisms also have a unique ability to discard 'junk' from their cells, which helps maintain their youthful state.
Scientists at the University of Nottingham's Malaysia campus are working on a new method to improve the commercial production of vanilla plants through tissue culture. The research aims to overcome issues with genetic instability in micropropagated sub-clones, which can lead to reduced quality and yield.
Dr. Yosef Shiloh is recognized for his groundbreaking work on ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T), a rare disease caused by a defect in the cellular response to DNA damage. His identification of the ATM gene has revolutionized the field, leading to significant advances in our understanding of DNA damage response and repair.
Dr. Werner Mueller, a Springer editor and professor at Mainz University, has won the European Research Council's ERC Advanced Grant for his work on biosilicate research. His goal is to develop biological supporting structures made of biosilicates that can produce bone tissue in humans.
Researchers at University of Missouri identified a critical gene in corn plants that produces essential hormones, including auxin, which controls cell division and organ growth. The discovery sheds new light on the molecular mechanism behind auxin's production in plants, challenging previous understanding.
Yosef Shiloh, a renowned expert in ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) research, has been awarded the 51st Annual AACR G.H.A. Clowes Memorial Award for his groundbreaking work on cellular DNA damage response and A-T. His discoveries have significantly advanced our understanding of this rare genomic instability syndrome.
A new, simplified method for producing large amounts of viral vector cassettes has been developed, overcoming previous limitations. This approach enables efficient packaging of single- or double-stranded AAV vectors and large AAV cassettes, paving the way for commercial production.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered a new virus in switchgrass that can cause mosaic and yellow streak symptoms, reducing photosynthesis and biomass yield. The virus, Marafivirus, is related to Maize rayado fino virus and has the potential to affect other crops.
Researchers have discovered that RD114 envelope proteins can effectively pseudotype lentiviral vectors, offering an attractive alternative to VSV-G. This technology has the potential to enhance gene therapy approaches by increasing transduction efficiency and stability.
Researchers at Cardiff University cloned a human virus, Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV), which is a major cause of congenital malformations and life-threatening disease in transplant patients. The cloning of HCMV has enabled the development of new treatments and vaccines against this virus.
Scientists have discovered how fungi subvert a single gene in wheat, triggering programmed cell death, which protects plants from pathogens. Researchers also developed DNA molecular markers to rapidly screen commercial cultivars for the gene, allowing for its elimination through selective breeding.
Researchers may be able to induce apomixis in sexually reproducing plants, a process that produces genetically identical seeds without meiosis. This breakthrough has significant implications for crop improvement and could reduce the need for expensive seed purchases.
Maynard V. Olson receives the Promega Biotechnology Research Award for his development of orthogonal-field-alternation gel electrophoresis, yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) system, and sequence-tagged site (STS) mapping techniques. His work significantly contributed to the completion of the human genome map.
A team of researchers has created a new in vitro model for studying the effects of light on wound healing. They found that exposure to blue-violet light increases mitochondrial activity, cell proliferation, and growth factor secretion in human epidermal keratinocytes. These results suggest that blue light may be useful in enhancing epi...
Researchers from the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard present a new method for identifying protein-bait interactions, allowing for sensitive detection and discrimination of specific interactions. The method uses quantitative proteomics approaches to compare enrichment with the bait of interest against samples using control baits.
Researchers propose that MeCP2 affects the entire genome in neurons, leading to increased histone acetylation and spurious transcription of 'junk DNA'. This discovery challenges the previous view of MeCP2 as a target-specific transcription factor.
Francis S. Collins, M.D., has been selected to receive the 2009 AAAS Philip Hauge Abelson Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to science. He is recognized for his exceptional skills as a scientist, communicator, and leader, as well as his pioneering work on the Human Genome Project.
Epigenetics is recognized as a key factor in understanding complex biological variations. The February 1 GEN issue provides coverage of the latest research on histone modification, DNA methylation, and imprinting.
Bdelloid rotifers have evolved to avoid parasites and pathogens by desiccating and drifting away on the wind. This mechanism allows them to establish new, uninfected populations and evade biotic enemies without sex.
A new protocol for fluorescence in situ hybridization allows phylogenetic identification of microorganisms in environmental samples. Meanwhile, a dual-color ELISPOT assay enables simultaneous detection of IL-2 and IFN-γ secreting T cells, promising to monitor immune responses to certain infectious agents.
Researchers discuss consent, privacy and clinical translation issues in iPS cell study. The emergence of iPS cells adds new challenges to the legal and social debates in stem-cell science.
Scientists from Uppsala University have successfully introduced plasmid-based methods into Physcomitrella moss cells, opening doors to powerful techniques in plant research. This breakthrough enables gene cloning and overexpression directly in plant cells without the need for single-cell organisms like bacteria or yeasts.
Embryonic stem cells exhibit sensitivity to localized cyclic forces due to their softness, affecting gene expression and differentiation. The study suggests that applying controlled mechanical forces could be a new method for directing cell behavior, with implications for therapeutic cloning and regenerative medicine.
The 2009 Lasker Awards honor pioneering work in cancer and stem cell research, promising new therapies and a $700 million global market. Renowned scientists receive awards for their discoveries in nuclear reprogramming techniques and regenerative medicine.