A team of international scientists led by Dr Florent Ginhoux have uncovered the origins of microglia, white blood cells specific to the brain, revealing they derive from a particular structure in the mouse embryo. This understanding may lead to new strategies to manipulate microglia for treating various brain disorders.
A team of Singaporean scientists has made a major breakthrough by discovering the most important genes in human embryonic stem cells, which are crucial for treating debilitating conditions. The researchers identified a particular gene called PRDM14 that makes it easier to turn adult cells into pluripotent stem cells.
Researchers will study immune cells to identify biomarkers associated with TB infection and disease reactivation. The joint laboratory aims to develop early diagnosis and effective treatment for the highly contagious disease, affecting millions worldwide.
Singapore's A*STAR and Cytos Biotechnology collaborate on a virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine targeting influenza hemagglutinin protein. The partnership aims to develop an independent supply of vaccines for Singapore and ASEAN countries, extending Cytos' R&D pipeline.
Researchers from A*STAR made three groundbreaking discoveries in fight against cancer: a mechanism to prevent metastasis, biomarkers for breast cancer, and improved detection of cervical cancer. Their work sheds light on key areas of cancer research, offering new strategies to combat this devastating disease.
A large-scale study involving over 7,700 participants found a positive association between DNA polymorphisms related to estrogen production and breast cancer development. The research suggests that combining multiple genetic markers can estimate breast cancer risk and may lead to the development of new prevention and treatment strategies.
Researchers found that viruses invading the human genome millions of years ago have changed gene regulation in human embryonic stem cells. The discovery provides definitive proof of a theory proposed by Barbara McClintock and has significant implications for regenerative medicine.
Researchers found genetic risk factors for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) linked to HLA locus and three new genes TNFRSF19, MDSIEVI1, and CDKN2A/2B. The study advances understanding of NPC's role in southern China's high prevalence.
Six collaborative research projects aim to develop treatments, vaccines, or antimicrobial products for gastric flu, hepatitis B, dengue fever, and tuberculosis. Researchers will work together to shed light on bacterial signaling pathways and train immune cells to overcome viral infections.
Researchers have found a way to tap into the properties of p53 to kill cancer cells while sparing normal cells. By controlling the cell cycle and inducing endoreduplication in cancer cells, they can target tumour-specific killing while minimizing damage to healthy cells.
Researchers at the Genome Institute of Singapore have developed a zebrafish model to study Parkinson's disease, which can aid in drug development and screening. The model demonstrates that zebrafish can be used to study human diseases, including PD, and has potential for large-scale drug screening.
Singapore scientists have made significant breakthroughs in understanding early embryonic development using single cell gene expression analysis. The study resolves debates on cellular differentiation events and highlights the importance of fibroblast growth factor signalling in cell fate decisions.
Twelve new research projects on infectious diseases and immunology have been awarded grants by A*STAR's Biomedical Research Council and Singapore Immunology Network. These projects aim to develop better vaccines and improve clinical care for patients, with a focus on viral infections and the human immune response.
Singapore's A*STAR is collaborating with Italy's Siena Biotech to develop targeted therapies for gastric cancer, leukemia, and osteoporosis. The partnership aims to leverage advanced molecular biology and antibody engineering techniques to create novel treatments.
Researchers at the Genome Institute of Singapore have identified the genetic molecule Tbx3, which significantly improves the quality of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells). The study successfully produced iPS cells that can recapitulate entire developmental processes and exhibit superior ability for germ-line transmission.
Researchers created a detailed map of the human epigenome during embryonic development, identifying patterns of DNA methylation and its role in regulating gene expression. This breakthrough has significant implications for targeted differentiation of stem cells into specific organs, a crucial consideration for stem cell therapy.
Researchers from Singapore's A*STAR report a novel transcription factor, Nr5a2, can replace classical reprogramming factors to increase iPS cell efficiency. This breakthrough has significant implications for cell-therapy-based medicine and the creation of organs for replacement or transplantation.
A large-scale genetic study has identified seven genes that increase an individual's susceptibility to leprosy, a chronic infectious disease affecting skin and peripheral nerves. The discovery highlights the role of innate immune response in leprosy development and may lead to early diagnosis and treatment.
A study of 73 Southeast Asian and East Asian populations reveals a high correlation between genetic ancestry and ethnic groups, contradicting previous theories. Genetic diversity increases from northern to southern latitudes, suggesting a single major migration route from Southeast Asia.
Scientists at the Genome Institute of Singapore have created a genetic map of the Han Chinese population based on genome-wide DNA variations in over 6,000 samples. The map reveals that northern inhabitants were genetically distinguishable from those in the south, consistent with historical migration patterns.
Researchers at the Genome Institute of Singapore have made a significant breakthrough in understanding gene expression and regulation by developing a novel technology called ChIA-PET, which successfully mapped long-range chromatin interactions throughout the human genome.
The Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Singapore joins an international effort to sequence the genomes of 10,000 species, enabling comparisons between animal and human genomes. This will help scientists understand evolutionary changes and predict responses to climate change, pollution, and disease.
Researchers at Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN) have identified the molecular key to understanding the p53 tumor suppressor gene's function. The discovery reveals how p53 regulates genes by recognizing specific sequences of nucleotides in DNA, providing a missing piece to this complex biological process.
Scientists have identified a gene mutation responsible for premature skin aging, known as 'wrinkly skin syndrome.' Increasing levels of the PYCR1 protein could reverse conditions causing fast aging and wrinkly skin.
Scientists developed a novel electronic sensor array to rapidly detect DNA for disease diagnosis and biological research, with ultrasensitive detection capabilities and cost-effectiveness. The Nanogap Sensor Array technology has the potential to speed up efforts in detecting debilitating diseases such as cancer and infectious viruses.
Scientists developed a novel immunization method that induces complete protection against the life-threatening malaria parasite in humans. The method allowed the human immune system to target the parasite at an earlier stage of its life cycle, resulting in significant improvement over other experimental malaria vaccines.
Research by Singapore and NC researchers found that reducing p38MAPK levels delays aging of multiple tissues in lab mice. The study also discovered that partial inactivation of p38MAPK improves proliferation and regeneration of islet cells without affecting tumour suppressor function.
Researchers at Genome Institute of Singapore identify RCP as a novel breast cancer promoting gene that functionsally contributes to aggressive breast cancer behaviour. Over-expression of RCP is positively correlated with cancer recurrence in patients, and silencing the gene significantly diminishes tumour formation and metastasis.
IBN researchers have developed a simple, room-temperature process to synthesize nanoparticles inexpensively. The new chemical synthesis uses an aqueous solution and an organic solvent, allowing metal ions to be extracted from water without producing toxic chemicals.
Researchers at the Bioprocessing Technology Institute discovered a novel function of the FAIM gene, which protects immune and liver cells from apoptosis. They propose that manipulating this process could lead to new treatments for liver cirrhosis and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Researchers have developed novel peptide nanoparticles that effectively seek out and destroy bacteria and fungal cells causing fatal brain infections. The nanoparticles can traverse the blood-brain barrier, offering a superior alternative to existing treatments for brain infections.
Scientists from A*STAR's IMRE invented the world's smallest controllable molecule gear of 1.2nm size, revolutionizing molecular machines. The breakthrough was achieved through optimizing molecular design, manipulation and surface atomic chemistry.
Scientists have discovered a novel signaling pathway in dendritic cells that can be activated by bacterial fragments, leading to the activation of NFAT and triggering an immune response. This discovery has identified potential new therapeutic targets for diseases such as sepsis and chronic heart failure.
Researchers at the Bioinformatics Institute in Singapore have created a 3D structural model of the neuraminidase protein, which is critical to the H1N1 influenza A virus. This breakthrough analysis revealed extensive surface mutations compared to closely related strains, making previous flu vaccinations less effective. The study also f...
Scientists at A*STAR's IMCB have discovered the protein WIP1 as a critical suppressor of severe inflammation, which could lead to septic shock and death. The research also found links between chronic inflammation and cancer development.
Research grants totaling $24 million have been awarded to study the common dust mite allergen, tuberculosis, malaria, and various immune system disorders. The grants aim to develop novel vaccines and treatments for diseases such as asthma, cancer, and Alzheimer's.
Researchers at the Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology have synthesized gold nanoclusters that can be used for sub-cellular biolabeling and bioimaging. These clusters are suitable for use within the body due to their lack of toxic metals, enabling scientists to monitor cell nucleus dynamics and study genomic changes.
Scientists at IBN have successfully converted carbon dioxide into methanol using organocatalysts, a novel approach that offers a low-energy and non-toxic process. This breakthrough has significant implications for the sequestration and conversion of greenhouse gases, providing a viable alternative energy option.
Researchers develop first tri-continuous mesoporous material, named IBN-9, with a hexagonal minimal surface, opening possibilities for catalysis, separation and drug delivery applications. The material has unique nano-fiber morphology and distinct diffusion rates in different directions.
Researchers at Singapore's Genome Institute of Singapore and the US have identified microRNA-125b as a novel regulator of the p53 tumor suppressor gene. The study found that this microRNA keeps p53 levels low during embryonic development, but allows for an increase in p53 to prevent tumor formation if DNA is damaged. Elevated levels of...
A research team from Singapore and London has discovered that the elephant shark, a primitive deep-sea fish, possesses three cone pigments for color vision similar to humans. The finding suggests that gene duplication played a crucial role in this process, which may provide valuable insights into human genome evolution.
Researchers in Singapore have identified three specific biomarkers that accurately indicate the severity of Chikungunya fever, which can be easily detected in blood samples. These findings enable quicker and more accurate prognosis for infected patients, distinguishing CHIKF from dengue fever.
Scientists have found a genetic variant within the LCE gene cluster that provides protection against psoriasis. This discovery suggests compromised skin barrier function plays a role in the disease's development.
Scientists at A*STAR's IMCB have discovered a human protein called Bax-beta (Baxβ) that can induce cancer cell death. The protein is normally degraded by proteasomes in healthy cells, but its levels are elevated in cancer cells, leading to apoptosis.
The Singapore research team at I2R won first place in the BCI Competition IV with their non-invasive EEG-based technology. The technology enables physically handicapped individuals to communicate through thoughts, improving their quality of life.
Scientists at A*STAR have found imidazolium salts with powerful antioxidant properties that could fight diseases. They also efficiently convert carbohydrates into versatile chemical compounds for biofuel production.
Researchers successfully produce pure insulin-producing cells from mouse embryonic stem cells, showing efficacy in treating diabetes in lab models. The findings provide proof of principle for applying this strategy to human ESCs and offer avenues for further research.
Researchers at the Genome Institute of Singapore found that 'junk' DNA plays a crucial role in distinguishing humans from other species. These repeats provide a source of evolutionary variability and may hold the key to understanding physical differences between humans and other organisms.
Futuropolis 2058 conference highlights the importance of social and intellectual capital in creating sustainable urban environments. Experts emphasize the need for long-term city planning, integrating work, live, and play elements, to enhance human interaction and connection.
Fusionopolis is Singapore's second major R&D hub, featuring world-class research institutes and corporate labs. The development aims to break down barriers and foster multidisciplinary collaboration, driving breakthroughs in complex societal challenges.