Researchers develop soluble mimics of GPCRs to study their interactions with G-proteins, potentially leading to new drugs for various medical conditions. The technology could also be used to screen for drugs that block malfunctioning GPCRs.
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.
Scientists at the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute have cracked the code on bacterial communication, boosting bio-product yields in fermentation vessels. By understanding how bacteria interact and respond to stress signals, researchers can improve production efficiency and increase product outputs.
Scientists at University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute developed a new vaccine using recombinant DNA technology to protect fish against infectious pancreatic necrosis virus. The vaccine, composed of hollow virus-like particles, demonstrates a resistance potential against the disease and has shown promising results in experiments.
Researchers from the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute and Duke University discovered the genetic defect in humans and mice linked to LQT4, which affects an important adaptor protein called ankyrin-B. The defect leads to inadequate calcium regulation, causing chaotic heartbeats and potentially life-threatening arrhythmias.
The University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute has licensed its DNA Bactofection technology to Microscience, enabling the delivery of DNA vaccines for viral diseases and cancers. Microscience will use the technology to develop a range of DNA vaccines, including those for typhoid, travellers' diarrhea, and hepatitis B virus infection.
A new HIV vaccine candidate has shown promising results, targeting a shared characteristic of all HIV strains and generating antibodies that neutralize a wide range of isolates. The complex could serve as a useful model for HIV vaccine development, bringing researchers closer to their goal of developing an effective vaccine.
Researchers found that chemicals in detergents, plastics, and medicines can mimic natural estrogens, disrupting the sexual development of juvenile zebrafish. The study suggests that these compounds can affect not only the reproductive capacity but also sex ratios of fish populations.
Researchers at the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute have identified specific amino acid residues in the Gumboro-causing viruses responsible for their infection and disease development in poultry. This discovery will enable the creation of more effective genetically engineered vaccines to protect against severe outbreaks.
Researchers have discovered a microbe that can break down polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a toxic substance released into the environment for over 70 years. The breakthrough could lead to the development of bioremediation technologies to tackle the pollutants.
Researchers at the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute have engineered rats to contain the genome of HIV-1, making them a valuable model for studying AIDS-related diseases. The rats develop clinical signs similar to those of AIDS in humans, including neurological abnormalities and organ damage.
A team of scientists discovered a stable strain of bacteria living in a specific type of sea sponge, found along the Great Barrier Reef near Australia. The presence of this bacterium is linked to the health of the sponge and has potential as a model for finding new medicinal compounds.
A team of researchers has developed an experimental HIV-1 vaccine specifically designed to combat the rising HIV epidemic in Nigeria, where the strain is unique and anti-HIV drugs are largely unavailable. The vaccine uses innovative technologies to induce strong antiviral immunity and has shown promising results in preclinical testing.
Scientists at University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute discover ubiquilin controls levels of proteins central to early development of Alzheimer's disease. The molecule increases presenilin levels in cells, a key step in understanding the disease.
Robert C. Gallo and Luc Montagnier receive Spain's top science award for their groundbreaking work on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of HIV/AIDS. The Prince of Asturias Award recognizes their originality and relevance to the scientific community.
A team of researchers has discovered a diverse range of actinomycetes in marine environments, including coral reef sponges and sediments. These bacteria have the potential to produce novel antibiotics and are being explored as a source of future medicines.
The world's growing demand for seafood may be met through aquaculture, but it will need significant advancements in biotechnology. Biotech is already improving aquaculture productivity, efficiency, and profitability, but more work is needed to bring fish production on par with other livestock.
At the Institute of Human Virology (IHV) conference, scientists from Africa, Caribbean, and US/Europe discussed HIV/AIDS challenges in the developing world. They emphasized the need for more North-South partnerships to address affordable therapies and preventative vaccines.
Leading AIDS researchers, including Robert Gallo and Seth Berkeley, urge a new era of scientific cooperation to accelerate HIV vaccine development. The epidemic affects 40 million people worldwide, and current funding and resources are insufficient.
A new DNA test developed by the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute rapidly identifies Pfiesteria piscicida, a toxic marine microbe linked to fish kills and human illness. The test helps predict outbreaks and study the toxin's effects on immune cells in the brain.
Scientists will study the effects of space vacuum and solar radiation on four specially selected microbes, including one known to survive high temperatures. The experiment aims to test the theory that microbial life once came to Earth on a meteorite from another planet.
Dr. Gerardo Vasta will discuss diseases in the ocean, including parasitic diseases affecting shellfish and fish species, which can harm human health and the environment. He will also highlight the importance of developing accurate probes for detection and monitoring of pathogens.
The symposium brings together experts to discuss whether it's possible to prevent malaria without harming mosquito diversity. The event follows an online debate about finding cures for drug-resistant forms of the disease.