Bioengineering
Articles tagged with Bioengineering
Stretchy implants could stick to arteries to treat high blood pressure
UNCG awarded $2 million to grow bioindustrial manufacturing workforce across North Carolina
First-in-human trial demonstrates promise of implantable cytokine factories for ovarian cancer
Toward artificial muscles that bend and twist on demand
Garlic-derived compound shows potential to improve muscle health during aging
HKUST researchers flip the CRISPR script to develop world's first DNA-guided gene editing tool for precise infectious disease diagnosis and advancing antiviral therapies
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) researchers have developed a revolutionary DNA-guided CRISPR-Cas system that can programmably target RNA molecules, offering improved accuracy in rapid infectious disease testing and advancing antiviral treatments.
BRIGHT and LanzaTech launch new partnership to accelerate carbon to value biotechnology in Europe
The partnership aims to establish a next-generation C1 biofoundry at DTU to convert CO2, CO, and methane into valuable products. This technology has the potential to reduce industrial emissions and enable circular, climate-positive solutions.
Death-defying protein found in tardigrades preserves synthetic cells
A protein from tardigrades has been found to protect synthetic cell membranes during dehydration, allowing them to survive rehydration. This discovery could lead to a way to store and transport biological microfactories, revolutionizing the production of medicines and other valuable molecules.
Biodegradable, all-metal microrobots could transform drug delivery and biopsy procedures
Researchers have developed a new class of biodegradable, all-metal microrobots that can penetrate tissue and deliver medications without causing damage. These microrobots demonstrate both strength and safety in testing on mice, paving the way for potential applications in drug delivery and biopsy procedures.
MIT researchers show how chromatin movement helps control gene expression
Researchers at MIT have found that chromatin can exist in two different categories: constrained and free, which affects its interaction with genes and DNA regulatory sequences. This study provides insight into gene regulation and DNA repair processes.
Boyce Thompson Institute awarded USDA grant to advance youth education in plant biotechnology across New York state
The Boyce Thompson Institute has received a multi-year award from the USDA's FANE program to expand access to biotechnology education for K-12 students. The P-BIOTEK initiative will create hands-on learning opportunities and community science programs to introduce students to plant biotechnology, bioengineering, and science communication.
MIT study: Gene circuits reshape DNA folding and affect how genes are expressed
Researchers at MIT discovered that gene circuits can reshape DNA folding and affect gene expression in human cells. The study found that rearranging genes along a DNA strand, or 'gene syntax,' can amplify or suppress the expression of neighboring genes.
Brain-computer interface based on Rice research wins FDA approval for first clinical trial
Motif Neurotech has received FDA approval to begin the first clinical trial of its therapeutic BCI device, DOT, for treatment-resistant depression. The study will test the device's effectiveness in delivering electrical stimulation to brain circuits linked to depression.
Digital twin can reveal alcohol consumption in crime cases
Researchers at Linköping University developed a digital twin model to predict alcohol consumption and drinking patterns. The tool uses data from exhaled breath, blood, and urine samples to generate individualised results, providing a more accurate picture of when a person last drank.
No batteries, just body heat: demonstrating the potential of battery-free sensing
A team of researchers at The University of Osaka has created a wireless EEG transmission system that can operate without external power sources. The system harnesses energy from the temperature difference between the human body and surrounding air, allowing it to function reliably even in hot summer conditions.
Measuring squishiness and stiffness of cells just got faster, easier and more reliable
Researchers created a microfluidic device to measure cell size and stiffness, enabling the analysis of large numbers of cells quickly. The new method uses time-of-flight measurements to determine cell stiffness, with potential applications in disease diagnosis and prognosis.
Texas Children’s researcher awarded $6. 7 million NIH grant to accelerate Alzheimer’s drug discovery and advance new therapies
Researchers will use DNA-encoded chemical libraries and artificial intelligence to screen hundreds of millions of potential drug compounds, identifying those most likely to succeed in treating Alzheimer's. The project aims to shorten the timeline for identifying new treatments, bringing them to patients faster and with greater precision.
Creating a wireless tissue-aware medical device network in the human body
A research group developed an optimized signal transmission system for implantable medical devices, improving accuracy and strength of wireless signals. The approach uses ultra-wideband communication to coordinate multiple implants and reduce signal distortion, enabling more effective healthcare applications.
UT Arlington researcher earns AHA award for aging research
A University of Texas at Arlington researcher is leading a study investigating cardio-sarcopenia, the combined loss of heart and muscle health in aging adults. The grant aims to uncover how heart dysfunction and muscle loss interact and detect biomarkers for earlier intervention.
Stem cell model of human embryo produces yolk sac without hypoblasts or genetic trickery
Researchers at University of Michigan created a stem cell model that produces a yolk-sac-like structure in a human embryo, mimicking early pregnancy loss. The model uses mechanical signals to guide development and does not require genetic manipulation.
MIT study shows youth may increase vulnerability to a carcinogen found in contaminated water and some drugs
A new MIT study suggests that exposure to NDMA, a chemical contaminant in drinking water and some medications, can cause cancerous mutations more severely in children than adults. The researchers found higher rates of DNA damage and cancer in juvenile mice exposed to low levels of NDMA.
Researchers test a two-way brain interface with wearable robotic legs that could one day restore walking and sensation after paralysis
Researchers at USC, Caltech, and UC Irvine have developed a two-way brain interface that allows patients to control wearable robotic legs using their thoughts. The system accurately detected brain signals indicating the intent to walk about 92% of the time and restored walking sensations with about 93% accuracy in an early proof-of-con...
RBL LLC launches Duracyte, advancing living pharmacy platform in Houston’s growing biotech hub
Duracyte's technology uses an implantable device to produce therapeutic proteins continuously inside the human body, replacing injections and infusions with a single device. The device can sense biological signals, monitor tumor environments and adjust therapeutic output in real time.
Don't build the engine, grow it: biohybrid miniature robots using living organisms
Researchers create living biohybrid miniature robots that solve traditional engineering trade-offs between structural rigidity and environmental adaptability. These biological engines utilize embodied intelligence to navigate complex terrains and achieve performance metrics rivaling state-of-the-art synthetics.
Binghamton University graduate programs draw national attention in new ranking
Binghamton University has seen significant improvements in its graduate school rankings, with nearly three dozen programs earning national recognition. The university's Systems Science and Industrial Engineering program has been named the #31 Industrial and Systems Engineering graduate program in the US.
Lehigh U bioengineer Anand Ramamurthi elected to AIMBE College of Fellows
Anand Ramamurthi, Lehigh's Peter C. Rossin Professor of Bioengineering and chair of the Department of Bioengineering, has been elected to the AIMBE College of Fellows for his groundbreaking work in regenerative technologies that can repair damaged tissues without surgery. His research aims to develop nonsurgical nanomedicines to treat ...
Five University of Tennessee faculty teams receive Chancellor’s Innovation Fund Awards
The Chancellor’s Innovation Fund Awards support cutting-edge research and development projects across various fields. Faculty recipients will use the funding to refine their technologies, build prototypes, and assess market opportunities. The awards aim to bridge publicly funded academic research with private financing, fostering entre...
3D printing could change how cancer drugs reach tumors
Researchers at the University of Mississippi have developed a new method for delivering cancer-fighting drugs using 3D-printed nanocarriers, which can target specific tumor sites and minimize side effects. This innovative approach has shown promising results in killing cancer cells and reducing the impact of traditional chemotherapy.
Stitching precise patterns - with lasers
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a new manufacturing strategy to precisely control the formation of laser-induced graphene on polymers. This allows for the creation of flexible microelectrodes and neurochemical biosensors with robust electrical and electrochemical performance.
Fast-acting covalent protein drugs from a new high-throughput platform
A team at Westlake University developed a high-throughput platform for engineering fast-acting covalent protein therapeutics, overcoming a fundamental limitation in the field. The platform enables rapid and irreversible target engagement with improved efficacy and safety.
MPGK simplifies advanced post-GWAS analyses for researchers and beginners
A new bioinformatics tool, MPGK, integrates MR, PRS, GO, and KEGG analyses into a single reproducible workflow, reducing technical barriers for researchers. The tool successfully identified causal relationships between diabetes and psoriasis using publicly available datasets.
The brain’s power could also help predict its decline
A team of researchers, led by Bistra Iordanova and Liang Zhan, are developing multiscale models of brain metabolism to predict cognitive decline and dementia. They will analyze data from brain imaging, blood flow, and neural activity to identify metabolic changes that affect brain function in aging.
Five-year field study reveals smarter biochar strategy to cut methane from rice paddies
A five-year field study shows that small, repeated additions of biochar combined with water-saving irrigation can significantly reduce methane emissions from rice paddies over time while maintaining strong crop yields. Continuous application maintained and strengthened methane reduction, producing net negative emissions in some cases.
Biochar–microbe partnership unlocks soil phosphorus and boosts tomato yields
Researchers found that combining biochar with beneficial bacteria significantly improves phosphorus availability, reshaping plant development and increasing crop yields in greenhouse-grown cherry tomatoes. The study also showed that this approach can enhance soil fertility and crop productivity without increasing fertilizer inputs.
Is longevity science stuck? Researchers call for a strategic reset
Aging is redefined as a systems-level failure rather than molecular defects, highlighting the need for coordinated modulation of biological networks. The International Conference on Targeting Longevity 2026 explores new translational strategies and industrial opportunities by focusing on resilience.
Snail inspired soft robots to transform precision drug delivery in bowel cancer
Researchers are developing snail-inspired soft robots to deliver targeted therapy directly to tumor sites in bowel cancer patients. The robots aim to increase drug bioavailability and reduce off-target toxicity., Transforming colorectal cancer treatment by enabling precise drug release at tumour sites.
Solving the oxygen problem in cell-based drug delivery
The Hybrid Oxygenation Bioelectronics system, or HOBIT, shields cells from the immune system while providing access to oxygen and nutrients. The compact device supports higher cell densities in a smaller space, enabling the production of multiple biologic molecules simultaneously.
AI-powered drug discovery meets field-ready diagnostics in SLAS Technology vol. 37
The latest SLAS Technology volume showcases how AI, automation, and portable technologies are transforming drug discovery and diagnostics. This advancement enables the development of innovative therapeutic solutions and improved patient care.
New lipid nanoparticle design improves precision of mRNA vaccine delivery
Researchers redesigned a key component of lipid nanoparticles to steer particles toward lymph nodes, reducing off-target delivery. This advancement could make mRNA vaccines more efficient, potentially achieving strong immune protection at lower doses.
Brewing protein from greenhouse gases: A greener, more profitable alternative to farming
A new study by Beijing University of Chemical Technology proves that feeding methane to bacteria outperforms traditional soy and fish meal in both ecological savings and financial returns. The bacterial alternative eliminates the need for arable land and fresh water, effectively halting deforestation and marine depletion.
New journal Health Engineering launches to bridge engineering innovation and the future of human health
Health Engineering combines engineering principles with life sciences to address pressing global health challenges, focusing on prevention, precision intervention, and long-term health maintenance. The journal publishes interdisciplinary research across various fields, including biomaterials, synthetic biology, and precision medicine.
SwRI hosts grand opening for new 21,000-square-foot Clinical Supply Facility
Southwest Research Institute's new facility supports pharmaceutical development, bioengineering research, and streamlined clinical supply production. The facility enhances regulatory efficiency, quality systems, and communication between scientists.
Uncovering the molecular mechanisms that drive cartilage-to-bone transition
Researchers developed in vitro and in vivo models to track cartilage-to-bone transition, identifying key signaling pathways and transcription factors involved. The study found that some cartilage cells can transition into bone-like cells, challenging the traditional view of bone cell origin.
New biochar-based technology boosts antibiotic removal from water using low-energy ultrasound
Researchers developed a novel composite material that combines biochar, carbon nanotubes, and iron carbide, significantly accelerating the breakdown of antibiotics in water. The system achieved up to 15 times higher removal rates compared to conventional materials, while requiring substantially less energy.
Engineered biochar and beneficial bacteria team up to boost crop growth
Researchers developed a specially engineered biochar made from sewage sludge that significantly enhances plant growth when combined with beneficial bacteria. The biochar-bacteria combination improved nitrogen cycling and increased the abundance of beneficial soil microbes, leading to greater plant nutrition and growth.
Turning crops into carbon sinks: Biochar offers a low-cost path to carbon removal in China
A new study reveals that transforming biomass from dedicated energy crops into biochar could provide a cost-effective and scalable solution for removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping China move closer to its carbon neutrality goals. Biochar can lock carbon in soils for decades or even centuries while improving soil health.
Can synaptic connectivity alone reveal neuron types?
Researchers developed Neuronal Type Assignment from Connectivity (NTAC) to accurately assign neuronal cell types based on synaptic wiring patterns. NTAC outperformed traditional morphology-based approaches in identifying neuron types, especially in complex brain regions.
New gel-based system allows bacteria to act as bioelectrical sensors
Researchers at Rice University developed a safe bioelectronic sensor using naturally occurring polymer chitosan to effectively communicate with bacteria. The system uses a hydrogel to trap bacteria near an electrode, generating a stable electronic current when exposed to target substances.
“Smart photonic healthcare devices” how light is transforming the future of healthcare
Recent advances in photonic nanomaterials and healthcare devices have led to the development of wearable and implantable medical devices. These devices utilize light for precise manipulation of cells and tissues, offering new possibilities for early disease detection, light-based therapies, and personalized precision medicine.
Overlooked brainstem pathway controls human hands
A new study identifies a previously unknown brainstem pathway controlling hand and arm movements, revealing a multi-stage pathway integrating signals from the cortex, brainstem, and spinal networks. This finding may lead to new therapies for stroke rehabilitation, providing additional targets for neuromodulation treatments.
Mussel adhesion meets conductivity: new bioglue for bioelectronic implants
A conductive bioglue was developed to ensure firm adhesion and stable electrical signaling within the human body. It overcomes challenges in connecting damaged tissues or attaching bioelectronic devices, promoting muscle and nerve regeneration and stable implant stability.
New stimulation method builds on focused ultrasound research
Researchers developed a new noninvasive brain stimulation technique by combining focused ultrasound with electrical stimulation, producing stronger, targeted brain responses. This approach, called transcranial electro-acoustic stimulation, clarifies conflicting results in the field and introduces a new approach to noninvasive brain sti...
Printing living tissue at human-level cell density
Researchers create living tissue at near-physiological cell density using a new bioprinting strategy called embedded 3D printing in a cell-dense suspension (EPICS). The method enables the precise fabrication of perfusable channels and dense cellular environments, mimicking real organs.
New robotic microfluidic platform brings ai to lipid nanoparticle design
Engineers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed LIBRIS, an automated microfluidic platform capable of generating lipid nanoparticle formulations at high speed and scale. This enables the creation of large, systematic datasets needed to train predictive AI models, accelerating the design of lipid nanoparticles for mRNA delivery.
Real-time imaging of microplastics in the body improves understanding of health risks
Scientists create fluorescent nanoplastics that resemble real-world plastics in morphology, enabling real-time tracking and studying chronic exposure effects. The study reveals that smaller particles retain longer in the body, highlighting the need for further research on health risks due to microplastic ingestion.
Novel plant-based approach to a better, cheaper GLP-1 delivery system
A novel plant-based approach uses lettuce chloroplasts to produce functional GLP-1 peptides, paving the way for more affordable and better-tolerated oral medications. This method bypasses hurdles such as manufacturing cost, delivery system, and side effects associated with conventional approaches.
Nitrous oxide, a product of fertilizer use, may harm some soil bacteria
A study by MIT researchers found that nitrous oxide can hamper the growth of certain soil bacteria dependent on vitamin B12 for methionine biosynthesis. The findings suggest that N2O production in agricultural settings could influence microbial communities, potentially impacting crop health.
Injectable “satellite livers” could offer an alternative to liver transplantation
Engineered tissue grafts can take on the liver's function and help patients with liver failure. The injected cells remain viable in the body for at least two months, generating enzymes and proteins like normal hepatocytes.
Bioprinting muscle that knows how to align its cells just as in the human body
A research team from Xi'an Jiaotong University has developed a method to align cells in muscle tissue using electric forces during electrohydrodynamic bioprinting. This breakthrough allows for the creation of living muscle tissues with tightly aligned cells, enabling the production of functional muscle constructs.