Articles tagged with Biomedical Engineering
Scientists found a promising candidate, pleiotrophin, which is essential for brain development and function; restoring it may improve brain circuits in individuals with Down syndrome and other neurological diseases. The study's findings suggest using modified viruses to deliver the protein directly into cells could lead to new treatments.
Researchers at Binghamton University created a new technique for engineering vascular systems using nanotubes, which improved blood distribution and supplied cells with nutrition and oxygen. The technology has potential applications in treating tumors or neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers used miniature human nose models to study how different bacteria interact with the lining of the nose. The study found that all three bacteria colonized the model without causing significant damage, triggering immune responses and reducing inflammation.
A large-scale study has identified hundreds of new viruses living inside bacteria in the human gut, which could be used to reshape the gut microbiome. The discovery provides a new approach to studying the gut microbiome and its influence on various diseases.
A TTUHSC researcher has been awarded a $198,822 CPRIT grant to investigate Integrin Subunit Alpha-V as a therapeutic target in ALT-dependent osteosarcomas. The goal is to develop a new drug to treat this difficult-to-treat cancer type.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's and Roche developed a patient-specific, immune-competent liver model to predict which drugs cause immune reactions. The miniaturized liver system built from stem cells and a patient's own immune cells reproduces hallmark signs of immune-mediated liver toxicity.
A new study by University of Barcelona researchers describes a strategy to enhance neuronal regeneration and neuroplasticity using brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) combined with stem cell-based cell therapies. This approach has the potential to treat neurodegenerative diseases or brain injuries.
Researchers developed a more accurate cough-detection model using wearable health monitors' audio and movement data. The new model can distinguish between coughs and nonverbal sounds, improving the accuracy of respiratory disease tracking.
The study demonstrates that combining LiDAR, multispectral, and thermal infrared imaging with ensemble learning significantly enhances prediction accuracy for aboveground biomass estimation. This scalable framework supports precision agriculture, phenotyping, and environmental monitoring.
Researchers used advanced 3D canopy reconstruction to study forest adaptation to climate extremes. Thinning improves canopy light availability, boosting carbon uptake even under drought, while reduced rainfall suppresses photosynthetic performance.
Researchers at UC Davis discovered how desmosomes, which stick cells together, respond to mechanical stress. They found that the intermediate filaments transmit forces to a desmosome protein, causing it to open up and expose a site for signal transmission.
University of Michigan researchers propose a technique called Dynamic Sensor Selection to identify disease biomarkers. The approach, which applies control theory and observability principles to biological systems, has been shown to pinpoint biomarkers at each time point and reduce data complexity.
Researchers found that a high-fat, low-carb ketogenic diet can improve brain health and stop or slow cognitive decline in individuals with the APOE4 gene. This study suggests that precision nutrition tailored to an individual's genotype, gut microbiome, gender, and age may be more effective than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Researchers at UMass Amherst have developed a nanoparticle-based vaccine that prevents melanoma, pancreatic and triple-negative breast cancer in mice. The vaccine achieved remarkable survival rates, with up to 88% of vaccinated mice remaining tumor-free.
Researchers at Flinders University developed a dual-function biomaterial that combats persistent infections and promotes bone regeneration. The new implant material, embedded with silver-gallium liquid metal nanoparticles, offers sustained antimicrobial protection while actively supporting bone healing.
Researchers use microchips with human tissue to study brain damage caused by sepsis and neurodegenerative diseases, finding that the blood-brain barrier breaks down under stress. The technology also reveals how pericytes support the barrier and may lead to new treatments for preserving or introducing these cells.
Researchers developed a new control algorithm that enables powered knee prostheses to mimic natural human motion, reducing tripping risks and strain on users' bodies. The study showed significant improvements in activities of daily living, such as sitting, standing, walking, and climbing stairs.
Researchers at UBC have successfully transplanted an enzyme-converted kidney into a brain-dead recipient, showing promise for universal donor organs in transplantation. The breakthrough uses special enzymes to remove blood-type antigens, making it possible to use mismatched organs from deceased donors.
Engineers at the University of Utah create a synthetic antifreeze protein inspired by polar fish, demonstrating its effectiveness in inhibiting ice crystal formation without toxicity. The innovation has potential applications in extending shelf life of frozen foods and improving storage of biologics.
A large-scale study uncovered a strong connection between osteoporosis and rotator cuff tears, finding that individuals with osteoporosis are 1.56 times more likely to suffer an RCT. The study also identified common genetic variants influencing both conditions, suggesting a possible biological explanation for the link.
Researchers at UCSB have created an algae-based gel as a platform for studying mammary epithelial cells, which can transform into cancer cells. The gel supports the development of normal mammary gland tissue and can be modified to direct cell growth, offering new insights into how cancer develops.
Researchers at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem have developed a binder-free method for 3D printing silica glass using light to trigger a chemical reaction. This breakthrough enables custom, high-performance glass components that were previously impossible to manufacture.
A new test delivers results in under an hour without specialized lab equipment, enabling 'screen-and-treat' strategies to save countless lives. The portable, battery-operated device is projected to cost less than $8 each, making it ideal for low-resource settings.
A study published by TTUHSC researchers found that the blood-brain barrier remains intact in a commonly used mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that drug delivery strategies may need to be redesigned. The discovery challenges long-standing assumptions about the impact of Alzheimer's on the brain's protective shield.
Researchers developed a technology combining AI analysis with optogenetics to diagnose Parkinson's disease in mice. The AI-predicted Parkinson's disease score exhibited significant differences from controls, proving sensitive in assessing severity.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University's Ren lab have developed AggreBots, microscale living robots made from human lung cells that can be controlled to deliver therapeutic or mechanical interventions. The biobots use cilia, nanoscopic hair-like propellers, for movement and can be programmed to perform specific tasks.
A new study finds that over 50% of small-molecule drug patents this century are connected to NIH-backed research that would likely be cut under a 40% budget reduction. This highlights the significant impact of federally funded research on the development of life-changing medicines.
Scientists introduce a new way to control when drugs are active or inactive in the body, potentially developing safer medicines. The technology was applied to create improved molecular sensors, including a rapid coronavirus sensor that responds about 70 times faster than previous protein-based tests.
The research team developed multifunctional nanocomposites that demonstrate excellent tumor-targeting capability through the EPR effect. Irradiation with near-infrared laser light achieved multidimensional therapeutic effects, including complete elimination of transplanted mouse cancers within 5 days.
The Emory BioFoundry Institute is investing in TopoDx, a MedTech startup developing rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing. This technology addresses the growing threat of antibiotic resistance and aims to improve patient outcomes. With EBFI's support, TopoDx plans to accelerate towards FDA clearance and commercial deployment.
A new 3D imaging technique combines intensity diffraction tomography with adaptive optics to track subcellular structures over extended periods. This approach achieves high spatiotemporal resolution and molecular specificity, enabling the study of cellular dynamics.
Professor Lim Chwee Teck, Director of NUS iHealthtech, has been elected an International Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering for his pioneering research in biomedical engineering and wearable technologies. His work on disease diagnosis and therapy has translated into impactful healthcare solutions through start-ups.
Duke University researchers discovered that inhibiting an enzyme involved in iron regulation makes cancer cells vulnerable to cell death. By targeting STK17B kinase, they reactivated ferroptosis and increased the effectiveness of conventional therapies against multiple myeloma.
Researchers at RMIT University have created a 3D-printed diamond–titanium device that can harvest energy from flowing liquid and receive wireless power, paving the way for smarter, safer implants. The innovation combines semiconductive diamonds with metallic titanium to create a structure that is both lightweight and electrically active.
Researchers at CU Boulder have developed a new method for creating human rabies vaccines that are stable at high temperatures and can be stored in a dry powder form. This innovation addresses the storage challenges faced by developing countries, where traditional vaccines often require refrigeration or specialized cold storage equipment.
Developed by a multidisciplinary team at Politecnico di Milano, the BAMBI device is an effective engineering solution to stop postnatal haemorrhages. The kit includes a rectal probe and saline solution with a patented connector for safe assembly.
Researchers have created a new class of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) with complex internal arrangements, expanding their potential for carrying small-molecule drugs, proteins, metal ions, and mRNA. The breakthrough offers flexibility in designing delivery systems for different therapeutic molecules.
A research team developed a pipeline using pre-trained large language models to unify radiology and pathology reports, achieving high accuracy in tumor presence and stability. The system also predicted survival outcomes without additional training, distinguishing high-risk from low-risk groups.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a soft but strong metamaterial that can be controlled remotely to rapidly transform its size and shape. The new material is designed for implantable and ingestible medical devices and addresses critical safety concerns such as gastric ulcers and puncture injuries.
Scientists at Nano Life Science Institute create a thermogenetic tool using elastin-like polypeptides to regulate protein activation temperature. This technology enables controlled apoptosis in human-derived cells and has potential applications for biotechnological tools.
Researchers at Graz University of Technology created a highly detailed digital twin of the A549 lung cancer cell line, paving the way for individualized cancer treatment. The model simulates calcium dynamics and electrical voltages, allowing for testing of drugs and personalized treatment strategies.
Researchers at Queensland University of Technology have created a prototype electronic device using chitosan, a naturally derived biopolymer from seafood waste. The material is used to create flexible and wearable health sensors that can monitor vital signs without compromising comfort or the environment.
Mass General Brigham has identified key areas of innovation in medicine, including gene editing, immune system modulation, AI-powered care, and organ transplantation. The 'Big Ideas in Medicine' aim to transform diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease with next-generation technologies.
Researchers developed DF-FPDT to address low-frequency loss from non-matched illumination in live-cell imaging, enabling high-resolution and high-contrast 3D reconstructions. This breakthrough technique leverages non-matched illumination to enhance structural details without additional hardware or post-processing.
Researchers review nuclear receptor role in brain cancer development and explore their potential as therapeutic targets. Modulating these receptors with selective agonists or antagonists may offer new avenues for therapy, such as blocking androgen and estrogen receptors.
Researchers from UC3M and the Spanish Space Agency conducted a parabolic flight campaign to study microgravity's effects on human body, testing an innovative technique to protect cardiovascular and ocular health. The results will be crucial for future space exploration and could have applications on Earth for treating vascular diseases.
Scientists have achieved a major breakthrough by 3D bioprinting miniature placentas, which can accurately replicate the human placenta. This technology has the potential to transform pregnancy research by allowing for the study of serious complications like preeclampsia.
A collaborative team from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center has received a five-year, $2.9 million R01 grant and a competitive renewal of $3 million to explore therapies for ischemic stroke. The team aims to develop medications that mimic the brain's self-protective mechanisms.
A team of researchers has received funding to study the PRPH2 gene, crucial for normal vision, but when mutated causes a range of retinal diseases leading to blindness. They aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms of PRPH2-associated pathology to develop effective therapies.
Researchers at NUS have developed a bioengineering approach to keep human lymph node tissue alive and functioning outside the body for several days. The method involves embedding thin slices of lymph node tissue in a soft gel that mimics the body's natural environment, allowing for detailed studies of immune cell behavior.
Researchers use biomolecular condensates to control gene expression, mimicking the cell nucleus's efficient information processing. They aim to develop DNA-based computer systems and biotechnologies like cancer therapies.
Researchers developed wearable microneedle patches that improve drug absorption while reducing pain in long-term delivery. The new technology, inspired by bee stings, enables continuous drug release and anchors securely into the skin.
The summit explores the future of digital health, covering AI and health data, biotechnology and digital health, and collaboration and commercialization. Key findings include the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative thinking in healthcare development.
Graz researchers investigate homocysteine's impact on the aorta, finding elevated levels lead to stiffer and less elastic vessels. This discovery contributes to understanding of cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis.
Researchers developed photo-inducible binary interaction tools (PhoBITs) to precisely control gene expression, cell signaling, and immune responses. PhoBITs enable targeted treatment with minimal side effects, opening new avenues for cancer therapy, immunotherapy, and regenerative medicine.
A new USF study discovers that chameleons and salamanders use the same biological mechanism to fire their tongues at extreme speeds, with potential applications in biomedical devices and space retrieval tools. The researchers hope to expand their studies to examine how animal tongues retract with such speed and precision.
A new hydrogel has been developed to combat vaginal changes caused by menopause, offering a hormone-free alternative for treatment. The study found that the hydrogel improved vaginal tissue thickness and reduced inflammation, providing potential relief from symptoms such as dryness and pain.
Researchers have developed an immunotherapy drug STF-1623 that safely prevents cancer cells from hiding from the immune system's first responders. The drug works by inhibiting ENPP1 proteins that destroy cGAMP, allowing it to trigger a broader immune response and suppress tumor growth.
Researchers at UMC Utrecht developed a new AI-powered printer called GRACE that can print implantable tissues with improved cell survival and functionality. The printer uses computer vision and laser-based imaging to design and print complex structures, including blood vessels and cartilage layers.
Scientists developed hollow microspheres with adjustable pore size, adhesion, and lubricity properties using mucus and polydopamine. These spheres can be used as drug delivery agents and may prevent tissue damage or provide a protective coating.