Human ‘blastoids’ offer medical hope but also deep ethical challenges
Blastoids, derived from stem cells, mimic early embryonic development but may not develop into a fetus. Ethical considerations surround their use and regulation in research.
Biotechnology
Articles tagged with Biotechnology
Rice lab grows macroscale, modular materials from bacteria
Researchers at Rice University have created macroscale, modular materials from engineered bacteria that can self-assemble and perform various functions. The materials, dubbed BUD-ELMs, contain living cells that allow them to grow, repair, and respond to external stimuli.
£19 million to investigate bold ideas in bioscience research
The UK's Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council has awarded £19 million to five world-class teams investigating bold ideas in bioscience. These projects will advance our understanding of fundamental rules of life, with potential implications for agriculture, health, biotechnology, and the green economy.
NIH launches $8 million prize competition to reduce maternal deaths in regions that lack maternity care
The NIH is launching a $8 million prize competition to develop technologies improving postpartum healthcare in areas with limited access to maternity care. Diagnostic devices and wearables are prioritized to detect conditions like heart-related conditions, infection, and bleeding during the first year after delivery.
C-Path awarded FDA grant to establish public-private partnership to advance treatments for rare neurodegenerative diseases
The Critical Path Institute (C-Path) has established a public-private partnership with the FDA and NIH to advance treatments for rare neurodegenerative diseases. The partnership will leverage C-Path's expertise in data management, quantitative analytics, and regulatory science to accelerate medical product development.
The blood stem cell research that could change medicine of the future
Researchers at UNSW Sydney have made significant discoveries about embryonic blood stem cell creation that could one day eliminate the need for blood stem cell donors. Two studies have emerged from UNSW researchers in this area that shine new light on how precursors to blood stem cells occur in animals and humans, and how they may be i...
Nanotubes illuminate the way to living photovoltaics
Researchers have successfully inserted nanotubes into bacteria, allowing for the creation of
New algorithm uncovers the secrets of cell factories
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology developed a computer model to predict enzyme efficiency. This helps find efficient cell factories for producing biotech products like biofuels and medicines, and studies difficult diseases.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 31, 2022
Old drugs hint at new ways to beat chronic pain
A newly identified link between chronic pain and lung cancer in mice suggests that old drugs such as clonidine, capsaicin, and fluphenazine may offer new treatments for chronic pain. The study found that blocking the BH4 pathway reduced pain sensitivity and decreased tumor growth in mouse models of KRAS-driven lung cancer.
SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2022
White, red, and blue signals alert you to dangerous germs!
Scientists developed a simple and rapid method to identify multiple food poisoning bacteria using nanometer-scaled organic metal nanohybrid structures that bind via antibodies to specific bacteria. The method can detect various types of bacteria in one hour without culturing, improving food safety.
SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2022
SUTD researchers leverage novel nanotechnology to control cells over long periods
SUTD researchers leverage nanosecond electroporation to deliver cancer-related molecules into living cells with excellent viability. The platform enables pores to remain open for up to 720 minutes, paving the way for efficient drug delivery and other applications.
Feasibility study of novel core-strengthening intervention shows promise for maximizing trunk and balance rehabilitation outcomes after stroke
Researchers tested a core-strengthening program using the AllCore360º to improve trunk function, balance, and mobility after stroke. The study showed promising effects on functional outcomes, including improved lateral control of posture and standardized treatment dosage.
Engineering enzymes to help solve the planet’s plastic problem
Researchers developed a new enzyme that can degrade poly(ethylene) terephthalate (PET), a common plastic used in bottles. The enzyme, HotPETase, is thermostable and selectively breaks down PET, offering a potential solution to the global plastic waste challenge.
How the genome is packed into chromosomes that can be faithfully moved during cell division
The Gerlich Group at IMBA found that histone acetylation establishes a sharp surface boundary on chromosomes, resisting microtubule perforation. Chromatin phase separation and DNA looping by condensin cooperates to build mitotic chromosomes with unique physical properties.
SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2022
Advancing dynamic brain imaging with AI
A new AI-based dynamic brain imaging technology has been introduced by Carnegie Mellon University, which can map out rapidly changing electrical activity in the brain with high precision and speed. The technology uses deep learning approaches to translate scalp EEG signals back to neural circuit activity without human intervention.
SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 28, 2022
New COVID-19 rapid-test technology performs PCR faster than similar tests on the market
Researchers at Columbia University and Rover Diagnostics have developed a low-cost, portable platform that provides RT-PCR results in 23 minutes, matching laboratory-based tests. The system uses plasmonic nanoparticles to achieve real-time and multiplexed RT-qPCR on clinical specimens.
SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 25, 2022
‘You are what you eat,’ and now researchers know exactly what you’re eating
A new approach in metabolomics reveals how much of our body chemistry is traceable to what we consume. By matching molecular signatures with reference databases, scientists can create a diet profile of individuals and understand relationships between diet and health outcomes.
Photorhabdus luminescens – a true all-rounder: Insect pathogenic bacterium also helps to combat fungal infestation
Research at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz reveals Photorhabdus luminescens can protect plants from fungal infection, colonizing the fungus's hyphae and breaking down its cell wall. This secondary cell form also promotes plant growth and offers new potential for biological crop protection.
SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJul 6, 2022
A closer look into the emergence of antibiotic resistance in bioaerosols and its monitoring
Researchers explore the emergence of antibiotic resistance genes in bioaerosols, including sources and detection strategies. The study highlights the need for monitoring and understanding the relationship between human, animal, and environmental microbiomes to counter the spread of AR.
SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalReviews in Environmental Science and Bio/Technology·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 30, 2022
Robot nose that can “smell” disease on your breath
Researchers have developed a diagnostic device that can identify chemical compounds from breath, sweat, and tears to diagnose diseases. The device uses volatile organic compounds as fingerprints for thousands of illnesses, potentially delivering a revolution in medicine's ability to diagnose and treat illnesses.
Polluted land can be planted with flowers and tobacco
Researchers at Ural Federal University found that zinnia and tobacco plants can survive and even flourish in copper-contaminated soil, suggesting a possible use for landscaping areas. The study showed that these plants adapt by accumulating copper in their roots and limiting its transport to other parts of the plant.
Personal health trackers may include smart face mask, other wearables
University of Missouri researchers develop wearable smart bioelectronic devices, including a 'smart' face mask that can monitor physiological status and detect respiratory problems. The masks also use laser-assisted fabrication to provide breathable soft electronics for better real-time health monitoring.
Study highlights undiscovered potential of bacterial compounds and genes linked to colon cancer-related toxin
A team of scientists has developed a novel computational approach to analyze DNA sequences of thousands of bacteria, revealing previously unknown gene clusters responsible for producing metabolites of interest. The study highlights the potential of these bacterial compounds in treating colon cancer and improving treatment options.
SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalSynthetic and Systems Biotechnology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 21, 2022
Biotechnology platforms enable fast, customizable vaccine production
A Penn State-led team examines the shift to biotechnology platform-based vaccine manufacturing, which enabled rapid production of COVID-19 vaccines. This approach could be applied to future virus research and development, facilitating modular manufacturing and mass customization.
SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Computing and Information Science in Engineering·TypeCase study·DateJun 13, 2022
Small materials may be key to reducing cardiovascular disease deaths, researchers say
Nanomaterials may hold key to reducing cardiovascular disease deaths, according to researchers at Peking University in China. The unique properties of nanomaterials make them an appealing option for wearable and implantable monitoring and treatment devices.
Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis publishes method for the fast detection of a key antiviral
Researchers developed a novel nanobody-based detection method for recombinant human interferon α2b (rhIFNα2b), which has a lower detection limit than existing methods. The assay's operation time was shortened from two days to a few minutes, making it suitable for rapid market counterfeit detection and early diagnosis of hepatitis.
SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022
Small package, big potential to help cell-based therapies
Researchers at CMU propose a new cell delivery method using shrink-wrapped corneal endothelial cells as an alternative to cornea transplant. The technology enables rapid engraftment into intact tissues, showing promise in treating diseases such as cystic fibrosis and heart attack.
SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalCommunications Materials·DateJun 6, 2022
Genetically modified corn does not damage non-target organisms
A massive analysis of data from over 700 studies revealed that genetically modified Bt corn has no negative effects on most invertebrate groups, including ladybeetles and lacewings. However, populations of Braconidae insects were reduced with Bt corn.
SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalEnvironmental Evidence·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 6, 2022
New Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis article reveals novel treatment for K-Ras mutant pancreatic tumors
Researchers from China have developed a novel bioconjugate that can suppress the growth of K-Ras mutant pancreatic tumors. The conjugate, which targets folate receptors and macropinocytosis, was found to be highly cytotoxic and effective at suppressing tumor growth.
SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2022
A world first: for the first time, a human liver was treated in a machine and then successfully transplanted
A team of researchers at University of Zurich successfully transplanted a human liver that was treated in a machine, paving the way for a potential solution to the global organ shortage. The liver was preserved for three days outside the body using a custom-made perfusion machine.
SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 31, 2022
Diabetes drug improves antibacterial treatment speed and effectiveness, researchers report
Researchers at Tsinghua University have discovered that Metformin, a small molecule drug used to treat type II diabetes, can improve the efficiency and efficacy of antibacterial treatments. The new approach uses chemodynamic therapy nanoagents to produce hydroxyl radical, which weakens and kills diseased or infected cells.
Prilenia announces publication of data elucidating a mechanism for neuroprotective potential of pridopidine
Research reveals pridopidine enhances autophagy in ALS model, reducing toxic protein aggregation and promoting neuronal health. The study supports pridopidine's potential as a treatment for neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington's disease and Alzheimer's.
First part of $30 million grant awarded to USC Team for stroke project by National Institutes of Health
Researchers at Keck School of Medicine of USC are testing the efficacy of 3K3A-APC as a cerebroprotectant to reduce brain bleeds in acute ischemic stroke patients. The experimental drug has shown promising results in Phase 2 clinical trials, reducing incidence of brain hemorrhage by nearly 20%.
Can we prevent antibiotic resistance?
The partnership aims to accelerate projects targeting the most dangerous bacteria. Since its founding, CARB-X has awarded $361 million to 92 projects from 12 countries.
SMART researchers enable early-stage detection of microbial contamination in cell therapy
Researchers from CAMP have identified a secreted metabolite biomarker, nicotinic acid to nicotinamide ratio, to detect microbial contaminations in human cell therapy products. This method enables early-stage detection of microbial contaminants and differentiates between live and dead bacteria.
SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalMolecular Therapy — Methods & Clinical Development·DateMay 19, 2022
Loops for micro-organisms
A UFZ research team has developed a new method called 'mass transfer with a loop' to stabilize microbial communities in bioreactors. This approach prevents the loss of crucial microorganisms, which are essential for various biotechnological processes, by synchronizing their composition and functions.
SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022
Perception-based nanosensor platform could advance detection of ovarian cancer
A new nanosensor platform uses machine learning to analyze spectral signatures of carbon nanotubes for early detection of ovarian cancer. The approach detects biomarkers and recognizes the cancer itself, offering a promising alternative to traditional methods.
New algorithm dramatically increases the speed of identifying two cancer drugs that work synergistically
Researchers developed an algorithm to quickly identify two cancer drugs that work well together, reducing testing time from three years to eight weeks. The new method uses gene expression data to prioritize potential combinations and has been confirmed in lab tests.
Center creating lab-on-a-chip technology for medical tests wins $6.6 million in continued NIH funding
The Center of BioModular Multi-Scale Systems for Precision Medicine develops rapid next-generation tests for human ailments like cancer and COVID-19 using saliva, urine, or blood samples. The technology has already helped patients through commercial partnerships with private firms.
Bacteria with recording function capture gut health status
Researchers have engineered bacteria to act as data loggers, capturing gene activity and metabolic responses in the gut. This allows for non-invasive monitoring of gut health and dietary status, enabling early diagnosis of malnutrition and inflammatory responses.
Breakthrough tech enables seizure localization in minutes
A novel network analysis technology can pinpoint seizure originating brain regions and predict a patient's seizure outcome before surgery, using only 10 minutes of resting state recordings.
Fruit flies prioritize mating over survival
Researchers at the University of Birmingham found that infected fruit flies continue to engage in courtship and mating behaviors, similar to uninfected flies. The study suggests that animals may invest more in reproduction when faced with a potential life threat, potentially to pass on genes to the next generation
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 10, 2022
Double agents: How stomach stem cells change allegiance upon injury
A molecular switch, p57, enables stomach stem cells to change allegiance from normal digestion to injury response, potentially leading to new treatments for gastric pathologies. The study's findings suggest that p57 is a key regulator of reserve stem cell state in gastric chief cells.
SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022
Gene therapy reverses effects of autism-linked mutation in brain organoids
Researchers used gene therapy to recover the TCF4 gene's function in human brain tissue, rescuing neural structure and function in brain organoids. The study offers promising insights into treating neurological disorders like autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia.
Researchers assess the power of T-cell immune response to Omicron BA.1 and BA.2
The study found that T-cell immunity was effective against Omicron variants in approximately 90% of vaccinated Europeans. The researchers identified a specific HLA-DRB1*03:01 variant that allowed the virus to evade immune recognition, particularly affecting individuals with this genetic variation.
Scientists identify chemical markers that may unlock future therapeutic uses of mRNA
Researchers identified key chemical marks that speed up and slow down gene expression in mRNA, opening new possibilities for genetic therapies. The discovery could lead to targeted protein production with minimal risk, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines.
New miniature heart could help speed heart disease cures
Researchers have engineered a tiny living heart chamber replica to study disease progression and test new treatments. The miniPUMP device mimics the real organ's mechanics, allowing for accurate tracking of how the heart grows in embryos and studying the impact of disease.
Open sharing of biotechnology research – transparency versus security
A recent study published in PLOS Biology explores the intersection of open science practices and biosecurity risks, proposing solutions to mitigate catastrophic misuse. The authors argue that controlling access to research materials and software is necessary to prevent the spread of risky information.
From rare soil microbe, a new antibiotic candidate
Scientists have identified a potential new antibiotic candidate from the rare soil microbe Lentzea flaviverrucosa. The discovery was made using genomics-based approaches and shows that this actinomycete produces two different bioactive molecules that are active against various types of cancer cells.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2022
Deep-sea osmolyte finds applications in molecular machines
Researchers at Hokkaido University found that trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) can reversibly control the rigidity of kinesin-propelled microtubules, a crucial component of molecular machines. The study demonstrates a simple method to dynamically adjust MT property and functions.
Researchers mapped interactions of an important group of cell surface receptors
Finnish researchers created a comprehensive map of molecular interactions between 58 human receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), revealing key insights into their functions and roles in disease. The study's findings can aid understanding of diseases linked to abnormal RTK activity, particularly cancer.
Fuel from waste wood
Researchers at TUM have developed a new process for producing ethanol from waste wood and hydrogen, resulting in a lower cost compared to traditional methods. The process has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75% and can be used as a low-carbon fuel alternative.
Vilcek Foundation celebrates Hungarian-born biochemist Katalin Karikó in new campaign
Katalin Karikó, a Hungarian-born biochemist, received the 2022 Vilcek Prize for Excellence in Biotechnology for her decades-long research leading to the development of safe and effective mRNA vaccines. Her work has had a profound impact on culture and society, particularly in the fight against COVID-19.
Clot buster
A new test predicts sepsis soon after infection in mice, enabling early antibiotic treatment and markedly increased survival. The findings provide a platform for developing rapid clinical tests for early sepsis detection and intervention.
In animal study, implant churns out CAR-T cells to combat cancer
In an animal study, researchers created an implantable biotechnology called MASTER that produces and releases CAR-T cells for attacking cancerous tumors. This technology reduces the manufacturing time from weeks to hours, increasing efficiency and effectiveness.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2022
Revamped design could take powerful biological computers from the test tube to the cell
Researchers developed long-lived biological computers using RNA, which can persist inside cells. Unlike DNA-based devices, these RNA circuits are dependable and versatile, enabling continuous production in living cells.
SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 23, 2022
Scientists discover how molecule becomes anticancer weapon
Researchers at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography discovered the enzyme-driven process that activates the anticancer molecule salinosporamide A. The team found that a single enzyme called SalC assembles the warhead, which is responsible for the molecule's anti-cancer properties.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2022
BioAge’s oral drug prevents death from COVID-19 in old mice by reversing immune aging
BGE-175 effectively prevents death in a mouse model of COVID-19 by reversing immune aging, suggesting its potential to protect elderly patients hospitalized with COVID-19. The drug restores the immune system to a more youthful state by blocking the PGD2-DP1 pathway.
Lighting the way to healthier daily rhythms
A new report has provided the first scientific consensus on healthy daily light exposure to support sleep, alertness, and well-being. The recommendations aim to optimize lighting in workplaces, public buildings, and homes to promote healthier body rhythms and improve overall health.
A call for community self-governance on digital sequence information sharing
A recent viewpoint article highlights the need for open access to digital sequence information (DSI) to facilitate real-time responses to global crises. The authors propose community self-governance as a solution to enable international collaboration, improve benefit-sharing mechanisms, and promote equitable sharing of DSI benefits.
SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 16, 2022