Researchers from Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation develop methods to enhance mechanical properties of hydrogels, including toughness, stretchiness, and adhesive strength. By introducing dopamine and alkaline conditions, they create gel-like materials with improved biocompatibility and regenerative capabilities.
Scientists at Tokyo University of Science discovered endophytic bacteria that can survive extreme conditions within passion fruit seeds. The bacteria were isolated from seedlings grown from cut seeds and found to possess biocatalytic activities related to the metabolism of secondary metabolites, such as resveratrol and piceatannol.
A team of MIT engineers has developed a drug delivery capsule that can inject large quantities of monoclonal antibodies and other proteins into the stomach lining after being swallowed. The capsule overcomes a major challenge in delivering these drugs orally, which are usually administered via injections.
Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh conducted a study on three Rhesus monkeys, finding that their performance declined by up to 25% when offered a jackpot reward. The team also discovered a link between sensory motor processing and emotional processing in the monkeys' brains.
Researchers at Osaka University have successfully created a 3D-bioprinted structured Wagyu beef-like meat alternative using stem cells isolated from Wagyu cows. The new technology mimics the complex texture of real Wagyu beef, allowing for customizable fat and muscle components in cultured meat.
Princeton University researchers have created the world's smallest mechanically interlocked biological structure, a deceptively simple two-ring chain made from tiny strands of amino acids. The study demonstrates that these structures can toggle between at least two shapes, laying the groundwork for a biomolecular switch.
Chronic light exposure disrupts circadian rhythms in rats, leading to memory deficits and amyloid β accumulation similar to Alzheimer's disease. Fluoxetine treatment prevents these effects, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy.
Researchers develop a drug delivery platform that efficiently delivers antisense oligonucleotides to the central nervous system, overcoming the blood-brain barrier. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy and other CNS disorders.
Researchers have developed a new method to measure DNA torsional stiffness, which can impact how cells work. The technique provides insights into the biological implications of twist-induced phase transitions in DNA.
Researchers have developed a method to bond human skin to rubber-like polymeric materials without an adhesive, revealing cracks propagate in a very weird way along microchannels. This discovery can explain the variability in macroscale tensometer measurements of skin and has implications for other human tissues.
A joint research team from POSTECH and KIMS developed a faster and more accurate microstructure imaging technique using deep learning. The technique enhanced the resolution of existing microstructure images up to 4, 8, or 16 times, reducing imaging time by up to 256x compared to conventional SEM systems.
Researchers review advancements in biosensing technologies for neonatal sepsis diagnosis, highlighting the need for faster and more accurate methods. Biosensors offer a promising solution, detecting multiple parameters simultaneously with high sensitivity and accuracy.
Researchers from the Hubrecht Institute have successfully corrected mutations that cause cystic fibrosis in cultured human stem cells using prime editing. The technique is safer than CRISPR/Cas9 and shows promise for application in patients, potentially leading to a cure or prevention of genetic diseases.
The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine and local partners receive an NSF grant to develop a regional regenerative medicine educational network. The project aims to address the workforce needs of the rapidly evolving field, focusing on skilled technician development in biomanufacturing.
A synthetic hinge concept developed by Indiana University School of Medicine Professor Michael A. Weiss and his team could lead to a breakthrough in 'smart' insulin therapy. The invention exploits a natural mechanism that allows the insulin to adjust its activity based on blood glucose levels, which could transform diabetes care.
Lee Lynd, a renowned expert in plant biomass utilization, will lead the Advanced Second Generation (A2G) Biofuel Laboratory at the University of Campinas in Brazil. The lab aims to develop sustainable technology for producing bioethanol from agricultural products at lower costs.
Small biotech firms are partnering with large pharmaceutical companies to scale up production of promising new molecules. This collaboration allows them to bring lifesaving drugs to patients more efficiently.
UNIST students were selected as the final winning team at the 2021 JunctionX Seoul hackathon with their mobile game 'My Running Mate, Zombie'. The team took only three days to build the game from scratch using feedback from embedded motion sensors and cloud computing platforms.
Researchers from Federal Research Centre of Biotechnology RAS deciphered activation mechanism of Orange Carotenoid Protein (OCP) upon exposure to light. The study used structural biology, biochemistry, spectroscopy, and quantum chemistry methods to determine OCP's crystal structure with high spatial resolution.
Acoustica Bio, a Cambridge-based company, has won the top prize in the Massachusetts Medical Device Development Center's $200K Challenge for its innovative reformulation of intravenous medications. The startup will receive $50,000 in seed funding to advance its invention.
Researchers at Nagoya University discovered a DNA-like molecule called XNA that could be synthesized without enzymes, supporting the hypothesis of an XNA world before the RNA world. The findings suggest that XNAs can carry genetic code stably and potentially transfer genetic information between DNA and RNA.
Bioengineers have discovered a way to harness multiple forms of regulation in living cells to strictly control gene expression. This breakthrough enables precise regulation of biochemical processes involved in producing chemicals, medicines, and other products, leading to improved biotechnologies.
Parkinson's UK is investing £1.2 million in a project to refine a molecule that could be developed into a drug to protect dopamine-producing brain cells and slow down the progression of Parkinson's. The project aims to develop a treatment that can halt Parkinson's by boosting the function of brain cells' energy-producing mitochondria.
Researchers screened over 1,100 point-of-care COVID-19 tests and identified 5 direct (antigen/RNA) tests and 6 indirect (antibody) tests that meet the WHO 'desirable' Target Product Profile criteria. These tests have been found to be effective in detecting acute and prior infections.
Researchers at UCSF have discovered a new method to control immune responses using CD47-expressing hypoimmune stem cells. These cells can silence natural killer cells via the SIRPα checkpoint, paving the way for novel cell therapies and tissue implants that can evade immune rejection.
Researchers identified five novel toxin-antidote pairs in nematode species Caenorhabditis tropicalis and C. briggsae. The study found that these elements can delay reproduction or kill non-carriers, causing defects in over 70% of progeny from a single cross.
A large-scale study by Bentley University found that 78% of biotech companies completing Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) from 1997-2016 achieved product approvals. The majority of these approved products were small molecule drugs, accounting for 75% of phase 3 products and 78% of approvals.
A new study from Bentley University finds that emerging public biotech companies generated over $100 billion in shareholder value despite a high failure rate. The research compares the financial performance of biotech and non-biotech companies with similar IPO timelines, revealing comparable success rates and economic value creation.
Terry Papoutsakis, University of Delaware professor and Unidel Eugene Du Pont Chair, was named a fellow of the National Academy of Inventors. He holds over 16 patents and contributes to sustainable manufacturing and human health through his work on microbial engineering tools.
Bioinformaticians at Friedrich Schiller University Jena developed a new method called CANOPUS that assigns structural properties to unidentified metabolites, increasing knowledge gained from examining molecules. The two-stage process uses machine learning methods to identify compound classes.
Researchers at Graz University of Technology identified dipeptidyl peptidase 3 (DPP3) as a key regulator of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), which affects blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. DPP3 deficiency led to increased angiotensin II levels, causing oxidative stress and reduced metabolism.
The M2D2 $200K Challenge recognizes promising ventures developing groundbreaking medical devices and biotechnology innovations to improve healthcare outcomes. The competition provides funding, in-kind support, and expert resources to accelerate their progress.
Researchers have developed metaFlye, a new assembler for decoding microbial genomes from diverse environmental samples. The tool allows for the assembly of metagenomes, providing insights into the types and quantities of organisms present, their interactions, and substances synthesized.
A special issue on Integrative Palliative Care was published in JACM, featuring research from 11 countries on this new model of care. The issue highlights the potential value of greater mutual respect and exploratory collaborations between palliative medicine and integrative health communities.
The UC Davis Cultivated Meat Consortium aims to develop stable stem cell lines, plant-based media, and assess nutritional value of cultivated meat products. The project also seeks to address technical and economic hurdles for sustainable cultivation.
ALS Ventures has closed its first round of investments with a $59M commitment, targeting novel therapeutics in preclinical development. The firm aims to accelerate R&D from discovery stage to late preclinical development.
Researchers found that Casein Kinase-1 regulates the Wnt signaling pathway at the plasma membrane, triggering the activation of RNF43. This new understanding could lead to a novel approach for reining the Wnt pathway in cancer cells, potentially reviving the tumor suppressor function of RNF43.
Researchers found that a genetic mutation in SIDT1 protein reduces the absorption of MIR2911, a key component in SARS-CoV-2 treatment, leading to reduced antiviral effects. People carrying this mutation had lower serum levels and exosome levels of MIR2911 compared to those without the mutation.
Deep Longevity's 'longevity cloud' will track and analyze aging at multiple levels, providing a novel way to extend human productive longevity and improve performance. The combined company aims to create an end-to-end longevity ecosystem serving researchers, medical doctors, and enthusiasts worldwide.
Researchers create a classroom kit containing cell-free protein synthesis technology to teach transcription and translation in a hands-on manner. The Genetic Code Kit significantly improves student learning gains and increases comfort with biotechnology lab techniques, preparing students for graduate programs and careers.
A new study reveals that the mammalian stomach absorbs dietary miRNAs via SIDT1, a transmembrane family member. This finding uncovers a novel physiological function of the stomach and sheds light on orally delivered small-RNA therapeutics.
Researchers have developed a method to produce the coral-antibiotic erogorgiaene in a laboratory using genetically optimized bacteria. The production costs are significantly lower than conventional methods, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative.
A study by IBS researchers compared 13 SpCas9 variants and identified optimal PAM sequences, finding evoCas9 has highest specificity but low activity. A computational tool, DeepSpCas9variants, was developed to predict SpCas9 variant activities, providing a useful guide for researchers.
Telemedicine Reports will publish articles on telemedicine and telehealth advancements, offering innovative solutions for practitioners and medical centers. The journal will provide a dedicated forum for authors to share research, reviews, and practical solutions.
A new partnering agreement will finance a multi-centre Phase 2/3 adaptive clinical trial in Colombia, Panama, and Thailand to assess the safety and immunogenicity of the BBV87 vaccine candidate. The investment aims to accelerate the development of an effective Chikungunya vaccine for equitable access.
Researchers have visualized the single-molecule level operation of cellulosomes during cellulose degradation using time-lapse atomic force microscopy. This breakthrough provides new perspectives for applications in industrial biorefineries by exploiting the synergies between cellulosome and free enzymes.
Novotech was recognized for its expertise in Asia-Pacific and commitment to meeting customer needs. The CRO won awards in key categories including Compatibility, Capabilities, Quality, and Reliability.
Neurotrauma Reports is a peer-reviewed open access journal publishing research on traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. The journal aims to provide a dedicated forum for the neurotrauma field, including original papers, review articles, and studies on regional scope or patient populations.
The Asia-Pacific region has launched expedited review processes for COVID-19 treatment and vaccine trials, with South Korea offering approval in under 9 days. Novotech is a leading contract research organization (CRO) in the region, supporting vital research with its fast-track services.
Researchers have created a force balance model to understand material behavior under stress, enabling better design of wearable and biomedical devices. The study found that the thickness ratio between film layers and substrates affects wrinkling and buckling patterns.
Researchers developed a ground-breaking method to detect sepsis 2-3 days before clinical symptoms appear using endogenous signals (biomarkers). The test has high accuracy and may increase survival chances for sepsis patients. Approval in the US FDA is underway, with clinical trials starting soon.
Novotech Research reveals that the top 10 biotech sites in Australia are open for clinical trial activity. The country's favorable environment is supporting clinical research during the global COVID-19 crisis, with many sites modifying their practices to ensure continuity of operations.
A new study examined anesthesiologists' knowledge and attitudes towards treating suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients requiring surgery. The majority expressed correct attitudes towards airway management, emphasizing the importance of theoretical and practical training to ensure patient safety.
A new study introduces Memote, a community-maintained tool to assess and improve metabolic models. It addresses issues such as annotations, conceptual integrity, and experimental validation, promoting openness and collaboration among researchers.
Researchers produce lipase enzyme from mustard seeds by-product, offering a low-cost alternative to commercial enzymes. The enzyme is stable and effective in removing oil stains, making it a prospective additive for laundry detergents.
The Center for Advancing Point of Care Technologies aims to improve quality of life and reduce hospital time for patients with these conditions. Innovations supported by CAPCaT include devices and technologies that help manage hypertension, promote mindfulness and support holistic disease management.
The new journal will publish peer-reviewed articles on end-of-life care and relief of suffering, focusing on improving quality of life for patients and their families.
Scientists at the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have developed artificial protein granules that can sustainably release therapeutic proteins in lab animals. These 'artificial inclusion bodies' mimic natural bacterial structures and hold great potential for vaccines and controlled-release drug delivery systems.
The 'substantially human' concept proposes a legal boundary for living organisms with human characteristics. This approach would help courts, scientists, and physicians navigate emerging biotechnologies.
The study reveals that locomotion mode is a strong predictor of cerebellar size, shape, neuron organization, and gene expression levels, indicating a specific type of brain shared by animals with similar lifestyles. High-definition 3D models of lizard and snake brains were used to uncover these correlations.