Articles tagged with Biotechnology
A new study reveals that better communication of basic research results during the discovery stage can lead to faster commercialization. Biotech firms often give up on inventions and transfer technology to other firms for repurposing in a new disease category, causing time losses earlier in the pathway.
The 2014 World Stem Cell Summit will bring together leading scientists, business leaders, and regulators to discuss the future of regenerative medicine. The summit will feature over 200 prominent speakers from more than 40 nations, exploring the latest scientific discoveries and innovative business models.
The Festschrift issue honors Dr. Koprowski's pioneering work on vaccines, including the oral polio vaccine, and its impact on cancer biology research. Dr. Koprowski's achievements have been recognized by CASIS, which enabled visionaries to explore life science research in microgravity environments.
Amunix is presenting unpublished data on its XTEN half-life extension technology, which extends the half-life of biologically active molecules via chemical conjugation. The technology has been used to extend the half-life of genetically fused therapeutic proteins and peptides.
Elsevier has launched an open-access journal, Computational and Structural Biotechnology Journal (CSBJ), on behalf of the Research Network of Computational and Structural Biotechnology. The journal publishes high-quality research articles and reviews in computational biotechnology, with a focus on mechanistic understanding through appl...
Researchers are developing a new, freeze-stable tetanus vaccine using lipid nanoparticles and a hollow microneedle system. The delivery device can target specific areas of the skin, increasing vaccine efficacy.
Scientists suggest that every town could have a small-scale cultured meat factory, producing sustainable and cruelty-free meat alternatives. The production process involves taking stem cells from cell banks and using them to create minced meat cakes.
A new paper from Rice University's Baker Institute calls for revised patenting guidelines to address the broad patent landscape in biotechnology. The authors suggest initial steps to reform patent licensing and require detailed patent descriptions to prevent costly lawsuits.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center will conduct a Phase II clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 3K3A-APC, an experimental drug combining with rtPA to treat ischemic strokes. The study aims to reduce risks and improve outcomes for stroke patients.
The 2014 AAAS/Subaru Science Books & Film competition recognized four engaging science books exploring school gardens, fossil discovery, backyard bird watching, and biotechnology. Winners received $1500 and a plaque for their outstanding contributions to science writing and illustration.
Tel Aviv University researchers developed a computer algorithm that predicts which genetic genes are lethal to cells when overexpressed. The new algorithm, called Expression Dependent Gene Effects (EDGE), helps guide metabolic engineering to produce new chemicals in more efficient ways.
The UK's Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council has launched 13 unique collaborative networks to promote interaction between academia and industry, pooling skills to develop research projects with potential to overcome major challenges in industrial biotechnology and bioenergy. The networks will unlock innovative ways t...
A new study finds that an experimental drug called 3K3A-APC reduces brain damage and eliminates brain hemorrhaging in stroke-afflicted mice and rats. The drug extends the therapeutic window of FDA-approved clot-busting therapy tPA, counteracting its tendency to induce bleeding.
Genome researchers at Bielefeld University have successfully sequenced the Chinese hamster genome, providing valuable data for biopharmaceutical production. The decoded genome consists of eleven pairs of chromosomes and is comparable in magnitude to the human genome.
University of Illinois bioengineers find way to permanently modify silicone polymer surface with organic material, resulting in stable adhesion for several months. The method enables practical applications in cell culture platforms, microfluidic devices, and tissue engineering.
The 2013 World Stem Cell Report will be published as a special supplement to the peer-reviewed journal Stem Cells and Development. The report delivers an orbital and unique viewpoint on regenerative medicine, featuring content from leading policy-makers, regulators, and experts.
Researchers have developed a novel vaccine delivery system that mimics pathogens to stimulate the immune system without causing infection. The technology uses inulin acetate from plant fibers, showing promise for preventing viral diseases such as influenza, with an estimated cost of one or two dollars per dose.
The India-developed rotavirus vaccine ROTAVAC has demonstrated excellent safety and efficacy in a Phase III clinical trial, reducing severe rotavirus diarrhoea by over half. The vaccine's impact extends beyond rotavirus infections, also showing protection against severe diarrhoea of any cause.
This year's AAPS National Biotechnology Conference award winners have made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology, including the development of novel drug delivery systems and innovative approaches to protein-matrix interactions. The awards recognize excellence in research, innovation, and education.
The researchers are being honored for their contributions to the discovery and applications of optogenetics, a technology that allows scientists to control brain activity by genetically engineering neurons. Hundreds of labs have started using the technique to manipulate brain activity in experimental animals.
A team of international researchers has created an instruction manual for the human genome, providing a framework to understand the relationship between genetic makeup and lifestyle. The model explains how individual biological parts operate differently within each person, paving the way for tailored treatments in personalized medicine.
Researchers John Wong, Ronald Berger, and Hien Nguyen receive awards and funding to develop life-saving technologies. The Life Prizes aim to accelerate the translation of promising research into commercial applications, speeding up the delivery of innovative medical solutions.
The hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) represses microRNA-148a, leading to increased levels of the oncogenic protein HPIP and subsequent oncogenic transformation in liver cancer. This study demonstrates a cancer-associated virus promoting carcinogenesis through direct manipulation of a microRNA.
Researchers have discovered that the penicillin-producing fungus Penicillium chrysogenum reproduces sexually through a two-gender cycle. This leads to strains with new properties, including high penicillin production without contaminating genes.
Douglas Kell, a University of Manchester professor, was elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his work in quantitative and systems biology and analytical biotechnology. He is one of fewer than 50 UK scientists to hold this honor, and will receive an official certificate and pin at the AA...
Researchers successfully engineered Arabidopsis plants to reduce xylan content and improve breakdown of carbohydrate into simple sugars. The resulting plants exhibit improved saccharification properties, allowing for better production of biofuels from plant biomass.
Researchers discovered a gene called Taqpep that helps establish periodic patterns like stripes or spots in felines. Variations in the Edn3 gene are responsible for dark hair color, suggesting a link between genetic mechanisms and animal coat patterns.
The agreement aims to disseminate scientific knowledge from Asian research communities globally, promoting international cooperation in biotechnology and engineering. Representatives from the AFOB will join the editorial board, contributing special issues and news to Wiley's journals.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute and Sea Lane Biotechnologies discovered an unusual antibody, C05, that can neutralize various flu viruses by targeting the receptor binding site. The unique antibody uses only a single loop to grab this site, making it potentially useful for developing universal flu vaccines and therapies.
Research on Alzheimer's disease is gaining momentum, with over 150 companies working on innovative approaches to tackle the debilitating disease. New therapies, such as Antisenilin and Gammagard, are in Phase III trials and show promise in addressing the underlying biology of the disease.
Biotech Boulevard features companies making a mark on the global bioindustry through novel therapeutics and technologies. The microsite provides a platform for discovery, investment, and collaboration among these promising young companies.
A study published in Therapeutic Hypothermia and Temperature Management found that therapeutic hypothermia can limit the devastating consequences of brain injury after cardiac arrest. The survey results show a wide variation in patient selection criteria for therapeutic hypothermia across New Jersey hospitals.
Researchers have developed a new experimental drug that reduces brain damage and improves motor skills in stroke-afflicted rodents. The drug, 3K3A-APC, extends the therapeutic window of tPA, allowing for more effective treatment beyond the three-hour time frame.
The tissue engineering and stem cell industries have experienced significant growth, with over half of companies generating revenue, up from 21% four years ago. Commercial products and services are driving the increase, with $3.5 billion in sales revenues and industry spending approaching $3.6 billion.
Researchers developed two somatostatin vaccinations that reduce body weight and increase energy expenditure in diet-induced obese male mice. The vaccines induce antibodies to somatostatin, effectively removing inhibition on growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1.
The inaugural issue of Disruptive Science and Technology explores new paradigms in scientific publishing, treatments for sepsis, and temperature regulation, among other topics. The journal provides a custom-designed forum for world-class papers that challenge the status quo and bring about new innovations.
Mixing herbal supplements with medications can lead to increased risk of bleeding, decreased blood sugar, hormonal effects, and elevated blood pressure. Clinicians must educate their patients about these risks and interactio ns.
A high level of skill and knowledge is necessary to optimize patient outcomes in bariatric surgical patients. The journal Bariatric Nursing and Surgical Patient Care emphasizes the need for consistent care with current evidence and best practices.
A national evidence-based paradigm for faith-based advocacy to prevent childhood obesity has been developed. The link between advocacy and policy is crucial in promoting healthy lifestyles and routine physical activity among children. The article highlights the importance of faith-based organizations in this campaign.
A new wireless sensor device can detect high concentrations of E. coli bacteria in under 1 hour and lower concentrations in less than 8 hours. This rapid detection system has the potential to serve as an early warning tool for beach safety, providing a more timely response to fecal contamination.
A team of four early-career researchers from the University of Oxford emerged as winners of this year's Biotechnology Young Entrepreneurs Scheme (YES) competition. They impressed investors with their idea for using yeast to produce high-value fragrance components. The competition aims to raise awareness of commercialization amongst bio...
FlexGen's DNA-sequencing technology helps identify genetic causes of diseases and adapts treatment. The company is now working on new technologies to introduce to the market, aiming to understand diseases at their core.
Researchers found that fragrant essential oils can produce small, ultrafine byproducts called secondary organic aerosols (SOAs), causing eye and airway irritation. The study also revealed that spa layout and ventilation significantly affect indoor air pollutant levels during aromatherapy
Digna Biotech receives FDA approval for cardiotrophin-1 as an acute liver failure treatment. The medicine is expected to work by acting as a messenger to damaged liver cells, helping them recover and restoring function. Cardiotrophin-1 has been shown to stimulate hepatic regeneration and protect hepatocytes during acute hepatic damage.
Researchers discovered that cardiotrophin 1 accelerates fat elimination from adipose tissue, increases muscle fat burning, and improves glucose uptake in cells. Treatment of obese mice with cardiotrophin 1 also reduces food intake and corrects obesity and diabetes.
Scientists have made significant progress in developing effective delivery systems and efficient biomanufacturing strategies for DNA vaccines. Novel methodologies have emerged, including transdermal patches, electroporation, and plasmid purification techniques.
Advances in nanotechnology are driving innovation in mass spectrometry instrumentation, enabling faster and more precise biomarker validation. Researchers have developed novel nanoflow separation methodologies that ramp up the speed and precision of validating biomarkers.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have successfully removed a molecular switch in cyanobacteria that prevents premature breakdown of energy reserves. This allows for the use of excess energy for biotechnological purposes, such as hydrogen production.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University developed a new test that distinguishes between bacterial and viral infections by measuring chemiluminescence. This timesaving method has predictive diagnostic value and could reduce antibiotic misuse and healthcare costs, as well as provide more accurate treatment.
A study found that broken compact fluorescent light bulbs continuously release mercury vapor for weeks to months, posing a risk of exceeding safe human exposure levels. The authors recommend rapid removal and suitable packaging to minimize the risk of breakage and retain Hg vapor.
Recent developments in protein kinase inhibitors include innovative drug development paradigms, improved inhibitor profiling, and expanded disease targets such as Alzheimer's disease. Researchers are focusing on inactive kinase states and using selectivity strategies to overcome obstacles in the field.
Researchers from top institutions receive awards for their work on ligand-binding assays, biotechnology innovations, and cancer treatment delivery. The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists recognizes excellence in these areas.
Dr. Arthur D. Levinson is recognized for his leadership and extraordinary achievements in cancer research, leading to targeted drugs and personalized healthcare. He was a key figure in developing cancer therapeutics, including Herceptin, Avastin, and Rituxan.
Researchers found that blue-green algae may produce an estrogen-like compound, disrupting reproductive hormones and affecting fish, plants, and human health. Exposure to the algal cells induced a response consistent with estrogen exposure in larval fish.
A computer model predicts the environmental fate and impact of oil and chemical dispersant in deepwater spills like the Gulf of Mexico incident. The tool will aid risk assessment and decision-making for scientists managing such disasters.
The University of Manchester is leading a €3.7m European Union-funded project to train the next generation of scientists in green manufacturing methods for the chemical industry. The 'BIOTRAINS' programme brings together experts from academia and industry to develop safer and less-environmentally damaging industrial processes.
Ingmar Riedel-Kruse's lab group developed video games where players influence the behavior of living microorganisms in real-time. These biotic games aim to educate people about basic biological processes and promote interest in biology, with potential applications in crowd-sourced research.
The top biotech acquisitions in 2010 that exceeded $1 billion included a $41 billion purchase of Alcon by Novartis, followed by a $18.5 billion bid for Genzyme from sanofi-aventis. Merck's $5.2 billion acquisition of Millipore and Teva's €3.625 billion purchase of ratiopharm also made the list.
A study published in PLoS ONE found that iota-carrageenan directly binds to influenza viruses, blocking attachment and spread. In animal experiments, it demonstrated equivalent efficacy to Tamiflu, offering a potential alternative for treating H1N1 influenza.
A recent roundtable discussion sponsored by GEN explored biological methods for improving marine environment understanding, assessing oil spill impact, and monitoring remediation. The event brought together scientists from academia and industry to discuss the effectiveness of these approaches.