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First nonhuman primate model of Usher syndrome confirmed

A new nonhuman primate model of Usher syndrome has been confirmed, providing hope for the development of a treatment for this leading cause of blindness-deafness. The model, created using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, exhibits symptoms similar to those experienced by humans with the condition.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2023

Researchers find substantial portion of U.S. public potentially interested in using genetic technologies to enhance offspring education

A survey found that a substantial portion of Americans are willing to use polygenic embryo screening and gene editing to increase the chances of having a baby admitted to a top-100 ranked college. The study suggests growing interest in using genetic technologies to influence offspring traits, including educational attainment.

SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalScience·DateFeb 9, 2023

New zinc finger model shows promise for gene therapy

Researchers developed a novel technology to engineer proteins targeting specific DNA sequences, offering a new approach to gene therapies. The system generates engineered zinc fingers that bind to any given sequence of DNA, potentially treating diseases caused by genetic mutations.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Study offers new insight on what ancient noses smelled

Scientists recreated ancient human and Denisovan noses to compare their olfactory receptor genes, finding differences in sensitivity to various odors. This research sheds light on how our closest genetic relatives perceived and interacted with their environment.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournaliScience·DateJan 25, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

A winding road: Mapping how singlet oxygen molecules travel along DNA strands

A study by Tokyo Institute of Technology mapped how singlet oxygen molecules travel along DNA strands, shedding light on their propagation and oxidation patterns. The research could lead to more efficient and selective photosensitizer agents for targeted photodynamic therapy, a promising cancer treatment.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023

Genetic analysis of blood type may increase number of kidney transplant matches

Research from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that genetic analysis can identify up to 65% more A2 donors, increasing potential kidney transplants for recipient candidates with blood type B. This could improve availability and equity in kidney transplantation.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·TypeObservational study·DateJan 18, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Optimal genome mapping offers high-resolution method to better see, then target cancer-causing gene variants

A new study standardizes the use of optical genome mapping (OGM) for patients with blood cancers, demonstrating its potential as a frontline test for diagnosing hematologic malignancies. OGM outperforms existing tests in detecting cancer-causing gene variants and identifying additional information that can improve patient outcomes.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateJan 17, 2023

Researchers create new system for safer gene-drive testing and development

Researchers developed a flexible genetic hacking system to convert split gene drives into full gene drives, enabling safe testing and potential real-world applications. The new system revealed surprising fitness costs of full drive systems, with slower-than-predicted spread rates in cage experiments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2023

Harnessing artificial intelligence technology for IVF embryo selection

A new AI algorithm, STORK-A, can predict IVF embryo viability with 70% accuracy, reducing the need for invasive genetic testing. The algorithm analyzes microscope images of embryos and incorporates information about maternal age and IVF clinic scoring to detect aneuploidy.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·DateDec 19, 2022

Experts from 14 nations discuss global gene drive project registry

A global registry for gene-drive modified organisms could facilitate transparent communication, monitor ecological impacts, and inform local decision-making. Experts agree that a registry is necessary for the fair development, testing, and use of gene-drive technologies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 15, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Discovery of world’s oldest DNA breaks record by one million years

Scientists have identified two-million-year-old DNA fragments in northern Greenland's Ice Age sediment, providing insights into the past ecosystem and its potential to predict climate change. The discovery has sparked hopes that it could help academics build a picture of the DNA evolution of species still in existence today.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2022

CRISPR insight: How to fine-tune the Cas protein’s grip on DNA

Researchers at Cornell University discover how to modulate the affinity of Cas proteins, enabling precise gene editing and reducing off-target effects. By modifying guide RNAs, they can tune Cas removal, contributing to future CRISPR applications.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateDec 6, 2022

AI tailors artificial DNA for future drug development

Using an AI, researchers successfully designed synthetic DNA that controls protein production in cells. The technology can speed up the development of vaccines, drugs for severe diseases, and alternative food proteins.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 24, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Rutgers scientists produce “DNA virus vaccine” to fight DNA viruses

Researchers have developed a new approach to stopping viral infections using a live-attenuated DNA virus vaccine. The method employs centanamycin to generate an altered virus that can't reproduce inside cells, stimulating the host's immune system to recognize and eliminate the invading virus particles.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCell Reports Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2022

New statistical method improves genomic analyzes

A new statistical method called CLIMB provides a more efficient way to analyze genomic data across multiple conditions. The method combines principles from two traditional techniques, reducing computational intensity and producing biologically interpretable results.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2022

CRISPR treatment slows swelling in hereditary angioedema patients

A new CRISPR genome editing treatment has shown promising results in alleviating swelling and reducing the frequency of attacks in hereditary angioedema patients. The treatment, NTLA-2002, targets the KLKB1 gene and reduces kallikrein production, a protein responsible for debilitating swelling attacks.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·DateNov 10, 2022
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

World-first technology to suppress invasive mice

Researchers developed a world-first proof of concept for t-CRISPR technology to control invasive mice. The technology induces female infertility in the target population, eradicating an island population of 200,000 mice in around 20 years.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 9, 2022

Personalising whole genome sequencing doubles diagnosis of rare diseases

A new study by UCL researchers found that tailoring whole genome sequencing analysis to individual patients can double the diagnostic rates of rare diseases. The personalised approach increased the diagnostic rate from 16.7% to 31.4%, detecting potential disease-causing variants in a further 3.9% of patients.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 7, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

TBX20 enhances reprogramming of heart fibroblasts into heart muscle cells

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have identified TBX20 as a vital regulator of direct human cardiac reprogramming. Adding TBX20 to existing cocktails improves contractility and mitochondrial function in reprogrammed heart muscle cells, suggesting a therapeutic potential for TBX20.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCirculation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 21, 2022

Collaborative team at IGB discovers new natural products at unprecedented speed

A collaborative team at IGB discovered 30 new compounds, including three with antibacterial properties, using the Illinois Biological Foundry for Advanced Biomanufacturing. The platform allowed for rapid screening of hundreds of genes and pathways, enabling the researchers to identify potential anti-microbial compounds.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2022

Advanced genomic approaches hold promise for marine conservation

Genetic and genomic technologies can protect marine life by identifying illegally harvested seafood products and monitoring disease outbreaks. Assisted evolution and synthetic biology could also benefit ocean ecosystems by introducing beneficial species or manufacturing products in the lab.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 17, 2022
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

New CRISPR-Cas approach permits more precise DNA cleavage

A new CRISPR-Cas approach, SpRYgests, allows for precise DNA cleavage at any sequence, expanding the utility of molecular cloning approaches. This innovation simplifies and expedites DNA editing and has potential clinical implications.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 11, 2022

Discovery broadens scope of use of CRISPR gene editing

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new CRISPR-based therapy platform that can deliver cargo to a broader range of tissue and cell types, increasing its potential for treating various diseases. The platform achieves this by transforming the Cas-9 protein into a spherical nucleic acid and loading it with critical components.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 6, 2022

Microbiologists improve taste of beer

Researchers have identified a single mutation in the MDS3 gene that improves yeast's tolerance to carbon dioxide pressure, resulting in full-flavored beer. This breakthrough could lead to improved quality beer production worldwide.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateOct 4, 2022

NTU Singapore scientists’ discovery of the structure of a key part of our chromosomes could improve understanding of how humans age and develop cancer

Scientists from NTU Singapore have discovered that telomeres are stacked in columns like a spring, leaving DNA exposed to damage. This finding could improve understanding of how humans age and develop cancer, with potential treatments for diseases caused by dysfunctional telomeres.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature·DateSep 29, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Mosquitoes that can’t spread malaria engineered by scientists

Researchers engineered mosquitoes to produce compounds that stunt malaria parasite growth, reducing the risk of disease transmission. The technique could be combined with gene drive technology to drastically cut malaria transmission in real-world settings.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

A cellular engineering breakthrough: High-yield CRISPR without viral vectors

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes and UCSF have developed a new approach to introduce long DNA sequences into cells with remarkable efficiency. The technology, which uses single-stranded DNA templates, overcomes the limitations of traditional viral vectors and has the potential to make cell therapies faster, better, and less expensive.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 25, 2022

Organ-development discovery could boost battle against cancer

Researchers at UVA have discovered the mechanism behind gene regulation during organ development, shedding light on how genetic material interacts with transcription factors to create different cell types. The study's findings could offer insights into the initiation of certain cancers and inspire new therapeutic development.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 24, 2022

Reading RNA modifications more precisely

Scientists at Kyoto University developed two methods to identify RNA modifications impacting gene regulation and disease. Their approach uses probability algorithms with high-throughput sequencing technology, distinguishing pseudouridine substitutions from other base changes.

SourceKyoto University·JournalGenomics·DateAug 23, 2022

CRISPR-based technology targets global crop pest

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a precision-guided sterile insect technique (pgSIT) to control invasive fruit fly populations. The technology uses CRISPR editing to target key genes in female viability and male fertility, resulting in a fertility dead end for the species.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGEN Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2022
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

How environmental changes affect the shapes of RNA in living cells

The study reveals that environmental conditions cause RNA structures to change, affecting plant flowering times and potentially leading to more desirable traits. This technology can also be applied to human cells, enabling the design of RNA-based therapies for diseases like SARS-COV-2.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature·DateAug 17, 2022

RNA diversity in human tissues mapped with emerging sequencing technology

Researchers have mapped RNA diversity in human tissues at unprecedented depth, discovering tens of thousands of novel transcripts. The study used long read sequencing to catalog the genetic code's transcripts, shedding light on how genetic and environmental differences affect gene regulation.

SourceNew York Genome Center·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 3, 2022

ACP offers guidance on the ethical use of genetic testing and precision medicine

The American College of Physicians (ACP) has issued a position paper on the ethical use of genetic testing and precision medicine in internal medicine. The guidelines address key issues such as incidental findings, education for physicians and patients, and counseling needs. ACP emphasizes the need for ongoing surveillance and anticoag...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 25, 2022

CRISPR therapeutics can damage the genome

A new study from Tel Aviv University found that CRISPR therapeutics can lead to a significant loss of genetic material in treated cells, potentially destabilizing the genome and promoting cancer. The researchers detected up to 10% of cells with lost chromosomes, highlighting the need for extra care when using this technology.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJul 24, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Evolve… innovate… repeat: Scientists peel back the layers of virus-host evolution and innovation

Researchers track changes in fitness landscapes as viruses and hosts undergo ongoing survival competition. The study reveals that coevolution propels adaptations, with viruses innovating to overcome host resistance. This new understanding provides a quantitative framework for predicting evolution in coevolving ecological communities.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2022

Scientists map networks of disease-associated immune genes

Researchers created a detailed map of how immune genes function together, shedding light on the basic drivers of immune cell function and immune diseases. The study found interconnected regulatory networks that can help explain why mutations in different genes lead to the same disease or how drugs impact multiple immune proteins.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 11, 2022

Genetically-enhanced biocontrols can help fight large invasive mammals

A team of researchers developed a mathematical model to simulate the impact of gene drives on mammal populations at a landscape scale. The X-shredder drive has been shown to potentially eradicate mice, rats, and rabbits, but with varying probabilities of success and eradication times ranging from 18 to 48 years.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNeoBiota·DateJul 8, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

“Soft” CRISPR may offer a new fix for genetic defects

A new CRISPR strategy, employing natural DNA repair machinery, provides a foundation for novel gene therapy strategies to cure genetic diseases. The technique, known as homologous chromosome-templated repair, uses "nicks" of single DNA strands to correct genetic defects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2022

Emu stands tall at detecting bacteria species

The Emu project effectively identifies bacterial species by leveraging long DNA sequences spanning the entire length of the gene under study. This approach facilitates the analysis of key genes in microbiome researchers' efforts to sort out harmful and helpful bacteria.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Methods·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 30, 2022

Scientists engineer synthetic DNA to study “architect” genes

Researchers at New York University have created artificial Hox genes using synthetic DNA technology and genomic engineering in stem cells. The findings confirm that clusters of Hox genes help cells learn and remember where they are in the body, with no other genes needed to be present.

SourceNew York University·JournalScience·DateJun 30, 2022

Study paves the way towards a more precise use of CRISPR

A Danish research study has made significant discoveries about the CRISPR/Cas9 protein and its gRNA component, enabling more accurate gene modification. The findings aim to optimize the effectiveness of gene editing, addressing concerns over 'off-target effects'.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 29, 2022

Baker’s yeast with human muscle genes

Delft University of Technology researchers successfully added human muscle genes to yeast cells, governed by a group of ten vital genes. The modified yeast model will aid medical scientists in studying diseases like cancer and testing new treatments.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 28, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

New screening test for those at risk of sudden cardiac arrest

Researchers have created a new electrical test to screen hundreds of gene mutations, pinpointing harmful mutations that cause inherited heart disorders and sudden death. The breakthrough can identify genetic variants associated with neurological conditions, muscle and kidney diseases.

SourceVictor Chang Cardiac Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022

Genetic test can diagnose certain immune system disorders

Researchers developed a genetic test that diagnoses primary immunodeficiency disorders (PID), revealing inherited genetic defects in nearly half of patients. The test uses next-generation sequencing technology to identify specific gene variants associated with PID, enabling targeted treatment and earlier intervention for family members.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2022

DAP array casts a wide net to fix mutations

A new genome-editing strategy called DAP array can correct dozens of errors at the same time with high precision and efficiency, avoiding off-target edits. The technique leverages tRNA to drive multiple guide RNAs on a single array, then released individually by cells to direct genome editors for edits at multiple human genomic sites.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Patient-derived micro-organospheres enable cutting-edge precision oncology

Researchers developed a droplet-based microfluidic technology to produce micro-organospheres from cancer patient biopsies within an hour. These miniature tumors retain the original microenvironment and can be used for testing many drug conditions, showing almost perfect correlation with actual clinical treatment outcomes.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

Researchers at the GIST develop deep learning model to predict adverse drug-drug interactions

Researchers developed a deep learning-based model to predict drug-drug interactions using gene expression data. The DeSIDE-DDI model can identify potentially dangerous pairs and act as a drug safety monitoring system, helping establish the correct usage of drugs in the development phase.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJournal of Cheminformatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 4, 2022

Gene editing DNA deletion sizes reduced with new fusion method developed at WFIRM

Researchers at WFIRM have developed a novel method to refine CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, increasing efficiency and decreasing large DNA deletions. The technique, which fuses DNA polymerase I or the Klenow fragment to Cas9, improves safety and functional editing outcomes.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 2, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

A new era of mitochondrial genome editing has begun

Scientists have successfully developed a gene-editing platform called TALED that can perform A-to-G base conversion in mitochondria, the final missing piece of the puzzle in gene-editing technology. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating previously incurable genetic diseases caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

A population hub out of Africa explains East Asian lineages in Europe 45,000 years ago

A recent study published in Genome Biology and Evolution found that ancient human remains from Bulgaria are more closely related to contemporary East Asians than Europeans. The researchers propose a scenario where an African population hub expanded into Europe and East Asia around 45,000 years ago, with the European representatives dec...

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateApr 7, 2022