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Harvard Wyss Institute researchers demonstrate machine-guided engineering of AAV capsids

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute have developed a high-throughput synthetic biology approach to improve AAV capsid proteins, revealing hidden features and potential new accessory proteins that could help fast-track future gene therapies. The study uses machine-guided design to generate large numbers of high-quality capsid variants.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience·DateNov 28, 2019

Predicting treatment outcome for leishmaniasis

Researchers identified genetic factors and parasite numbers that predict treatment success in cutaneous leishmaniasis. A small difference in parasite numbers makes a big difference in patient response.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 20, 2019
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Genetic alterations caused by cancer therapies identified

Scientists have characterised genetic alterations caused by six cancer therapies, revealing 'mutational footprints' that can help optimize treatment efficacy and minimize side effects. The study provides a new understanding of the relationship between therapy-induced mutations and long-term side effects.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 18, 2019

Gene therapy: Development of new DNA transporters

Researchers at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg have developed new DNA transporters using artificial fats, offering a promising alternative to modified viruses. The lipids can encapsulate nucleic acids, protect them from degradation, and introduce them into cells efficiently.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateNov 18, 2019

New candidate cancer genes identified using math models

Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine have developed a novel computational method, iEDGE, which identified several candidate breast cancer drivers and multiple pan-cancer drivers, including TRIP13 and TPX2.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 15, 2019

Small RNAs link immune system and brain cells

A recent study by Goethe University Frankfurt identified 17 microRNA families that play a crucial role in the interface between the immune and neuronal systems, showing sex-specific differences in gene expression. These findings may lead to new therapeutic approaches for psychiatric diseases.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 12, 2019

Delivering large genes to the retina is problematic

A new study shows that a commonly used vector for large gene transfer can deliver genes to retinal cells, but provokes an acute inflammatory response when injected subretinally into rats. The researchers conclude that further work is needed to understand the inflammatory pathways involved and modulate the immune response.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateNov 12, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Personalized gene networks enhance study of disease

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine developed a new method to model gene interactions and predict changes over time. The idopNetwork can create personalized networks for individual patients, showing complex gene connections and predicting outcomes.

SourcePenn State·Journalnpj Systems Biology and Applications·DateNov 7, 2019

Zooming into cilia sheds light into blinding diseases

Researchers developed new imaging methods to study retinal cilia, discovering previously unknown compartments and pinpointing protein locations in diseased cilia. These findings contribute to a better understanding of structural defects leading to cilia-related blindness.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2019
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Multi-disease gene therapy in mice

Researchers developed a gene therapy combining FGF21 and ?Klotho treatments to target multiple age-related diseases. The single-formulation treatment successfully treated obesity, type II diabetes, heart failure, and renal failure in mice.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 4, 2019

Combination gene therapy treats multiple age-related diseases

Researchers developed a combination gene therapy treating four age-related diseases in mice, including heart failure, kidney failure, diabetes, and obesity. The treatment showed significant improvements, reversing or completely eliminating disease symptoms in obese and diabetic mice.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 4, 2019

Rare mutations drive cystic fibrosis in Caribbean

A comprehensive genome sequencing study reveals rare CFTR mutations in Puerto Rican and Dominican patients, driving the disease's progression. This finding underscores the need for diverse clinical trials to develop personalized therapies, as transformative new drugs may not benefit minority populations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPediatric Pulmonology·DateOct 31, 2019
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.

Stephan Grupp, MD, PhD, elected to National Academy of Medicine

Stephan Grupp, a leading pediatric oncologist, has been elected to the National Academy of Medicine for his groundbreaking work in cell and gene therapy. He is recognized for developing an entirely novel therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and leading the first global engineered cell therapy trial.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·DateOct 21, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Fruit flies help in the development of personalized medicine

Researchers used fruit flies to study the genetic mechanisms behind ADHD and identified areas of the genome that influence response to treatment. This discovery has significant implications for the development of personalized medicine, enabling tailored treatments based on individual genetic profiles.

SourceAarhus University·JournalGenetics·DateOct 9, 2019

Gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy safely preserves muscle function

A Penn Medicine study shows delivering a 'distant cousin' of a key protein prevents muscle damage and maintains muscle function in both small and large animal models. The synthetic substitute, utrophin, proved to be an effective and safe alternative to dystrophin, with significant implications for gene therapy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 7, 2019

Johns Hopkins researchers advance search for safer, easier way to deliver vision-saving gene therapy

Researchers have developed a new approach to delivering sight-saving gene therapy to the retina, using a small needle to inject harmless viruses into the suprachoroidal space. This method could provide a more permanent therapeutic option for patients with common diseases such as wet age-related macular degeneration and inherited retina...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 30, 2019

Genetic markers linked to the start of symptoms of Parkinson's disease

Researchers identified genetic variants related to Parkinson's disease symptom onset, which could enable delimiting research on new therapeutic targets. The study, led by Cristina Malagelada, used biocomputing techniques and analyzed statistical interactions to identify genetic associations.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalMovement Disorders·DateSep 27, 2019
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.

New genes identified in hearing loss, providing treatment hope

Researchers from King's College London and UCL have identified 44 genes linked to age-related hearing loss, offering a clearer understanding of the condition's development. The study's findings may lead to new therapies for millions worldwide affected by hearing loss as they age.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·DateSep 26, 2019

Study finds potential therapeutic target for prostate cancers with PTEN mutation

Researchers at George Washington University found a potential therapeutic target for prostate cancers with PTEN mutation by identifying the connection between PTEN and ARID4B genes. Suppressing ARID4B expression in cancer cells with PTEN mutation significantly inhibits cell growth and increases cell death.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 24, 2019

New gene therapy research at Neuroscience 2019

Researchers at Neuroscience 2019 announce new gene therapy research promising to prevent, treat, and reverse incurable neurological disorders. Successes in restoring lost functions in animal models of neurological diseases are discussed, as well as technique advancements that may improve future treatments.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateSep 23, 2019

Non-viral gene therapy to speed up cancer research

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a non-viral gene delivery method that has proven effective in laboratory tests, opening the door to treatment of various genetic diseases. The method uses Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and could significantly reduce the time and expense involved in bringing new treatments to market.

SourceRMIT University·JournalSmall·DateSep 23, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

BU researchers create new protocol to improve gene therapy tool production

Boston University School of Medicine researchers have developed a new protocol to produce large quantities of AAVs, which can deliver specific genes into humans and animals. The advanced technique bypasses developmental effects, saving time and reducing the number of animals used in research.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 19, 2019

The rise, fall and resurgence of gene therapy

After a tragic death in 1999, gene therapy faced a setback, but James Wilson's rediscovery of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) paved the way for its resurgence. Today, AAVs are used in nearly 100 drug development programs and have been approved by the FDA for treating a fatal neurological disease.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateSep 18, 2019

Potential target for Krabbe disease therapy

Researchers have identified acid ceramidase as a key enzyme in the production of psychosine, a toxic glycolipid that accumulates in people with Krabbe disease. Removing or inhibiting this enzyme has been shown to decrease or eliminate psychosine production and disease symptoms.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2019
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.

Tiny bubbles in our body could fight cancer better than chemo

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new approach to delivering enzyme-producing genes that can convert certain drugs into toxic agents and target tumors. The study found that nano-bubbles, or extracellular vesicles, were 14 times more effective at delivery and killed over half of the breast cancer cells in mice.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·DateSep 13, 2019

Search tightens for genes driving prostate cancer

The team aims to understand how genetics contributes to driving aggressive pathology in prostate cancer by combining pathology, computational modeling, and genomics. They plan to identify therapeutic options by testing combinations of genes in mouse models of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateSep 12, 2019

Gene therapy helps functional recovery after stroke

Researchers have developed a new gene therapy that converts glial cells into neurons, improving motor function in mice and potentially treating stroke. The treatment uses the NeuroD1 gene and has been shown to increase neuronal density and reduce brain tissue loss in mouse models of stroke.

SourcePenn State·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateSep 11, 2019
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Messenger RNA therapy in mice

Administering nanoparticles carrying messenger RNA for the arginase gene restored urea cycle function and prolonged lifespan in genetically deficient mice. This treatment approach holds promise for treating inherited metabolic disorders like arginase deficiency.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2019

Promising gene replacement therapy moves forward at Ohio State

Researchers at Ohio State University have made significant breakthroughs in gene replacement therapy for Niemann-Pick type A disease, demonstrating its safety and therapeutic effects in nonhuman primates and mouse models. The treatment has shown a 'bystander effect', preventing motor and memory impairment and increasing survival rates.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 21, 2019
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.

'Key player' identified in genetic link to psychiatric conditions

Researchers at Cardiff University have identified the CYFIP1 gene as a potential cause of abnormalities in brain structure seen in psychiatric conditions. The study found that the deletion of this gene leads to thinning of the insulation around nerve cells, disrupting communication between brain regions.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 21, 2019

ASHG honors Huda Zoghbi with Victor A. McKusick Leadership Award

Huda Zoghbi, MD, is recognized for her contributions to the field of human genetics, including discoveries of genes responsible for Rett syndrome, spinocerebellar ataxia type 1, and other conditions. Her work has enriched the development of human genetics and its applications in science, medicine, and health.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateJul 22, 2019
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.

Retina restructures itself after cell death

Researchers found that the retina can rebuild itself after treatment, recovering normal light responses and connections to other neurons. Gene therapy successfully restored rod photoreceptors' function in a mouse model with genetically defective rods.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJul 8, 2019

Cascade exacerbates storage diseases

A defective degradation enzyme leads to the accumulation of gangliosides, causing deterioration in patients with storage diseases. Researchers have discovered that genetic disorders can trigger a cascade of consequential damages.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateJun 26, 2019
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

First in vivo proof-of-concept in Steinert's myotonic dystrophy

Researchers have successfully developed and tested a gene therapy approach using CRISPR-Cas9 technology to treat Steinert's myotonic dystrophy, a devastating neuromuscular disease. The study showed that the expanded CTG triplet repeat in the DMPK gene was 'cut' and removed from the gene, reducing toxic RNA aggregates in muscle cells.

SourceAFM-Téléthon·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJun 25, 2019

Study investigates role of family doctors in advanced therapies

A recent study by the University of Granada's Tissue Engineering Research Group has found that resident hospital doctors specialising in Family Medicine lack sufficient training on advanced therapies. The researchers also discovered a positive attitude among these doctors towards the use and application of such therapies.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 24, 2019

Scientists chart course toward a new world of synthetic biology

A new roadmap by the Engineering Biology Research Consortium outlines potential breakthroughs in synthetic biology, including genetically modified crops, disease-fighting microbes, and novel biofuels. The report aims to secure federal support for this field to address societal challenges and fuel economic growth.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateJun 19, 2019

Researchers report longest duration of therapeutic gene expression

A team of researchers delivered a therapeutic gene to the spinal canal of infant rhesus monkeys, resulting in sustained expression of the alpha-I-iduronidase enzyme. The study's findings suggest a promising approach for treating severe forms of neuropathic storage diseases.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateJun 17, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Breaking down pathological protein aggregates

Scientists at ETH Zurich found that a cellular mechanism called SCF detects and targets alpha-synuclein fibrils for breakdown. This mechanism could be used to develop therapies for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's. Gene therapy and stem cell transplantation may also offer new options.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 6, 2019

Lithium boosts muscle strength in mice with rare muscular dystrophy

Researchers have identified a potential therapy for limb girdle muscular dystrophy using lithium to improve muscle size and strength in mice. The findings suggest that inhibiting the protein GSK3beta with lithium chloride can lead to significant improvements in mouse strength and muscle mass.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeurology Genetics·DateJun 3, 2019

From viruses to social bots, researchers unearth the structure of attacked networks

A new statistical machine learning framework has been developed to reconstruct the original network after a viral attack, which is crucial for designing new medicines or gene therapies against viruses and diseases like cancer. The framework actively incorporates the influence and causality of the attack into its learning algorithm.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 29, 2019
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.