Nucleic Acids
Articles tagged with Nucleic Acids
New technology enables ‘rewriting a chapter’ of the genome
A new technology allows for the efficient insertion of large DNA segments, enabling a 'chapter rewrite' in the genome. This method avoids double-strand breaks and can correct hundreds of mutations simultaneously.
Mars rover detects never-before-seen organic compounds in new experiment
NASA's Curiosity Mars rover has discovered diverse organic molecules on Mars, including chemicals that could be signs of ancient life. The findings suggest the Martian surface can preserve molecules that could serve as building blocks for life.
Study shows how to identify drugs altering RNA structure and function
Researchers have identified a framework to characterize RNA structure-changing small molecule drugs, which could lead to the development of better treatments targeting RNA directly. The study found that molecules binding to RNA rarely affect its function, while those altering its structure have a bigger impact.
Würzburg Chemistry professor Claudia Höbartner honored
Claudia Höbartner has made two significant breakthroughs in catalytic nucleic acids: determining the structure of a DNAzyme and identifying a ribozyme capable of transferring methyl groups. These discoveries have opened up new insights into molecular mechanisms and applications for synthetic biology
Sugar-processing enzyme has a hidden second job – controlling when cells divide
Researchers discovered that PFK, a key sugar-processing enzyme, has a hidden function controlling cell division by unwinding RNA and promoting gene translation. The enzyme's ability to bind and unwind RNA was found to be crucial for cell cycle progression, with cells lacking PFK2 showing slowed growth and division issues.
Development of a new technology for controlled interstrand linking of DNA
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a new technology that uses thioguanosine to achieve highly efficient and controllable interstrand crosslinking of DNA. This breakthrough enables reversible DNA modification with high stability and reversibility, opening opportunities for next-generation bionanomaterials.
Chronic kidney disease poisons patients’ hearts, scientists discover
Researchers identify circulating extracellular vesicles produced in diseased kidneys as the culprit behind toxicity in the heart. The discovery could lead to the development of a blood test to identify patients at high risk for serious heart problems and novel treatments to prevent and treat heart failure.
4D Nucleome Consortium produces detailed models of the 3D genome over time in cells
The study created a critical framework for understanding the architecture of the genome and its association with gene function in cells. The 4DN Consortium integrated data from over a dozen techniques to compile an extensive catalogue of looping interactions between genes and regulatory elements.
Stress hormones silence key brain genes through chromatin-bound RNAs, study reveals
Researchers have discovered that stress hormones can silence crucial neuronal genes by interacting with long noncoding RNAs and the polycomb repressive complex 2. This mechanism may provide a new understanding of how stress affects gene expression, particularly in relation to synaptic function and calcium signaling.
CRISPR’s efficiency triples with DNA-wrapped nanoparticles
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new CRISPR delivery system that triples efficiency using DNA-wrapped nanoparticles, improving safety and effectiveness. The new system, called LNP-SNAs, targets specific cells and tissues, reducing toxicity and boosting gene-editing efficiency by threefold.
Origin of life breakthrough: Chemists show how RNA might have started to make proteins on early Earth
Researchers at UCL successfully chemically linked amino acids to RNA under conditions that could have occurred on early Earth, a significant step towards understanding the origin of protein synthesis. The study demonstrates how RNA might have first come to control protein synthesis.
Risk management: Making gene therapy safer and more effective
Researchers have created a new family of RNA-editing tools that utilize an RNA-targeting activity found in the CRISPR-Cas9 tool, allowing for precise and versatile genetic surgery at the RNA level. The tools show great promise in curing rare genetic diseases and promoting wound healing.
Characterizing antibodies targeting antisense oligonucleotide modifications
Researchers validated panels of antibodies targeting clinically relevant nucleic acid modifications to visualize antisense oligonucleotides in both in vitro and in vivo studies. The tools enable detection of modified nucleic acids irrespective of sequence, facilitating multiple clinical and pre-clinical workflows.
New insight in how cells regulate gene activity
Researchers have identified hundreds of RNA regulatory switches in living cells that can be used to develop new treatments for diseases. The discovery, published in Nature Biotechnology, uses a novel method to map the complex structures of RNA molecules and uncover functional switches with high accuracy.
Novel open-source diagnostic tool offers affordable, reliable pathogen detection for resource-limited settings
Researchers developed a lyophilized open-source RT-LAMP assay for pathogen detection, making diagnostics more accessible and affordable globally. The assay is heat stable, requires no cold chain, and can detect various pathogens with high sensitivity.
Study uncovers how harmful RNA clumps form — and a way to dissolve them
Scientists have discovered that repeat RNAs aggregate inside droplets but can be disassembled with an engineered piece of RNA. The study sheds new light on how these clusters form within biomolecular condensates and presents a potential therapeutic application.
Research teases apart competing transcription organization models
The study reconciles two closely related mechanisms in transcription, revealing they are deeply intertwined with shared driving forces. The findings suggest that while transcription can occur via both mechanisms, phase separation does not necessarily offer increased activity, but rather dampens it.
Diagnostics.AI launches industry’s first CE-IVDR certified transparent AI platform for molecular diagnostics as regulatory deadlines take fffect
Diagnostics.AI has launched the industry's first fully-transparent machine learning platform for clinical real-time PCR diagnostics, delivering algorithmic transparency and per-test auditability. The platform is CE-IVDR certified and backed by over 15 years of experience and millions of successfully processed samples.
“Cutting to survive”: how cells remove DNA bridges at the last moment
Researchers have elucidated the molecular mechanism by which LEM-3 cuts DNA bridges during cytokinesis, a crucial step in cell division. The study found that LEM-3 is essential for resolving persistent DNA bridges and maintaining chromosomal stability.
An unexpected bacterial blocker
Scientists at HIRI develop peptide nucleic acid-based compound FUS79, which inhibits Fusobacterium nucleatum growth and exhibits strong activity against five fusobacterial strains without affecting other bacteria. This breakthrough has potential to accelerate research in targeted antibiotics for cancer treatment.
Scientists create a ‘brilliantly luminous’ nanoscale chemical tool
Researchers developed fluorescent polyionic nanoclays that can be customized for medical imaging, sensor technology, and environmental protection. These tiny clay-based materials exhibit high brightness and versatility, enabling precise tuning of optical properties.
RNA modifications in individual cells better understood with new modelling
Researchers developed a new tool called SigRM to analyze single-cell epitranscriptomics data, enabling the study of RNA modifications in individual cells. This can provide valuable insights into gene regulation and its impact on health and disease, particularly in complex conditions like cancer.
3D snapshots unveil the intricate dance of RNA folding
Scientists have captured 3D snapshots of individual RNA nanoparticles in motion, showcasing the dynamic and intricate folding process. This breakthrough uses advanced electron microscopy to study RNA's flexibility, enabling new insights into its structure and potential applications in molecular medicine.
Testing thousands of RNA enzymes helps find first ‘twister ribozyme’ in mammals
A team at Penn State developed an experimental pipeline called Cleavage High-Throughput Assay (CHiTA) that can test the activity of thousands of predicted twister ribozymes. The study identified approximately 94% of tested ribozymes as active, revealing their function can persist even with slight imperfections.
Next-gen cell-penetrating antibodies for tumor targeting and RAD51 inhibition
Researchers humanize the lupus-derived autoantibody 3E10, preserving its therapeutic efficacy, to create novel cell-penetrating antibodies targeting tumors and RAD51. Humanized variants exhibit faster cell uptake and superior in vivo tumor targeting.
Dine on DNA: Compounds from nucleic acids in food show anticancer effects
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University found compounds in nucleic acids from salmon DNA and torula yeast RNA inhibit cancer cell growth. These compounds may prevent cancer by stopping cell replication.
Researchers create ADP- or ATP-containing molecules with improved yield and consistency
A team of researchers developed a new chemical reaction to synthesize ADP- and ATP-containing molecules with high yields, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. The reaction uses a hydrolysis-stable reagent and achieves reproducible access to these molecules.
With $12 million NIH grant renewal, Lewis Katz School of Medicine researchers to explore novel cell mechanism in heart injury and repair
Researchers at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine will investigate how injured heart cells communicate with other cells throughout the body using microvesicles known as exosomes. The study aims to understand how specific molecules, such as microRNAs, facilitate communication pathways between cells in the heart and vasculature.
NIH and National Science Foundation to award $15.4 million for RNA research
The NIH and NSF have partnered to provide funding for RNA research, focusing on structures, functions, and interactions of ribonucleic acid (RNA). Research groups will explore RNA sequencing, mapping of RNA modifications, and development of RNA-based technologies.
Beyond CRISPR: seekRNA delivers a new pathway for accurate gene editing
Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed SeekRNA, a programmable tool that can precisely target and relocate genetic sequences with high accuracy and flexibility. This breakthrough technology surpasses current limitations of CRISPR, enabling more precise editing and reducing errors.
Researchers at IOCB Prague develop a new method for enzymatic synthesis of potential RNA therapeutics
Researchers at IOCB Prague have developed a novel method for preparing ribonucleic acid (RNA) containing modified bases using engineered DNA polymerases. This opens the door to applications in chemical biology and therapeutic applications, including mRNA drugs.
Key protein regulates immune response to viruses in mammal cells
A specific protein, TRBP, regulates the balance between apoptosis and interferon response to suppress viral replication. This study sheds light on a previously unclear mechanism of defense against viruses in mammalian cells.
Next-generation treatments hitch a ride into cancer cells
Researchers from Osaka University have discovered a way to deliver antisense oligonucleotides to their targets inside cancer cells by opening specific calcium permeable channels. The new compound, L687, promotes efficient uptake of ASO into cancer cells, suppressing target gene activity and enhancing ASO efficacy.
Modeling the origins of life: New evidence for an “RNA World”
Researchers at Salk Institute unveil an RNA enzyme that can accurately copy functional RNA strands and allow new variants to emerge over time. This discovery brings scientists closer to producing autonomous RNA life in the laboratory, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of the origins of life.
Discover BMB announces exciting lineup of speakers
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology's annual meeting features a stimulating group of high-profile speakers discussing various topics including climate change, microbial communities, and RNA regulation. The conference includes plenary sessions, award lectures, and other exciting events.
Aptamers: lifesavers; ion shields: aptamer guardians
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology discovered a breakthrough approach to stabilize aptamers using ionic liquids. The team found that these liquid-based environments can shield nucleic acids from enzymes, preserving their functions up to 6.5 million times longer than conventional methods.
New chemical method advances toward targeted RNA medicine
A novel synthesis method enables easy linkage of therapeutic oligonucleotides to peptide markers, streamlining the process and making it more accessible and cost-effective. This breakthrough has the potential to produce more effective and targeted RNA-based drugs.
Scientists from IOCB Prague are pushing the limits of DNA
The research team led by Michal Hocek successfully pushes the boundaries of DNA structure and function. They demonstrate that heavily modified double helices are stable enough to be used in medicine, mimicking natural molecules with therapeutic potential.
Potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer identified
A team of Chinese and UK researchers has identified superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) as a potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer. By using nanoparticles to deliver siRNA that reduces SOD1 levels, the study showed reduced growth and decreased resistance to cisplatin in female mice.
New insights into melanoma development and therapy
Researchers from Osaka University have identified a novel mechanism by which GREB1 Isoform4 is involved in pyrimidine synthesis and causes malignant melanoma. The study found that GREB1 Is4 promotes cancer cell proliferation and regulates pyrimidine metabolism, suggesting it as a new therapeutic target for melanoma.
Reducing contamination in single-molecule DNA extraction using nanopore technology
Researchers have developed a novel DNA-filtering system using α-hemolysin nanopores to reduce contamination in single-molecule DNA extraction. The technique, which uses phospholipids and the PCR clamp method, achieved a 99.98% reduction in DNA contamination.
Unraveling the mystery of semi-extractable RNAs from human cell lines
The study identifies 1,074 semi-extractable RNAs potentially involved in phase-separated membraneless organelles. These RNAs are enriched in repressed heterochromatin regions and act as hubs for RNA-RNA interactions.
Revolutionary new method can manipulate the shape and packing of DNA
Researchers have developed a new method to manipulate the shape of double-stranded DNA, known as triplex origami, which can create compacted structures with unique properties. This breakthrough has implications for gene therapy, nanoscale materials engineering, and our understanding of biological processes.
New research centre will RNA medicine for better treatment of metabolic diseases
A new research centre will focus on developing new types of RNA medicine for treating metabolic diseases. The centre, led by Professor Jørgen Kjems at Aarhus University, aims to create targeted treatments for conditions like diabetes and atherosclerosis.
iPODs: Making portable droplet microfluidic testing possible
The iPODs system enables rapid-results testing with reduced error, cross-contamination, and sample loss by automating droplet transfer. The device shows strong linearity in bacterial detection, with an R-squared value of 0.999, making it accurate for point-of-care testing.
Salmonella detection
A team of researchers developed a simple and portable test system to detect salmonella in food, eliminating the need for expensive analytical equipment. The assay uses a nucleic acid probe that is cleaved by an RNase enzyme specific to salmonella, resulting in a clear red spot on an absorbent pad indicating contamination.
Improving the accuracy of near-infrared fluorescence in cardiovascular imaging
Researchers develop a new technique to measure blood attenuation using a fluorophore-coated guidewire, improving the accuracy of near-infrared fluorescence in cardiovascular imaging. The method provides accurate information on vessel walls and outperforms existing correction methods.
New DNA biosensor could unlock powerful, low-cost clinical diagnostics
A new DNA biosensor developed by NIST, Brown University, and the French government-funded research institute CEA-Leti boasts accurate and inexpensive design. The modular device can measure biomarkers in a scalable and high-sensitivity manner.
To track disease-carrying mosquitoes, researchers tag them with DNA barcodes
Researchers develop a new method to track disease-carrying mosquitoes by ingesting harmless DNA particles, providing unique fingerprints of information. This innovative approach has the potential to revolutionize mosquito-borne disease surveillance and tracking, offering insights into mosquito movement and hotspots.
Overcoming challenges in the delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics
Nucleic acid therapies aim to treat genetic disorders and diseases, but delivering therapeutics is a significant challenge. Researchers are investigating nanoparticle delivery systems to target specific cells and sub-cellular compartments for effective delivery.
Easy and inexpensive method for linking other molecules to DNA sequences with desired functions
Researchers at Aarhus University have developed an easy and inexpensive method for linking molecules to DNA sequences with desired functions. The method uses sulfonyl azides to introduce various functionalities, avoiding the need for expensive and unstable special phosphoramidites.
Detection of cancer biomarkers from blood samples using nanopore-based DNA computing technology
Researchers developed a method for detecting cancer miRNA patterns using DNA computing technology, enabling simple and early cancer diagnosis from liquid biopsies. The technology uses nanopore decoding to recognize cancer-specific expression patterns even at extremely low concentrations of miRNA.
Nanostructures with improved stability for the development of more effective cancer nanomedicine
Researchers at Aarhus University have developed improved DNA nanostructures that can assemble biomolecules with multiple functions, increasing the effectiveness of cancer treatment. The new structures are more stable, non-toxic, and immune system-friendly than previous versions.
The recovery process after a heart attack
A recent study published in Molecular Therapy Nucleic Acids found that the molecule urocortin-2 may regulate recovery processes after a heart attack by modulating miR-29a. Treatment with urocortin-2 could favor patient recovery by regulating apoptosis and fibrosis.
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.
How a two-faced molecule can silence problematic genes
Scientists create a hybrid technology called heteroduplex oligonucleotide (HDO) that can safely and effectively silence disease-causing genes in certain immune cells. The HDO delivery method has shown promise in improving symptoms of autoimmune disorders and cancers by regulating the function of T and B lymphocytes.
Roswell Biotechnologies demonstrates molecular electronics sensors on a semiconductor chip in peer-review paper
Roswell Biotechnologies has developed a molecular electronics sensor on a semiconductor chip, enabling real-time detection of single molecules for diverse applications including drug discovery, diagnostics, and DNA sequencing. The platform offers unlimited scalability in sensor pixel density and high resolution measurements.
For the first time, DNA and proteins sensed by de novo-designed nanopore
Researchers in Japan have designed the first de novo-designed peptides that can form artificial nanopores to identify and enable single molecule-sorting of genetic material in a lipid membrane. The peptides can detect specific molecules, including DNA, and have the potential to mimic natural proteins' ability to detect specific proteins.
New tumor cell tracking system aims to understand cancer treatment resistance
Researchers developed a new system to track tumor cell evolution and identify resistant cells, which can be used to test treatment effectiveness. The system, ClonMapper, allows for high-resolution study of clonal dynamics during tumor evolution and treatment.