Articles tagged with Nucleic Acids
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Flipon genetics proposes that evolution happens on a faster time scale than Darwin imagined, with rapid adaptations occurring in real-time within individuals. This is achieved through the simple sequence repeats of DNA, which can adopt alternative shapes and transmit adaptations to offspring.
Researchers identified a novel lncRNA, Teshl, which plays a crucial role in the development of Y-bearing sperm and regulates sex chromosome gene expression. The study provides new insights into sex ratio variations and suggests that genetics may be a key factor in human male infertility.
A novel method allows tracking rapid structural changes in enzymes and nucleic acids. The technique, called microsecond freeze hyperquenching, was originally developed at Delft University but later fell into disuse.
This case series examines brain samples from COVID-19 patients with severe pulmonary pathology to understand the impact on brain capillaries. The study provides valuable information on the neurological consequences of COVID-19, shedding light on potential underlying mechanisms.
A first-in-human study found that MRG-110 significantly reduced miR-92a levels in healthy humans after a single intravenous dose. This inhibition has shown beneficial effects in animal models, including improved vascularization after myocardial infarction and accelerated wound healing.
Scientists have discovered a new type of 3D chirality that exhibits unique macroscopic properties, including fluorescence and strong optical rotation. The discovery was made possible through the use of advanced synthesis techniques, including double cross-couplings and retro-synthetic analysis.
A novel method uses subcellular fractionation to quantify unconjugated AONs in nuclei, showing proportional relationship with target gene knockdown. Researchers report their results in Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, highlighting the importance of accurately quantifying oligonucleotides in therapeutic applications.
Researchers found that silencing microRNA-132 improved insulin secretion and reduced blood glucose in mice and human islet cells. The study suggests antagomir-132 as a potential treatment approach for type 2 diabetes.
A first-in-human study demonstrated the ability of a new class of antisense oligonucleotide therapeutics to target the liver, resulting in improved potency and safety at therapeutic doses. The study showed that the conjugated drug was up to 30-fold more potent than the parent antisense oligonucleotide.
Researchers developed a handheld, portable device that can detect Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) with 94% accuracy in resource-limited settings. The Tiny Isothermal Nucleic acid quantification sYstem (TINY) generates results in under 2.5 hours, enabling early detection and better outcomes.
Researchers have identified a range of synthetic antisense oligonucleotides that can activate the frataxin gene in FA patients. The discovery demonstrates flexible options for increasing frataxin protein expression and alleviating FA symptoms.
A study of oligonucleotide drug impurities reveals opportunities for process improvements and the application of information from one drug substance to another. The report, published in Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, provides clarity on product-related impurities.
The accumulation of advanced glycosylation end-products (AGEs) in the retina triggers oxidative stress, impairing defense mechanisms and leading to neuronal dysfunction. New therapeutic approaches targeting neurotrophic factors may offer potential for regenerative effects on retinal ganglion cells.
Researchers propose that certain individuals may experience heightened sensitivity to nanoparticles due to pre-existing conditions affecting the liver or lungs. This suggests a need for personalized models and clinical trials to better understand nanoparticle-related infusion reactions.
Researchers from UC Davis developed a novel sensor coating material using nanoporous gold to detect nucleic acids in complex biological samples. The method enables sensitive detection of DNA without requiring purification, enabling faster and more efficient process for field applications.
The article presents new consensus guidelines for toxicity testing of oligonucleotide drugs, considering their unique chemical and biological characteristics. The guidelines aim to design scientifically valid and predictive toxicity studies.
A group of industry and regulatory scientists released consensus recommendations for assessing the safety pharmacology evaluations of oligonucleotide-based therapeutics. The guidelines emphasize the importance of safety pharmacology studies to evaluate cardiovascular function effects.
Researchers at Northwestern University develop spherical nucleic acids (SNAs) for biomedical applications, offering improved delivery and targeting of therapeutics. SNAs show promise in treating genetic diseases and neurological disorders, including glioblastoma and Alzheimer's disease.
A novel aptamer has been developed that specifically targets and stimulates human immune cells, significantly increasing the effectiveness of immunotherapeutic drugs. The aptamer enhances the ability of activated T cells to proliferate and produce immunostimulatory cytokines.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that pooled nucleic acid amplification testing is not cost-effective at recommended antibody testing intervals, except for clinics serving men who have sex with men. However, decreasing the antibody testing interval to 6 months or 5 years made it cost-saving in all settings.
Researchers at UNC are developing a unique way to deliver a nucleic acid derived from bacteria to tumors, allowing the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancerous cells. The goal is to create a reliable delivery method for immunotherapy, which has shown promise but faces challenges in consistency.