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Nanotechnology supports treatment of malignant melanoma

Researchers use nanosensors to detect genetic mutations in tissue samples from patients with malignant melanoma. This enables the identification of specific mutations and targeted treatment, significantly extending patients' life expectancy. The new method detects changes quickly and easily using coated microcantilevers.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 6, 2016

Imaging the brain at multiple size scales

A new technique called magnified analysis of proteome (MAP) allows scientists to image brain tissue at multiple scales, preserving proteins within cells and connectivity between neurons. The method enables high-resolution imaging with a resolution as high as 60 nanometers, tracing connections in the human brain more accurately.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJul 26, 2016

Penn researchers develop placenta-on-a-chip

The Penn researchers have developed a placenta-on-a-chip that accurately models the transport of nutrients across the placental barrier. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize research on preterm birth by providing a unique capability to mimic and study the function of the human placenta.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJul 25, 2016

New study uses computer learning to provide quality control for genetic databases

A new study uses computer learning to create a standardized atlas that can automatically annotate samples, including lost metadata such as tissue type. By combining data from over 7,000 samples and 200 labs, the work represents a way to leverage publically available 'omics data while improving quality control.

New protocol enables analysis of metabolic products from fixed tissues

A team of scientists at Helmholtz Munich developed a protocol to analyze metabolite composition in fixed tissues using mass spectrometry imaging. This method allows for the study of spatial distribution of molecules with high precision, enabling the identification of new predictive, diagnostic and prognostic markers.

Seeing RNA at the nanoscale

Researchers at MIT have developed a new microscopy technique that enables precise visualization of RNA molecules in intact tissues. By expanding the tissue sample before imaging, they can obtain high-resolution images of RNA distribution using ordinary microscopes. This breakthrough could help scientists study gene expression and disea...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Methods·DateJul 4, 2016

Metal exposure -- a factor in bat population decline

A national assessment of metal contamination in bats reveals high levels of metals such as lead, copper, and cadmium that can cause toxic effects in bat populations. Around 21% of sampled bats contained residues of at least one metal above toxic thresholds, indicating a significant proportion may be affected by metal exposure.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateJun 9, 2016

Switch and stick

Researchers at Max-Planck-Institute for Intelligent Systems have discovered a new reversible adhesive using gallium that can be controlled by temperature changes. The adhesive has potential applications in various fields such as biological samples handling and industrial pick-and-place processes.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 19, 2016

Coral stress test found in the genes

Researchers have identified unique genetic markers that indicate higher stress tolerance in corals, enabling the development of novel reef restoration strategies. These markers can be used to create fine-scale distribution maps and guide selective breeding programs for more resilient corals.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 13, 2016

Super-clear synapses at super resolutions

A new process for making brain tissue transparent has been developed at RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, allowing for the creation of super-resolution 3-D images of delicate structures deep in the brain. This breakthrough enables researchers to visualize synaptic changes and neural structures with unprecedented detail.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 10, 2016

Better biopsies through biofluidics

Researchers have developed a new method to acquire three-dimensional atlases of tissue that provide much more information, incorporating data on tissue structure and molecular profile. The new technique enables doctors or researchers to peer into the tissue and identify specific proteins within cells throughout the whole tissue.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateMar 1, 2016

Protein patterns -- a new tool for studying sepsis

A new method using mass spectrometry measures hundreds of proteins in a single blood sample, enabling researchers to determine the severity of sepsis and which organs are damaged. This technique provides an understanding of molecular events during the course of a disease, with potential applications for studying other diseases.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 13, 2016

Treetop leaves of tall trees store extra water

Researchers found that treetop leaves in tall trees like coast redwood and Japanese cedar act as a water supply tank, storing water to help maintain physiological functions. This discovery helps predict future changes in forest function and CO2 absorption in the face of climate change.

Mayo Clinic study uncovers key differences among ALS patients

A Mayo Clinic study has identified abnormalities in the levels and processing of ribonucleic acids (RNA) in patients with sporadic and genetic forms of ALS. The findings, published in Nature Neuroscience, suggest that different factors may contribute to the development of ALS and highlight the need for tailored therapies.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 20, 2015

Beyond average

Researchers have developed high-throughput techniques to quickly and easily give every cell in a sample a unique genetic barcode, enabling scientists to analyze complex tissues at the single-cell level. This breakthrough allows for deeper understanding of cell diversity and gene expression.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateMay 21, 2015

New finding could help develop test for kidney disease

Scientists at the University of Manchester have made a groundbreaking discovery that could lead to an early test for kidney disease. They found significant differences in protein composition and structure between mice with different genetic backgrounds and sexes, which may contribute to susceptibility to kidney disease.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 22, 2015

NIH Ebola study in macaques provides timeframes for post-mortem viral stability

A recent NIH study found that Ebola virus can remain infectious in a body for at least seven days after death, with viral RNA detectable for up to 10 weeks. The research highlights the importance of safe handling practices and suggests oral swabbing as a reliable alternative for obtaining diagnostic samples.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 12, 2015

What's happening with your donated specimen?

A Michigan State University study found that most people are willing to donate bodily samples for medical research, but this willingness drops when specific projects are mentioned. The study suggests that biobanks should rethink their consent processes and be more transparent about the research they support.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJAMA·DateJan 28, 2015