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Montana State scientists publish bacterial immune research in Nature

Researchers at Montana State University have published a study in Nature describing the discovery of the PARIS immune system, which uses tRNA to neutralize viral infections. The team used advanced microscopy techniques to visualize the system's structure and function.

SourceMontana State University·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2024

MSU discovers method for CRISPR-based genome editing in Nile grass rats

Michigan State University researchers have developed a method for CRISPR-based genome editing in Nile grass rats, which are diurnal rodents with sleep patterns similar to humans. This breakthrough could provide an alternative model for studying human health and disease, as existing models rely heavily on laboratory mice.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBMC Biology·DateAug 23, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Every rose has its thorns … or does it?

A team of scientists has found that the same ancient gene family is responsible for prickles in multiple plants, including roses and eggplants. This discovery sheds light on convergent evolution and could have implications for understanding how similar traits emerge in different species.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2024

Groundcherry gets genetic upgrades: Turning a garden curiosity into an agricultural powerhouse

Researchers have used CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to improve groundcherry's growth habit and fruit characteristics. This breakthrough could lead to increased crop yields and reduce the need for pesticides. The study also highlights the potential of groundcherry as a model species for studying plant biology.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalPlants People Planet·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024
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.

New antidote for cobra bites discovered

A team of scientists at the University of Sydney has repurposed a commonly used blood thinner, heparin, as an inexpensive antidote for cobra venom. The discovery could drastically reduce the impact of snakebites worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where cobra species account for most snakebite incidents.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2024

A new addition to the CRISPR toolbox: Teaching the gene scissors to detect RNA

Researchers have developed a new method called PUMA that uses CRISPR-Cas12 nucleases to detect RNA biomarkers. This technology overcomes limitations of existing methods by reprogramming tracrRNAs to recognize specific RNA targets, enabling precise detection without requiring a specific recognition sequence.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Surprise discovery with big scientific potential

A team of researchers led by Professor Peter Fineran from the University of Otago discovered a novel regulatory mechanism in a protein used by phages to deploy anti-CRISPR. This finding has significant implications for understanding gene regulation and developing new antimicrobial therapies.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalNature·DateJul 10, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

New one-step method to make multiple edits to a cell’s genome

A team of scientists at Gladstone Institutes has developed a new method that enables them to make precise edits in multiple locations within a cell—all at once. They created a tool using molecules called retrons to efficiently modify DNA in bacteria, yeast, and human cells.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJul 9, 2024

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.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024

Simple test for flu could improve diagnosis and surveillance

A new CRISPR-based paper strip test could allow more patients to get the right treatment for the flu, researchers say. The test distinguishes between different influenza types and can be reprogrammed to recognize other viruses.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateJun 21, 2024
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.

Researchers develop plant gene drive system for enhanced trait inheritance

A new plant gene drive system, CRISPR-Assisted Inheritance (CAIN), has been developed to enhance trait inheritance in plants. The system uses a toxin-antidote mechanism to override Mendelian inheritance, allowing for the spread of beneficial genes at higher rates.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

Some CRISPR screens may be missing cancer drug targets

New research reveals that CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing tools have biases against cells from people of African ancestry, leading to false negative results. The study's findings highlight the importance of increasing genetic diversity in large-scale cell line libraries to mitigate this bias.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 14, 2024

Scientists engineer yellow-seeded camelina with high oil output

A new, high-yielding variety of camelina has been engineered with a gene that increases oil production by 21.4%. The modified seeds have lower levels of flavonoid compounds and mucilage, but higher levels of genes involved in oil synthesis.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateJun 11, 2024

Fine-tuning leaf angle with CRISPR improves sugarcane yield

Researchers used CRISPR to fine-tune sugarcane's leaf angle, capturing more sunlight and increasing biomass production. The study focused on the LIGULELESS1 gene, which plays a major role in determining leaf angle.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateJun 10, 2024

Changes Upstream: RIPE team uses CRISPR/Cas9 to alter photosynthesis for the first time

Researchers from the University of Illinois have used CRISPR/Cas9 to alter the upstream regulatory DNA of a food crop, increasing gene expression and improving downstream photosynthesis. This approach, which does not require adding foreign DNA, has shown promising results in increasing photosynthetic activity in rice.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2024
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GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

New, modified CRISPR protein can fit inside virus used for gene therapy

Researchers have developed a compact, high-fidelity version of the Cas12a protein, which can be packaged within a non-pathogenic virus for targeted gene editing. The modified protein demonstrates efficient editing activity and has been shown to reduce blood cholesterol levels in mice with high cholesterol.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2024

CRISPR-based mapping uncovers ‘switches’ for immune genes central to health

Scientists at Gladstone Institutes used CRISPR interference to map the layered mechanisms controlling expression of key immune genes. The study provides valuable insights into immune balance, autoimmunity, and cancer immunotherapies, shedding light on genetic variants linked to disease risk and potential treatments.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 29, 2024

Increasing experimental efficiency in plant genome editing

Researchers from VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology improved multiplex mutagenesis, reducing the complexity and cost of large-scale genome editing projects. The team optimized CRISPR/Cas9 vector design, achieving a 99% mutation rate with high efficiency.

SourceVlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateMay 22, 2024
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.

Mystery CRISPR unlocked: A new ally against antibiotic resistance?

Researchers have uncovered a unique functionality of CRISPR-Cas Type IV systems, which can silence gene expression at target locations without cutting DNA. This discovery holds promise as a potential biotechnological application to combat antibiotic-resistant superbugs.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMay 16, 2024

Participants of pioneering CRISPR gene editing trial see vision improve

A pioneering CRISPR gene editing trial has demonstrated significant improvement in vision for 79% of participants with inherited retinal degeneration. The study's findings support further research into the potential of CRISPR-based treatments for inherited blindness.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 6, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Microbiome studies help explore treatments for genetic disorders

Researchers at the University of Trento have identified a collection of molecular tools to rewrite DNA, including a compact Cas9 enzyme from the human microbiome. The discovery has potential for gene therapy applications and could speed up the development of therapies for genetic diseases.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 6, 2024

CRIPSR gene editing leads to improvements in vision for people with inherited blindness, clinical trial shows

A phase 1/2 trial of CRISPR gene editing has demonstrated safety and efficacy, with measurable improvements in 11 out of 14 participants with a form of inherited blindness. The treatment, EDIT-101, was found to be clinically meaningful for four participants and showed significant improvements in cone-mediated vision.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 6, 2024
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.

Unveiling the mysteries of cell division in embryos with timelapse photography

Researchers used medaka fish, CRISPR and new imaging techniques to study embryonic mitosis. They discovered unique spindles assemble in early embryos and found Ran-GTP plays a decisive role in spindle formation, which diminishes later in development. The study paves the way for further exploration of embryonic mitosis.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 24, 2024

A small factor makes a big impact on genome editing

Researchers identified a small RNA-binding protein called La that promotes gene editing with high efficiency. The team created a new protein, PE7, which harnesses La's activity to enhance prime editing, leaving unwanted byproducts at low frequencies.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 22, 2024

New genetic analysis tool tracks risks tied to CRISPR edits

Researchers developed an Integrated Classifier Pipeline (ICP) tool to analyze CRISPR edit outcomes and track unintended 'bystander' edits. The ICP system provides a genetic fingerprint of how material is being inherited, helping scientists untangle complex biological issues.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

‘Courtship’ gene shows different effects in two fruit fly species

A new study found that a 'courtship' gene has different effects in two fruit fly species. In one species, giving females the gene resulted in them adopting male behaviors, while in another, it enabled them to produce both male and female songs. The findings suggest that genes can have varying functions across different species.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2024

Newly discovered link between FBXW7 mutations and EGFR signaling in colorectal cancer

A new link has been discovered between FBXW7 mutations and EGFR signaling activity in colorectal cancer. The study found that the mutated form of the FBXW7 gene could no longer degrade the EGFR protein, leading to increased signaling activity and a decreased response to anti-EGFR treatment.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2024
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.

Scientists use an innovative approach to provide relevant insights into a rare neurologic disorder

Researchers have discovered new genetic mechanisms related to spinocerebellar ataxia type 37, a rare neurological disorder that affects balance and movement. The study employed advanced techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and machine learning to uncover the disease's underlying causes.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalHuman Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2024

It’s hearty, it’s meaty, it’s mold

A team of researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to enhance the nutritional profile and flavor of fungi, creating a new source of plant-based food alternatives. The modified fungi produce heme and ergothioneine, which can improve cardiovascular health benefits.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 14, 2024

Infections from these bacteria are on the rise. New blood test cuts diagnosis time from months to hours

Tulane University researchers have developed a CRISPR-based platform for diagnosing nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections, allowing for accurate results in as little as two hours. The blood test can identify over 93% of patients with an NTM infection, enabling rapid treatment plans and reducing the risk of complications.

SourceTulane University·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 14, 2024

CRISPR-copies: New tool accelerates and optimizes genome editing

Researchers at CABBI developed a computational pipeline for identifying CRISPR/Cas-facilitated integration sites, which can pinpoint neutral integration sites in two to three minutes. This tool enables researchers to efficiently locate all the needles that align with their specific criteria, transforming the genome editing process.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024
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.

Gene editing precisely repairs immune cells

Researchers have developed a gene editing technique that can repair defective immune cells using CRISPR-Cas9, showing promise in treating rare diseases like Familial Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis. The therapy involves repairing genetic defects in cytotoxic T cells to normalize the immune response.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Gene-editing offers hope for people with hereditary disorder

A breakthrough gene-editing therapy has been successfully treated over ten patients with hereditary angioedema, reducing symptoms by up to 95% and potentially providing a permanent cure. The therapy targets the KLKB1 gene responsible for producing plasma prekallikrein.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2024

CRISPR off-switches: A path towards safer genome engineering?

Researchers have developed CRISPR off-switches to mitigate off-target effects, a major concern in genome editing. The new technology, based on anti-CRISPR proteins, can block CRISPR-Cas3 machine function and prevent unintended edits.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 19, 2024

Meet pAblo·pCasso: A new leap in CRISPR Technologies for Next-Gen Genome Engineering

The pAblo·pCasso technology offers unprecedented precision and flexibility in genetic engineering, enabling rapid and precise genetic modifications of bacteria. This breakthrough expands the range of possible genomic editing sites, allowing for temporary modifications and dynamic gene studies.

SourceDanmarks Tekniske Universitet The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJan 15, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Bioinformatics: HIRI researchers develop a new machine learning approach

Researchers from HIRI have developed a new machine learning approach using data integration and AI to improve predictions of CRISPRi efficacy, revealing that gene features matter more than guide RNA itself. The study provides valuable insights for designing effective CRISPRi experiments.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalGenome Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 11, 2024

Mapping of the gene network that regulates glycan clock of ageing

A new study has identified three genes, MANBA, TNFRSF13B, and EEF1A1, as crucial in the regulation of IgG galactosylation, a trait associated with ageing. The research used GWAS to analyze IgG glycosylation phenotypes in a large sample size, increasing the understanding of this complex posttranslational modification.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 3, 2024

Making probiotics more widely applicable through ‘CRISPR’ engineering

Recent progress in CRISPR-Cas editing enables tailored probiotic organisms to promote gut health, support immune systems, and enhance metabolism. Genetically modified probiotics have shown potential in preventing or mitigating diseases, such as antibiotic-resistant bacteria and inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 13, 2023

Revolutionizing probiotic therapy: the emergence of CRISPR-Cas engineered strains

Recent advances in CRISPR-Cas genome engineering enable the creation of novel probiotic strains with potential treatments for various diseases. Genetically modified probiotics show great promise in treating cancers, inflammatory bowel disease, and obesity, while combating antibiotic resistance.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2023

Researchers develop a promising gene-editing strategy for spinal muscular atrophy

A team of researchers has developed a promising gene-editing strategy for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a devastating pediatric neuromuscular disorder. The approach involves using CRISPR base editing to activate the SMN2 gene, which is similar to the mutated SMN1 gene responsible for SMA.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023
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.

Translation inhibition in CRISPR-Cas antiviral defense system

Researchers discovered a novel family of effector proteins called Cami1 that inhibit translation in bacteria attacked by viruses. By cleaving specific mRNAs, Cami1 prevents the production of viral proteins, allowing the bacterium to conserve resources.

SourceVilnius University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2023

The double-edge sword of CRISPR application for in vivo studies

Researchers discuss CRISPR's limitations in generating accurate cancer models, including variable mutations and indels. Despite these challenges, the technology holds promise for cancer research due to its potential for natural selection and Darwinian evolution.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 28, 2023

RNA trickery disarms the antiviral CRISPR defenses of bacteria

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen discovered that phages use small RNAs to disarm bacterial CRISPR-Cas immune systems, making them vulnerable to infection. This finding has significant implications for phage therapy and could lead to more specific and controlled CRISPR-Cas treatments.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature·DateNov 24, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

New methods for effective transport of large genes in gene therapy

Researchers have developed a novel approach, REVeRT, to efficiently transport large genes using dual AAV vectors at the transcript level. This new method offers increased efficiency, fewer side effects, and greater flexibility compared to existing strategies.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2023

Scientists uncover new way viruses fight back against bacteria

Researchers have identified a new mechanism by which phages evade CRISPR-Cas immune systems in bacteria, revealing a potential approach to make gene editing safer and more efficient. This discovery could lead to the development of bespoke anti-CRISPRs to neutralize CRISPR-Cas systems and provide an alternative to antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalNature·DateOct 18, 2023
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.