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Better cancer care on the horizon thanks to new blood analysis method

Researchers have developed a new method that can detect cancer with low levels of DNA in the blood, providing more detailed information about tumour composition. This could lead to better care for cancer patients, enabling closer monitoring of treatment progress and more informed decision-making.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalBriefings in Bioinformatics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2026

An efficient eDNA sampling tool for high sensitivity aquatic biota detection

Researchers developed a new eDNA sampling membrane that captures DNA fragments with high efficiency, detecting multiple tropical coral reef fish species. The membrane, coated with molybdenum disulfide nanosheets, enables preferential interactions with DNA bases, improving the capture of trace eDNA from large volumes of seawater.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2026

January research news from the Ecological Society of America

A recent study published by the Ecological Society of America highlights the impact of rainstorms on environmental DNA in streams. Researchers found that rainfall can wash away genetic material from land-based species and deposit it into nearby waterways, providing a fuller picture of who is present. In another study, scientists discov...

SourceEcological Society of America·DateJan 29, 2026
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.

A simple urine test could revolutionize bladder cancer diagnosis and treatment

Researchers have developed a simple urine test that can effectively diagnose and stage bladder cancer using cell-free DNA fragmentation analysis. The study found that specific patterns of cfDNA fragmentation can identify muscle-invasive bladder cancer with excellent specificity and predictive value.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 4, 2025

Hornets in town: How top predators coexist

Research by Kobe University entomologist SAGA Tatsuya found that two hornet species divide their prey by specializing on different targets. The Japanese yellow hornet eats soft-bodied prey like crickets and moths, while the yellow-vented hornet consumes low-value prey such as beetles and wasps.

SourceKobe University·JournalEntomologia Generalis·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2025
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

New 3D genome mapping tool reveals hidden complexity in DNA

A novel 3D chromosome mapping method has been developed to detect hidden structural variants in DNA, revealing new discoveries for genetic disorders. The study successfully identified known large chromosomal variants with 100% concordance and uncovered 12 novel structural variants missed by standard clinical tests.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2025

New AI tool reveals single-cell structure of chromosomes — in 3D

A new AI tool developed by University of Missouri researchers can predict the 3D shape of chromosomes inside individual cells, providing a new view of how genes work. The tool helps identify unique differences in chromosome folding between cells, which controls gene activity and can lead to diseases like cancer.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNAR Genomics and Bioinformatics·DateMay 28, 2025

Shining a light on DNA: a rapid, ultra-sensitive, PCR-free detection method

A new method for DNA detection uses heterogeneous probe particles and laser light to accelerate genetic analysis. This PCR-free technique offers greater sensitivity and speed than traditional methods, making it more accessible for medical, environmental, and personal health applications.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 22, 2025

Illuminating the immune response to aberrant DNA

A novel fluorescent biosensor captures spatio-temporal dynamics of STING activation in response to aberrant DNA, enabling visualization of single cell and population responses. This study reveals new insights into the immune response to chromosomally unstable tumours and potential avenues for treatment.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateMar 19, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists find a vulnerability in antibiotic resistance mechanism

Researchers identified a vulnerability in the bacterial machinery driving antibiotic resistance adaptation, which could lead to new counter-strategies. The study found that a genetic toolbox called integron system plays a crucial role in adapting resistance genes.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 17, 2024

$791,000 grant to support future nematode-resistant soybean varieties

Researchers aim to develop resilient soybean plants resistant to southern root-knot nematodes, causing $160 billion in damages annually. The project will screen hundreds of genetically diverse soybean lines worldwide to identify potential new sources of resistance.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·DateDec 13, 2024

Kumamoto University scientists developed new SARS-CoV-2 variant detection method

Researchers at Kumamoto University have developed a cutting-edge diagnostic tool, Intelli-OVI, to rapidly identify emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. This system combines advanced DNA detection technology with computational algorithms to offer a quicker and more cost-effective method of monitoring viral mutations.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 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.

Cyclin D1 expression in penile cancer

Researchers found cyclin D1 expression in patients with penile cancer (PC) is associated with clinical and histopathological features. Patients with cyclin D1 expression had lower disease-free survival compared to the cyclin D1-negative group.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2024

Researchers discover urine-based test to detect head and neck cancer

Researchers have developed a urine-based test that detects pieces of DNA fragments released by head and neck tumors, providing a non-invasive alternative to traditional blood-based biomarker tests. The test has been shown to detect cancer recurrences far earlier than would typically happen based on clinical imaging.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 16, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Do adult periodical cicadas actually feed on anything?

A study published in the Entomological Society of America's Journal of Insect Science found that adult periodical cicadas contain plant DNA, including woody plant and Malus (apple tree) DNA, indicating they feed on plant sap. The discovery resolves a long-standing scientific debate on whether adult cicadas feed.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Insect Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2023

New analytical tool reduces errors in genetic analysis and research

Researchers developed an analytical tool to spot stray DNA and RNA contamination in genetic analyses, increasing result accuracy. The software, SAHMI, can identify microbe-associated cells and study microbiome distribution in tissues.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 9, 2023

Bioengineering breakthrough increases DNA detection sensitivity by 100 times

Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst have developed a new method for DNA detection that is 100 times more sensitive than traditional methods. This breakthrough enables fast and accurate disease diagnosis, reducing wait times for lab processing from days to minutes.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2023

A turtle time capsule: DNA found in ancient shell

A team of paleontologists has discovered the oldest record of sea turtle DNA in a fossil shell from Panama's Caribbean coast. The findings, published in Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, date back approximately 6 million years to the upper Miocene Epoch.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateSep 28, 2023
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.

Researchers engineer bacteria that can detect tumor DNA

Researchers have engineered bacteria that can detect tumor DNA in a live organism, using CRISPR technology. The bacteria, Acinetobacter baylyi, were designed to respond to specific DNA sequences associated with cancer, allowing for early detection and potentially preventing disease progression.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2023

DNA test could broaden access to cervical cancer screening

Rice University engineers developed a low-cost, point-of-care DNA test for HPV infections that can be used to screen for cervical cancer. The test, which requires just two pieces of equipment and delivers results in 45 minutes, has the potential to make cervical cancer screening more accessible in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Pusan National University develops novel biosensor to detect DNA damage in real time

Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a novel FRET-based biosensor to detect double-strand breaks in DNA, providing real-time information on γH2AX. The sensor's sensitivity is higher than conventional immunostaining techniques, making it useful for identifying DNA damage factors and elucidating repair mechanisms.

SourcePusan National University·JournalBiomaterials Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Malaria infection harms wild African apes

New research on malaria-infected bonobos shows that the infection harms them, too, with symptoms including fever and increased mortality risk. The study also finds that bonobos have a protective variant of an immune gene similar to one found in humans, suggesting a selective advantage for those individuals.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2023

Genetic test can detect deadly bleeding disorder in dogs

A new genetic test can identify dogs at risk of a potentially deadly disorder resulting in excessive bleeding and bruising after surgical procedures. The DEPOHGEN test will allow for preventative treatment by administering antifibrinolytic drugs to dogs with the mutation before surgery.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Veterinary Internal Medicine·DateFeb 15, 2023

Fish-hunting and eating behaviors confirmed in Japanese macaques

Researchers have documented cases of Japanese macaques hunting and eating fish in the Kamikochi region of Japan, suggesting an evolutionary adaptation to harsh winter conditions. The behavior appears to be an extension of existing feeding habits on vegetation and aquatic plants, with potential implications for future generations.

SourceShinshu University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJan 12, 2023

Review of fluorescent probes for detecting G-Quadruplex DNA

G-Quadruplex DNA structures play a crucial role in regulating genes and cell processes, but their visualization is challenging due to the dynamic nature of double standard DNA. Fluorescence-active small molecule probes have emerged as a real-time visualization method, enabling researchers to detect G-quadruplexes with high selectivity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Organic Chemistry·DateDec 8, 2022
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.

Monkeypox spread could be monitored with wastewater, study suggests

Researchers propose using wastewater epidemiology to monitor monkeypox spread, detecting viral DNA in sewage and potentially identifying low infection rates. The method could be optimized for community-level monitoring, providing a valuable framework for developing robust programs.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateSep 8, 2022

Liquid biopsy detects DNA markers in advanced breast cancer within five hours

A novel liquid biopsy test can accurately detect cancer DNA in the blood of patients with metastatic breast cancer within five hours, potentially helping oncologists determine if treatments are working. The test's diagnostic accuracy is 85%, correctly detecting cancer 83% of the time and ruling out cancer 92% of the time.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCancer Research Communications·DateJun 23, 2022

SeqScreen can reveal ‘concerning’ DNA

SeqScreen, an open-source software toolkit, accurately characterizes short DNA sequences to detect pathogenic sequences. The program uses a curated database of thousands of gene sequences representing 32 types of virulence functions.

SourceRice University·JournalGenome Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 21, 2022
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.

New study highlights major step forward in monitoring ocean health

Researchers at MBARI use eDNA and autonomous underwater robots to survey marine biodiversity, providing clues about changes in sensitive areas and the presence of rare species. The technology enables persistent monitoring of ocean ecosystems, supporting food webs and regulating climate.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·JournalEnvironmental DNA·DateMay 18, 2022

Towards a better understanding of the biology of schizophrenia

A large-scale genetic study has identified 287 genomic regions associated with schizophrenia and 120 specific genes linked to the disorder. These findings provide new insights into the biological processes underlying schizophrenia, offering potential avenues for novel therapies.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Tumor tissue modified viral (TTMV)-HPV DNA biomarker test predicts recurrence of HPV-driven oropharynx cancer after treatment

A blood test detecting circulating tumor DNA can accurately predict recurrence of HPV-driven oropharyngeal cancer following treatment. The biomarker test may detect recurrent disease earlier than imaging or other standard methods, allowing physicians to personalize treatment more quickly for patients whose cancer returns.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateFeb 24, 2022

Study probes how DNA folding might affect gene activity

Researchers have clarified the mechanism behind activating genes in drosophila fly sex cells, which may hold clues to understanding diseases. The study's findings suggest that DNA packaging plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression, with abnormal packaging potentially leading to misregulation and disease.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

New assay shows promise for advancing personalized cancer treatment

Researchers have developed a rapid and affordable test to identify specific genetic mutations in cancer cells using SuperSelective PCR primers. This assay can detect rare mutations, enabling targeted therapy and monitoring minimal residual disease. The study demonstrates the potential of this approach for personalized cancer treatment.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022

Single-molecule optofluidic microsensor with interface whispering gallery modes

Researchers at Peking University developed a microsensor that leverages whispering gallery modes to detect single DNA molecules with improved sensitivity. The interface mode outperforms traditional evanescent field-based sensors, offering ultra-small sample consumption and automatic analysis capabilities.

SourcePeking University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2022
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 rapid tests will detect adulteration of meat products

Scientists developed a simple method to detect chicken and pork meat in sausages and processed products within 15 minutes. The new approach uses recombincase polymerase amplification and test-strip detection, providing fast and affordable results.

SourceFederal Research Centre «Fundamentals of Biotechnology» of the Russian Academy of Science·JournalMolecules·DateJan 13, 2022

Zoo air contains enough DNA to identify the animals inside

Researchers have successfully identified animal species in zoo air by collecting airborne environmental DNA, offering a valuable tool for tracking biodiversity without intensive fieldwork. By analyzing millions of DNA sequences and comparing them to reference databases, scientists can detect even elusive or inaccessible species.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 6, 2022

The sky’s the limit: Using airborne DNA to monitor insect biodiversity

Researchers at Lund University have successfully detected insect DNA in the air, offering a novel approach to monitoring terrestrial biodiversity. This method, known as airborne DNA metabarcoding, allows for the detection of multiple species from single samples and could accelerate biodiversity surveys.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·DateDec 12, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Promising low-cost method for rapid COVID-19 detection

Researchers at DTU Health Tech have invented a one-pot assay, NISDA, for rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA without the need for enzyme-based methods. The assay detects low concentrations of RNA in 30 minutes and has shown high accuracy and sensitivity.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 27, 2021

Ageing the unageable: UEA researchers develop new way to age lobsters

Scientists at UEA have identified a way to determine the age of lobsters using DNA. The method is based on quantifying DNA changes that accumulate with age within a lobster. This breakthrough could help manage lobster fisheries more sustainably by providing accurate estimates of lobster ages.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateSep 23, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

DNA researchers develop critical shortcut to detect and identify known and emerging pathogens

Researchers have developed a sophisticated new tool to detect and identify rare and unknown viruses and potentially deadly bacterial pathogens. The algorithm helps isolate DNA sequences shared among related organisms, enabling faster detection and identification of pathogens in clinical or wildlife settings.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCell Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 2021

Under the scanner: GIST scientists unravel the inner workings of DNA repair enzymes

GIST scientists utilized latest advances in single molecule detection to observe the enzymatic activity of gene repair. The study revealed that ExoIII has an affinity for damaged DNA sites, creating a gap that Pol I fills. Understanding this mechanism may lead to technologies for targeted gene repair and drug development.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateSep 13, 2021
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.

Transforming marine biodiversity discovery and monitoring

A new system for sampling fragments of DNA from marine organisms drifting in the ocean has been developed, enabling researchers to monitor biodiversity and conservation efforts on a global scale. The innovative approach uses water collected from engine cooling systems on commercial vessels, allowing for large-scale surveys of marine ec...

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 2021