Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Ancient DNA from Medieval Germany tells origin story of Ashkenazi Jews

The study found that the Erfurt Jewish community was more genetically diverse than modern-day Ashkenazi Jews, with at least two distinct groups. The research team discovered that the founder event, which makes all Ashkenazi Jews today descendants of a small population, happened before the 14th century.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCell·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 30, 2022
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.

Novel sex-determination mechanism revealed in mammals

Researchers at Hokkaido University discovered a novel sex-determination mechanism in the Amami spiny rat, a species lacking the Y chromosome and Sry gene. The mechanism involves the upregulation of Sox9 gene on chromosome 3, induced by a new regulatory element similar to Enh14.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022

AI tailors artificial DNA for future drug development

Using an AI, researchers successfully designed synthetic DNA that controls protein production in cells. The technology can speed up the development of vaccines, drugs for severe diseases, and alternative food proteins.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 24, 2022

Key to the erroneous activation of the immune system

Researchers investigated Aicardi-Goutières syndrome and found that viral RNA recognition drives uncontrolled interferon production. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells due to the failure of safety mechanisms to distinguish between viral and host genetic material.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 8, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Anti-cancer drugs, olaparib and adavosertib, work best when given sequentially in patients with advanced tumours driven by DNA damage response mutations: results from Phase Ib STAR clinical trial

A Phase Ib clinical trial found that sequential administration of PARP inhibitor olaparib and WEE1 inhibitor adavosertib is safe and well-tolerated, with promising signs of anti-tumor activity in patients with advanced cancers driven by DNA damage response mutations. The combination showed durable responses in patients with resistant c...

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 27, 2022

New CRISPR-Cas approach permits more precise DNA cleavage

A new CRISPR-Cas approach, SpRYgests, allows for precise DNA cleavage at any sequence, expanding the utility of molecular cloning approaches. This innovation simplifies and expedites DNA editing and has potential clinical implications.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 11, 2022

Same same but different

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new method to detect intraspecies genomic diversity, or microdiversity, of uncultivated bacteria. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of microbial ecology and evolution, as previously overlooked variations are now being studied.

SourceKyoto University·JournalmSystems·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

Genomic attributes explained by certain life history traits in Neoavian birds

A recent study published in Science Advances reveals a correlation between genomic attributes and life history traits in Neoavian birds. The researchers found that generation time and body mass are associated with the length of orthologous microsatellites, transposable elements, and DNA deletions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 4, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Untangled blinking: Fluorescence patterns aid medical diagnostics

A new DNA-based fluorescence technique using single-molecule electron-transfer kinetics can identify point mutations in mRNA, facilitating the diagnosis of gliomas and potentially treating the disease. This breakthrough may lead to real-time cancer diagnostics during surgical biopsies, reducing the need for multiple surgeries.

SourceOsaka University·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2022

A cellular engineering breakthrough: High-yield CRISPR without viral vectors

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes and UCSF have developed a new approach to introduce long DNA sequences into cells with remarkable efficiency. The technology, which uses single-stranded DNA templates, overcomes the limitations of traditional viral vectors and has the potential to make cell therapies faster, better, and less expensive.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 25, 2022

CRISPR therapeutics can damage the genome

A new study from Tel Aviv University found that CRISPR therapeutics can lead to a significant loss of genetic material in treated cells, potentially destabilizing the genome and promoting cancer. The researchers detected up to 10% of cells with lost chromosomes, highlighting the need for extra care when using this technology.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJul 24, 2022
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.

The emergence of form: New study expands horizons for DNA nanotechnology

A new study explores the characteristics of 36 basic variants of the Holliday junction, a fundamental building block used in DNA nanoforms. The results show that sequences forming the four protruding arms of the junction can enhance or hinder crystallization processes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 28, 2022

Ancient microbes may help us find extraterrestrial life forms

Researchers have reconstructed what life was like for some of Earth's earliest organisms using light-capturing proteins in living microbes. The findings could help recognize signs of life on other planets with atmospheres similar to ancient Earth.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJun 27, 2022
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.

Scientists conceptualize a species ‘stock market’ to put a price tag on actions posing risks to biodiversity

A conceptual species 'stock market' aims to assign economic value to species and ecosystems, promoting sustainability and biodiversity conservation. The SSM would enable the valuation of ecosystem services and actions that harm or benefit biodiversity, fostering a unified approach to environmental decision-making.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalResearch Ideas and Outcomes·DateJun 20, 2022

Novel method for early disease detection using DNA droplets

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a computational DNA droplet that can recognize specific combinations of chemically synthesized microRNAs as biomarkers of tumors. The droplet can perform logic computing operations and detect multiple cancer biomarkers simultaneously.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 3, 2022

Archaeology: First Pompeiian human genome sequenced

Scientists have successfully sequenced the first human genome from an individual who died in Pompeii, Italy, after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE. The study provides new insights into the genetic history and lives of the population, including evidence of high levels of genetic diversity across the Italian Peninsula.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 26, 2022

A family of termites has been traversing the world’s oceans for millions of years

Researchers mapped out the natural history of drywood termites, revealing oceanic voyages that accelerated their evolution and confirmed recent dispersals via humans. The study also challenged the common assumption of primitive lifestyles, highlighting the diversity and complexity of termite social behavior.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 23, 2022

Probe of DNA repeats reveals genetic link to schizophrenia

Researchers found a genetic link between long repeated DNA sequences and schizophrenia. The study discovered rare tandem repeat expansions near genes associated with the disorder, contributing to dysfunction at synapses and disrupting gene function.

SourceThe Hospital for Sick Children·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 11, 2022
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.

Gene editing DNA deletion sizes reduced with new fusion method developed at WFIRM

Researchers at WFIRM have developed a novel method to refine CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, increasing efficiency and decreasing large DNA deletions. The technique, which fuses DNA polymerase I or the Klenow fragment to Cas9, improves safety and functional editing outcomes.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 2, 2022

How genome organization influences cell fate

A team of researchers at UC Riverside has discovered that a protein complex called CAF-1 controls genome organization to maintain lineage fidelity in blood stem cells. The study found that CAF-1 keeps specific genomic sites compacted and inaccessible to transcription factors, ensuring the expression of lineage-specific genes.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2022

Computerized, rolling DNA motors move molecular robotics to next level

Researchers integrated computer functions into rolling DNA motors, enabling them to sense chemical information, process data, and respond accordingly. The motors can be programmed to detect specific pathogens or DNA sequences, making them a potential technology for medical testing and diagnostics.

SourceEmory University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2022
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 expand target range of CRISPR/Cas Systems

Scientists have developed a new approach to expand the target range of CRISPR/Cas systems, allowing for slight variations in target DNA while maintaining local specificity. This technology could help realize the potential of CRISPR/Cas-based gene therapy and pathogen diagnosis, particularly for diagnostics.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 29, 2022

The future of data storage is double-helical, research indicates

A team of researchers has developed a DNA-based data storage platform with an expanded molecular alphabet, enabling the storage of vast amounts of digital information. The new system uses nanopores to distinguish between natural and chemically modified nucleotides, increasing storage density and sustainability.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2022
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Environmental DNA analysis to manage fecal contamination

A team of researchers has developed a new method using environmental DNA analysis to track the source of fecal contamination in surface water. By analyzing specific DNA sequences, they can identify the main contributors to pollution and potentially pinpoint areas with faulty wastewater treatment infrastructure or poor manure management.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalEnvironmental Monitoring and Assessment·DateFeb 24, 2022

The abyssal world: the last terra incognita of the Earth surface

A massive DNA sequencing project has mapped the deep-sea biodiversity, revealing a vast and unknown ecosystem that plays a crucial role in ocean food-webs and carbon sequestration. The study sheds light on the connection between surface and deep-water ecosystems, with implications for understanding climate change.

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 4, 2022

Scientists use 'sticky' DNA to build organized structures of gel blocks

Researchers used microscopic strands of DNA to guide the assembly of gel blocks that self-assembled in around 10-15 minutes. The process was highly specific and easily programmable, allowing the blocks to interact with each other in different ways by changing the sequence of DNA.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 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.

Most “pathogenic” genetic variants have a low risk of causing disease

Researchers analyzed DNA sequences and electronic health records of thousands of individuals to discover that the chance a pathogenic genetic variant may cause a disease is relatively low, about 7 percent. However, some variants are linked to wide range of risks for disease.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 25, 2022

New sequencing technique established for low-biomass, degraded or contaminated microbiome samples

A new sequencing technique called 2bRAD-M has been developed to accurately identify species-level information from low-biomass and degraded microbiome samples. The method uses restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) to produce high-resolution profiles of bacteria, archaea, and fungi down to the level of species.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalGenome Biology·DateJan 25, 2022

Scientists build ‘valves’ in DNA to shape biological information flows

Researchers at the University of Bristol have created new DNA parts that can shape the flow of cellular processes along DNA. This technology allows for the rapid assembly and testing of thousands of DNA parts in parallel, unlocking new tools for building sustainable biotechnologies.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 21, 2022

Daring to leave gaps in the genome

Researchers developed a new method to complete genetic data gaps using haplotype blocks, improving breeding efficiency in plants. The approach has shown comparable quality to collecting more information from DNA strands, reducing costs in animal and plant breeding.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 3, 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.

Powerful new tool makes coral reef monitoring faster, easier, cheaper

Researchers have developed a powerful new tool that can determine the diversity of hard corals on a reef by analyzing DNA in seawater samples. This method is faster, easier, and less expensive than traditional visual identification, allowing for more accurate coral reef conservation and restoration.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2021

Long-range four-stranded DNA structures found to play a role in rare ageing disease

A special form of four-stranded DNA has been found to interact with the gene that causes Cockayne Syndrome when faulty. G-quadruplexes, which form knot-like structures in DNA, specifically bind to a protein called CSB, affecting its function and potentially leading to premature ageing.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2021
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.

New microscopy method offers 3D tracking of 100 single molecules at once

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new microscopy method that can track 100 single molecules simultaneously in three dimensions. The technique uses surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technology to precisely image molecular binding events and study their dynamic activities in real time.

SourceArizona State University·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2021

DNA tangles can help predict evolution of mutations

Researchers found that DNA tangles create mutational hotspots in bacterial genomes, influencing evolution. By altering the sequence to prevent hairpin tangles, they can predict how microbes might mutate under selective pressure.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

Sequencing the unknown made easy: Metaplatanus improves metagenome assembly

A novel metagenome assembler called MetaPlatanus has been developed to improve DNA sequence accuracy, including those of uncultured organisms. The tool uses accurate short DNA sequence reads to assemble contigs and scaffold larger chromosome-scale structures.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 8, 2021

Darwin’s short-beak enigma solved

A study by University of Utah biologists discovered a mutation in the ROR2 gene is linked to short beak length in domestic pigeons. This mutation also underlies the human disorder Robinow syndrome, which shares striking facial features with the pigeon phenotype.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Cancer immunotherapy gets PIP boost

Researchers at Kyoto University designed a synthetic molecular code, EnPGC-1, that activates mitochondrial biogenesis in T cells, increasing their numbers and longevity. The approach enhances anti-tumor immunity in mice and improves survival.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateSep 13, 2021
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.

Ancient marsupial 'junk DNA' might be useful after all, scientists say

Researchers found that viral fossils in Australian marsupials are used to make non-coding RNAs that protect against outside infection. The study suggests that these viral fossils may be helping to immunize animals, potentially providing a mechanism similar to vaccination.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalVirus Evolution·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 8, 2021

Deleting DNA to treat mitochondrial diseases

Scientists at Kyoto University developed a chemical compound that can tag and remove mutant DNA sequences from mitochondria, potentially treating mitochondrial diseases. The approach overcomes existing problems with genetic material injection and antioxidant drugs.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateAug 26, 2021

Integrative approach by NUS biologists increases accuracy of mosquito vector surveillance

A team of researchers from NUS developed an integrative approach to boost accuracy in mosquito surveillance by including larvae and species identification using mini-barcodes. This approach improves overall diversity estimates by 38% compared to adult-only data, contributing to baseline knowledge on potential vectors in Singapore.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateAug 20, 2021
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Biosensor permits ultra-fast and cheap detection of SARS-CoV-2

A new genosensor, developed by a Brazilian research team, can detect the genetic sequence of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva or other body fluids with high sensitivity. The device can analyze samples in 30 minutes for a cost of less than $1 per genosensor.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMaterials Chemistry Frontiers·DateAug 10, 2021

The future of medicine is nearer thanks to researchers’ invention

A new process for making RNA has been developed by researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, yielding purer and more abundant RNA at a fraction of the cost. This breakthrough removes the largest stumbling block on the path to next-generation RNA therapeutic drugs.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 5, 2021

New approach can add diversity to crop species without breeding GMOs

A new genetic technique edits every chloroplast in a plant without changing its nuclear DNA. Researchers achieved this by modifying chloroplast genes specifically and removing the DNA editing tool, which cannot be inherited by future seeds. This approach could potentially solve both technical challenges and controversies surrounding GMOs.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Plants·DateJul 1, 2021

New method for producing synthetic DNA

The new method streamlines DNA production by automating the synthesis of phosphoramidites, eliminating manual labor and storage issues. This breakthrough has significant implications for disease identification, drug manufacturing, and other medical applications.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 12, 2021
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.

Telomere length and longevity

A two-decade study of wild Soay sheep in Scotland reveals that telomere length is correlated with individual longevity. However, the effect of telomere length on mortality appears to be driven by genetic factors rather than environmental influences.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2021

UIC researchers invent new gene-editing tool

Researchers have discovered a new gene-editing technique that allows for the programming of sequential cuts in genes, enabling researchers to better investigate time-sensitive processes like cancer development. The discovery was made by UIC's Bradley Merrill and colleagues using special molecules called 'proGuides',

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 23, 2021
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.

AI researchers ask: What's going on inside the black box?

AI researchers have developed a method to train neural networks to predict the function of DNA sequences, allowing for deciphering larger patterns. This breakthrough enables analysis of complex DNA sequences critical to development and disease, potentially improving understanding of gene regulation and its impact on diseases.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateFeb 8, 2021