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RCas9: A programmable RNA editing tool

A team of researchers has demonstrated a means by which CRISPR/Cas9 can be programmed to recognize and cleave RNA at sequence-specific target sites. This allows for direct RNA transcript detection, analysis and manipulation, paving the way for transformative studies in RNA function.

Researchers develop new DNA sequencing method to diagnose tuberculosis

Researchers have developed a new DNA sequencing method that can detect and characterize the bacteria causing tuberculosis in a matter of days, without the need for time-consuming laboratory culture. The technique, known as metagenomics, uses high-throughput sequencing technologies to analyze DNA extracted from sputum samples.

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.

Program predicts placement of chemical tags that control gene activity

Researchers have developed a program that predicts the placement of chemical tags controlling gene activity based on DNA sequences. The analysis identified specific DNA patterns associated with epigenomic modifications, revealing new insights into gene regulation and potential therapeutic targets.

Discovery reveals how bacteria distinguish harmful vs. helpful viruses

Scientists have discovered that the bacterial immune system can distinguish between harmful and helpful viruses by watching for a specific transcription cue. This adaptation allows bacteria to harness viral genes for their own benefit, offering new insights into the complex relationships between microbes and viruses.

Sequencing at sea

A team of researchers from San Diego State University overcame numerous challenges to successfully sequence DNA samples in real-time at sea. Despite equipment failures, space constraints, and shark encounters, they managed to collect and analyze data on the Line Islands, developing new research questions and hypotheses along the way.

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.

New material could enhance fast and accurate DNA sequencing

Scientists at the University of Illinois have discovered a single-layer sheet of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) that can sequence DNA more accurately and quickly than existing materials. The new material outperforms graphene, which had limitations due to DNA sticking to it.

New analysis reveals tumor weaknesses

Scientists have discovered that chemical modifications of a gene can contribute to cancer. A new method developed by MIT researchers analyzes these modifications to identify the type of tumor and how it will respond to different drugs. The technique could offer a way to choose the best treatment for individual patients.

How knots can swap positions on a DNA strand

Computer simulations show that two knots on a DNA strand can interchange positions through a growing and diffusing knot mechanism. The swapping of positions is relevant for future technologies like nanopore sequencing, where long DNA strands are sequenced by being pulled through pores.

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.

Gene variant associated with type 2 diabetes in Latino population

A genetic analysis of 3,700 Mexican and U.S. Latino individuals identified a gene variant associated with a 5-fold increase in type 2 diabetes prevalence. The HNF1A gene variant was found to be more common in participants with type 2 diabetes, particularly in Latino patients.

Detecting fetal chromosomal defects without risk

A new benchtop semiconductor sequencing procedure and bioinformatics software tools can detect multiple types of chromosomal abnormalities with high sensitivity and specificity. The noninvasive method uses cell-free fetal DNA and is faster, cheaper, and safer than current procedures.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

The blood preserved in the pumpkin did not belong to Louis XVI

A recent study published in Scientific Reports analyzed the DNA recovered from a relic attributed to Louis XVI and found it did not match his expected genetic profile. The analysis revealed a clear French and Italian component, contradicting historical accounts of Louis XVI's physical appearance.

New tool advances investigations of disease outbreaks

A new computational tool in Molecular Biology and Evolution helps public health officials investigate disease outbreaks by analyzing genomic data, correctly inferring source cases and transmission clusters. The tool complements traditional epidemiology methods, providing valuable insights into outbreak dynamics.

Amino acid fingerprints revealed in new study

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a technique to identify amino acids, including subtly modified variants, by analyzing electrical activity signals. This breakthrough advances the prospect of clinical protein sequencing and discovery of new biomarkers for diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.

Species conservation poised to benefit from DNA advances

Advanced DNA sequencing technologies have improved the accuracy of measuring inbreeding in wild populations. The study revealed that inbred individuals were more likely to suffer from lung parasite infection, highlighting a potential bigger problem than previously thought.

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.

Interactive map of human genetic history revealed

The study uses genome data from 1490 individuals to identify genetic mixing events between populations, dating back to historical events such as the Mongol Empire. The technique, called 'Globetrotter,' provides insight into past events and may have implications for public health and disease prevention.

War elephant myths debunked by DNA

A team of researchers at University of Illinois used DNA analysis to clarify the details of the Battle of Raphia, a historic battle between Asian and African elephants. The study found that the Eritrean elephants were actually savanna elephants with low genetic diversity, which is expected for such a small population.

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.

Chromosomes show off their shapes

A new method combines high-throughput DNA sequencing and computer analysis to produce reliable maps describing contacts between genes along individual chromosomes. The results suggest that the arrangement of genes on chromosomes is modular and based on their functions, with active genes exposed at chromosome boundaries.

UW scientist sniffs out possible new tick species

A UW professor discovered a new possible tick species that infests the noses of Ugandan chimps, suggesting it may be an underappreciated disease carrier. The tick's behavior is thought to be linked to chimp grooming habits, raising concerns about exotic tick populations and global disease spread.

Largest, most accurate list of RNA editing sites

The researchers validated 1,799 sites and predicted an additional 1,782 sites, resulting in a combined list of 3,581 accurate sites. The team gained insights into the model organism's fundamental biology, including patterns of editing and alternative splicing.

Seeing the forest and the trees

Researchers developed a novel robotic camera mount and software to study plant movements across wide panoramas. The technique captures interactions between environment and plants in a single sequence, enabling the visualization of changes over time.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Developing platforms for more accurate DNA sequence reading

A UMass Amherst polymer scientist is working on a four-year, $1.08M grant to develop new ways to control the process of reading precise nucleotide order in DNA chains as they pass through a nanopore. The goal is to create cheaper, faster and more accurate gene sequencing for medical research and healthcare.

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.

Miao Yu receives Howard Hughes Medical Institute fellowship

Miao Yu, a chemistry graduate student at University of Chicago, has received an International Predoctoral Student Research Fellowship from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. She will receive $43,000 annually for up to three years to support her research on DNA modifications.

'Insect soup' holds DNA key for monitoring biodiversity

Researchers create 'insect soup' by crushing insects and sequencing their DNA, which accelerates biodiversity monitoring and cataloguing. This breakthrough allows for more efficient and reliable detection of endangered species and environmental changes.

Hidden strains of HPV found in 'virus-negative' genital warts

Researchers found that 'virus-negative' genital warts can harbor small amounts of more distantly related viruses that escaped previous detection. The study identified 23 new types of HPV and two known sequences, highlighting the diverse pool of previously unknown HPV types infecting humans.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

In subglacial lake, surprising life goes on

Researchers identified thousands of species, including bacteria, fungi, and archaea, through DNA and RNA sequencing. The findings suggest the lake once connected to the ocean, with marine and freshwater species present.

The DOE Joint Genome Institute expands capabilities via new partnerships

The DOE JGI has established new partnerships to develop emerging technologies in genomics and single-cell analysis, including scalable DNA synthesis and high-throughput sequencing. These collaborations aim to enhance the Institute's capabilities and support DOE missions related to clean energy and environmental characterization.

Genes show 1 big European family

A recent study reveals that Europeans are genetically linked over the past thousand years, tracing back to nearly the same set of ancestors. The research found subtle local differences in genetic sequences among European populations.

Mayo Clinic discovers why some don't respond to rubella vaccine

Researchers identified genetic differences in 27 genes responsible for antigen interactions, inflammation, and gene pathways involved between high and low responders. The study provides insights into developing alternative vaccines for individuals who do not respond effectively to the standard rubella vaccine.

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.

Sequencing without PCR reduces bias in measuring biodiversity

Researchers have developed a new sequencing method that reduces bias in measuring biodiversity by avoiding PCR amplification, allowing for accurate estimation of biomass and identification of species. This method was successfully tested on bulk arthropod samples and identified bacteria and insect species with high accuracy.

Enzymes allow DNA to swap information with exotic molecules

Scientists at Arizona State University have discovered an enzyme that allows DNA sequences to be transcribed into a simpler molecule called TNA, which can then be reverse-transcribed back into DNA. This breakthrough offers clues about the origins of genetic code and has potential applications in molecular medicine.

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.

Spinal tap -- using cactus spines to isolate DNA

Researchers have developed a novel procedure to isolate DNA from cactus tissue using cactus spines, overcoming challenges posed by polysaccharide-based mucilage content. This method simplifies genetic work and is less invasive than traditional sampling methods.

Problems with identifying meat? The answer is to check the barcode

A study published in BioMed Central's Investigative Genetics journal found that over 80% of game meat samples in South Africa were mislabeled, with some species being substituted almost entirely. The labelling error has implications for animal safety and cultural/religious practices.

Taking the gamble out of DNA sequencing

USC scientists have developed an algorithm to predict the value of DNA sequencing, which could make it more affordable for clinics. The algorithm uses a model from ecology known as capture-recapture to estimate population sizes, with potential applications in public health, astronomy, and biology.

The nano-channel that disentangles knots

Researchers explore nano-channels to selectively unknnot DNA, with potential applications in sequencing and understanding cell metabolism. The study reveals varying channel widths can drastically change DNA knot complexity.

Evolution of diversity surprisingly predictable

Researchers found that identical genetic changes occurred between independently evolving E. coli populations, driven by negative frequency dependence and natural selection. This discovery challenges traditional views of evolution and species diversity.

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.

No need to prepare

Researchers sequenced DNA molecules directly without library preparation, using less than one nanogram of DNA. The technique has potential for fast and efficient identification of organisms in hospitals and healthcare settings.

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.

Bacterial DNA sequence used to map an infection outbreak

Using DNA sequencing, researchers confirmed an ongoing MRSA outbreak in a hospital, identifying the source and extent of the infection. The team linked the outbreak to an unsuspecting carrier and treated them to eradicate the bacteria, preventing further spread.

MRSA outbreak mapped by DNA sequencing

Researchers used DNA sequencing to map an MRSA outbreak in a special care baby unit, tracking its spread into the community. The technique allowed for quicker identification and isolation of outbreaks, containing the infection and preventing substantial illness.

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.

Bigger human genome pool uncovers rarer variants

Researchers sequenced 1092 human genomes from 14 populations to discover more numerous and rarer genetic variations than previously known. This expanded genetic information enables the discovery of rare genetic variants important for understanding population history and disease association studies.

Directing change: How do they do it?

Researchers at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna used fruit flies to study adaptation to changing temperatures, finding temporally heterogeneous trajectories of selected alleles. Genetic changes were widespread and rapid, with some genes adapting quickly while others showed little change.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Iowa State researchers developing 'BIGDATA' toolbox to help genome researchers

Researchers are developing a set of solutions using high performance computing to address the challenges of big data in genome research. The BIGDATA toolbox will provide core techniques, parallel algorithms and software libraries to enable researchers to adapt parallel computing techniques to high-throughput DNA sequencing.

DNA analysis aids in classifying single-celled algae

Researchers used DNA analysis to separate hundreds of coral symbionts into distinct species, revealing unique ecological distributions. This breakthrough should improve research into reef-building corals and their complex biology, potentially aiding in the survival of corals under global warming.

Writing the book in DNA

Researchers encoded George Church's book 'Regenesis' in DNA using novel strategy and next-generation sequencing technology. The team stored 54,898 unique DNA sequences, each with an address to guide reassembly, for a total of 70 billion copies.

Programmable RNA complex could speed genome editing in the lab

Researchers have discovered an RNA-based complex that guides a DNA-cutting enzyme to specific sites, enabling easy customization for laboratory applications. This breakthrough could revolutionize genome editing and gene function studies, offering a powerful tool for biotechnology efforts.

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.

Rewriting DNA to understand what it says

The new study proposes a way to effectively introduce carefully planned DNA segments into genomes of living cells and test the effects. The technology enables simultaneous introduction of tens of thousands of DNA regions into tens of thousands of living cells, allowing for precise measurement of results within a single experiment.