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Researchers urge caution in gene editing early human embryos following findings that it could have unexpected and dangerous consequences Further research to refine gene editing technology is needed

Researchers have discovered that gene editing technologies may introduce unintended mutations and damage to DNA in early human embryos. The study found that most cells repair breaks in the DNA using non-homologous end joining, which can lead to additional genetic abnormalities.

Researchers overcome stem cell delivery barrier, paving the way for regenerative medicine

Scientists have developed a new method to deliver genetic information to stem cells using nanoparticles coated with a specific polymer, enabling more efficient control over cellular differentiation. This innovation has the potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of regenerative medicine treatments.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2023

Artificial DNA kills cancer

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed artificial DNA that can target and kill cancer cells by binding to microRNA molecules. The DNA triggers an immune response that not only kills cancer cells but also prevents further growth of cancerous tissue.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2022

UNC Charlotte-led team invents new anticoagulant platform, offering hope for advances for heart surgery, dialysis, other procedures

A UNC Charlotte-led team has invented a new biomolecular anticoagulant platform that holds promise as a revolutionary advancement over current blood thinners. The technology uses programmable RNA-DNA fibers to prevent blood clotting as needed, then be swiftly eliminated from the body.

The secret lives of mites in the skin of our faces

Researchers analyzed DNA of Demodex folliculorum mites living in human hair follicles, finding unusual body features and behaviors due to their isolated existence. The study suggests these mites may transition from external parasites to internal symbionts as they shed unnecessary genes and cells.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2022

Can a parasitic wasp save your fruit crops?

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have created a genetic toolkit to investigate the molecular mechanisms of a parasitic wasp, Asobara japonica. By analyzing its genome and using RNA interference, they identified key genes involved in venom production and found that suppressing these genes can lead to phenotypic changes.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalDNA Research·DateJun 16, 2022

Physical mechanisms explaining DNA and RNA twist changes

Researchers developed a simple physical model to explain DNA deformations caused by ions and temperature changes. The model reveals that salt-induced twist changes are driven by electrostatic interactions, while temperature-induced changes are related to DNA diameter variation. These findings provide new insights into the molecular mec...

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJun 6, 2022

How new bird species arise

A study reveals that new bird species arise in lowland habitats before moving higher into mountainous areas, where genetic differences accumulate. The research suggests that climate fluctuations, particularly during the Pleistocene era, contributed to the evolution of these high-altitude populations.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2022

Chung-Ang University researchers shows a gold-paved path towards faster COVID-19 diagnosis

Researchers created a novel molecular diagnostic platform that can detect COVID-19 genes after only 8 cycles of amplification, significantly reducing the time required for diagnosis. The new SERS-PCR platform uses gold nanoparticles to produce high-sensitivity signals, providing an important tool in the fight against the pandemic.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022

Humans hastened the extinction of the woolly mammoth

New research reveals humans played a significant role in the extinction of woolly mammoths, contributing to population declines and range collapses. The study shows that human hunting, combined with climate change, led to the species' demise in Eurasia thousands of years earlier than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEcology Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 11, 2021

BBQ lighter, combined with microneedles, sparks breakthrough in COVID-19 vaccine delivery

Researchers at Georgia Tech and Emory University have developed an innovative method for delivering vaccines, including those for COVID-19, using a handheld electroporator. The device is powered by a BBQ lighter and uses microneedle technology to reduce the complexity and cost of vaccine delivery.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021