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Scientists identify enzyme that could help accelerate biofuel production

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have identified an enzyme, GPAT1, as a promising target for increasing biofuel production from red algae. The study found that TAG productivity could be increased by more than 56 times in a strain overexpressing GPAT1 without negative effects on algal growth.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 17, 2018
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.

The secret behind cell revival revealed

Researchers have identified 85 genes essential for fission yeast cells to maintain their ability to divide after being starved of nitrogen. The study sheds light on the genetic network required for resting cells like cancer stem cells to reactivate and has potential applications in developing new therapies to treat cancer. This discove...

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 15, 2018

Why do some microbes live in your gut while others don't?

A new computational approach has identified genes that may enable microbes to colonize the human gut and survive in its harsh environment. The researchers found thousands of genes across different species that are prevalent in the gut, including those specific to this environment.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 9, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cells stop dividing when this gene kicks into high gear, study finds

Researchers discovered that gene CD36 is unusually active in older cells, causing them to stop dividing. This effect can spread to nearby cells, leading to senescence. The study highlights the importance of understanding cellular aging and its implications for age-related diseases and cancer.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalMolecular Omics·DateJun 21, 2018
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.

Cell types underlying schizophrenia identified

Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have identified the cell types underlying schizophrenia, providing a roadmap for developing new therapies. The findings suggest that certain cell types contribute to the disorder and may require separate treatments.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 21, 2018

Novel bioactive steroid biosynthetic pathway in symbiotic fungi

Scientists deciphered the biosynthetic gene cluster for furanosteroid demethoxyviridin, a nanomolar-potency inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). The research group identified key enzymes involved in the biosynthesis pathway.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 21, 2018

Researchers identify gene that helps prevent brain disease

The researchers have identified a gene called Ankrd16 that prevents the production of harmful protein aggregates in neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Elevating levels of Ankrd16 protects specific neurons from dying, while removing it leads to widespread buildup of abnormal proteins.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateMay 16, 2018

24 and me

American University researchers have identified the first gene of the germline-restricted chromosome (GRC) in the zebra finch, a crucial step in understanding sex determination in birds. The discovery of GRC α-SNAP, a SNAP family gene crucial to membrane fusion, suggests potential functions and directions for follow-up experiments.

SourceAmerican University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 3, 2018
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.

New bioinformatics tool identifies and classifies CRISPR-Cas systems

A new bioinformatics tool, CRISPRdisco, has been developed to identify and classify CRISPR-Cas systems in genome assemblies. The software detects CRISPR repeats and accurately assigns class, type, and subtypes, enabling researchers to distinguish between complete and incomplete CRISPR systems.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe CRISPR Journal·DateApr 11, 2018

Gene jumpstarts regeneration of damaged nerve cells

A Yale research team identified a gene that can spur regeneration of axons in nerve cells severed by spinal cord injury when eliminated. The study found over 580 genes potentially involved in regeneration, with one gene, Rab27, leading to successful axon regeneration in mice.

SourceYale University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 10, 2018

New links between genetic abnormality and brain function in Huntington's disease

A new study identifies alterations in functional connectivity across the whole brain in carriers of the Huntington's disease gene mutation, associated with motor and cognitive function. The study also shows significant associations between the extent of the degree of gene mutation and measures of brain connectivity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateMar 21, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

CRISPR helps find new genetic suspects behind ALS/FTD

A recent study using CRISPR-Cas9 technology identified new genes that may hasten neuron death in ALS and FTD patients. The researchers found that genes controlling cell movement and protein assembly were potential partners in DPR toxicity, suggesting novel therapies for ALS.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 12, 2018

Genes for age-linked brain deterioration identified

Researchers have identified over 250 genes involved in brain aging, including Dbx2, which can prematurely age stem cells. The study found that increasing the activity of Dbx2 in young brain stem cells slows their growth, causing them to behave more like older cells.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalAging Cell·DateMar 5, 2018

Scientists link genes to brain anatomy in autism

Scientists have discovered genes linked to individual differences in brain anatomy in autistic children, with variation in cortex thickness and gene activity involved. The study provides the first evidence linking differences in the autistic brain to specific genes with atypical gene activity.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 27, 2018

Genetics makes Asians and Europeans susceptible to severe dengue

Researchers identified genetic variants associated with blood vessel inflammation and metabolism that increase risk of severe dengue. These findings provide insights into the pathophysiology of the disease and may lead to new therapeutic approaches.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateFeb 23, 2018
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.

When every fish counts

A study published in Conservation Genetics found that about a third of fish samples were misidentified as native delta smelt when using visual identification. Genetic analysis revealed 27% of the fish thought to be native delta smelt were actually non-native wakasagi.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalConservation Genetics·DateFeb 22, 2018

Fifteen new genes identified that shape our face

Researchers have identified 15 new genes that play a crucial role in shaping our facial features. The discovery was made using a novel approach that analyzed DNA data from large databases of faces. The findings could lead to breakthroughs in forensic analysis and reconstructive surgery, enabling doctors to use DNA to recreate lost faces.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 19, 2018

Researchers begin isolating blood-feeding and non-biting genes in mosquitoes

Scientists at the University of Birmingham and other institutions have identified 902 genes related to blood feeding and 478 genes linked to non-blood feeding in the mosquito Wyeomyia smithii. The goal is to isolate universal non-biting genes that could be manipulated to control vector-borne diseases.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 18, 2018
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.

Wheat disease breakthrough to help feed the world

Researchers have isolated the first rust pathogen gene that wheat plants detect to 'switch on' resistance, allowing for faster DNA testing and prioritizing resistance genes. The breakthrough could save crops from being destroyed by devastating diseases, threatening food security globally.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017
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 isolate biting, non-biting genes in pitcher plant mosquitoes

Researchers isolated 1,380 genes related to biting and non-biting in the pitcher plant mosquito, identifying 902 biting and 478 non-biting genes. The study provides a starting point for discovering genetic pathways that can be manipulated to reduce transmission of vector-borne diseases.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 2017

Knockout mice help find gene for bad breath

Researchers discovered a genetic link between sulfur compounds and chronic bad breath in humans and genetically modified mice. The study found that people with the condition had mutations in the SELENBP1 gene and high levels of odor-causing chemicals in their blood, mirroring findings in mice with the same mutation.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 19, 2017

A functional genomics database for plant microbiome studies

A functional genomics database has been developed to study the plant microbiome, revealing key genes involved in bacterial adaptation to plants. The database combines 3837 genomes from various organisms, including plants and human gut bacteria, allowing researchers to identify genes that aid in bacterial colonization.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 19, 2017

NeuroExpresso: Web app enables exploration of brain cell types

A new web-based application called NeuroExpresso provides a comprehensive catalogue of brain cell type data, helping to better define their functions and properties. The tool uses marker genes to estimate cellular composition of mouse and human tissue.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateNov 20, 2017
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.

Gene discovery may halt worldwide wheat epidemic

Researchers at UC Davis identified a gene that enables resistance to Ug99, a devastating strain of stem rust threatening global food security. Breeders can use molecular markers to select for the genes and develop varieties with multiple resistance levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2017

Uncovering a reversible master switch for development

Researchers identified a reversible 'master switch' that regulates developmental genes in fruit flies, providing a conceptually simple explanation for how different cell types are formed. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of cancer mutations and the development of new therapeutic strategies.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 13, 2017

Genetic discovery another tool in battle against wheat pests

Researchers have identified genetic markers for greenbug and Hessian fly resistance in wheat, providing a new tool for breeders to combat these pests. The discovery enables the efficient transfer of resistant genes into new wheat lines using marker-assisted selection.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateNov 8, 2017

A little stress is good for cellular health and longevity

Researchers discovered that mild mitochondrial stress signals can prevent protein-folding quality control failure and suppress damaged proteins associated with degenerative diseases. This approach doubles the lifespan of C. elegans and may offer a strategy for increasing cellular health and delaying disease risk in humans.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 7, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Vitamin E discovery in maize could lead to more nutritious crop

New research has identified genes controlling vitamin E content in maize grain, a finding that could lead to improving the nutritional profile of this staple crop. Six genes were discovered to encode proteins contributing to antioxidant compounds called tocochromanols, also known as vitamin E.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateNov 1, 2017

Aging has distinct and opposite effects on tendon in males and females

Researchers analyzed gene expression changes in tendon tissue of male and female subjects aged 20-24 and 54-70. The study found opposite effects on genes expressed in males and females with age, highlighting the importance of considering gender differences in treating tendon disease.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 31, 2017

Examining potatoes' past could improve spuds of the future

Researchers at Michigan State University have identified key genes that helped domesticated potatoes adapt over thousands of years. By studying the ancestors of modern North American cultivated potatoes, scientists uncovered common genes and important pathways that enabled spuds to thrive in diverse environments.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2017
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 technique scours the genome for genes that combat disease

Researchers at MIT developed a new way to screen for genes that protect against specific diseases by adapting the CRISPR genome-editing system. The new technology identified genes that protect yeast cells from a protein associated with Parkinson's disease, which may also provide protective effects in human neurons.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 12, 2017

Genes critical for hearing identified

A recent study published in Nature Communications has identified 52 previously unknown genes that play a crucial role in human hearing. The research used 'knock-out' mice to assess their hearing thresholds and found that these genes can lead to mild to severe hearing loss or difficulties at specific frequencies.

SourceMedical Research Council·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 12, 2017

Liverwort genes and land plant evolution

The liverwort's genome has provided insight into the transition from algae to land plants, identifying genes critical for plant growth and development. The study also found that early plants developed strategies for water retention and distribution, which are still employed by modern plants.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalCell·DateOct 5, 2017
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.

Gene related to brain damage in pre-term infants identified

Researchers at King's College London have identified a gene, DLG4, associated with brain damage caused by pre-term birth. The study found that DLG4 is involved in controlling the inflammatory process and may open doors for effective treatments of diseases such as cerebral palsy and autism.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 5, 2017

New, ultra-rare gene mutations implicated in eating disorders

Researchers have discovered ultra-rare gene mutations associated with eating disorders, targeting a pathway involved in appetite regulation and inflammation. The findings suggest potential new treatments for these conditions, particularly for bulimia nervosa.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 5, 2017

Drought response in global crops may be as complex as day and night

Researchers have identified a set of genes that help control early drought response in Brassica rapa, a popular global crop. The study sheds light on how plants respond to water stress throughout the day-night cycle, revealing potential mechanisms for improving drought resistance and fertilization efficiency.

SourceDartmouth College·DateAug 29, 2017

How a bacterium can live on methanol

A team of scientists has identified all the genes required for Methylobacterium extorquens to live on methanol. The bacterium can use either larger carbon molecules or methanol from plants as a nutrient, depending on availability.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 22, 2017
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.

Varroa mites -- bees' archenemies -- have genetic holes in their armor

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered four genes that help Varroa mites survive and two that affect their reproduction. The team used RNA interference to identify the key genes, which could lead to reduced or eliminated mite populations. This breakthrough may also have applications beyond bee conservation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Insect Science·DateAug 14, 2017

A taste cell encyclopedia

A new study from the Monell Center enables researchers to pinpoint the unique molecular components needed for each type of taste cell to function. This breakthrough provides a treasure trove of information on how taste cells respond to different compounds and can help devise ways to promote healthy eating.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

Evolution of fan worm eyes

Fan worms have developed unusual compound eyes on their tentacles to detect motion and predators, alerting them to danger. The eyes' unique genetic makeup reveals an independent evolutionary history from other visual systems.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Discovery of why emus are grounded takes flight

A team of researchers from Monash University has identified the Nkx2.5 gene as a key regulator of wing development in emus. This discovery sheds light on the genetic basis of limb reduction and may have implications for human limb development, particularly in individuals born with limb abnormalities.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 25, 2017

New mutations related to hereditary neuroendocrine tumors

Researchers have discovered new genes associated with the development of pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas, which are rare neuroendocrine tumors with a strong hereditary component. The study identifies alterations in enzymes involved in cell respiration as a key factor in tumor growth.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJul 20, 2017
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.

Scientists identify new way cells turn off genes

Researchers have identified a new mechanism for silencing imprinted genes in cells, which could shed light on developmental disorders such as Angelman syndrome. The discovery also raises questions about the difficulty of cloning mammals, with potential implications for treating developmental failures.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 2017

Two new genes linked to Alzheimer's risk

Researchers at Cardiff University have discovered two new genes that increase a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The findings build on previous research identifying 24 susceptibility genes and provide insights into the mechanisms underlying the disease.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 17, 2017