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Deletion of single gene promotes growth of functional lymphatic valves

A USF Health study found that deleting a single gene, Foxo1, promotes the growth of functional lymphatic valves in both young and adult mice. This discovery offers a promising early treatment approach for hereditary lymphedema, a chronic condition characterized by fluid accumulation under the skin.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2021

New in Ethics & Human Research, July-August 2021

The article considers the ethical issues surrounding enrolling children with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder and fragile X syndrome, in clinical trials. Parents may face difficult decisions about whether to enroll their children due to concerns about potential loss of positive aspects of their condition.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalIRB Ethics and Human Research·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 9, 2021

A more complete molecular picture of lung squamous cell carcinoma comes into view

A comprehensive molecular map of lung squamous cell carcinoma has identified potential new drug targets, including the gene NSD3, and highlighted immune regulation pathways that could help cancer evade immunotherapies. The study's findings have also revealed metabolic dysregulation and crosstalk between different cellular processes.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCell·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 5, 2021

Sweet success: CABBI demonstrates first precision breeding of sugarcane with CRISPR-Cas9

Recent innovations by University of Florida researchers at CABBI demonstrate the first successful precision breeding of sugarcane using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. This technique allows for precise changes in genes and introduces superior versions, potentially increasing productivity and sustainability.

A remote control for gene transfer

A team of researchers from the University of Freiburg has developed a new technology that enables controlled introduction of target genes into individual selected cells. They achieved this by introducing genetic information with an optical remote control, allowing only cells illuminated with red light to take up desired genes.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 17, 2021

Researchers develop novel raman method to capture target molecules in small gaps actively

A new Raman spectroscopy method has been developed to capture target molecules in small gaps using nano-capillary pumping, enabling ultrasensitive detection of various substances. This breakthrough allows for real-time monitoring of cell behavior and chemical kinetics, with potential applications in medicine and chemistry.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 23, 2021

New findings speed progress towards affordable gene therapy

Researchers have developed a new method for deploying CRISPR/Cas9 directly into target cells using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) coated with green tea phytochemicals. This approach has the potential to reduce costs and increase safety compared to existing viral methods, which are currently the only approved methods in trial globally.

SourceRMIT University·JournalChemical Communications·DateNov 20, 2020

How upregulation of a single gene by SARS-CoV-2 can result in a cytokine storm

The SARS-CoV-2 virus activates the aryl hydrocarbon receptors (AhRs) through the IDO1-kynurenine-AhR signaling pathway, leading to Systemic AhR Activation Syndrome (SAAS). This triggers a cytokine storm causing inflammation, thromboembolism, and fibrosis. Researchers propose therapies targeting downregulation of AhRs and IDO1 genes to ...

SourceIOS Press·JournalRestorative Neurology and Neuroscience·DateJun 29, 2020

CeMM study reveals how a master regulator of gene transcription operates

Researchers discovered that the Mediator complex selectively safeguards a small set of cell-type-specific genes, which form densely connected regulatory circuits. This finding suggests that Mediator is not generally required for all gene transcription and instead plays a crucial role in directing cell-type-specific functions.

Strong signals show how proteins come and go

Bioscientists at Rice University have developed a novel system to amplify gene expression signals, allowing for more sensitive detection of target genes. The system, consisting of two modules, provides high-resolution dynamic information on gene expression dynamics, which are critical for understanding cell behavior.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 9, 2020

Advancing gene therapies: PIP pip hurray!

Researchers at Kyoto University have designed a new compound that can bind to DNA and activate genes, which could lead to new treatments for cancers and hereditary diseases. The compound, called ePIP-HoGu, targets specific DNA sequences and recruits gene-modifying molecules.

SourceKyoto University·JournalChemical Communications·DateFeb 28, 2020

Phosphorylation of Regnase-1 lets IL-17 run amok

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that phosphorylation of Regnase-1 allows IL-17 to trigger inflammation. Blocking this phosphorylation process could lead to therapeutic agents for treating autoimmune diseases related to IL-17, such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 3, 2019

Artificial chemical DNA switch helps understand epigenetic mechanisms

Researchers developed an artificial chemical DNA switch that can be turned on and off using light, offering a novel approach to epigenetics. The method uses chemical reactions in the major groove of DNA to influence gene switching, potentially leading to targeted regulation of gene expression.

New drug targets for BRCA-driven cancer uncovered

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have discovered two new genetic targets, APEX2 and FEN1, which show promise as potential treatments for hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. The study's findings suggest that inhibiting these enzymes could complement existing Parp inhibitors and address drug resistance in BRCA-driven cancer.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 24, 2019

Mosquito-specific protein may lead to safer insecticides

Researchers identified a mosquito-specific protein, EOF1, which plays a crucial role in eggshell formation. Blocking its expression resulted in non-viable eggs and multiple structural defects. This discovery provides a promising target for developing more effective and safer mosquito control strategies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 8, 2019

Study provides 10-year risk estimates for dementia, which may help with prevention in high-risk individuals who potentially could benefit from early targeted prevention

A Danish study has estimated 10-year absolute risk of dementia by age, sex and common APOE gene variation, identifying high-risk individuals who may benefit from early preventive interventions. The research found that a combination of these factors could lead to a 7-24% risk of developing dementia by age 80.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 4, 2018