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Peptide synthesized at University of São Paulo acts as molecular shield to prevent SARS-CoV-2 from infecting cells

Researchers at the University of São Paulo developed a synthetic peptide that mimics the ACE2 receptor, blocking SARS-CoV-2 invasion and reducing inflammation in human lung cells and mice. The peptide could be customized for every variant, offering a fast-acting molecular shield against the virus.

NSF to invest $5 million to the Reliable and Scalable Biofoundries for Biomanufacturing and Global Bioeconomy

The NSF has invested $5 million in the Reliable and Scalable Biofoundries for Biomanufacturing and Global Bioeconomy to advance bioeconomy research and solve global challenges. The project aims to establish standards and metrics for biofoundry applications, promote industry partnerships, and develop workforce development programs.

Combining AI and thermal video offers a new window into weightlifting

Researchers developed a method combining AI and thermal cameras to enhance weightlifting training, providing data-driven insights for targeted strategies. The approach enables real-time tracking of muscle activation, strain detection, and temperature changes, ultimately helping athletes optimize performance and safety.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateSep 30, 2024

Programming cells to target brain tumors

Researchers at UNIGE and HUG have developed CAR-T cells capable of targeting malignant gliomas while sparing healthy tissue. The treatment uses a specific marker on tumour cells and appears to be effective in controlling tumour growth without signs of toxicity.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCancer Immunology Research·TypeNews article·DateSep 26, 2024

Genethon announces publication in Nature Communications of a next-generation gene therapy vector for muscle diseases, using AI predictive methodology to improve efficacy and safety

Genethon has developed an innovative gene therapy vector that effectively targets muscle tissue while reducing the risk of liver penetration. The new capsid design uses AI predictive methodology to improve efficacy and safety, paving the way for more effective treatments for neuromuscular diseases.

SourceAFM-Téléthon·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2024

Using a molecular scissors to improve CAR-T cell therapy

CAR-T cell therapy, a regenerative immunotherapy, has shown promise in treating blood cancers but struggles with T-cell exhaustion. Researchers have discovered that overproduction of the IL-4 protein causes this exhaustion and used CRISPR gene-editing technology to remove it, improving CAR-T cell therapy outcomes.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2024

While vaccines target the changing parts of coronavirus, researchers suggest it’s the unchanging parts we also need to pay attention to

A new study published in Microorganisms highlights the importance of small molecule drugs that target the unchanging parts of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The research suggests that these stable targets could provide a consistent and reliable treatment option for COVID-19, even as vaccines are updated to address changing viral strains.

SourceCorewell Health·JournalMicroorganisms·DateSep 9, 2024

FDA issues ‘letter of support’ encouraging use of synuclein-based biomarker, αSyn-SAA, in clinical trials in Parkinson’s and related diseases

The FDA Letter of Support recognizes the potential of αSyn-SAA to accelerate clinical trial design in Parkinson's and related disorders. This biomarker can objectively detect early biology related to these diseases, enabling research toward tailored therapies and potentially delaying or preventing disease onset.

SourceCritical Path Institute (C-Path)·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateSep 9, 2024

New Chinese Medical Journal Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine study provides key insights into pathogenesis mechanisms of lung fibrosis

A literature review examines key cell-cell interactions driving pulmonary fibrosis, revealing complex interplay between diverse lung cell types and intricate processes. The study highlights potential ligands involved in PF, including tumor necrosis factor, interleukin 1β, and ADAM17, and suggests targeting CCIs for novel therapies.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal - Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 5, 2024

The targeting of WNT5B and WNT10B in osteosarcoma

Researchers identify key genes involved in osteoblast differentiation, finding positive correlations between WNT10B and these genes, and inverse correlations with WNT5B. The study hypothesizes that the use of WNT activators or inhibitors depends on whether canonical or non-canonical pathways are activated.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeNews article·DateSep 4, 2024

Fungal infection: A protein weakens the immune system

A study by researchers from Brazil and Germany found that a surface protein on Aspergillus fumigatus spores suppresses the release of pro-inflammatory substances by immune cells, making it easier for the fungus to infect the body. The enzyme glycosylasparaginase plays a crucial role in this process.

Biologists at HSE University warn of potential errors in microRNA overexpression method

Researchers at HSE University discovered that the microRNA overexpression method may produce incorrect results due to errors in Dicer enzyme cleavage. This can lead to the formation of miRNA isoforms that target unintended genes, resulting in inaccurate conclusions about molecular mechanisms.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalBiochimica et Biophysica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2024

General exercise as good as yoga for female urinary incontinence

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that general exercise programs can reduce urinary incontinence symptoms almost as much as pelvic floor yoga. The LILA study involved 240 women who experienced urinary incontinence at least daily, and randomly assigned them to either a pelvic yoga program or a physical condit...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 28, 2024

New research from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and St. Jude poised to transform approach to diagnosing and treating acute leukemia in children

Researchers found that approximately 60% of genetic changes driving T-ALL cancer cells are non-coding changes, significantly altering the understanding of disease biology. This leads to innovative treatments, including new immunotherapies developed at CHOP and St. Jude.