Articles tagged with Genetic Engineering
Despite 80% of processed American food containing genetically modified ingredients, only 26% of Americans believe they have ever eaten GM foods. A new study found that self-reported and objective knowledge of biotechnology remains low in the US, but opinions on GM foods are open to change.
Researchers have developed genetically modified fat that protects mice from obesity and insulin resistance by increasing adiponectin production. The study suggests that knocking out the Dgat1 gene perturbs the metabolic function of fat tissue, leading to increased energy expenditure and improved insulin sensitivity.
A recent study by Imperial College London found that genetically modified mosquitoes (GM) lose their test marker gene rapidly when interbred with unmodified mosquitoes, posing challenges for malaria control. The researchers suggest using crossing regimes to minimize deleterious mutations and improve the competitiveness of GM mosquitoes.
A computer model reveals that genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can lead to the extinction of natural populations in as few as 20 generations. The research also identifies an 'invasion risk' where introduced genes spread through the population without reducing overall size.
A new peptide-based vaccine has been shown to reduce arterial plaque formation by 60-70% in mice with high cholesterol levels, according to a study led by Cedars-Sinai's P.K. Shah and the Swedish team of Gunilla Nordick-Fredricksson. The vaccine targets the major protein component of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
A research team found that a small fraction of nerve cells in the retina express melanopsin, which detects light levels and regulates the body's daily cycles. These cells connect to brain areas controlling the clock and pupil response, suggesting a non-visual role for melanopsin.
Scientists have identified several proteins that can block myostatin activity, leading to increased muscle growth in mice. The study suggests that these proteins may be effective muscle-enhancing agents for both human and agricultural applications.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science recommends that human trials of inheritable genetic changes should not be initiated until reliable techniques for gene correction or replacement are developed. Serious ethical and religious issues also must be addressed as research policy is formulated, including concerns about ju...
Researchers at Rosetta Inpharmatics used high-quality gene expression data and computational methods to identify novel gene functions. The company's approach enables the deciphering of previously uncharacterized genes, with applications in new drug discovery and development.
Renowned scientist J. Craig Venter will discuss his work on decoding the human genome at the American Chemical Society meeting. He co-founded Celera Genomics to sequence the entire human genome by 2001 and is this year's honoree for the David Perlman Memorial Lectureship.
Researchers successfully engineered a genetic toggle switch to control the activity of genes between stable on and off states. The toggle represents core technology for genetic control devices with potential applications in diabetes, biological warfare agent detection, and cell-based computing.
A group of Oregon State University scientists emphasize the potential benefits of genetic engineering in forestry, including faster-growing trees that can reduce the burden on native forests. They argue against 'genetic extremism' and call for a more careful analysis of the issues based on science.
A new CRADA and licensing agreement have been signed between NREL and Arkenol Holdings, which could further bring down the cost of making ethanol from biomass and boost the US biofuels industry. The agreements focus on developing new strains of genetically altered bacteria for use in converting rice straw to ethanol.
A panel of GMO experts will discuss the differences between genetic engineering and traditional breeding methods, as well as the regulatory frameworks for GMOs in the US and Europe. Key findings include varying attitudes towards labeling and education about rDNA technology across regions.
Researchers genetically altered mice adrenoceptor 2C expression to study stress response. The results showed differential behavioral responses in treated vs. untreated mice, as well as changes in plasma corticosterone levels and brain dopamine/serotonin content. This study highlights the importance of single-gene mutations in respondin...
Researchers have discovered that sons conceived through ICSI can inherit the same genetic defects in their fathers, including AZFc deletions. This finding raises ethical questions about assisted reproduction techniques and potential remedies for affected males.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that genetic testing and dietary modification can save the lives of children born with a defect in fatty acid breakdown. The research team identified 24 infants with liver, heart, or muscular abnormalities and found that dietary treatment was crucial for survival.
Scientists at UNC Chapel Hill and Bern University have developed a new RNA repair technique to block defective processing in cells' messenger RNAs. This method has shown promising results in increasing healthy protein production and could potentially treat or even cure beta thalassemia.
A new form of gene therapy has been tested to prevent blockages that occur after bypass surgery, with four patients showing successful results. The treatment aims to reduce cell growth and atherosclerosis in grafted vessels, which can fail due to up to 50% of cardiac and leg bypass surgeries.
Researchers create unnatural polyketides with anti-bacterial properties by altering enzyme feedstocks, promising to multiply the power of combinatorial biosynthesis and generate hundreds of new compounds for lead molecule discovery