Sampling surfaces for COVID-19 at public health laboratories
A new study published in mSystems demonstrates that a surface sampling method can detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA on surfaces, improving environmental surveillance in public health labs.
Rna
Articles tagged with Rna
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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...
Novel tool targeting unusual RNA structures for potential therapeutic applications
A new type of RNA structure targeting tool has been developed to specifically recognise unusual four-strand RNA structures associated with diseases such as cancer and neurological disorders. The L-RNA aptamer-based rG4 targeting approach shows promise for developing new therapeutic tools.
David Knowles wins NSF CAREER Award
Assistant professor David Knowles at Columbia University wins a $500,000 NSF CAREER Award to develop a new framework and tools for analyzing alternative splicing in diseases such as ALS and cancer. The project aims to create more accurate algorithms for single-cell and long-read RNA-seq analysis.
Bonds from the past: A journey through the history of protein synthesis
Researchers studied peptide bond formation between tRNA molecules and a ribosomal RNA segment, revealing the potential for minihelices to bind to the primordial peptidyl transferase center. The study suggests that functional interactions between tRNA and PTC could have been 'revised' in evolution.
Cancer-fighting viruses soften up their victims before attacking
Researchers developed a virus that infects cancer cells, killing them while sending signals to nearby uninfected cells for viral attack. This approach shrinks tumors and enhances cancer-killing efficacy in various models, including pancreatic and ovarian cancers.
New research sheds light on causes of reproductive disorders, infertility, miscarriage, birth defects
New research from Rutgers University sheds light on the genetic mechanisms of reproductive disorders, including infertility and miscarriage. The study reveals how the RNA helicase YTHDC2 regulates meiosis, a critical step in egg and sperm development.
Comparing human milk antibody response after different COVID-19 vaccines
A study compared the antibody response in human milk after vaccination with four COVID-19 vaccines, revealing differences in immune system activation. The findings provide valuable insights into vaccine effectiveness and potential impact on infant health.
New tool reveals function of enigmatic gene sequences
Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new high-precision tool to identify the function of noncoding DNA sequences, which may eventually contribute to the development of targeted drugs. The study reveals that these noncoding parts of patients' DNA are linked to genetic changes in diseases.
Cerebrospinal fluid may be able to indentify aggressive brain tumors in children
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered 110 genes, circular RNAs, lipids and metabolites that differ between medulloblastoma patients' cerebrospinal fluid and healthy controls. These findings provide proof of principle for novel biomarkers to detect and track the disease.
DisCo: Boosting the efficiency of single-cell RNA sequencing
A new method called DisCo enhances the efficiency of single-cell RNA sequencing by actively detecting and capturing cells using machine-vision. This approach allows for continuous operation and high capture efficiency, making it suitable for processing small cell samples such as tissues or patient biopsies.
Protective mutations in COVID-19
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg mapped SARS-CoV-2 mutation patterns and found that ADAR1-induced mutations weaken the virus. These mutations are more common than other types of mutations, suggesting a protective mechanism against COVID-19.
COVID-19 exposure possible outside of home isolation rooms
A Rutgers study found measurable airborne SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the air of most homes where COVID-19 infected individuals were isolating, suggesting airborne transmission beyond isolation rooms poses a risk to other occupants. The study also showed that infected individuals often did not strictly adhere to self-isolation protocols.
Editing RNA to fix protein problems in cystic fibrosis
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory develop a novel method to modify the CFTR gene, allowing for the production of functional protein in patients with certain mutations. The technique involves using antisense oligonucleotides to skip over the mutation and produce a partially functional protein.
COVID-19: Small study found no evidence of transmitting virus through breastfeeding
A recent study published in Pediatric Research found no SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in breastmilk from mothers infected with COVID-19, ruling out transmission to infants. The authors analyzed 110 lactating women and did not find any clinical evidence of infection in breastfeeding infants.
Plants: RNA notes to self
Plant cells use RNA signals to coordinate growth, but these signals require a special escort protein to reach the right cells. Without this protein, plants fail to develop properly, highlights a crucial step in understanding how information is exchanged between cells.
New findings may contribute to better diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified a specific connection between a protein and an lncRNA molecule that can help decrease fat depots in tumor cells, leading to cell division cessation and cancer cell death. The study contributes to increased knowledge of liver cancer diagnosis and future treatments.
Therapeutic reversal of Huntington’s disease by in vivo self-assembled siRNAs
Researchers developed a novel strategy to deliver siRNA therapeutics directly to the brain, reversing Huntington's disease symptoms and improving behavioral deficits. The approach utilizes exosomes to facilitate siRNA delivery, avoiding invasive procedures and safety concerns.
The origin of neuronal diversity
Researchers developed a new technique to analyze brain cell development, finding that cells of similar types are often unrelated and can converge from different progenitors. Conversely, different cell types can diverge from the same progenitor, determining their fate during differentiation.
Yale researchers develop RNA-based therapy that clears SARS-CoV-2 from mice
A Yale team has discovered an RNA molecule, SLR14, that stimulates the body's early antiviral defense system to protect against SARS-CoV-2 variants. This therapy holds promise as a new class of RNA therapeutics for treating COVID-19 in immunocompromised patients.
Reducing plastic pollution by adding RNA-inspired ‘breaking points’
Researchers developed a biodegradable polymer called polylactide (PLA) with RNA-inspired breaking points, which can break down faster in seawater. The degradation rate of the polymer can be tailored depending on the amount of breaking points, offering a potential solution to marine pollution.
Sequencing multiple RNA base modifications simultaneously: a new era of RNA biology
A research group at Osaka University has developed a new tool for sequencing various types of RNA base modifications, including microRNA modifications. They successfully detected two types of chemical base modifications simultaneously using a single-molecule quantum sequencer.
Scientists behind RNA-repairing strategy recognized with American Chemical Society’s Nobel Signature award
Alicia Angelbello and Professor Matthew Disney developed an RNA-targeting medication strategy to treat a type of muscular dystrophy. Their technology destroys toxic RNA genetic repeats, impacting about 200,000 people in the US, and may lead to first-ever oral medications.
Stanford researchers develop an engineered ‘mini’ CRISPR genome editing system
Stanford researchers have developed a mini CRISPR genome editing system that is smaller and more efficient than existing versions. The new system, called CasMINI, has been successfully tested in human cells and shows promise for treating various diseases, including eye disease, organ degeneration, and genetic diseases.
First study to investigate the role of RNA tags in Alzheimer’s disease
Scientists have found that misfolded tau protein accumulates RNA tags called N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) in nerve cells, leading to neurodegeneration. Inhibiting this RNA-tagging pathway shows promise as a potential approach to treat Alzheimer's disease.
AI algorithm solves structural biology challenges
Researchers have developed an approach that predicts accurate structures computationally, overcoming the problem of determining molecular shapes. The algorithm succeeds even when learning from only a few known structures, making it applicable to difficult-to-determine molecules.
RNA modification may protect against liver disease
Researchers found that a chemical modification called m6A may offer protection against non-alcoholic fatty liver by slowing down the accumulation of fat in the liver. The study also suggested that this modification occurs at a different rate in females than males, potentially explaining sex differences in liver fat content.
Comparing symptoms, RNA levels in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection
The study found a significant association between SARS-CoV-2 RNA levels and symptom severity in patients with the virus. Researchers discovered that higher RNA levels were linked to more severe symptoms, suggesting a possible correlation between viral load and disease progression.
Decoded genome of little-known disease offers hope for citrus
UC Riverside researchers have decoded the genome of a benign infection, potentially sending medicine into citrus trees. The discovery could harness its unique properties to deliver antibacterial and antiviral agents into plants' vascular systems.
Researchers make first-ever discovery of Zika virus RNA in free-ranging African bats
A team of Colorado State University scientists detected Zika virus RNA in free-ranging African bats, shedding light on the ecology of flaviviruses and potential natural transmission routes. The findings suggest that bats may be incidental hosts of Zika virus infection, rather than amplifying hosts or reservoir hosts.
Skoltech team completes a large-scale study into the role of RNA maturation for organ development
The Skoltech team created a genome-wide atlas of developmental alternative splicing changes in seven organs across six mammal species and chicken. Alternative splicing plays a crucial role in forming organs like the brain, heart, and testes, but is less significant for others like the liver and kidneys.
A Z-RNA nanoswitch encoded by "junk DNA" turns-off immune responses against self
A Z-RNA nanoswitch that switches from a right-handed A-RNA state to a left-handed Z-RNA state regulates immune responses against self RNAs. The switch is encoded by 'junk DNA' and protects normal cells from inflammatory diseases, while malfunctioning causes diseases like Aicardi-Goutieres disease.
Making AI algorithms show their work
Researchers developed a new method to test AI algorithms' decision-making processes by presenting them with carefully designed synthetic data. The technique, called Global Importance Analysis, revealed that AI models consider more factors beyond just sequence length, such as RNA folding and motif proximity.
SARS-CoV-2 research: Second possible effective mechanism of remdesivir discovered
Researchers found that GS-441524, a metabolite of remdesivir, inhibits the nsP3 protein's activity, which is important for virus replication and suppressing host cell defense. This discovery could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs effective against multiple viruses
Chemical modification of RNA could play key role in polycystic kidney disease
Researchers found that a chemical modification of RNA, influenced by diet, plays a key role in polycystic kidney disease. Limiting methionine in the diet may partially control cyst formation, and identifying chemicals that stem Mettl3 activity may lead to new drug treatments.
Researchers create a molecular 'Google map' of the brain
Scientists have developed a technology that allows pinpointing millions of RNA molecules mapped inside tissues with nanoscale resolution. This breakthrough enables researchers to advance treatment of complex diseases and Alzheimer's research by analyzing RNA molecules in 3D tissue samples.
Endogenous RNA virus-like elements in the human genome
The study reveals that many virus-like insertions may remain undiscovered in animal genomes, highlighting the need for further research on endogenous RNA viruses. Machine learning was used to detect sequence patterns characteristic of endogenous RNA viruses in the human genome.
Presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in cornea of patients with COVID-19
Researchers discovered SARS-CoV-2 RNA in human corneas of patients with COVID-19, shedding light on the virus's presence beyond respiratory sites. The study suggests potential implications for eye care and infection transmission.
Discovery boosts theory that life on Earth arose from RNA-DNA mix
Chemists at Scripps Research Institute demonstrate a simple compound called diamidophosphate can assemble DNA building blocks into primordial DNA strands. This finding supports the theory that DNA and RNA arose together as products of similar chemical reactions.
Assessment of air contamination by SARS-CoV-2 in hospital settings
A systematic review of SARS-CoV-2 air contamination in hospitals revealed frequent viral RNA presence but low viable virus rates. High viral loads were detected in toilets, bathrooms, and public areas, emphasizing the importance of careful cleaning and disinfection.
Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 RNA test results among patients who recovered from COVID-19 with prior negative results
A study examines SARS-CoV-2 RNA test results in patients who recovered from COVID-19 with prior negative results. Researchers found that some patients tested positive for the virus after recovery, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and testing.
Models for potential precursors of cells endure simulated early-Earth conditions
Membraneless compartments, known as complex coacervates, respond predictably to wet-dry cycling, a process likely common during the early development of life on Earth. The behavior informs current applications of the droplets found in household items and has implications for the evolution of life.
Well-known molecule not found in cancer cells after all
Researchers from Aarhus University discovered that a circular RNA molecule, ciRS-7, is actually not found in cancer cells but contributes to cancer development through the tumor's microenvironment. This finding challenges previous conclusions and highlights the importance of spatial analyses of patient tumors.
Cellular roadmaps predict body's coronavirus vulnerability
Researchers at Cornell University developed a comprehensive map of coronavirus entry factors, predicting which tissues and cell types are most vulnerable to infection. The study's findings support emerging clinical data on SARS-CoV-2's ability to infect various organs, including the intestines, kidney, and placenta.
RNA as a future cure for hereditary diseases
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed RNA molecules that can compensate for gene mutations in bone marrow cells, a potential breakthrough for treating rare hereditary diseases. The molecules bind to the body's own RNA and restore ferrochelatase enzyme production, which is deficient in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria.
COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine
Researchers found SARS-CoV-2 RNA in a volunteer blood donor 40 days after resolution of COVID-19-like symptoms. This detection raises concerns about the risk to blood supply safety, as current guidelines do not recommend screening for SARS-CoV-2 in allogeneic donors.
Circular RNA makes fruit flies live longer
Scientists have discovered a specific circular RNA that prolongs fruit fly lifespan by regulating the insulin signalling pathway. The circRNA, called circSulfateless, is expressed at higher levels in long-lived flies and can directly influence their lifespan. These findings suggest a potential link between circRNAs and human ageing.
Research project to investigate low-cost, rapid, COVID-19 detection system
A new research project at the University of Bristol aims to create a low-cost, rapid COVID-19 diagnosis system. The pilot study uses simulant fluorescently labelled RNA to develop an assay for coronavirus detection.
Which came first?
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science and Hebrew University of Jerusalem reconstructed ancient protein sequences that may resemble those of early life forms. They discovered a way these primitive proteins could have progressed to form living cells, with positively-charged amino acids playing a crucial role.
New research shows how complex chemistry may be relevant to origins of life on Earth
A recent study by Tokyo Institute of Technology researchers suggests that mixtures of simple organic compounds can react to form more complex compounds, including RNA precursors. This continuous reaction network could help explain how life on primitive planets might have formed.
Study reveals continuous pathway to building blocks of life
A new study reveals how 'continuous reaction networks' can produce RNA precursors and possibly ultimately RNA itself, a critical bridge to life. The experiments exposed simple molecules to high-energy radiation and evaporation, returning compounds that may have been important for the origins of life.
Discovery of new biomarker in blood could lead to early test for Alzheimer's disease
Researchers discovered a biomarker for early detection of Alzheimer's disease in the form of high levels of RNA produced by the PHGDH gene. The study, published in Current Biology, suggests that overproduction of extracellular RNA by the PHGDH gene in elderly individuals may serve as an early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease.
How sperm unpack dad's genome so it can merge with mom's
UC San Diego researchers found that the enzyme SPRK1 plays a crucial role in untangling a sperm's genome by kicking out special packing proteins. This process allows for major reorganization of the paternal DNA and enables the fusion of the mother's and father's half-genomes.
Researchers announce progress in developing an accurate, noninvasive urine test for prostate cancer
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine developed a proof-of-principle urine test detecting prostate cancer using RNA and metabolites in the urine. The test identified cancer-specific changes in urinary RNAs and metabolites that may lead to future development of a noninvasive diagnostic tool.
Understanding how cells defend their genome against invaders
The UTokyo team revealed a protein called Zucchini processes piRNA from an immature form into a functional form, while another protein called Trimmer matures the intermediate piRNA. The researchers discovered that the signal for cutting RNA strands is more complex than previously thought.
Scientists improve yield predictions based on seedling data
Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new method to predict crop traits using plant RNA data from 2-week-old corn seedlings. The approach outperforms traditional genetic marker-based methods and provides additional information not available from DNA alone.
UConn study: Wing genes responsible for tiny treehopper's extraordinary helmet
Researchers at UConn's Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department shed new light on the evolution of the treehopper's distinctive helmet. By analyzing RNA sequences, they found that the gene expression lines up with wings rather than the dorsal body wall, suggesting a unique developmental pathway.
Cancer treatment for patients with HIV
A study found that cancer treatments in HIV patients were linked to decreased immune system health (lower CD4 counts) and higher mortality rates. Nearly 200 patients with both conditions were analyzed, providing valuable insights into the effects of cancer treatment on individuals with HIV.
Vaccine against RSV could be in sight, researchers say
Researchers at Ohio State University have made a significant discovery in developing an RSV vaccine, targeting an epigenetic modification that can tame the virus and prompt a robust immune response. The study's findings could lead to a more effective and affordable vaccine that saves tens of thousands of lives annually.
Tau-mediated RNA splicing errors linked to Alzheimer's disease
Researchers found that aggregates of tau protein disrupt RNA splicing, leading to global disruptions in brain cells. This discovery presents an exciting new possibility for using RNA splicing as a potential target for Alzheimer's disease treatment.