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Ancient origins of viruses discovered

A new study reveals that many viruses infecting humans today have ancient evolutionary histories dating back to the first vertebrates, with discoveries made in fish and reptiles. The research, a collaboration between several institutions, found 214 novel RNA viruses in healthy animals, including relatives of Ebola and influenza viruses.

Salivaomics: Saliva extracellular RNA (exRNA) and saliva proteome Wiki

The symposium presented new discoveries about oral exRNA biology, including its use as a biomarker for diagnosing disease and tracking its progression. The study of salivary proteome and its diagnostic applications was funded by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

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New CRISPR method efficiently corrects DMD defect in heart tissue

Scientists developed a CRISPR gene-editing technique that can correct most DMD mutations by making a single cut at strategic points along the patient's DNA. The new strategy enhances genome editing accuracy and offers an efficient alternative to individualized molecular treatments.

Viral probe gives ringside view of cell-to-cell combat

Researchers used a plant virus to study how plants defend themselves against invading pathogens, revealing key receptor proteins that regulate RNA interference. The findings also identified a suppressor protein named C4 used by the virus to disarm the plant's defence mechanism.

New test shows when body is fighting a virus

A new test measures RNA or protein molecules in human cells to identify viral infections, potentially replacing current methods for respiratory viral illnesses. The test was found to predict respiratory viral infection with 97% accuracy and could help diagnose patients more quickly and accurately.

Discovery of boron on Mars adds to evidence for habitability

Scientists discovered borates in a Martian crater, indicating that ancient conditions were favorable for RNA synthesis and potentially life. The presence of boron on Mars adds to evidence for habitability, opening possibilities for life's origins.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

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Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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Decoding the genome's cryptic language

A new tool called MARGI identifies all RNA molecules interacting with a segment of DNA, as well as their locations. This breakthrough enables researchers to identify new gene functions and instructions encoded in the genome.

The last frontier

Kosik's research suggests that dendrites use a relatively small number of RNAs to leverage increased dynamic range, allowing for sparse coding and plasticity. This enables the brain to process incoming information more efficiently and adapt to new experiences.

UMD biologists first to observe direct inheritance of gene-silencing RNA

Researchers from the University of Maryland have observed molecules of double-stranded RNA being passed directly from parent to offspring in Caenorhabditis elegans, suggesting a key mechanism for non-genetic inheritance. The study reveals that dsRNA can silence genes in offspring even if it doesn't match the parent's genes.

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Protein-like structures from the primordial soup

Researchers at ETH Zurich successfully assembled protein-like structures from four simple amino acids, suggesting that these molecules may have been the precursors of life. The findings support the 'amyloid hypothesis,' which proposes that ancient RNA molecules were not capable of self-replication.

Scientists keep a molecule from moving inside nerve cells to prevent cell death

A groundbreaking study found that keeping a specific RNA binding protein, TDP-43, from moving inside nerve cells can prevent cell death and disease progression in ALS and other neurodegenerative disorders. The researchers developed small proteins to block the protein's localization, preventing toxicity and disease progression in mice.

The biological clock gets a time stamp

Yale researchers have identified key molecular pathways involved in the aging of human eggs, which could lead to new treatments for age-related fertility issues. The study found that oxygen-deprived cells are a major cause of egg damage, leading to chromosomal abnormalities and reduced egg quality in women over 40.

Detecting an early biomarker for pancreatic cancer in blood

Researchers identify human satellite II (HSATII) RNA as a promising early detection method for pancreatic cancer, with significantly higher levels found in patients' blood serum. A pilot study validated the test's ability to detect pancreatic cancer and a precancerous lesion in two cohorts of patients.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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Biophysics: Sorting the wheat from the chaff

Temperature gradients within pore channels in rock can separate primitive biopolymers based on their sequences, enabling the formation of self-replicating systems. This process is thought to have played a key role in the origin of life.

Change in mosquito mating may control Zika virus

New Cornell research reveals genetic cues from male mosquitoes affect female reproductive tract gene expression, influencing blood feeding, egg development, and immune defense. This study aims to develop novel strategies for controlling mosquito populations to fight diseases like Zika virus.

Researchers enhance CRISPR gene editing technology

Scientists have developed a process to improve the efficiency of CRISPR, allowing for greater consistency in deleting unwanted genes. By tweaking the sequence of single guide RNA, researchers achieved knockout efficiency of over 50% and hope to increase adoption of this technology.

Counting molecules with an ordinary cell phone

Researchers at Caltech have developed a visual readout method using analytical chemistries and image processing to quantify single nucleic-acid molecules, enabling the use of any cell-phone camera. This technology has potential applications in limited-resource settings for disease diagnosis.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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Study compares tests to detect acute HIV infection

Researchers compared two testing methods: an HIV antigen/antibody combination assay and pooled HIV RNA testing. The new test increased the detection rate for acute HIV infections by 10.4% and diagnosed 82% of cases detectable by traditional testing.

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Dartmouth researchers shed light on protein-related diseases

Researchers found that certain proteins undergo a transition from liquid droplets to toxic, fibrous solids on their way to becoming harmful. Cells may use this liquid state for normal physiology, but under certain conditions the proteins can transition again.

A better way to read the genome

Researchers have successfully sequenced the most complicated gene known using the MinION nanopore sequencer, demonstrating a new technology that can quickly and affordably analyze complex gene expressions.

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Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Early warning gene signature for Alzheimer's

A gene signature associated with 'healthy ageing' has been identified, allowing for early prediction of age-related diseases like Alzheimer's. The discovery provides a reliable molecular profile for distinguishing people at risk and could transform medical decision-making.

Neurodegenerative disease clogs nuclear pores

Researchers found that the most common genetic defect in ALS causes nuclear pore dysfunction, leading to cell death. This discovery empowers the search for genetic causes of sporadic ALS and offers new hope for treatment options.

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New trick found for how cells stay organized

New evidence from Johns Hopkins researchers reveals that RNA granules have a dynamic envelope that stabilizes them, separating them from the surrounding watery space. This discovery provides insight into how cells organize their contents and activities.

Reliable RNA analysis now easier with NIST 'dashboard' tool

The NIST 'erccdashboard' tool evaluates experimental methods used to study gene expression, ensuring reproducibility and reliability. The dashboard provides a standardized approach for analyzing gene expression data, allowing researchers to assess technical performance and prevent erroneous conclusions.

Cell study sheds light on diseases caused by immune system fault

A cell study has uncovered a gene mutation that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the body, leading to diseases like Lupus and Motor Neurone Disease. Researchers found that a defect in an alarm system protects the body from viruses and other infections.

GoPro HERO13 Black

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Science casts light on sex in the orchard

A team of scientists has discovered the genetic mechanism behind sex determination in a species of persimmon. The OGI-MeGI system involves an unusual gene that codes for a small piece of RNA acting as molecular scissors, cutting down expression of another gene, and regulating pollen formation.

Worldwide study demonstrates accuracy of genetic analyses

A comprehensive study led by Mayo Clinic in 12 countries validates the accuracy of RNA genomic sequencing techniques and laboratories. The research establishes best practices for laboratories to ensure reproducible results, enabling clinicians to make informed decisions based on genomic data.

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.

RSV research breakthrough to help infected children

A new drug, AL-8176, has been shown to safely reduce RSV viral load and clinical illness in healthy adult volunteers. The Phase 2 challenge study achieved primary and secondary endpoints of lower viral load and improvements in symptom scores.

Transmission of hepatitis C virus following antiviral treatment

Researchers discovered that trace amounts of HCV RNA in successfully treated patients can be infectious. The study used an animal model to show that blood from these patients could cause HCV infection, which may be hard to detect due to delayed onset of disease.

A mini-antibody with broad antiviral activity chews up viral DNA and RNA

Researchers discovered a mini-antibody called 3D8 scFv that can degrade viral DNA and RNA regardless of specific sequences, protecting mammalian cells and genetically manipulated mice against different viruses. The correct dose is crucial to destroy only viral components, not host genetic material.

Pathogenic plant virus jumps to honeybees

Researchers detect Tobacco Ringspot Virus in honeybees, suggesting a link to their decline. The study reveals that infected bees can transmit the virus to each other and even their queen mother.

Edited RNA + invasive DNA add individuality

A new study reveals that edited RNA and invasive DNA contribute to individual variation in humans by regulating gene expression. The study found a 20% difference in life span and eye color between individuals with varying levels of ADAR activity.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

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Shining light on neurodegenerative pathway

University of Adelaide researchers have identified a likely molecular pathway that causes neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington's and Lou Gehrig's. The team found that RNA plays a key role in the development of these diseases, which share similar genetic mutation mechanisms.

Urgent! How genes tell cellular construction crews, 'Read me now!'

A new study reveals that DNA sequences at the beginning of genes in fruit flies contain complex instructions for RNA polymerases to read and transcribe essential genes. The findings suggest that these instructions play a crucial role in regulating gene expression during early embryonic development.

Flowering at the right age

Researchers from Max Planck Institute find that Alpine rock cress measures age based on miR156 concentration, which decreases over time. This allows the plant to synchronize growth and flowering with environmental cues like vernalisation.

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.

Molecules assemble in water, hint at origins of life

Scientists at Georgia Institute of Technology explore an alternate theory for RNA origin, finding molecules that spontaneously assemble into gene-length linear stacks in water. The discovery suggests proto-RNA bases could have formed the first genetic material.