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Recording device for cell history

ETH Zurich researchers have created a molecular recording system that writes transcriptional events into DNA, allowing permanent storage and later access. The CRISPR-Cas system records genetic information about pathogens infecting the cell, storing it in a specific stretch of DNA known as a CRISPR array.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateOct 3, 2018

How leaves talk to roots

A microRNA called miR2111 travels from leaves to roots, downregulating a gene that would hinder root responses to symbiotic bacteria. This finding helps understand the mechanisms of efficient nitrogen-fixing symbiosis and potential ways to exploit it agronomically.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScience·DateSep 25, 2018

Genetic engineering mechanism visualized

A team of scientists has visualized the dynamics of the CRISPR-Cas9 complex using high-speed atomic force microscopy. The study provides unprecedented insights into the CRISPR-Cas9-mediated DNA cleavage mechanism, highlighting its potential for gene editing.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 2017

Bacteria self-organize to build working sensors

Bacteria self-organize to form a golden shell around their colony using gold nanoparticles, creating a functional pressure sensor. The researchers controlled the size and shape of the device by altering the growth environment, demonstrating a proof-of-principle for fabricating structured materials.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 9, 2017

Bringing bacteria's defense into focus

Researchers at Cornell University and Harvard Medical School have observed the bacterial defense mechanism against invaders, revealing how CRISPR sites store molecular memories of invaders. The study provides structural data to improve CRISPR operations' efficiency and accuracy.

SourceCornell University·JournalCell·DateJul 10, 2017

An anti-CRISPR for gene editing

Scientists have isolated three families of proteins that can turn off CRISPR-Cas9 systems specifically used for gene editing. This discovery offers a new strategy to prevent unintended changes in the genome, making gene editing more precise and controlled.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateDec 8, 2016

Bacteria: Third RNA binding protein identified

Scientists at University of Würzburg have discovered a third RNA binding protein, ProQ, which controls gene activity and allows bacteria to quickly adapt to changing conditions. ProQ binds to nearly 100 regulatory RNAs in Salmonella enterica, influencing their activities.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2016

Phage therapy: Fundamental action mechanisms revealed

Researchers from Institut Pasteur and Université catholique de Louvain identify genetic and metabolic mechanisms underlying the therapeutic action of a bacteriophage. The study reveals that RNA metabolism plays a crucial role in the infection strategy of the bacteriophage, with control mechanisms involving small RNA and antisense RNA.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJul 11, 2016

Changes to mitochondrial metabolism allow the immune system to adapt to infection

Scientists at CNIC discover how immune cells adapt to live bacteria through mitochondrial metabolism changes. The study found that detection of live bacteria triggers a change in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, enabling macrophages to redirect metabolic routes for efficient energy production.

Study finds vast diversity among viruses that infect bacteria

Researchers have identified 122 new types of RNA bacteriophages in diverse ecological niches, providing an opportunity to define their contributions to ecology and explore them as novel tools. The study suggests that RNA bacteriophages likely play a much larger role in shaping the bacterial makeup of worldwide habitats than previously ...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 24, 2016