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Genetic options ensure rust resistance is toast

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) have identified a stem rust resistance gene in Aegilops sharonensis and transferred it to common wheat. The new transgenic wheat lines show high levels of resistance to the stem rust pathogen, providing hope for mitigating the devastating effects of climate change.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

The hardy wild grass that could save our bread

A team of researchers identified a stem rust resistance gene from wild goat grass species Aegilops sharonensis, which can be cross-bred into wheat for immunity against deadly crop pathogens. The genetic potential of this hardy relative has been largely unexplored and holds promise for reducing the threat of the stem rust disease.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2022

Synthetic viral vector and surgical technique effectively deliver genetic cargo to inner ear in preclinical study

A novel surgical approach and synthetic viral vector Anc80L65 successfully delivered genetic cargo to the inner ear of nonhuman primates, paving the way for a potential treatment for hearing loss and vestibular disorders. The study's findings suggest that this method could be translated to humans.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2022

This is your gut on sushi

A new Michigan Medicine study suggests that genes from oceanic bacteria have entered the human gut microbiome, enabling digestion of seaweed polysaccharides. The research found that these genes are more common than previously recognized and are linked to the ability to process certain seaweed-derived sugars.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 2, 2022

Danish researchers discover new hiding place for antibiotic resistance

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered that resistant bacteria can hide resistance genes in inactive bacteria within biofilms, creating a reservoir of resistance that can be drawn upon when antibiotics are not present. This new understanding challenges the long-held assumption that resistant bacteria lose their res...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·DateDec 16, 2021

Three-layered control of mRNA tails

A new study reveals that multiple pathways regulate poly(A) tail lengths in yeast, involving poly(A) binding proteins and a self-regulating pathway. This discovery sheds light on the complex control of mRNA tails and their impact on protein production.

SourceAarhus University·JournalGenes & Development·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2021

HKU scientists harness the naturally abundant CRISPR-Cas system to edit superbugs with the hope of treating infections caused by drug resistant pathogens

A team of researchers from HKU has developed a transferrable and integrative type I CRISPR-based platform that can efficiently edit Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a superbug capable of infecting various tissues and organs. The technique enables rapid identification of resistance determinants and development of novel anti-resistance strategies.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJul 22, 2021

CHOP research team redefines the footprint of viral vector gene therapy

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers have developed a new AAV vector screening method that captures the full range of gene expression patterns caused by AAV vectors. This innovative technique is expected to significantly advance the field of gene therapy by providing a more sensitive approach to detecting gene transfer sites.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2019

Novel potent antimicrobial from thermophilic bacterium

Researchers have discovered a novel glycocin, a small antimicrobial peptide with a sugar group attached, produced by the thermophilic bacterium Aeribacillus palladius. The compound has been successfully expressed in E. coli bacteria, making it easier to produce and investigate. This breakthrough could lead to new alternatives for biofu...

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 12, 2019

Grasses can acquire genes from neighboring plants

A recent study found that grasses can acquire genes from at least nine donor species, including those involved in photosynthesis and disease resistance. This mechanism allows certain plants to adapt quickly to environmental changes.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2019

Screening for genetic diseases & chromosomal defects with a single biopsy improves pregnancy rates

Researchers found that simultaneous genetic and chromosomal screening of a single biopsy improved pregnancy rates. The study used double genetic tests on cells taken from 1122 blastocysts, resulting in 99 pregnancies and 70 healthy births. This approach reduces the risk of implantation failure and miscarriage.

Cells pumping iron to prevent anemia

Researchers at Kyoto University identified a key gene that regulates iron uptake, revealing a functional defect in the duodenum and potentially leading to new treatment methods for anemia. The study found that Regnase-1 degrades iron-controlling genes, such as TfR1, which can help prevent debilitating disorders like hemochromatosis.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 29, 2017

First discovery in United States of colistin resistance in a human E. coli infection

A transferrable gene for colistin resistance has been discovered in the United States, raising concerns about the emergence of truly pan-drug resistant bacteria. The finding is a significant public health concern, as it may render colistin, the last agent used to combat resistant bacteria, ineffective.

SourceThe U.S. Military HIV Research Program (MHRP)·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMay 26, 2016

Progress and promise of gene transfer and gene editing to cure beta-thalassemias

Promising results from clinical trials of globin gene transfer have eliminated the need for blood transfusions in some individuals with beta-thalassemias. Gene editing technologies hold promise to correct beta-globin deficiencies and reactivate fetal hemoglobin production, potentially leading to a cure for severe globin disorders.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateMay 5, 2016