Messenger Rna
Articles tagged with Messenger Rna
New vesicle links sperm development and gastric cancer
Researchers discovered that MEX3D acts as a key player in activating stored RNAs during sperm maturation. The MXL vesicle system is also hijacked by gastric cancer to enhance tumor growth. Targeting this machinery holds promise for developing selective and safe anti-cancer therapies.
Targeting tumor supporting cells: Advancing CAR T success in pancreatic cancer
Researchers have developed a new CAR T therapy that targets tumor-supporting cells in pancreatic cancer, paving the way for a potentially safer and more effective treatment. The therapy uses lipid nanoparticles to deliver CAR instructions directly to patient T cells, resulting in higher expression rates and improved efficacy compared t...
Protein complex protects central RNA quality control from disruption
A research team discovered that a protein complex consisting of SMG1, SMG8, and SMG9 ensures the efficient execution of nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD). The study found that this complex is essential for maintaining the stability of NMD under various conditions.
New lipid nanoparticle design improves precision of mRNA vaccine delivery
Researchers redesigned a key component of lipid nanoparticles to steer particles toward lymph nodes, reducing off-target delivery. This advancement could make mRNA vaccines more efficient, potentially achieving strong immune protection at lower doses.
Optimus protein
Researchers at Kyoto University identified DHX29 as a central regulator of codon-dependent gene expression. They found that DHX29 preferentially interacts with ribosomes decoding non-optimal codons and recruits a protein complex to selectively repress mRNAs enriched in these codons.
Engineered lipid nanoparticles reprogram immune metabolism for better mRNA vaccines
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania developed lipid nanoparticles that modify immune metabolism to strengthen mRNA vaccines and reduce common side effects. The new lipid boosts the metabolism of immune cells, providing energy for the body's defenses while dialing down inflammatory signals.
Mining the dark transcriptome: University of Toronto Engineering researchers create the first potential drug molecules from long noncoding RNA
Researchers have synthesized long noncoding RNA molecules with anti-inflammatory properties, demonstrating a new paradigm in drug discovery. The team identified three lncRNA sequences that regulate inflammation and used them to create nanoparticles that reduced inflammation in human cell cultures and mice.
mRNA therapy restores fertility in genetically infertile mice
Researchers at Kyoto University developed mRNA therapy that successfully restored sperm production and enabled healthy offspring birth in genetically infertile male mice. The therapy targets genetic defects linked to male infertility, demonstrating a potential treatment for human infertility cases.
How faulty mRNA is destroyed
Researchers have identified a crucial mechanism behind nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD), which removes faulty transcripts to prevent incomplete protein production. The study reveals that the SMG5 and SMG6 proteins interact directly, forming an endonuclease that cuts through RNA in a targeted manner.
UAlbany researchers develop new laser technique to test mRNA-based therapeutics
Researchers at UAlbany are developing a new technique using Raman spectroscopy to ensure mRNA is properly encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles, improving the safety and effectiveness of mRNA vaccines and therapeutics. The technique allows for instantaneous analysis without damaging the sample, enabling optimization of formulations.
Scientists develop first gene-editing treatment for skin conditions
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a topical CRISPR-based therapy that can correct faulty genes in human skin, potentially treating genetic skin conditions like ARCI and eczema. The treatment, using lipid nanoparticle technology, restores up to 30% of normal skin function.
The secret room a giant virus creates inside its host amoeba
Researchers discovered a subcellular environment within the giant virus Acanthamoeba polyphaga mimivirus that enables efficient translation of viral mRNAs despite mismatched codon usage with its host. This specialized environment alleviates the unfavorable translation condition, allowing for optimal viral replication.
Neurons within the brain use simple rules to localize genetic messages
Researchers found that abundant mRNA molecules tend to cluster together in brain neurons, driven by chance overlap rather than coordinated movement. This discovery provides insights into how neurons manage genetic instructions and supports learning and memory, with potential implications for conditions like Fragile X syndrome.
How cells change their mind and save their work in progress
Researchers found that cells take all pre-existing messenger RNAs and shoves them into condensates when stress occurs, regardless of their length. In stressed conditions, newly synthesized mRNAs are excluded from the condensates, suggesting a timing-dependent mechanism for RNA storage.
‘Mental model’ approach shows promise in reducing susceptibility to misconceptions about mRNA vaccination
Researchers tested a 'mental model' approach to counter unwarranted fears about mRNA technology. The study found that exposing people to visual models of how vaccines work and/or how cells protect DNA from foreign fragments undercuts the effect of exposure to misconceptions.
Discovery in RNA therapy for mutated cancer gene
Researchers developed an RNA-based therapeutic strategy targeting mutant KRAS genes, stimulating the immune system to attack tumours. The treatment, combining antisense oligonucleotides and immunomodulatory RNA, effectively killed cancer cells in laboratory studies, reducing tumour burden and extending survival.
Biomimetic mRNA delivery system boosts precision immunotherapy for colorectal cancer
A new biomimetic mRNA delivery platform improves PTEN expression levels in patients with colorectal cancer. The system boosts precision immunotherapy by targeting tumors and evading the immune system.
Cleaning up maternal mRNA messages is key to starting life's engine
A new study found that failing to degrade maternal mRNAs triggers genomic traffic jams in mouse embryos, halting development at the first step. The research team discovered that increased chromatin accessibility and abnormal transcription regulation lead to R-loop formation, causing replication stress and DNA damage.
Stress hormones silence key brain genes through chromatin-bound RNAs, study reveals
Researchers have discovered that stress hormones can silence crucial neuronal genes by interacting with long noncoding RNAs and the polycomb repressive complex 2. This mechanism may provide a new understanding of how stress affects gene expression, particularly in relation to synaptic function and calcium signaling.
Nanoparticle blueprints reveal path to smarter medicines
Scientists have characterized lipid nanoparticles' internal shape and structure, which correlates with how well they deliver therapeutic cargo. The research provides a blueprint for engineering more effective RNA therapies by matching LNP designs to specific therapies and tissues.
First-trimester mRNA COVID-19 vaccination and risk of major congenital anomalies
A cohort study of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine exposure in the first trimester found no association with major congenital malformations. The study supports the safety of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines during early pregnancy.
Safer, more effective vaccines with new mRNA vaccine technology
Researchers have developed a new mRNA vaccine technology using albumin-recruiting lipid nanoparticles to deliver vaccines precisely to lymph nodes, avoiding liver toxicity. The approach outperformed traditional delivery systems in laboratory tests, producing strong antitumor T-cell responses and high levels of neutralizing antibodies.
Cellular quality control in humans decoded
Researchers have developed a system to selectively switch off the key molecule of NMD, allowing them to observe its function in human cells with unprecedented precision. The study reveals that NMD not only prevents errors but also acts as an important regulator of gene activity.
Triggering RNA activation on demand
Researchers have devised a method to safely and temporarily 'switch off' and then 'turn on' ribonucleic acid (RNA) inside cells using disulfide-containing chemical groups. This strategy could potentially open new avenues in more precise RNA-based therapeutics and gene editing.
Raina Biosciences unveils breakthrough generative AI platform for mRNA therapeutics featured in Science
Raina Biosciences has developed a generative AI platform called GEMORNA, which uses deep learning models to design novel mRNA sequences with enhanced expression and durability. The platform supports the creation of next-generation mRNA-based therapeutics for various diseases, including cancer and infectious diseases.
New study reveals the gene responsible for diverse color patterns in African violet flower
Researchers identify two distinct gene transcripts, SiMYB2-Long and SiMYB2-Short, that regulate anthocyanin accumulation and pigment pattern formation in Saintpaulia flowers. The study reveals the genetic basis of flower patterning, potentially enabling more deliberate breeding of patterned flowers.
Less pain, more gain: A new recipe for safer, stronger mRNA vaccines
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania designed a new recipe for mRNA vaccines by adding phenol groups, which reduce inflammation and improve vaccine effectiveness. The modified lipids improved vaccine performance in various diseases, including COVID-19, cancer, and genetic diseases, with enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects.
Surprising finding could pave way for universal cancer vaccine
Researchers have discovered an experimental mRNA vaccine that can boost tumor-fighting effects of immunotherapy, sparking a new approach to battling many types of treatment-resistant tumors. The study found that pairing the test vaccine with common anticancer drugs triggered a strong antitumor response.
Uncovering the mechanism behind dual-end cleavage in transfer RNAs
A team from Kyushu University has discovered that the smallest known protein-based tRNA-processing enzyme, HARP, forms a star-shaped complex to cut both ends of tRNA. This finding sheds light on how HARP processes the 5' leader sequence and reveals a new mechanism for RNA processing.
Smart mRNA drugs that listen to the body: A new era in precision medicine
A research team from The University of Osaka developed a self-regulating mRNA medicine that adapts to changes in the body, producing just the right amount of therapeutic protein. This innovation could be particularly useful for conditions like chronic pain or inflammatory diseases.
New research on ALS opens up for early treatment
Researchers at Stockholm University and UK DRI have identified a common disease signature across all ALS-causing mutations in motor neurons, revealing early mitochondrial dysfunction. This discovery opens up new avenues for early treatment methods, targeting the energy factories of nerve cells before other signs of disease appear.
Bacteria: Recording gene activity more efficiently
Researchers at the University of Würzburg have developed a new, efficient method for recording gene activity in bacteria. The MATQ-seq protocol achieves a high cell retention rate of 95% and detects the activity of 300 to 600 genes per bacterial cell.
How a tiny RNA modification helps control cell stress responses
Researchers found that a chemical modification on messenger RNAs triggers disposal while being read by the ribosome, but during cell stress, this process is halted, allowing stress-response proteins to accumulate and help cells recover. The study may have implications for cancer therapies targeting m6A modifications.
Urine test could reveal prostate cancer
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified new biomarkers in urine that can indicate the presence and severity of prostate cancer with high precision. The findings surpass current blood biomarker PSA in terms of diagnostic accuracy.
Nature publication explains mechanisms of mRNA-based therapeutics in study from Polish researchers
Researchers from the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw discovered a crucial role of enzyme TENT5A in extending poly(A) tails of therapeutic mRNA molecules, making them more stable and effective. Macrophages play a key role in vaccine effectiveness, capturing and neutralizing 'intruders' after administration.
Quality assurance in the cell: preventing defective protein blueprints
Two molecular control factors, GPATCH1 and DHX35, ensure accurate splicing by recognizing and rejecting defective pre-mRNAs. This process prevents the production of incorrectly synthesized proteins.
Cell connects: breaking barriers in stem cell communication through mRNA transfer
Researchers have identified a novel mechanism of intercellular communication involving mRNA transfer between different types of stem cells. This phenomenon enables cell fate conversion and reverts human pluripotent stem cells to an earlier embryonic stage.
COVID-19 vaccination and odds of post–COVID-19 condition symptoms in children ages 5 to 17
A new study suggests that mRNA COVID-19 vaccination may protect against post-COVID condition symptoms in children. The findings support the benefits of vaccination beyond acute protection, encouraging increased pediatric uptake.
Cell connects: Breaking barriers in stem cell communication through mRNA transfer
Researchers discovered a novel mechanism of intercellular communication through mRNA transfer between stem cells, allowing for biologically significant effects such as cell fate conversion and pluripotent state maintenance.
Saving energy is "in", even neurons are joining in
Researchers found that neurons conserve energy by regulating mRNA and protein number and location based on molecule length, longevity, and other properties. This helps minimize energy expenditure for synthesis, transport, and degradation.
Polymeric delivery system revolutionizes mRNA therapeutics
A new biodegradable polymer-based delivery system efficiently transports mRNA, outperforming existing lipid nanoparticles in delivery efficiency and expression duration. The study also shows improved immune response results without liver accumulation or toxicity.
TTUHSC researcher to study protein regulation in Alzheimer’s disease
Researchers investigate how perturbed gene expression contributes to neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's. Alternative polyadenylation, a mechanism regulating protein production, is being studied for its potential role in the disease.
A lipid nanoparticle delivers mRNA cure for pre-eclampsia
Researchers have developed an mRNA cure for pre-eclampsia using a lipid nanoparticle, reducing maternal blood pressure and improving fetal health. The therapy, tested in pregnant mice, has shown promising results and is poised to move forward to human trials.
Therapeutic potential of a novel mixture of mRNA in nanoparticles overcomes tumor progression
A novel mixture of mRNA in nanoparticles has been developed to protect therapeutic mRNA against degradation, improving its overall efficacy. The therapy stimulates the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells while limiting detrimental side effects, also leading to immunological memory that protects against tumor rechallenge.
Unlocking RNA’s benefits to combat complex diseases
Researchers at the University of Ottawa have developed a nanoparticle strategy to deliver both mRNA and siRNA, enhancing and interfering with multiple gene and protein expressions. This approach holds significant promise for treating major diseases like cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
Chemistry Professor Lutz Nuhn secures ERC Consolidator Grant
Professor Lutz Nuhn aims to create lipid-free capsules for RNA vaccines that don't require cooling and can initiate precise immune responses. He plans to equip the capsules with messenger substances to target cancer as well.
Cooking up a breakthrough: Penn engineers refine lipid nanoparticles for better mRNA therapies
Researchers at Penn School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed a new method to refine ionizable lipids, key ingredients in lipid nanoparticles. This approach combines precision with rapid output, enabling safer and more effective mRNA vaccines and therapeutics.
Can electrical signatures help diagnose Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
A global team, including Lehigh University researcher Xuanhong Cheng, is exploring molecular- and cellular-level changes in muscle tissue that could lead to better diagnostic tools and therapeutic options for CFS and long COVID. The team aims to develop noninvasive diagnostic tools using electrical signatures.
Slow editing of protein blueprints leads to cell death
A team of researchers has identified a mechanism that interferes with the splicing process in a more subtle way, leading to cell death. The study reveals that spliceosome subunits U4, U5, and U6 are normally stabilized by protein USP39, but when mutated or absent, stability is compromised, causing incorrect connections during splicing.
Safety of simultaneous vs sequential mRNA COVID-19 and inactivated influenza vaccines
A randomized clinical trial found that simultaneous administration of mRNA COVID-19 and inactivated influenza vaccines had comparable reactogenicity to sequential administration. This suggests a safe option for co-administration of these vaccines.
Singapore advances mRNA manufacturing capabilities with opening of non-GMP NATi mRNA biofoundry
The non-GMP NATi mRNA BioFoundry in Singapore is a first-of-its-kind facility dedicated to mRNA manufacturing. It will support the country's ambition of becoming a leading hub for biomedical innovation and strengthen its leadership in nucleic acid therapeutics.
Could a new medical approach fix faulty genes before birth?
A new study in mice shows a unique mRNA delivery method can successfully edit faulty genes in fetal brain cells. The technology has the potential to stop progression of genetic-based neurodevelopmental conditions like Angelman syndrome and Rett syndrome before birth.
Don’t kill the messenger RNA!
The Max Planck Institute team has developed a strategy to extend mRNA lifespan by protecting it from degradation. This protects potentially health-promoting proteins, such as tumor suppressors and nuclear receptors, from premature breakdown.
Siloxane nanoparticles unlock precise organ targeting for mRNA therapy
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science have discovered a novel means of directing lipid nanoparticles to target specific tissues. By incorporating siloxane composites into ionizable lipids, they were able to achieve tissue-specific delivery, particularly to the liver, lungs, and spleen.
Uncovering the unique roles of Exportin-5 in RNA export within Drosophila cells
Researchers from Japan have discovered that Exportin-5 interacts with a broader spectrum of RNAs, including tRNAs, miRNAs, lncRNAs, and specific mRNAs. This study sheds light on the unique roles of Exp5 in RNA export within Drosophila cells.
Investigational mpox mRNA vaccine reduces disease severity in primates compared to available vaccines
A new mpox mRNA vaccine has shown improved responses in nonhuman primate models, reducing symptoms and disease duration compared to a currently licensed modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vaccine. The investigational vaccine resulted in fewer lesions, shorter disease duration, and lower viral shedding.
Long-term prognosis of patients with myocarditis attributed to COVID-19 mRNA vaccination, SARS-CoV-2 infection, or conventional etiologies
Patients with post-COVID-19 mRNA vaccination myocarditis show lower cardiovascular complications at 18 months compared to those with conventional myocarditis. However, affected patients may require medical management for several months after hospital discharge.
COVID-19 vaccination in the first trimester and major structural birth defects among live births
A recent study investigated COVID-19 vaccine exposure in the first trimester and its potential impact on major structural birth defects. The results indicate that mRNA COVID-19 vaccine exposure during this period is not associated with an increased risk for selected birth defects among live births.
How cells boost gene expression
A research team from Göttingen University has discovered that antisense RNA (asRNA) plays a crucial role in cell transport, allowing cells to accelerate gene expression and produce proteins quickly in response to environmental stress or harm. This new understanding sheds light on the function of asRNAs and their potential link to disea...