Scientists at the University of Bath have developed a new technique called Transcription Block Survival (TBS) to accelerate the discovery of cancer-fighting drugs. TBS identifies molecules that can shut down dangerous proteins before they wreak havoc, by blocking their interaction with cell DNA.
SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJACS Au·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2022
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Researchers have developed a novel nanocarrier system that synergizes poly(l-ornithine) for mRNA protection with charge-conversion polymer for endosomal escape. This innovation enhances protein expression efficiency by approximately 80-fold, outperforming traditional PLL-based systems.
SourceInnovation Center of NanoMedicine·JournalMacromolecular Rapid Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2022
A new mechanism has been discovered that decorates the end tails of RNA molecules in a parasite causing sleeping sickness, preventing their degradation and potentially increasing virulence. This fundamental discovery opens new avenues for treatment strategies for this disease, as well as other RNA-based infections/diseases.
SourceInstituto de Medicina Molecular·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2022
Katalin Karikó, a Hungarian-born biochemist, received the 2022 Vilcek Prize for Excellence in Biotechnology for her decades-long research leading to the development of safe and effective mRNA vaccines. Her work has had a profound impact on culture and society, particularly in the fight against COVID-19.
Researchers analyzed nearly 100,000 pregnancies and found no association between COVID-19 vaccination and poor birth outcomes. The study provides further evidence on the safety of mRNA vaccines for pregnant individuals.
SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalJAMA·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 28, 2022
The study found that a solid state of oskar RNP granules is crucial for localization and function in Drosophila embryos. Genetic engineering resulted in defects when granules were made liquid-like, highlighting the importance of biophysical properties.
SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell·DateMar 24, 2022
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Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Research in the Journal of Hepatology suggests that COVID-19 vaccines are unlikely to cause liver injury, but liver transplant patients may experience delayed care due to the pandemic. The study found that vaccinated patients with liver disease had a lower antibody response compared to healthy patients.
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Hepatology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 21, 2022
A new study published in Frontiers in Oncology has shown that mRNA-based Covid-19 vaccines are well-tolerated by high-risk patients with impaired immunity. The trial enrolled 566 patients and found no evidence of increased adverse events or interference with treatment, reassuring vaccine-hesitant immunocompromised individuals.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 17, 2022
Researchers mapped the molecular changes that orchestrate embryonic mouse cell differentiation into diverse cell types. The study provides a roadmap of mouse embryogenesis, which will help researchers understand the molecular programs controlling cell emergence and tissue organ formation.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2022
A new Phase 1 clinical trial has enrolled its first 12 participants, evaluating the safety and immune responses of three experimental HIV vaccines using mRNA technology. The study aims to understand how the immune system responds to these vaccines and gain insights into developing an HIV vaccine regimen.
A team of researchers has identified a bacterial protein called MutS2 that detects stalled ribosomes and marks them for destruction. The discovery sheds light on the fundamental process of quality control in bacteria, which may also play a role in neurodegenerative diseases in humans.
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Scientists have discovered that mRNA modifications play a crucial role in the brain's reward learning process and transporting mRNAs to synapses. The study found that removing these modifications impaired flies' ability to learn essential survival skills, highlighting the importance of these modifications in animal function.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2022
A large US study found that 92% of reported adverse events following mRNA COVID-19 vaccination were non-serious, with most side effects being mild and decreasing substantially after one day. The study also found that less than 1% of participants reported seeking medical care after vaccination.
SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 7, 2022
A research team has discovered how the Covid virus reproduces itself by taking over the cell's protein factory. The team identified a specific structure in viral mRNA that allows the virus to access the ribosome and produce its own proteins, while blocking cellular production. This discovery opens up new avenues for antiviral treatments.
SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalRNA·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2022
A team of scientists from Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg and the Max Planck Institute discovered the essential final step in mRNA production. The process involves 16 proteins that precisely control the structure of mRNA, which determines protein function and disease risk.
SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalGenes & Development·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022
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A systematic review and meta-analysis found that the risk of immediate allergic reactions to a second dose of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines is low among patients who experienced an immediate allergic reaction to their first dose. The study included 1,366 patients and showed no significant increase in severe immediate reactions or anaphylaxis.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 21, 2022
Researchers have discovered that messenger RNA can be used to regenerate bone at low doses, producing high-quality tissue with no side effects. The new method is superior to existing treatments and may not require repeat doses.
A large population-based study found that newborns of vaccinated women have similar outcomes as those of unvaccinated women. The observational design limits the interpretation of the findings, suggesting further research is needed.
Researchers have identified the impact of protein corona formation on nanoparticles' physiochemical and biological properties. This knowledge can be used to optimize carriers for nanomedical applications, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of biopharmaceutical delivery.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiophysics Reviews·DateFeb 1, 2022
Researchers at MIT have developed a pill that can deliver RNA to the stomach, potentially making vaccines easier to tolerate and treat gastrointestinal diseases. The capsule is designed to release RNA in the stomach, where it can stimulate an immune response without being degraded by digestive enzymes.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMatter·DateJan 31, 2022
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Researchers at UMass Lowell are developing a production method to freeze-dry COVID-19 vaccines activated by messenger-RNA, eliminating the need for refrigeration. The innovation could ease supply chain issues and deliver lifesaving immunizations to more people worldwide.
A case series found that a fourth dose of an mRNA-based vaccine increases antispike IgG titers in kidney transplant recipients with weak serologic response after three doses. The researchers noted no safety concerns with the additional dose and suggested its use for such patients.
SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeCase study·DateJan 10, 2022
Researchers have created an mRNA-based approach to reprogram immune cells to attack specific targets, with promising results in treating heart failure. The technique, which is simpler and more temporary than current CAR T cell technology, holds potential for addressing a range of fibrotic diseases.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2022
A new study reveals that mRNA vaccines activate a type of helper cell called T follicular helper cells, which assist in creating powerful antibodies and drive the development of immune memory. This strong response helps prevent severe disease and death, even against highly mutated variants like omicron.
SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateDec 23, 2021
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Researchers developed nanoparticles that activate key cancer fighters by driving up immunity at the tumor site, improving interactions with antibody therapies. The technique left six of 10 mice with lymphoma tumor-free and was effective in melanoma when combined with existing immune response amplifiers.
SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 14, 2021
A study by University of Seville researchers reveals that messenger RNA modifying factors play a crucial role in the repair of DNA breaks. The discovery could lead to better understanding of rare diseases and cancer. Messenger RNA editing facilitates the removal of trapped RNA molecules, allowing for proper DNA repair.
SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 3, 2021
The study found that the Moderna vaccine offered a lower risk of documented infection (21% reduced), symptomatic COVID-19 (44% reduced), hospitalization (55% reduced), ICU admission (10% reduced), and death (2% reduced) compared to the Pfizer vaccine. The results suggest that either vaccine is effective, but Moderna may be slightly mor...
SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeNews article·DateDec 1, 2021
Scientists at UC San Diego create nanoparticles that mimic the flu virus's ability to escape endosomes, enabling efficient delivery of mRNA into cells. This breakthrough could lead to improved delivery of mRNA vaccines and therapies.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2021
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A study of 77 lactating parents found a higher prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in breast milk among unvaccinated mothers, suggesting potential protection against COVID-19. The study also identified a link between vaccine-induced immunity and increased neutralizing activity in human milk.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found a link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccination and myocarditis in adolescent males. Cardiac MRI was used to assess suspected myocarditis post-vaccination, with late gadolinium enhancement persisting in two patients undergoing repeat MRI.
SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2021
Researchers found that mRNA COVID vaccines reduced symptomatic illness risk by 89% and 96% for Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccine recipients respectively. The vaccines' effectiveness was lower in immunocompromised individuals.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 6, 2021
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Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
A population-based study of 2.4 million people found rare cases of acute myocarditis after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination in young men. The study suggests that the signal of increased myocarditis warrants further investigation into the relationship between COVID-19 vaccines and cardiac complications.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 4, 2021
Researchers at MUSC have discovered that hnRNP E1, a tumor suppressor protein, not only binds RNA but also DNA to maintain genome integrity and sense or prevent DNA damage. The protein's binding is sequence- and structure-specific, suggesting its potential role in preventing cancer metastasis.
SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalLife Science Alliance·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2021
Researchers aim to produce enough mRNA vaccines from spinach and lettuce to rival traditional shots. They're exploring chloroplasts as a key to making plant-based mRNA vaccines that can be stored at room temperature.
A new study from La Jolla Institute for Immunology shows that the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine generates durable T cell memory and antibodies, even in people over 70. The researchers found strong CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses to the vaccine, comparable to those seen in recovered COVID-19 patients.
SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021
A new software, ModTect, identifies RNA modifications using pre-existing sequencing data, revealing associations with cancer survival outcomes. The study found dysregulation of the epitranscriptome in patients across multiple cancer types, associated with cancer progression and survival.
SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalScience Advances·TypeNews article·DateSep 9, 2021
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A recent study found that breastfeeding mothers who received Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines experienced temporary symptoms such as pain and swelling at the injection site, chills, muscle/body aches, fever, and vomiting. The study also reported no serious side effects in breastfed infants.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateSep 8, 2021
A comprehensive study of 6.2 million patients found no serious health effects linked to mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, with some early findings previously reported at CDC meetings. The Vaccine Safety Datalink's COVID-19 rapid cycle analysis will continue tracking vaccinated patients for at least 2 years.
The study found that the first dose of mRNA vaccine primes the immune system, while the second dose boosts the T-cell response, which can last for years. In people with a history of COVID-19, the T-cell response was already robust after the first dose, with no significant increase after the second dose.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateAug 16, 2021
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Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
A study found that mRNA vaccine recipients with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection experienced more severe symptoms after vaccination. The study suggests vaccine type may influence symptom severity in individuals with a history of COVID-19 infection.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 16, 2021
A team of researchers has identified a novel splicing mechanism for human short introns, involving the distinct factor SPF45. This discovery sheds light on alternative splicing and its potential applications in cancer treatment.
SourceFujita Health University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2021
Researchers investigated SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine response in cancer patients and healthy controls. The study found that the vaccine's antispike IgG antibody response wanes over time in patients on active anticancer treatment.
A new process for making RNA has been developed by researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, yielding purer and more abundant RNA at a fraction of the cost. This breakthrough removes the largest stumbling block on the path to next-generation RNA therapeutic drugs.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 5, 2021
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Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
A multi-hospital analysis of patients who experienced allergic reactions to their first mRNA COVID-19 vaccine dose found that all patients who received a second dose tolerated it without complications. The study suggests it's safe for most individuals to receive a second dose, despite initial concerns.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 26, 2021
Researchers discovered APA's function in allowing certain mRNAs to reach specific sites of protein synthesis, shedding light on mRNA metabolism. APA impacts the connection between mRNAs and the endoplasmic reticulum, enabling signaling proteins to be encoded in specific cellular locations.
SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 20, 2021
A computerized decision model found that mRNA vaccines (e.g., Pfizer) provide a net gain of 7.4 days in quality-adjusted life expectancy compared to not vaccinating at all, while adenovirus vector vaccines (e.g., J¼hnson ⚠ Johnson) yield virtually equivalent results.
SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalMedical Decision Making·DateJul 20, 2021
A patient with no previous history of facial nerve palsy developed two episodes of Bell's palsy after receiving Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine doses. The author suggests a potential link between the vaccine and Bell's palsy, emphasizing cautious use for those at risk.
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Researchers discovered that the protein SPT6 is essential for the arrival of RNA polymerase at the end of a gene, producing functional mRNA. Without it, the polymerase destroys obstacles, making it impossible for functional RNA polymerases to find their way.
SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 14, 2021
A study found no detection of COVID-19 vaccine-associated messenger RNA (mRNA) in breast milk samples from vaccinated mothers. Researchers analyzed 13 human milk samples and concluded that the mRNA was not detectable.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJul 6, 2021
A nationwide study found mRNA COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduce the risk of infection by up to 91% in fully vaccinated individuals. For those who develop breakthrough cases, vaccines also shorten symptom duration and severity.
SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 6, 2021
A breakthrough in tracking RNA with fluorescence allows researchers to follow messenger RNA molecules in real time, enabling the development of new RNA-based medicines. This method provides crucial information for optimising drug discovery and understanding how mRNA is taken up into cells.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 30, 2021
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DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A recent study reports four cases of acute myocarditis following mRNA COVID-19 vaccination. The condition can lead to serious heart problems, highlighting the need for cautious monitoring and research into vaccine safety.
A study found 23 cases of myocarditis in US military members following mRNA COVID-19 vaccination, highlighting a potential risk factor for the condition.
Researchers have developed a method to control the degradation of messenger RNA, which could lead to more efficient biotechnological functions and improved medical outcomes. This breakthrough has potential applications in vaccine development, genome engineering, and therapeutic treatments.
SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 25, 2021
Researchers found that extracellular mRNA is taken up by natural killer cells and transported to the nucleus, enhancing migration activity and interferon gamma production. This mechanism inhibits cancer metastasis in animal experiments.
SourceShinshu University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2021
Researchers found that COVID-19 vaccines pre-prepared in syringes can be safely transported under minor precautions, with messenger RNA remaining stable for at least three hours. The study aims to streamline vaccination processes, particularly in rural and less developed areas.
SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalThe Journal of Microbiology·DateJun 17, 2021
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Researchers will examine regulation and disease relevance of alternative splicing in different types of heart cells. The project aims to map the path from splicing factor discovery to drug development.
SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·DateJun 14, 2021
Researchers developed a novel technique to study viral structure and evolution, revealing hallmarks of natural viruses in an artificial system. The findings suggest that these 'containers' efficiently package genetic cargo, potentially leading to new gene therapeutic applications.
Dr. Katalin Karikó's groundbreaking research on modifying nucleosides in mRNA led to the development of mRNA vaccines with over 94% efficacy against COVID-19. The Vilcek Prize for Excellence recognizes her contributions to science and medicine.
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Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München developed a new bioengineered reporter system called EXSISERS, enabling non-invasive observation of fundamental cellular processes. The system detects specific protein isoforms being translated, with potential applications in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.
SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 4, 2021