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New software could make real-time DNA-authentication a reality

In the science-fiction movie Gattaca, visitors only clear security if a blood test and readout of their genetic profile matches the sample on file. Now, cheap DNA sequencers and custom software could make real-time DNA-authentication a reality.

30 Nov 2017

3D folding of DNA during cardiomyocyte differentiation provides vital epigenetic mechanisms, study says

A new study conducted at the University of Freiburg suggests that three-dimensional (3D) folding of the DNA reorganizes itself during differentiation of pluripotent stem cells to cardiomyocytes.

22 Nov 2017

Research suggests genome's spatial organization as important switch for defining cell types

During differentiation of pluripotent stem cells to cardiomyocytes, the three-dimensional folding of the DNA reorganizes itself. This reorganization of the DNA architecture precedes and defines important epigenetic patterns.

22 Nov 2017

Researchers show how rhythm of DNA replication can be manipulated to kill cancer cells

Human cells divide and create new cells throughout life. In this process, a steady – even rhythmic – supply of DNA building blocks is needed to create new DNA. Now researchers from the University of Copenhagen are the first to show exactly how human cells regulate this process so it does not fail and cause illness.

10 Nov 2017

Biogen and Ionis awarded 2017 Prix Galien USA Award for SPINRAZA

Biogen and Ionis have been awarded the prestigious 2017 Prix Galien USA Award for Best Biotechnology Product for SPINRAZA (nusinersen). The Prix Galien USA Award recognizes extraordinary achievement in scientific innovation that improves the state of human health. The award was presented at a ceremony in New York City on October 26, 2017.

30 Oct 2017

New discovery could speed development and approval of antiviral drugs

New research shows that a new class of antiviral drugs works by causing the virus' replication machinery to pause and backtrack, preventing the virus from efficiently replicating. This discovery, made possible by a high-throughput experimental technique called "magnetic tweezers," could speed the development and approval of related antiviral drugs.

25 Oct 2017

Genes that determine skin color studied - new revelations

Human populations vary vastly in skin tones. European populations have been studied and some of the genes that determine skin color have been found. A latest study in a varied African population has found the specific and new genetic variants that could determine skin color and skin pigmentation. The study report is published in the journal Science.

16 Oct 2017

TSRI scientists demonstrate repurposing of DNA to create new substances

DNA evolved to store genetic information, but in principle this special, chain-like molecule can also be adapted to make new materials. Chemists at The Scripps Research Institute have now published an important demonstration of this repurposing of DNA to create new substances with possible medical applications.

12 Oct 2017

DNA robot sorts molecules without external input

Researchers at the California Institute of Technology have developed an autonomous molecular machine comprising a single strand of DNA that can move around, collect specific molecules and sort them into predefined locations. Furthermore, this nanobot has been designed in such a way that requires no external source of energy or instruction.

15 Sep 2017

Researchers develop model to explore hard-to-study mutations in human genome

A team of researchers led by a bioinformatician at the University of California San Diego has developed a method to help determine whether certain hard-to-study mutations in the human genome, called short tandem repeats or microsatellites, are likely to be involved in harmful conditions.

11 Sep 2017

Lack of 'editing' in microRNAs can potentially drive brain cancers

SCIENTISTS in the UK and India have observed a "significant" lack of 'editing' in microRNAs in brain tissue of brain cancer patients.

16 Jun 2017

Scientists identify ten new genetic variants linked to cardiac structure and function

Strong or weak, big or small - variations in our genome play a decisive part in how our heart is shaped and works.

24 May 2017

Positive CHMP opinion recognizes efficacy of Biogen’s SPINRAZA for treatment of spinal muscular atrophy

Biogen today announced the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use of the European Medicines Agency adopted a positive opinion recommending the granting of a marketing authorization for SPINRAZA to treat patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

21 Apr 2017

Study shows how antibiotics increase survival chances of bacteria

Antibiotics harm bacteria and stress them. Trimethoprim (TMP), an antibiotic, inhibits the growth of the bacterium Escherichia coli and induces a stress response.

25 Mar 2017

Scientists find evidence for gene that may be linked to social phobia

People with social anxiety avoid situations in which they are exposed to judgment by others. Those affected also lead a withdrawn life and maintain contact above all on the Internet.

9 Mar 2017

Researchers identify gene variants that may predispose individuals to develop gallbladder cancer

By comparing the genetic code of gallbladder cancer patients with those of healthy volunteers at nearly 700,000 different locations in the genome, researchers say they have found several gene variants which may predispose individuals to develop the disease.

6 Mar 2017

Metabolic vulnerability in triple-negative breast cancer cells may help quell chemotherapy resistance

A team of researchers led by Alex Toker of the Ludwig Center at Harvard has discovered a metabolic weakness in triple-negative breast cancer cells that may be exploited to quell their resistance to chemotherapy.

2 Mar 2017

Researchers develop improved method for using graphene-based transistors to detect harmful genes

Researchers in India and Japan have developed an improved method for using graphene-based transistors to detect disease-causing genes.

1 Mar 2017

Researchers identify genetic variants that may contribute to schizophrenia

New research has identified sections of DNA associated with altered regulation of gene expression underlying schizophrenia.

27 Feb 2017

Pitt study sheds light on shared roots of schizophrenia and rheumatoid arthritis

An in-depth computational analysis of genetic variants implicated in both schizophrenia and rheumatoid arthritis by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh points to eight genes that may explain why susceptibility to one of the disorders could place individuals at lower risk for the other, according to the results of a study published today in the journal npj Schizophrenia.

24 Feb 2017