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New approach to generating homogeneous cell populations for cell-based assays

Researchers have developed an image-based, cell-derived patterning strategy that produces arrays of homogeneous cells with anatomical properties that mimic the cells from which the patterns were derived.

Aug 11th, 2015

Engineering a permanent solution to genetic diseases

New research demonstrates a new technology advancing the field of genome engineering. The method significantly improves the ability of scientists to target specific faulty genes, and then 'edit' them, replacing the damaged genetic code with healthy DNA.

Aug 10th, 2015

Bioengineers identify the key genes and functions for sustaining microbial life

A new study defines the core set of genes and functions that a bacterial cell needs to sustain life. The research, which answers the fundamental question of what minimum set of functions bacterial cells require to survive, could lead to new cell engineering approaches for E. coli and other microorganisms.

Aug 10th, 2015

DNA repair: Pincer attack

First the scaffold is cracked, then defective parts are removed: Cells repair damaged DNA by a different mechanism than so far assumed, as chemists have shown.

Aug 6th, 2015

Sustainable production: Cyanobacteria can manufacture biocatalysts for the industry

Using photosynthetically active microorganisms, researchers have succeeded in manufacturing several biocatalysts suitable for industrial application: a crucial step towards sustainable chemical processes.

Aug 5th, 2015

Real-time data for cancer therapy

Biochemical sensor implanted at initial biopsy could allow doctors to better monitor and adjust cancer treatments.

Aug 5th, 2015

Biology, not just physics, controls release of scent compounds from plants

New research suggests active biological mechanisms transport scent and taste compounds known as volatiles from plant cells to the atmosphere, a finding that could overturn the textbook model of volatile emission as a process that occurs solely by diffusion.

Aug 5th, 2015

New biosensors for managing microbial 'workers'

Researchers have unveiled new biosensors that enable scientists to more effectively control and 'communicate with' engineered bacteria.

Aug 4th, 2015

Molecular spies to fight cancer

Procedure for improving tumor diagnosis successfully tested.

Aug 3rd, 2015

Are animal models still essential to biological research?

The use of animals in scientific research prompts regular debate and it can be difficult to garner a clear picture of the actual need for animal models.

Aug 3rd, 2015

Artificial blood vessels become resistant to thrombosis

Scientists have developed artificial blood vessels that are not susceptible to blood clot formation. The achievement was made possible by a new generation of drug-containing coating applied to the inner surface of the vessel.

Aug 3rd, 2015

Watching a tumor grow in real-time

The ability to visualize and characterize the composition of a tumour in detail during its development can provide valuable insights in order to target appropriate therapeutics. Researchers now have visualized and quantified the growth and composition of breast tumours over time in a living animal.

Jul 31st, 2015

Cell aging slowed by putting brakes on noisy transcription

Experiments in yeast hint at ways to extend life of some human cells.

Jul 31st, 2015

Researchers design first artificial ribosome

Researchers have engineered a tethered ribosome that works nearly as well as the authentic cellular component, or organelle, that produces all the proteins and enzymes within the cell. The engineered ribosome may enable the production of new drugs and next-generation biomaterials and lead to a better understanding of how ribosomes function.