Genetics – Lifeboat News: The Blog

Dec 7
2024

Serious side effect of using CRISPR-Cas gene scissors uncovered: AZD7648 molecule can destroy parts of genome

Its a problem, but im sure ASI by 2035 will solve for a way to use a Crispr type tool with zero unintended alterations. Look for a way to use w/ out alterations in meantime, but worst case ASI will solve it.

Genome editing with various CRISPR-Cas molecule complexes has progressed rapidly in recent years. Hundreds of labs around the world are now working to put these tools to clinical use and are continuously advancing them.

CRISPR-Cas tools allow researchers to modify individual building blocks of genetic material in a precise and targeted manner. Gene therapies based on such gene editing are already being used to treat inherited diseases, fight cancer and create drought-and heat-tolerant crops.

The CRISPR-Cas9 molecular complex, also known as genetic scissors, is the most widely used tool by scientists around the world. It cuts the double-stranded DNA at the exact site where the genetic material needs to be modified. This contrasts with newer gene-editing methods, which do not cut the double strand.

Dec 6
2024

Mimicking Exercise: Gene Control Found To Stimulate Muscle Growth

A recent study investigates the relationship between exercise and the expression of MYC in skeletal muscles over time, revealing that even minimal doses can promote muscle growth without physical activity.

Researchers have long known that there is a relationship between the cancer-associated gene MYC (pronounced “Mick”) and exercise adaptation. When human muscles are exercised, MYC is found to increase transiently in abundance over 24 hours. But as we age, the MYC response to exercise is blunted, perhaps explaining a reduced ability to recover from exercise and maintain or gain muscle.

Knowing the precise mechanisms by which MYC drives muscle growth could prove instrumental in creating therapies that reduce muscle loss from aging, potentially improving independence, mobility, and health.

Dec 6
2024

Recent Advances in Wolbachia and Spiroplasma Symbiosis

Dear Colleagues.

A good number of insect pests are known for harboring various bacterial symbionts. Herbivore-associated bacterial symbionts such as Wolbachia and Spiroplasma are widespread in diverse arthropods and mostly act as reproductive parasites. Both have been reported to significantly improve reproductive performance of various insects, including spider mites, aphids, Drosophila, etc. These insect-associated symbionts influence herbivore fitness, growth, and development, as well as interfere with plant defenses by changing plant physiology. Both Wolbachia and Spiroplasma are maternally inherited endosymbionts in arthropods and are able to co-exist and infect the same host. Understanding these complex interactions is very important for the development of an effective insect pest management program. We look forward to receiving your contributions to this Special Issue in the form of original research papers and review articles focusing on, but not limited to, the latest research on the occurrence, genetic diversity, and physiological functions of Wolbachia and/or Spiroplasma symbionts in various primary hosts. Although our focus will be on these two major facultative insect symbionts, articles reporting work carried out on other bacterial species are also welcome.

Dec 5
2024

Building a “Google Maps” for Biology: Human Cell Atlas Revolutionizes Medicine

New research from the Human Cell Atlas offers insights into cell development, disease mechanisms, and genetic influences, enhancing our understanding of human biology and health.

The Human Cell Atlas (HCA) consortium has made significant progress in its mission to better understand the cells of the human body in health and disease, with a recent publication of a Collection of more than 40 peer-reviewed papers in Nature and other Nature Portfolio journals.

The Collection showcases a range of large-scale datasets, artificial intelligence algorithms, and biomedical discoveries from the HCA that are enhancing our understanding of the human body. The studies reveal insights into how the placenta and skeleton form, changes during brain maturation, new gut and vascular cell states, lung responses to COVID-19, and the effects of genetic variation on disease, among others.

Dec 4
2024

New theory suggests aging is driven by degenerative metabolic reprogramming over time

THIS IS HUGE!! New study suggests that aging could be preventable, delayable and even reversible! A recent study published in Engineering proposes a new theory called pro aging metabolic reprogramming (PAMRP)

Aging is a complex process that has long puzzled scientists. A recent study published in Engineering proposes a new theory called pro-aging metabolic reprogramming (PAMRP), which could change our understanding of aging.

The traditional debate on aging has centered around whether it is a programmed process or a result of stochastic events. The PAMRP theory combines these two perspectives. It suggests that aging is driven by degenerative metabolic reprogramming over time. This involves both the buildup of pro-aging substrates (PASs) through metabolic changes and the emergence of pro-aging triggers (PATs). The combination of PASs and PATs leads to metabolic reprogramming, which in turn causes cellular and genetic reprogramming, ultimately resulting in the aging process.

Metabolism plays a crucial role in the PAMRP theory. As organisms age, there are significant changes in metabolic pathways, such as shifts in energy production and nutrient utilization. These changes initially serve as an adaptive mechanism but can become maladaptive over time, contributing to aging. The theory also distinguishes between different types of metabolic reprogramming, such as adaptive and adverse, and between regenerative and degenerative processes.

Dec 4
2024

Newly Discovered Brain Circuit Predicts Response to Stress

Summary: Researchers identified a brain circuit involving the amygdala and hippocampus that predicts resilience to stress in mice. Mice with disrupted neural communication in this circuit struggled to seek rewards, but activating the neurons restored resilience and improved decision-making.

Using chemogenetics, the team stimulated brain activity in less resilient mice, which then displayed normal behavior and sought sweetened water. This breakthrough suggests potential new, non-invasive treatments for chronic stress and depression in humans, with researchers now exploring similar patterns in human brains.

Dec 4
2024

Autism study reveals pivotal role of neuronal protein CPEB4 condensates

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in communication and social behavior. Approximately 20% of cases are linked to a specific genetic mutation, but the origin of the remaining 80%, known as idiopathic autism, remains a mystery.

A team of scientists led by Drs. Raúl Méndez and Xavier Salvatella at the Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) has identified a molecular mechanism that explains why certain alternations of the neuronal protein CPEB4 are associated with idiopathic autism.

The study is based on previous work published in 2018 that identified CPEB4 as a key protein in the regulation of neuronal proteins related to autism.

Dec 3
2024

The Role Of Quantum Computing In Personalized Medicine

The integration of quantum computing into personalized medicine holds great promise for revolutionizing disease diagnosis, treatment development, and patient outcomes. Quantum computers have the potential to process vast amounts of genetic data much faster than classical computers, enabling researchers to identify patterns and correlations that may not be apparent with current technology. This could lead to breakthroughs in understanding the genetic basis of complex diseases and developing targeted treatments.

Quantum computing also has the potential to revolutionize medical imaging by enabling the simulation of complex magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) scans. Quantum algorithms can efficiently process large-scale imaging data, enabling researchers to reconstruct high-resolution images that reveal subtle details about tissue structure and function. This has significant implications for disease diagnosis and treatment, where accurate imaging is critical for developing effective treatments.

The use of quantum computing in personalized medicine raises important ethical considerations, such as concerns about privacy and informed consent. The ability to rapidly analyze large amounts of genetic data also raises questions about how this information should be used and shared with patients. Regulatory frameworks will play a crucial role in shaping the development and deployment of quantum computing in personalized medicine, balancing the need to promote innovation with the need to protect patient safety and privacy.