Researchers call for responsible development of synthetic biology
Engineering biology is transforming technology and science. Researchers outline the technological advances needed to secure a safe, responsible future.
Read moreBiochemistry Research
Parasite paralysis: A new way to fight schistosomiasis?
Scientists have isolated a natural chemical that acts as a potent kryptonite against parasitic worms that burrow through human skin and cause devastating health problems. Researchers now describe the successful characterization of this chemical, which could help in finding new ways to fight the neglected tropical disease schistosomiasis.
Read moreMuseums put ancient DNA to work for wildlife
Scientists who are trying to save species at the brink of extinction are finding help in an unexpected place. Researchers increasingly are embracing the power of ancient DNA from old museum specimens to answer questions about climate change, habitat loss and other stresses on surviving populations.
Read moreScientists unwind mystery behind DNA replication
The molecules of life are twisted. But how those familiar strands in DNA's double helix manage to replicate without being tangled up has been hard to decipher. A new perspective from physicists is helping unravel the mystery.
Read moreScientists work toward a rapid point-of-care diagnostic test for Lyme disease
A study describes a new rapid assay for Lyme disease that could lead to a practical test for use by healthcare providers. The researchers found the assay, which uses several biomarkers to detect Lyme disease infection, was more sensitive than current laboratory-based tests when diagnosing Lyme disease early after suspected infection.
Read moreStartled fish escape using several distinct neuronal circuits
A fast knee-jerk 'ballistic' escape response and a more considered 'delayed' escape response are mediated by distinct and parallel neuronal pathways in zebrafish, according to a new study.
Read moreA mathematical model reveals long-distance cell communication mechanism
An interdisciplinary collaborative team has identified how a large community can communicate with each other almost simultaneously even with very short distance signaling.
Read moreGenetics to feed the world
A study has demonstrated the effectiveness of the technology known as genomic selection in a wheat improvement program.
Read moreUnique sticky particles formed by harnessing chaos
New research shows that unique materials with distinct properties akin to those of gecko feet – the ability to stick to just about any surface — can be created by harnessing liquid-driven chaos to produce soft polymer microparticles with hierarchical branching on the micro- and nanoscale.
Read moreNew test diagnoses Lyme disease within 15 minutes
Current testing for Lyme disease, called the standard 2-tiered approach or the STT, involves running two complex assays (ELISA and western blot) to detect antibodies against the bacterium, and requires experienced personnel in a lab, and a few hours to carry out and interpret. Biomedical engineers have developed a rapid microfluidic test that can detect Lyme disease with similar performance as the STT in a much shorter time — 15 minutes.
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