Genomics
Potential of gene editing for clinical use highlighted at ASGCT 2021
From base editing to in vivo CRISPR therapeutics and CRISPR-modified bacteriophages, scientists discussed innovations in preclinical research that have allowed them to advance these unique products to the clinic during a scientific symposium at the 2021 American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy (ASGCT) virtual meeting. Read More
Nobel Prize winner Doudna shares perspectives on future of CRISPR gene editing
Small science can translate into big discoveries, according to Nobel Prize laureate Jennifer Doudna, PhD. She discussed how her curiosity in understanding CRISPR led to the gene editing revolution in a talk at the 2021 American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy virtual meeting. Read More
Preparation is key for postdocs to transition to industry positions
Postdoctoral positions are a natural choice for many scientists who have just received their PhDs. Postdocs allow scientists to gain invaluable research experience and training under guided mentorship -- and potentially transition to industry jobs, explains Natalia Martin, PhD, a program manager at the American Chemical Society. Read More
New method allows for study of genetic changes in individual DNA molecules
An improved sequencing method, called nanorate sequencing, allows for the study of genetic changes in human cells with unprecedented accuracy. The new technique, published in Nature on April 28, challenges the idea that cell division is the main mechanism driving genetic changes. Read More
Cell-free technique could enable on-demand vaccine production
A new cell-free synthetic biology technique that increases the volume of membrane components in the manufacture of conjugate vaccines can significantly improve the efficiency of vaccine production, according to a new method published in Nature Communications on April 22. The technology could enable on-site production of vaccines and therapies, enabling them to be more efficiently distributed in areas where they are most needed. Read More
Scientists map gene expression without microscopes
A new framework called Tomographer, which uses sequencing data from tissues cut into thin strips in a way that allows them to be reconstructed, has been developed to spatially resolve gene expression data without the need for a microscope. The work was published in Nature Biotechnology on April 19. Read More
New algorithm helps integrate single-cell data from around the globe
A new algorithm enables researchers from around the globe to integrate multiple single-cell datasets from a variety of omics platforms in a quick and efficient process that can be done on standard computers. The technology, described in an April 19 Nature Biotechnology article, will help speed collaborative cell cataloging projects, such as the Human Body Map and Human Cell Atlas. Read More
Variant-resistant COVID-19 vaccines could be effective, cheap to make
Researchers have collaborated to create a new COVID-19 vaccine platform containing antigens against the fusion protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that could be effective against variants of the virus. The research was published online on April 15 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Read More
How can women overcome challenges to success in life sciences?
The gender gap is still alive and well in the life sciences, despite the great progress that has been made in recent years. But women can overcome challenges and find success in the life sciences industry, according to Olga Kubassova, PhD, chief executive officer of Image Analysis Group. Read More
AACR 2021: How machine learning and artificial intelligence are transforming cancer research
The use of digital tools has been incorporated into many areas of cancer research. However, experts agree that machine learning and artificial intelligence are poised to transform drug discovery efforts even further in the near future. Several scientists discussed case studies of how machine learning can be used in cancer biology and drug discovery efforts during the virtual American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) 2021 meeting. Read More
Conferences
American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting
June 4-8
Online
European Association for Cancer Research (EACR) Virtual Congress
June 9-12
Online
BIO Digital
June 10-11
Online
European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG) 2021
June 12-15
Online
Pharma R&D Week
June 15-17
Online
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