Category Archives: biology

Dawn of Private Space Science Symposium 2017 | #DPSS17

Dawn of Private Space Science 2017Bringing scientists, foundations, corporations, policy makers & private spacelines under one roof to chart the future of space science @ Columbia University
Source: Dawn of Private Space Science Symposium 2017 | #DPSS17

Hacking the Brain — Restoring Lost Abilities With the Latest Neurotechnologies – Singularity HUB

Neuroprosthetics, Brain-Computer Interfaces, and Optogenetics

Hacking the Brain — Restoring Lost Abilities With the Latest Neurotechnologies – Singularity HUB

Stem cells to generate biological pacemakers?

biological pacemakers

This graphic shows examples of individual pacemaker cells.

Although today’s pacemakers are lifesaving electronic devices, they are limited by their artificial nature. For example, the devices require regular maintenance, must be replaced periodically, and can only approximate the natural regulation of a heartbeat. A new article highlights the promise and limitations of new methods based on stem cell and reprogramming technologies to generate biological pacemakers that might one day replace electronic pacemakers.
Can stem cell technology be harnessed to generate biological pacemakers? 

Molecule slows the clock on key aspects of aging in animals.

As mice age, those treated with J147 (right) showed improved physiology, memory and appearance that more closely resembled younger mice.

Scientists have discovered a molecule that slows the clock on key aspects of aging in animals.
Experimental drug targeting Alzheimer’s disease shows anti-aging effects: Molecule that slows the clock on key aspects of aging in animals.

The secret to safe DNA repair

The secret to safe DNA repair

Dr. Michael Hendzel. Credit: Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta

Michael Hendzel knows all too well that there is little that people can do to control the stability of their genetic code. But he hopes his latest research will help impact this elusive and crucial aspect of medicine. Published in Nature Cell Biology, this research explores a previously unknown secret to DNA repair.

The secret to safe DNA repair

CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing: Check three times, cut once

CRISPRTwo new studies from the University of California, Berkeley, should give scientists who use CRISPR-Cas9 for genome engineering greater confidence that they won’t inadvertently edit the wrong DNA.
Source: CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing: Check three times, cut once

Sixth DNA base discovered?

Is there a sixth DNA base? A team of researchers suggests that the methyl-adenine that would regulate the expression of certain genes in eukaryotic cells could have a specific role in stem cells and in early stages of development.