#Biotechnology14
More precise DNA editing could help cystic fibrosis
Researchers refined a DNA base-editing tool to make it more precise. The advance may improve treatment for some cystic fibrosis mutations and make genetic therapies safer, but the work is still at an early preclinical stage.
Photo by CDC, Unsplash
Egyptian university and pharma join to create Africa’s first biotechnology academy
The American University in Cairo and Minapharm have formed a partnership to set up what the university calls the first African academy for biotechnology. The initiative starts early this year to strengthen education, research and industry links.
Biosensor reveals cancer-specific vulnerability in PRMT5
Researchers found that a metabolite change in some tumors makes the protein PRMT5 bind MTA instead of SAM. A new NanoBRET biosensor and a probe called CBH-002 measure drug binding to this cancer-specific form of PRMT5 in live cells.
Engineered bacteria produce tagatose sweetener
Tufts researchers engineered Escherichia coli to make tagatose, a rare sugar that can substitute for table sugar. They used a slime mold enzyme and another enzyme to convert glucose, producing higher yields; tagatose is low‑calorie and FDA‑recognized as safe.
Researchers Call for Clear Rules on Gene-Edited Crops in Mexico
Mexican researchers want rules that distinguish gene-edited crops from GMOs. They launched a petition asking the government for evidence-based regulation while warning a March decree banning genetically modified maize could also affect gene editing.