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A study conducted at the University of California - Santa Barbara found that deaf male mosquitoes showed no interest in mating, highlighting the importance of hearing in mosquito courtship. The absence of a single gene, trpVa, was found to have a profound effect on mosquito mating behavior. Understanding the role of sound in mating could potentially lead to more effective methods of controlling mosquito populations and disease transmission. The research sheds light on the intricate neurological mechanisms at play in mosquito reproduction, offering insights into potential strategies for disease prevention. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Ningbo University in the People's Republic of China introduced a new biosensing platform that combines a zeolitic imidazolate framework with luciferase and antimicrobial peptides to improve enzyme stability, detection sensitivity, and sterilization effects. This platform was found to enhance luciferase activity and stability, detect target bacteria, and kill them, making it a multifunctional tool for pathogen screening and antibacterial applications. The research, funded by various organizations, concluded that the biosensor showed high stability, specificity, and sensitivity, making it suitable for rapid pathogen screening in the wild. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses a clinical trial, NCT06662214, that aims to compare the serum nutrient and hormonal profile, and muscle protein synthesis rates in response to consuming a traditional East African meal with corn bread made from whole grain or refined maize flour. The study will analyze the post-prandial nutrient and hormonal profile in serum and compare the ability of the meal to activate mTORC1-specific and whole muscle protein synthesis. The trial is set to enroll 20 participants and is scheduled to be completed by June 1, 2025. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Tarbiat Modares University in Tehran, Iran, conducted a study on the interaction between Photinus pyralis firefly luciferase and chiral carbon quantum dots. The study found that the carbon quantum dots affected the enzyme's activity and structure, with more significant effects observed with D-Trp-CQDs compared to L-Trp-CQDs. The research highlights the importance of understanding the impact of nanostructures on enzyme function and structure. For more information, readers can refer to the original article published in Nanoscale Advances. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at China Agricultural University have developed a recA dual-luciferase reporter system to screen dietary inhibitors for Shiga toxin-converting bacteriophage induction. This system successfully identified L-arabinose as an inhibitor of Stx prophage induction, reducing toxin production in STEC isolated from fecal samples. The study concludes that the recA dual-luciferase reporter system is a promising tool for rapid screening of dietary inhibitors, particularly for large-scale experiments. This research was supported by various funding sources and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Chung-Ang University in Seoul, South Korea, has focused on the development of protein-inorganic biohybrids for use as drug delivery systems. The researchers created a biohybrid called TRF-DOX@GFP@Cu, which consists of a transferrin-doxorubicin complex, green fluorescent protein, and copper phosphate. This biohybrid showed strong fluorescence and the ability to bind to lung cancer cells, making it a potential treatment option for lung cancer. The study was supported by the Ministry of Education and the National Research Council for Economics, Humanities & Social Sciences in South Korea. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Missouri focused on the development of cancer gene therapy using luciferase bioluminescence. The researchers aimed to create an oncolytic adenovirus-resistant human triple-negative breast cancer cell line that could express luciferase. By combining this cell line with chemotherapies or targeted therapies, they were able to monitor the effectiveness of these compounds in real-time using bioluminescence imaging. The study found that the integration of luciferase affected the cells' response to different treatments, indicating the need for proper controls in future experiments. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Josai University in Saitama, Japan have conducted a study on gene therapy using plasmid DNA delivery into the skin via electroporation (EP). The study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of direct EP at an intradermal site with implanted electrodes in achieving high protein expression levels. The researchers found that this approach resulted in increased gene expression levels compared to conventional EP methods. The study suggests that skin tissue may be a promising administration site for DNA vaccines. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Isfahan in Iran has developed a novel gene delivery system using a nanocarrier called metal-organic framework (MOF). The researchers synthesized and modified the MOF with saponin- and fluorine-functionalized polyethyleneimine to improve the efficiency of gene delivery. The nanocarrier demonstrated a high transfection efficiency of about 60% for green fluorescent protein expression plasmid, even at low doses and in the presence of fetal bovine serum. The researchers recommend this nanocomplex for efficient gene transference and suggest its potential for in vivo studies. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Catholic University of Korea have generated a human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) line expressing a green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter in the 3'-UTR region of the KLOTHO locus using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated homologous recombination. The established cell line exhibits normal characteristics of stem cells and has the ability to differentiate into the three germ layers. This hiPSC line could be a valuable resource for screening KLOTHO regulators in hiPSC-derived target cells or organoids. The research was supported by the Ministry of Science, ICT & Future Planning, Republic of Korea. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom has found that luciferase-based immunoprecipitation system (LIPS) assays offer improved specificity in measuring autoantibodies to glutamate decarboxylase (GADA) compared to traditional radiobinding assays (RBAs). The study evaluated the performance of LIPS assays using different GAD65 constructs in serum samples from patients with type 1 diabetes and their relatives. The researchers found that Nluc-GAD65(96-585) LIPS assays demonstrated high specificity and required less serum than RBAs, making them a potential alternative for screening and diagnostics. This research was supported by various organizations including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Diabetes UK. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital aimed to investigate the role of Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) in lung injury caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (Spn) in young mice. The researchers found that KLF2 alleviates lung injury in young mice with Spn-induced pneumonia by transcriptional regulation of the miR-222-3p/CDKN1B axis. Pneumonia caused by Spn is a major cause of death among children aged 1-59 months worldwide. This research provides insights into the mechanisms of lung injury and potential therapeutic targets for pneumonia. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by AntiCancer Inc. in San Diego, California, has made advancements in the field of xenografts, specifically in the visualization of luciferase-luciferin emitted light in an orthotopic lung cancer xenograft model in nude mice. The researchers were able to directly visualize the low emitted light using a sensitive low-light camera and optics, which is a significant improvement over previous methods that relied on photon counting. The luciferase-luciferin signal was visible through the skin and produced true images, providing valuable insights for cancer research. This research has been peer-reviewed and can be accessed for further information. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center have developed an optimized bioluminescence assay to assess the antibacterial efficacy of experimental nanofilled dental adhesive resins. The assay, which uses renilla luciferase, demonstrated increased sensitivity and robustness compared to previous assays, making it a valuable screening tool for dental materials and oral microbiology research. The researchers also noted that the assay could be further optimized for use as a co-reporter in other luciferase-based assays. This research has been peer-reviewed and published in Dental Materials. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at China Medical University has investigated the mechanism behind the reduced expression of the regulator of G-protein signaling 4-1 (RGS4-1) isoform in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) of individuals with schizophrenia. The researchers focused on the 3'untranslated regions (3'UTRs) of the RGS4 gene and identified potential functional regions. They found that hsa-miR-874-3p, a microRNA associated with psychiatric disorders, targets a specific region in the 3'UTR of the RGS4 gene, leading to the inhibition of the RGS4-1 isoform expression. This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying schizophrenia and may contribute to the development of new therapeutic approaches. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for inhibitors of oplophorus luciferase-derived bioluminescent complexes. The patent, filed by inventors from Promega Corporation, describes the use of luciferases based on the luciferase secreted from the deep-sea shrimp, Oplophorus gracilirostris, as reporter molecules in protein fragment complementation systems. The invention provides compounds that can selectively inhibit the formation of bioluminescent complexes, which are useful in luminescent assays. These inhibitors can be further modified to study enzyme activities and cellular processes. The patent also describes methods for detecting interactions or co-localization of molecules in a sample using the bioluminescent complex and a coelenterazine substrate. These methods have potential applications in various fields, including proteomics and medical technology. The patent was filed by Christopher Todd Eggers and assigned to Promega Corporation. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Isfahan in Iran has developed a novel assay for detecting the liver cancer biomarker alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). The assay utilizes a split-luciferase system combined with nanobodies that target AFP. The developed assay demonstrated high sensitivity in detecting AFP within a linear range of 1-20 ng/ml, with a Limit of Detection (LOD) of 0.5 ng/ml. The researchers concluded that this assay offers a reliable and user-friendly test for AFP detection. [Extracted from the article]

The Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research has been granted a patent for compounds that can enhance the expression of the KCC2 gene, which is important for maintaining the balance between excitatory and inhibitory signaling in the brain. This gene has been linked to various neurological diseases and psychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorders and Rett syndrome. The patent describes a screening platform that uses neurons to identify compounds that can enhance KCC2 expression, potentially leading to the development of therapies for these conditions. The patent also provides examples of specific compounds that can be used for treatment, including kinase inhibitors and GABA reuptake inhibitors. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nurnberg (FAU) in Germany has focused on human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a medically important pathogen. The researchers developed a recombinant version of the HCMV strain TB40 that expresses firefly luciferase, allowing for quantitative measurement of viral replication. The study found that this reporter system is effective in primary human cells, provides easily quantifiable viral signals, and reflects the kinetics of viral replication. The researchers also demonstrated the system's reliability in determining antiviral compound efficacy. This research contributes to our understanding of HCMV infection and may have implications for vaccine development and antiviral drug targeting. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted at the Erasmus University Medical Center Cancer Institute in Rotterdam, Netherlands, has developed a novel luciferase-based reporter gene technology for simultaneous optical and radionuclide imaging of cells. The researchers used a complementation-based reporter gene system that allowed for the imaging of radiotracer uptake in mice using SPECT/CT and bioluminescence. The findings of this study demonstrate the potential of this new approach to advance cell and gene therapies from the laboratory to clinical applications. The research was supported by the European Commission. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Jiangsu, People's Republic of China, investigated the expression and biological roles of miR-497-5p in gastric cancer (GC). The study found that miR-497-5p was significantly reduced in GC tissues and cell lines compared to normal tissues and cells. The researchers also discovered that miR-497-5p inhibited the malignant features of GC cells by targeting ERBB2. These findings suggest that miR-497-5p could potentially be used as a therapeutic target for gastric cancer. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Three Gorges University in Yichang, China discusses the impact of mir-204 on childhood leukemia cells. The study found that mir-204 reduces the expression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), which inhibits cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, while promoting apoptosis and regulating the behavior of leukemia cells. The research involved 112 children with leukemia and utilized techniques such as real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and flow cytometry to evaluate the effects of mir-204 on cell behavior. This study provides valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets for childhood leukemia. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Toronto have conducted a study on autism, focusing on the disruption of alternative splicing and its contribution to the disorder. The researchers developed a screening workflow using dual Nano and Firefly luciferase alternative splicing reporters to detect small molecule responses. Through this system, they identified compounds that can stimulate or repress the splicing of neuronal microexons, which are often disrupted in autism. One of these compounds was able to rescue the splicing of microexons in an autism mouse model. This study provides a high-throughput screening system for identifying potential splicing therapeutics and offers a resource of small molecule modulators for further development in correcting aberrant splicing patterns associated with human disorders and diseases. [Extracted from the article]

The patent application titled "Highly Sensitive And Specific Luciferase Based Reporter Assay For Antigen Detection" discusses the need for improved methods of detecting antigens, particularly those expressed at low levels, in order to select patients for targeted therapies and predict toxicity to normal tissues. It also addresses the lack of a fast, economical, sensitive, and robust assay for detecting chimeric antigen receptors on the surface of T cells, which is important in CAR-T cell therapy. The invention described in the application provides a method for detecting expression of a chimeric antigen receptor using a fusion protein and a non-secretory form of luciferase as a reporter. The composition and method described in the application are highly sensitive and specific for detecting CAR expression. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been filed for a method and system to rapidly detect Salmonella using infectious agents. Traditional methods for detecting bacteria can take several days, but this new method aims to reduce the time required for detection. The invention involves using a recombinant bacteriophage, a type of virus that infects bacteria, which contains an indicator gene that produces a soluble indicator protein when the bacteriophage infects Salmonella. This method has the potential to provide a more rapid, simple, and sensitive way to detect and identify bacteria in various samples, including food, water, and clinical samples. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Melbourne discusses new research findings on breast cancer. The study focuses on the detection of metastasis, which is the main cause of cancer-related deaths. The researchers developed a novel method using luciferase-labeled breast cancer cells to detect disseminated tumor cells in various sites of the body. The results demonstrate the feasibility of this ultrasensitive method for understanding the mechanisms of early metastatic colonization and improving the development of antimetastatic therapies. [Extracted from the article]

New research from Luohe Medical College in China has found that Grifola frondose polysaccharide (GFP) can inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of gallbladder cancer cells. The study investigated the effects of GFP on gallbladder carcinoma cells and found that GFP had a definite inhibitory effect on these cells. The mechanism behind this inhibition was related to the regulation of LncRNA HULC/miR-186-5p. This research provides valuable insights into potential treatments for gallbladder cancer. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine have developed a mouse model that mimics vitamin A deficiency (VAD)-like craniofacial skeletal deformities. The model was created using the Cre-LoxP system and expresses a dominant-negative retinoid acid receptor a (dnRARa) mutation in osteoblasts. The researchers verified the model by assessing the expression of retinoid acid receptor a (RARa) protein and the inhibition of retinoic acid signaling in the osteoblasts. Micro-CT scanning and 3D reconstruction confirmed the craniofacial skeletal deformities in the mouse model. This model provides a new tool for studying the pathogenesis and potential therapies for VAD-like craniofacial skeletal deformities. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a method of detecting Polycomb Repressive Complex (PRC) activity in cells. The method involves expressing a recombinant gene of a binding protein fused to a member of the PRC, allowing the fused binding protein to bind to a protein binding site on the DNA, and detecting reporter gene expression. This method can provide insight into complex interactions and facilitate the development of cancer medications by manipulating PRC function. Kits containing the necessary components for the method are also provided. The patent describes a method for detecting Polycomb Repressive Complex (PRC) activity in vertebrate cells. The method involves providing the cells with a DNA containing a protein binding site and a reporter gene expression site that is connected to the protein binding site. The cells also contain a recombinant gene of a binding protein fused to a member of the PRC. The method allows for the detection of reporter gene expression, which indicates PRC activity. The patent also includes various embodiments and variations of the method. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC have submitted a patent application for the use of rotavirus as a vector to express heterologous antigenic proteins. The application includes information on the use of isolated nucleic acid molecules containing rotavirus non-structural proteins, a 2A peptide, and a heterologous protein. The patent application also discusses the use of recombinant rotavirus and immunogenic compositions for preventing or treating infections. The invention includes methods for inducing a protective immune response in a subject by administering an immunogenic composition orally or to a mucous membrane. The patent application also provides methods for rescuing recombinant rotavirus and producing it in cell culture. [Extracted from the article]

Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings has been issued a patent for methods and systems for rapid detection of microorganisms. The patent describes a recombinant bacteriophage that contains an indicator gene, which, when expressed during bacteriophage replication, produces a soluble indicator protein. This protein can be detected to indicate the presence of a specific microorganism in a sample. The invention aims to improve the speed and sensitivity of detecting bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms in various samples, such as biological, food, water, and clinical samples. This technology could have significant implications for public health and food safety. [Extracted from the article]

Genentech Inc. has been issued a patent for a cell-based assay that detects anti-CD3 homodimers, which are impurities that can impact the efficacy and safety of T cell dependent bispecific antibodies (TDB). Traditional methods for detecting impurities in TDBs are not effective for anti-CD3 homodimers, so this assay provides a specialized approach using highly specialized antibodies. The assay involves contacting T cells with the TDB composition and measuring the expression of a reporter gene linked to T cell activation, which indicates the presence of anti-CD3 homodimers. This assay can help ensure the development of safe and effective clinical drug candidates. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in Gastroenterology Week discusses a new method called Luciferase Immunoprecipitation Systems (LIPS) for detecting antibodies to antigens. The study focuses on the production of a fusion protein that combines antigenic epitopes from the Helicobacter pylori urease protein and luciferase, aiming to reduce the size of the fusion protein and improve its expression. The researchers successfully produced the fusion protein and confirmed its proper folding and functionality through various assays. This study highlights the potential of the fusion protein as a candidate for detecting H. pylori and streamlining the production of LIPS fusion proteins. However, it is important to note that this research has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Kentucky has focused on glioblastomas, which are highly aggressive brain cancers. The researchers aimed to optimize and characterize two luciferase-expressing mouse glioblastoma models, GL261 Red-FLuc and TRP-mCherry-FLuc, and compare their tumor characteristics. The study found that GL261 Red-FLuc tumors were well-demarcated with densely packed cells, high mitotic activity, and vascularization, while TRP-mCherry-FLuc tumors were large, invasive, and necrotic with perivascular invasion. The researchers also highlighted the importance of considering tumor engraftment when using luciferase-expressing glioblastoma models in preclinical research design. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Pennsylvania provides new insights into the potential risks of high-dose systemic adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector administration in gene therapy. The study analyzed data from toxicology studies involving macaques and found that high doses of AAV caused liver and sinusoidal endothelial cell injury. The toxicity was characterized by transaminitis, thrombocytopenia, and alternative complement pathway activation. While most animals recovered, some developed severe symptoms that led to euthanasia. These findings highlight the need for further research to better understand the potential toxic effects of high-dose AAV administration in nonhuman primates. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Hiroshima University in Japan has found that luminescent proteins can be used to detect early drug-induced kidney injury. The researchers used a serum amyloid A3 (Saa3) promoter-driven luciferase reporter to monitor early renal pathologies in mice. The bioluminescent signals from the injured kidneys were stronger than those from normal kidneys, indicating that Saa3 promoter activity is a non-invasive indicator for the early detection of drug-induced nephrotoxicity. This research provides valuable insights for drug development and could potentially improve patient safety. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been submitted for a new method of detecting antigens using a luciferase-based reporter assay. This assay aims to overcome the limitations of current methods by providing high sensitivity and specificity without the need for expensive equipment. The method involves using a fusion protein to detect the expression of a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) on immune cells. This assay has potential applications in targeted therapies, predicting patient response, research, and quality control for CAR-T cell therapy. The composition and method described in the patent application are highly sensitive and specific for detecting CAR expression. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for methods and compositions for genome editing in non-dividing cells. The patent describes techniques for integrating an exogenous DNA sequence into the genome of non-dividing cells, correcting or causing mutations in the DNA sequence. The methods involve the use of targeting constructs, complementary strand oligonucleotides, and nucleases such as CRISPR to facilitate the integration or alteration of DNA sequences. The patent also mentions the use of viral vectors, such as lentiviruses and adeno-associated viruses, to deliver the necessary components for genome editing. These techniques have potential applications in treating genetic diseases and have implications for fields such as gene therapy and biotechnology. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine in China have conducted a study on acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients with sepsis. They focused on the role of microRNA-30a (miR-30a) in sepsis-induced AKI and its molecular mechanism. The study used in vivo and in vitro models to investigate the functions of miR-30a and found that down-regulated miR-30a-3p may promote cell proliferation by targeting TEAD1 in sepsis-induced AKI. The findings suggest that miR-30a-3p could be a potential biomarker for early diagnosis of sepsis-induced AKI. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the effect of microRNA-27a-5p (miR-27a-5p) on the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in human dental pulp cells (hDPCs) stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The study found that LPS-stimulated hDPCs showed increased expression of miR-27a-5p and proinflammatory cytokines, which was suppressed by an NF-kB inhibitor. Transfection of the miR-27a-5p mimic downregulated the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and NF-kB activity in hDPCs. The study suggests that miR-27a-5p negatively regulates the synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines by targeting the NF-kB signaling pathway. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention in Beijing, China, investigated the biodistribution of a gene transfer vector called SAdV1-GFluc in a mouse model. The researchers found that the administration route affected the biodistribution and expression of the transgene. Intravenous administration resulted in luciferase activity and virus DNA mainly found in the liver and spleen, while intragastric administration led to transient, low-level expression. Intranasal administration resulted in moderate, constant expression in the respiratory tract, and intramuscular administration showed high luciferase activity restricted to the injection site. The study suggests that intranasal or intramuscular administration may be preferred routes for the SAdV-1 vector in vaccine development. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract, researchers have developed a model for studying Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection using human intestinal enteroids (HIEs). The study found that HEV replication is facilitated by the fast cell turnover of the intestine, and the virus targets enteroendocrine cells. The researchers also discovered that treatment with ribavirin effectively inhibited viral replication in the HIEs. This research provides insights into the mechanisms of HEV infection and could potentially contribute to the development of antiviral treatments and vaccines. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Liaocheng University in China presents new findings on luminescent proteins and their potential use in detecting DNA in living cells. The researchers developed a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) method using a fusion protein filament called RecA-GFP. By attaching single-stranded DNA to gold nanoparticles and interacting it with RecA-GFP, the fluorescence of the protein was quenched. However, in the presence of double-stranded DNA, the fluorescence was recovered, allowing for the detection of DNA activity. This method shows promise for early clinical diagnosis of genetic diseases. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Chiba University in Japan discusses the use of transgrafting, a plant breeding technique that combines genetically modified (GM) and non-GM plants to improve crop cultivation. The study focuses on the translocation of a luciferase protein in transgrafted tobacco plants, finding that the protein can move in both directions across the graft junction. However, the translocation is episodic and occurs at low levels, posing a minimal risk for allergenic responses. Further research is needed to determine the stability and expression of newly introduced proteins in GM plants. [Extracted from the article]