As part of an unprecedented study, scientists from the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology and the University of Cambridge has developed the first ever complete model of mammalian genomes present in every individual cell of an organism. Showcased in the form of 3D images, these structures provide an accurate representation of how the long chains…
Scientists have long struggled to uncover the reason why certain viruses are more lethal for men than women. Males, for instance, are nearly 1.5 times more likely to die of tuberculosis than females, and a staggering five times more susceptible to cancer in case of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection than the other sex. According to…
As part of a new research, an international team of scientists has attempted to solve the mystery surrounding Paulinella, a tiny amoeba that consumed a photosynthetic bacterium some 100 million years ago, keeping it alive to produce food through photosynthesis. The robbery allowed the ancient amoeba to exploit the bacterium's genes for photosynthesis, something that…
In the current age of information and technology, efficient data storage is crucial. In February, for instance, we talked about the highly-advanced 5D digital data storage technique that could survive long after human extinction. When it comes to nature, DNA functions as a powerful storehouse of genetic information. Inspired by this, a team of researchers has…
Scientists at Canada's University of Montreal have devised an incredibly advanced, programmable DNA thermometer 20,000 times smaller than a single human hair. Recently published in the Nano Letters journal, the breakthrough could enhance our understanding of natural and human-designed nanotechnologies, by allowing researchers to accurately measure temperature in nanoscale. According to the scientists, DNA molecules…
Scientists at Temple University are working on a highly-specialized gene editing technology that could one day serve as a cure for AIDS. As part of a new research, the team has successfully eliminated the infection-causing virus from the DNA of host cells, grown in the laboratory. The findings of the study were recently published in…
Our DNA is everywhere, in things we have touched as well as places we’ve been. Thanks to modern technology, our scattered DNA remains can be easily analyzed, revealing information about our unique genetic makeup. US-based artist Heather Dewey-Hagborg’s latest project is based on this idea. Titled Stranger Visions, it includes a series of stunning human-like sculptures built…
Nanotechnology’s stupendous growth in recent years has led us to something even more revolutionary: DNA origami. It refers to the highly-specialized technique of DNA folding, as a means to create two- and three-dimensional shapes in nanoscale. Using this technology, a team of scientists has developed what appears to be the smallest rotary engine in the entire…
People with blood type O are said to be universal donors. When it comes to blood donations, type O patients can receive blood only from individuals with blood group O. But such individuals can donate blood to anybody, irrespective of the recipient’s blood type (A, B, O or AB). As part of a recent research,…