FDA halts new clinical trials that export Americans’ cells to China for genetic engineering
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has halted the export of American citizens’ living cells to China and other countries of concern for clinical trials involving genetic engineering and subsequent infusion back into US patients without their consent.
Nanomedicine and AI used to find cardio-oncology biomarkers
A research team from Michigan State University (MSU), US, working with scientists from Augusta University, Stanford University, also in the US, and Sweden’s Karolinska Institute, has used nanomedicine, artificial intelligence (AI) and a method for studying cause and effect, to find rare biomarkers for prostate cancer that has spread, and atherosclerosis, which causes clogged arteries
Book review: The Power of Prions
The story of prion proteins is currently still in its infancy. The term prion – a contraction of the words protein and infection – was first coined in 1982 and entered the public domain following major media interest in several fatal diseases in vertebrate animals that became known as mad-cow diseases.
Book review: The Elements of Marie Curie
Until well into the 20th century, these family trees have been essentially male, as only very few women were in higher academic ranks, and even fewer succeeded in nurturing female successors on a scale that could make an impact. The notable exception to this rule, as to many others, is Marie Curie.
European chemicals companies warn of barriers to circular economy
High costs, gaps in infrastructure, complex regulations and low demand for circular products continue to limit progress by the European chemical industry in its shift towards sustainable products, according to a study from European industry group Cefic. While companies are making advances, significant challenges remain in their transition to a more sustainable approach to chemicals.
Plant-based vaccines: A growing industry
Plants offer a fast and relatively inexpensive way to produce vaccines, including edible vaccines for possible consumption in bananas, potatoes and tomatoes. Vaccine farming technology could be especially valuable when faced with a future pandemic threat. Maria Burke reports.
Oncology R&D
Oncology R&D activity continues to grow driven by novel modalities. Novel modalities, especially cell and gene therapies, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and multispecific antibodies, now account for 35% of oncology trials. Multiple novel modalities are evolving rapidly with significant potential both alone and in combination with each other.
Researchers produce paracetamol ingredient from waste PET plastic
A research team in the Wallace Lab at the University of Edinburgh, UK, has genetically modified E. coli, to produce the active ingredient of paracetamol, para-hydroxyacetanilide, from waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
Food allergies are increasing, here's how science is responding
Cases of food allergy are rising at an alarming rate. One recent theory suggests our modern indoor lifestyles and changing diets may be to blame. Katrina Megget reports