Controlling genes with your thoughts

Researchers have constructed the first gene network that can be controlled by our thoughts. Scientists have developed a novel gene regulation method that enables thought-specific brainwaves to control the conversion of genes into proteins (gene expression). The inspiration was a game that picks up brainwaves in order to guide a ball through an obstacle course.   It sounds like something from the scene in Star Wars where Master Yoda instructs...

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Bio-inspired bleeding control: Synthesized platelet-like nanoparticles created

Stanching the free flow of blood from an injury remains a holy grail of clinical medicine. Controlling blood flow is a primary concern and first line of defense for patients and medical staff in many situations, from traumatic injury to illness to surgery. If control is not established within the first few minutes of a hemorrhage, further treatment and healing are impossible.   Artist's rendering of synthetic platelets. Credit: Peter...

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Diabetes: β cells at last

The race to generate β cells from stem cells has taken another big turn. We can already generate definitive endoderm from human embryonic stem cells and functional insulin-producing cells from transplanted pancreatic progenitors. Now, differentiating glucose-responsive insulin-producing cells in vitro that function like adult human β cells has been achieved.   Intensive insulin therapy can considerably reduce the incidence and severity of...

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