Tootfinder

🎛️ A new system can dial expression of synthetic genes up or down
#molbio

A new system can dial expression of synthetic genes up or down
For decades, synthetic biologists have been developing gene circuits that can be transferred into cells for applications such as reprogramming a stem cell into a neuron or generating a protein that could help treat a disease such as fragile X syndrome.

🔦 Molecular switch discovery could open door to male birth control
#molbio

Molecular switch discovery could open door to male birth control
Michigan State University scientists have pinpointed the molecular "switch" that supercharges sperm for their final sprint to an egg—a breakthrough that could reshape infertility treatments and pave the way for safe, nonhormonal male contraceptives. The work is published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

🔀 Molecular switch links early-life stimulation to lasting memory changes
#molbio

Molecular switch links early-life stimulation to lasting memory changes
Researchers have identified a molecular mechanism that helps explain why growing up in a stimulating environment enhances memory. In contrast, a lack of stimulation can impair it. The team from the Institute for Neurosciences (IN), a joint research center of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH), was led by researcher Ángel Barco.