Okay, here’s a gene I would like inserted in my DNA immediately (but just on one allele, not both):
First Ever Anti-Ageing Gene Discovered in a Secluded Amish Family
Compared to the general Amish population, these 43 people had a 10 percent longer lifespan, and 10 percent longer telomeres (the DNA-protecting structures at the ends of our chromosomes that unravel when the cells reach the end of their lifespans). They also showed lower incidence of diabetes and lower insulin fasting levels. On top of that, the study showed a small indication of lower blood pressure and potentially more flexible blood vessels.
Homozygosity for this allele isn’t great, but heterozygosity is definitely good. It’s not the fountain of youth, but it’s a step in the right direction, hopefully.
Next, of increasing importance given the growing prevalence of resistant bacteria:
Synthetic Molecule That Could Be The Key to Ending Antibiotic Resistance
In a study published in the journal Scientific Reports earlier this November, this team of researchers from UdeM’s Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine explored a method that could block the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes.
The researchers focused on preventing a mechanism that allows for antibiotic resistance genes to be coded onto plasmids – which are DNA fragments that can carry genes that encode the proteins that render bacteria drug-resistant.
I like this next one the best; it’s so totally futuristic:
Tiny microrobots could be used to cure cancer
Known as “biohybrids,” the microbots can be controlled remotely to deliver life-saving drugs directly to affected areas for maximum efficiency. They are made from biological cells that are engineered with additional features so they can be guided through the bloodstream.
Isn’t that cool?
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