Biotechnology

Researchers in Israel have used CRISPR gene editing to deactivate a gene that produces bitter chemicals in grapefruit, potentially making the fruit more appealing to consumers. This innovation could expand the market for citrus and combat the devastating citrus greening disease by enabling cold-hardy, edible varieties. The approach aims to shift citrus farming to temperate regions like northern Europe.

29. januar 2026 Rapportert av AI

Researchers have created a detailed brain organoid mimicking the developing cerebral cortex, complete with blood vessels that closely resemble those in a real brain. This advance addresses a key limitation in lab-grown mini-brains, potentially allowing them to survive longer and provide deeper insights into neurological conditions. The organoid, grown from human stem cells, features evenly distributed vessels with hollow centers, marking a significant step forward in brain research.

Chinese biotech firm SciNeuro Pharmaceuticals has partnered with Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis in a deal worth nearly $1.7 billion to develop treatments for Alzheimer's disease, which affects some 55 million people worldwide. The agreement grants Novartis exclusive worldwide rights to develop and commercialise SciNeuro's antibody candidates for the progressive brain disease. SciNeuro's novel amyloid beta-targeted antibody programme leverages proprietary blood-brain barrier shuttle technology to help more of the drug cross into the brain where Alzheimer's damage occurs.

9. januar 2026 Rapportert av AI

Researchers have produced the most detailed maps yet of how human DNA folds and reorganizes in three dimensions and over time. This work, led by scientists at Northwestern University as part of the 4D Nucleome Project, highlights how genome architecture influences gene activity and disease risk. The findings, published in Nature, could accelerate the discovery of genetic mutations linked to illnesses like cancer.