Artificial DNA molecule offers powerful new biotech tool

John Carroll — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 08:48:34 -0400

A group of Japanese chemists have created a DNA molecule using almost all artificial parts--a breakthrough that may soon offer medical researchers a powerful new tool to work with. DNA holds the body's blueprint, and scientists have long marveled at its ability to store large quantities of vital information. By stitching together an artificial DNA molecule, the chemists are blazing a new path in gene therapy. The work may also apply to a new generation of computers.

"The unique chemistry of these structures and their high stability offer unprecedented possibilities for developing new biotech materials and applications," the researchers said in a statement. "The artificial DNA might be applied to a future extracellular genetic system with information storage and amplifiable abilities."

- read the story from Xinhua

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Texas scientists expand the range of RNA targets

John Carroll — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 08:47:32 -0400

RNA experts at UT Southwestern have advanced their research into the way synthetic strands of RNA can be used to control gene expression. They already knew that the strands disrupted a mixture of proteins around DNA. Now they conclude that the strands also affect a "promoter region" in front of the gene that plays a key role in activating or inhibiting a gene--a central target in therapeutic discovery work. Their insight reveals a whole new area for drug discovery work.

"Our findings about the underlying mechanisms of RNA-activated gene expression reveal a new and unexpected target for potential drug development," said Dr. David Corey, professor of pharmacology and biochemistry at UT Southwestern. "By demonstrating how small RNAs can be used to recruit proteins to gene promoters, we have provided further evidence that this phenomenon should be in the mainstream of science."

- check out the release
- read the story from News-Medical

syntheic

Artificial DNA molecule offers powerful new biotech tool

Texas scientists expand the range of RNA targets