Large metal surfaces coated with precisely formed nanostructures have so far remained in the realm of fantasy. The obstacle standing in the way of their production seemed fundamental, as it resulted from the presence of crystal grains in metals: their boundaries disrupted the growth of the nanostructures. At the Institute of Nuclear Physics of the PAS, using titanium and its oxide by way of example, it has been proven that this obstacle can be overcome.

Among the most well-established CRISPR-Cas systems, Cas13 has drawn attention for its unique activity to cut RNA, enabling advances in RNA editing, RNA interference, and molecular diagnostics. However, as this RNA-guided enzyme prevails in basic research and edges closer to clinical use, questions regarding its unintended activity in living cells remain a major concern.

Now, a study published in Science Bulletin reveals an unexpected mechanism of Cas13a activation that occurs independently of any RNA target. The research team discovered that Cas13a can be turned on by guide RNA (crRNA) alone—circumventing the requirement for a complementary RNA target as in the canonical activation model. This novel behavior, termed RNA target-independent non-canonical activation (RINCA), sheds light on a previously unanticipated source of background activity in Cas13a-based systems.

An international team led by QUT researchers continues to challenge a long-held assumption in photochemistry with potential applications in fields ranging from medicine to manufacturing.

A new study from Flinders University has revealed why forgiving ourselves can be so difficult for some – even when we know it might benefit our mental health.

The research, published in the journal Self and Identity, looked at the real-life experiences of people who feel stuck in guilt and shame after making a mistake or going through a difficult situation.

A groundbreaking study titled "An Engineered Intravitreal Injection Retinal-Pigment-Epithelium-Tropic Adeno-Associated Virus Vector Expressing a Bispecific Antibody Binding VEGF-A and ANG-2 Rescues Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Animal Models and Patients" has unveiled a promising new gene therapy approach for treating nAMD. 

We have proposed a new therapeutic effect of CAR-T-cell therapy through a lymphoma case treated with bispecific antibody (BsAb). Memory-formed T cells had been developed in the body after CAR-T-cell therapy. Interestingly, bystander CAR-negative CD8⁺ T cells in the CAR-T-cell product successfully expanded in periphery and lymph node, and mostly propagated after treatment with BsAb, which resulted in complete remission. Therefore, such sequential approach using CAR-T/BsAb might have a potential to further enhance antitumor effects.