16-02-2012 09:30 Brand new Biotech SHSM (Specialist High Skills Major) program offered exclusively at AY Jackson Secondary School. This is an promotional video for the SHSM program developed by staff and students at AY Jackson Secondary School.
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Biotechnology SHSM at AY Jackson Secondary School – Video
Public release date: 21-Feb-2012
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Contact: Tracey Jewitt
press.office@bbsrc.ac.uk
Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
A team of chemists from the Universities of Southampton and Oxford have been awarded over ?4 million to develop a new technique for 'clicking' DNA and RNA segments together. Their project, which is being funded by a strategic Longer and Larger (sLoLa) grant from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) could make biotechnology research cheaper and more efficient.
The scientists hope that their research could enable the production of useful DNA and RNA structures more efficiently and on a larger scale than is possible using current enzyme-based technologies. The project could also lead to the creation of previously unimaginable molecular machines with new industrial and medical uses.
Professor Tom Brown of the University of Southampton, who will jointly lead the project, explains “At the moment, synthesising long DNA molecules by chemical methods is slow and requires a great deal of skill. To avoid this, biologists usually ask chemists to make a large numbers of very short DNA strands which they glue together using enzymes. These enzymes, which have evolved to work under very specific conditions, work brilliantly if you treat them kindly. However, they are delicate, temperamental, and refuse to work with heavily modified DNA or RNA. We have found that we can 'click' DNA and RNA segments together using chemical methods that can replace the enzymes. These chemical linkages are stronger and less choosy than those formed by enzymes and can be produced in large amounts for industrial scale applications.”
The ability to 'click' DNA together opens up the possibility of producing new DNA structures decorated with a variety of useful chemical modifications for industrial uses in the Bioeconomy, including in clinical applications. However the 'click' method has not had the luxury of millions of years of evolution, and it inserts an unusual linkage into DNA. Importantly though, the researchers have recently demonstrated that a bacterial cell can copy and read a strand of DNA that has been 'clicked' together, and enzymes can also use it to make RNA. It seems that cells don't notice the unusual 'click' linkages and so process the click-linked DNA normally.
Scientists are currently exploring whether we can use DNA to treat a whole range of diseases including certain cancers and HIV. We know that people who possess certain genes are more susceptible to these diseases so if we can turn off the appropriate gene we might be able to help combat the disease. One of the problems holding back this approach is that long strands of DNA are more effective at turning off genes than shorter ones, but are less readily taken up by the cells in our bodies. Using 'click' chemistry it might be possible to send in a series of short strands which then self-assemble in the cell and turn off the disease gene.
Professor Andrew Turberfield of the University of Oxford is another leading researcher on the project. He said “This new technology is an important addition to the toolbox of molecular techniques that is allowing researchers to explore how biological systems function by creating simplified and modified biomolecular machinery.”
“We're really excited by the possibilities that this project could open up” said Professor Douglas Kell, Chief Executive of BBSRC. “The 'click' technique could make DNA production cheaper, quicker and more efficient and deliver a range of useful new clinical and commercial molecules. However, we also need to be aware of the implications of making DNA assembly more widespread and accessible. BBSRC ran a public dialogue in 2010 on 'synthetic biology' which encompassed new technologies like these. The dialogue aimed to gauge people's hopes and fears for these new technologies so as to make sure that we, and the scientists engaged in this research, don't lose sight of the social and ethical dimensions of their work. This grant illustrates our commitment to investing in synthetic biology. This research clearly has the capacity to do great good but must be done thoughtfully with an eye on the wider implications. ”
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CONTACT
BBSRC External Relations
Tracey Jewitt, Tel: 01793 413355, email: tracey.jewitt@bbsrc.ac.uk
Rob Dawson, Tel: 01793 413204, email: Robert.dawson@bbsrc.ac.uk
Mike Davies, Tel: 01793 414694, email: mike.davies@bbsrc.ac.uk
About sLoLas
Strategic Longer and Larger award (sLoLa). sLoLas provide internationally-leading research teams with the resources to conduct multidisciplinary research to address major global challenges.
For more information see: http://www.bbsrc.ac.uk/funding/grants/lola/lola-index.aspx
About BBSRC
BBSRC invests in world-class bioscience research and training on behalf of the UK public. Our aim is to further scientific knowledge, to promote economic growth, wealth and job creation and to improve quality of life in the UK and beyond.
Funded by Government, and with an annual budget of around ?445M, we support research and training in universities and strategically funded institutes. BBSRC research and the people we fund are helping society to meet major challenges, including food security, green energy and healthier, longer lives. Our investments underpin important UK economic sectors, such as farming, food, industrial biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.
For more information about BBSRC, our science and our impact see: http://www.bbsrc.ac.uk
About the University of Southampton
The University of Southampton is a leading UK teaching and research institution with a global reputation for leading-edge research and scholarship across a wide range of subjects in engineering, science, social sciences, health and humanities.
With over 23,000 students, around 5000 staff, and an annual turnover well in excess of ?435 million, the University of Southampton is acknowledged as one of the country's top institutions for engineering, computer science and medicine. We combine academic excellence with an innovative and entrepreneurial approach to research, supporting a culture that engages and challenges students and staff in their pursuit of learning.
The University is also home to a number of world-leading research centres including the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research, the Optoelectronics Research Centre, the Institute for Life Sciences, the Web Science Trust and Doctoral training Centre, the Centre for the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease, the Southampton Statistical SciencesResearch Institute and is a partner of the National Oceanography Centre at the Southampton waterfront campus.
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New project could herald cheaper and more efficient biotechnology
WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) today applauded President Obama’s directive to expand and strengthen the USDA BioPreferred program.
BIO President & CEO Jim Greenwood said, “The USDA’s BioPreferred program provides important federal leadership that can expand consumer demand for renewable products made from biomass, such as agricultural residues and energy crops. Biobased products meet consumer demand for items that are affordable and healthier for the environment. The United States is well positioned to use its leadership in biotechnology, agricultural productivity and manufacturing innovation to build a biobased economy.”
Brent Erickson, executive vice president of BIO’s Industrial & Environmental Section, added, “Expanding biobased production can also reduce our reliance on foreign oil and generate new jobs in manufacturing, agricultural production and forestry. The biobased product industry already employs more than 50,000 people in the United States and can generate tens of thousands more in the next five years. Policies that provide technology neutral support to biobased products and renewable chemicals, such as the BioPreferred program, can help the industry continue its progress.”
About BIO
BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the world’s largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world. BIO produces BIOtech NOW, an online portal and monthly newsletter chronicling “innovations transforming our world.” Subscribe to BIOtech NOW.
Upcoming BIO Events
World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology & Bioprocessing
April 29-May 2, 2012
Orlando, FL
2012 BIO International Convention
June 18-21, 2012
Boston, MA
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BIO Applauds Strengthening of the USDA BioPreferred Program
February 21, 2012 – BIO's 9th annual World Congress on Biotechnology and Bioprocessing will feature plenary program with 6 panel sessions. Topics will include Fostering a Biobased Economy; A Global Vision for Biomass Utilization: How Biotech Can Get Us There; The Future of Biocatalysis in Global Manufacturing; Promoting Biotech Innovation; Financing Innovation in the Industrial Biotech Space: Creative Models and Future Trends; What's Driving Demand for Biotech Products?: A Customer's Perspective.
Biotechnology Industry Organization
1201 Maryland Ave., SW, Ste. 900
Washington, DC, 20024
USA
Press release date: February 16, 2012
BIO Plenary Speakers for the 2012 World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology and Bioprocessing to Address Advanced Biofuels, Renewable Chemicals and Creation of a Biobased Economy World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology and Bioprocessing
WASHINGTON– Company executives, scientists and government officials will bring a global perspective as featured presenters at BIO's 9th annual World Congress on Biotechnology and Bioprocessing. The world's largest industrial biotechnology conference for business leaders, investors, academics and policymakers in biofuels, biobased products, renewable chemicals, synthetic biology, food ingredients and biomass comes to Orlando, April 29 – May 2 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center.
The plenary program will include six panel sessions:
Fostering a Biobased Economy
A Global Vision for Biomass Utilization: How Biotech Can Get Us There
The Future of Biocatalysis in Global Manufacturing
Promoting Biotech Innovation
Financing Innovation in the Industrial Biotech Space: Creative Models and Future Trends
What's Driving Demand for Biotech Products?: A Customer's Perspective
Featured plenary speakers include:
Harry Baumes, Director, Office of Energy Policy and New Uses, United States Department of Agriculture
David A. Benko, Director, Materials Research & Development, Goodyear Tire Paul Bryan, Consultant
James C. Collins, President, DuPont Industrial Biosciences
Andrew Hagan, Associate Director, Head of Chemicals Industry, Global Leadership Fellow, World Economic Forum
Jennifer Holmgren, Chief Executive Officer, LanzaTech
James Levine, President and Chief Executive Officer, Verenium Corporation
Philip New, Chief Executive Officer, BP Biofuels
Mark Niederschulte, Chief Operating Officer, INEOS Bio
Valerie Sarisky-Reed, Acting Program Manager, Biomass Program, United States Department of Energy
Vincent Schachter, Vice President, Research & Development, Total Oil and Gas
Scott Vitters, Sustainable Packaging Director, The Coca Cola Company
Roger Wyse, Managing Director, Burrill & Company
Brent Erickson, executive vice president of BIO's Industrial & Environmental Section, said, “Speakers at the World Congress will highlight the growing biobased economy, in which homegrown biomass resources are transformed into consumer products. Some of the most widely used consumer products are joining the biobased economy. We are excited to offer this information-packed plenary program covering high profile topics and providing company executives an unparalleled opportunity to network with their colleagues and learn about the latest developments in the field of industrial biotechnology and bioprocessing.”
BIO's World Congress will also feature six breakout session tracks over three days, with industry presentations on Advanced Biofuel Technologies; Algae and Feedstock Crops; Renewable Chemical Platforms and Biobased Materials; Specialty Chemicals; Synthetic Biology and Metabolic Engineering; and Technical Presentations. The full program of breakout panel sessions and speakers is available online.
Online pre-registration for reporters and editors is now open. All programs at the BIO World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology and Bioprocessing are open to attendance by members of the media. Complimentary media registration is available to editors and reporters with valid press credentials working full time for print, broadcast or web publications.
The world's largest industrial biotechnology conference for business leaders, investors, academics and policymakers in biofuels, biobased products, renewable chemicals, synthetic biology, food ingredients and biomass comes to Orlando, Fla., April 29 – May 2 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center. Online registration for the conference is open. Early bird registration ends Feb. 29, 2012. Please visit http://www.bio.org/worldcongress/ for additional information, or email worldcongress@bio.org.
About BIO
BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the world's largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world. BIO produces BIOtech NOW, an online portal and monthly newsletter chronicling “innovations transforming our world.” Subscribe to BIOtech NOW.
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BIO Plenary Speakers for the 2012 World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology
SEATTLE, WA–(Marketwire -02/22/12)- Plandaí Biotechnology, Inc. (OTC.BB: PLPL.OB – News) Chief Executive Officer Roger Duffield announced today that Dr. Volker Böhm has accepted a position on the company's scientific board. This appointment was enthusiastically supported and approved company-wide, particularly by Dr. Tom Matula, Chairman of the scientific Board.
Mr. Duffield stated, “Dr. Böhm brings to the team a wealth of experience and technical know-how in our specific field and having him on board is an indication of how committed we are to validating our claims of having the highest levels of bioavailability in plant extracts.”
Dr. Volker Böhm has a double qualification in Food Science and Human Nutrition. His prior research has focused on combining both fields. He has achieved an excellent international reputation for his specific expertise in the field of secondary plant products (carotenoids, polyphenols) with an emphasis on antioxidant capacity and he is especially renowned for human intervention studies, isomer-specific HPLC of carotenoids and the determination of antioxidant activity/capacity of single compounds as well as food and plasma extracts. Dr. Böhm also successfully manages interdisciplinary projects, funded by the European Union and other scientific or industrial project partners, and participates with the valuable knowledge of his research group. He communicates eloquently on the subject to media and is a sought-after partner for both scientific and consumer-oriented discussions.
“I am proud to share my expertise with Plandaí Biotechnology, Inc.,” says Dr. Volker Böhm. “The field of functional foods is an expanding one with a lot of questions to be clarified. Thus, interdisciplinary discussions within the newly formed board will provide clarity to the plethora of unanswered questions in our field today.”
About Plaindaí Biotechnology, Inc.
Plandaí Biotechnology, Inc., through its recent acquisition of Global Energy Solutions, Ltd. and its subsidiaries, focuses on the farming of whole fruits, vegetables and live plant material and the production of proprietary functional foods and botanical extracts for the health and wellness industry. Its principal holdings consist of land, farms and infrastructure in South Africa.
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Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. Announces the Appointment of World Renowned Scientist to Its Scientific Board
19-01-2012 22:48 Professor Trounson’s presentation focuses on how stem cell research has the potential to yield groundbreaking new tools to understand and develop therapies for CP and related brain disorders. He also discusses the challenging nature of the research and its high risk to investigators which in many cases requires novel interdisciplinary collaborations and an increased focus on translations. Professor Alan Trounson is President of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) in California, the state’s $3 billion stem cell agency. He is a pioneer of human IVF and associated reproductive technologies including diagnosis of inherited genetic disease in pre-implantation embryos, and the discovery and production of human embryonic stem cells and their directed differentiation into a range of cell and tissue types.
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Professor Alan Trounson – World focus on stem cell research – Video
08-02-2012 18:24 (October 25, 2011) Associate Professor at the Stanford School of Medicine, Joseph Wu explores how stem cells may be used in the future to repair hearts that have failed. This course is a single-quarter, focused follow-up to the the yearlong Mini Med School that occurred in 2009-10. The course focuses on diseases of the heart and cardiovascular system. The course is sponsored by Stanford Continuing Studies and the Stanford Medical School. Stanford University www.stanford.edu Stanford Continuing Studies http:///continuingstudies.stanford.edu/ Stanford University School of Medicine med.stanford.edu Stanford University Channel on YouTube: www.youtube.com
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5. Stem Cells for Cardiac Repair | Mini Med School – Video
14-02-2012 11:04 CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta reports on a new stem cell therapy that might heal damage after a heart attack.
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Heart stem cells repair muscle damage – Video
15-02-2012 13:09 BY ALYSSA CARTEE ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY A breakthrough discovery in stem cell treatments. A patient’s own stem cells could actually regenerate the heart after a heart attack. WFLD explains the findings. “The studies found that recent heart attack victims who receive stem cell infusions had a drop in unhealthy heart scar tissue from 24 to 12 percent.” The procedure is minimally invasive. A catheter is inserted through the patient’s vein and a piece of heart muscle about the size of a peppercorn is removed. That biopsied tissue is then grown in a petri dish and reintroduced to the damaged portion of the heart. This new procedure could change the way heart attacks are treated. ABC reports the typical damage a heart attack leaves and the limited options for treatment. “The damaged scar tissue that results from a heart attack diminishes heart function, which can ultimately lead to enlargement of the heart. At best … there are measures doctors can try to reduce or compensate for the damage, but in many cases, heart failure ultimately sets in, often requiring mechanical support or a transplant.” But the new treatment challenges the conventional wisdom that once the heart is damaged, it can’t be repaired. Doctor Sanjay Gupta told CNN this breakthrough in the use of stem cells means a few different things for the medical community. “We’ve been talking about the promise of stem cells for so long but people have really yet to see it in action. … It really proved two things. First …
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Study: Stem Cells Reverse Heart Damage – Video