Latest news
How human cells slow down the Ebola virus
Human cells may possess a previously underappreciated defence against Ebola virus infection. Researchers found that the cell-surface protein CD81 can restrict viral entry and replication, while Ebola appears to use two of its own proteins to counteract this protective mechanism.
Anti-HIV antibody clinical trials offer clues to prevent viral escape and resistance
The broadly neutralizing antibody VRC01 has been thoroughly vetted as a potential prophylactic that could prevent people from becoming infected with HIV. A new analysis of data shows that the antibody initially provides strong protection, but that some strains of the virus can still cause breakthrough infections after treatment has stopped.
How a CRISPR sickle cell therapy moved from lab to clinical trial
Researchers have described how they advanced an experimental CRISPR approach for sickle cell disease into a blood stem cell therapy that can be manufactured at the scale and quality required for a clinical trial.
CRISPR map reveals 6,500 genetic interactions in tuberculosis bacteria
Researchers have created the most detailed map yet of how essential genes interact in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. By uncovering nearly 6,500 genetic relationships, the study reveals hidden gene functions and points to new ways of identifying drug targets and more effective antibiotic combinations.
Toothbrush produces electricity to battle plaque-making bacteria
A new toothbrush generates electricity through bristle movement to wage war on plaque-producing pathogens. The invention successfully reduced cavity- and periodontitis-causing bacteria better than regular mechanical brushing in the mouths of 115 volunteers over 3 months.
New CRISPR proteins expand editing access to heart disease genes
A researcher has used his AI-supported Sequence Display technology to expand the targeting abilities of CRISPR/Cas9, evolving several variants of a compact Cas9 that could efficiently target stretches of DNA previously inaccessible for editing. The evolved Cas9s were successfully used to edit two genes found in coronary heart disease.
How human cells slow down the Ebola virus
Human cells may possess a previously underappreciated defence against Ebola virus infection. Researchers found that the cell-surface protein CD81 can restrict viral entry and replication, while Ebola appears to use two of its own proteins to counteract this protective mechanism.
How a CRISPR sickle cell therapy moved from lab to clinical trial
Researchers have described how they advanced an experimental CRISPR approach for sickle cell disease into a blood stem cell therapy that can be manufactured at the scale and quality required for a clinical trial.
CRISPR map reveals 6,500 genetic interactions in tuberculosis bacteria
Researchers have created the most detailed map yet of how essential genes interact in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. By uncovering nearly 6,500 genetic relationships, the study reveals hidden gene functions and points to new ways of identifying drug targets and more effective antibiotic combinations.
Perpetual Next signs agreement to accelerate the roll-out of standardized biomethanol plants
Perpetual Next have signed a License and Engineering Agreement with Air Liquide Engineering and Technologies for the supply of syngas-to-methanol technology for Perpetual Next’s first biomethanol facility, with an option to extend across other biomethanol sites.
AFYREN and Terrial renew their partnership for French-manufactured potash fertilizers
AFYREN and Terrial today announce the renewal of their strategic partnership with the signing of a new multi-year fertilizer supply contract, worth several tens of millions of euros This long-term contract strengthens both companies’ commitment to making French agriculture more sustainable and less dependent on international fertilizer markets.
New CRISPR proteins expand editing access to heart disease genes
A researcher has used his AI-supported Sequence Display technology to expand the targeting abilities of CRISPR/Cas9, evolving several variants of a compact Cas9 that could efficiently target stretches of DNA previously inaccessible for editing. The evolved Cas9s were successfully used to edit two genes found in coronary heart disease.
Simulator predicts jumping genes’ roles in changing genome size
Researchers have created a new computational tool that works from an inferred ancestral point and evolves forward to the modern-day genome to trace the insertion and deletion dynamics of these ’jumping genes’, known as transposable elements.
New AI tool helps scientists identify bacteria hidden in soil
A handful of soil holds a crowded world of bacteria, fungi and other organisms. Scientists can collect their DNA, but much of it remains difficult to identify. Now, researchers have developed an artificial intelligence tool that recognizes bacterial DNA in tiny genetic fragments, making it faster and easier to study the complex communities living in soil.
Horizon Awards 2026: Professor James Ebdon named as winner of John Snow Prize
Environmental microbiologist Professor James Ebdon, from the University of Brighton, UK, has been named as the winner of the John Snow Public Health Innovation Prize, which recognises outstanding achievements in applied microbiology that deliver measurable improvements in public health and environmental health outcomes.
AMI members call for microbiome-focused approach to EU biotechnology regulation
Members of Applied Microbiology International (AMI) have urged the European Commission to put microbial communities at the heart of environmental risk assessments for genetically modified microorganisms, as part of its response to the EU Biotech Act consultation.
Can the microbiome really change medicine? Scientists confront the evidence gap
At Targeting Microbiota 2026 in Málaga, international scientists will explore how microbiome discoveries can move beyond laboratory research toward evidence-based clinical applications.