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lutforrahaman · 17 days
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Biotech Breakthroughs in 2022
A flurry of innovations pushed biotech ahead in 2022, with the promise of even more paradigm-shifting advancements in the years to come. From genome editing to 3-D bioprinting, a few major breakthroughs that are worth keeping an eye on include:
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CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing CRISPR-Cas9 is a group of technologies that allow scientists to change DNA in living cells and organisms. Researchers use these systems to study genetic pathways that lead to disease and to treat genetic disorders.
The ability tech ogle to edit genes has many potential applications, from creating more nutritious crops and pharmaceuticals to advancing artificial intelligence. Scientists can now alter the DNA of microbes, plants, animals, and humans with unprecedented ease and precision.
However, the ease and precision with which these systems can be used may also raise concerns about how they are being manipulated for purposes other than treating disease. This is a key issue that will shape the future of genome editing technology and its societal impact.
Cell-Free Protein Synthesis A team of Australian National University scientists has developed a way to efficiently produce the proteins used in biological transcription and translation processes without using living cells. This advance, known as encapsulated cell-like structures (eCells), is a significant step towards developing a cost-effective and efficient platform for producing proteins that could be used in a wide range of commercially relevant applications.
Genome Editing The most well-known of these biotech innovations, genome editing allows scientists to add, remove, or alter a section of DNA in a living cell or organism. Using this technology, researchers can treat diseases caused by mutations in specific genes or create organisms that are resistant to particular pathogens. Researchers can use genome editing in somatic cells (non-germline), which are not used for reproduction, or germline cells (used to reproduce).
Bioprinting In another major biotech innovation, a team at the Stanford Biodesign Institute has developed a method to produce human tissues that can technology news be printed into 3D shapes. This new biotechnology can be used to make replacement parts for the heart, lungs, liver, and more. This advance is an important step toward developing a more reliable source of transplantable organs, which can be more easily tested for infections and other problems.
Big Data In the field of biotechnology, big data can help improve clinical trial recruitment, enable more accurate testing for infectious diseases, and accelerate drug discovery. One area that is particularly ripe for the growth of this technology is genomics, which can help identify new targets for therapies. However, the vast amount of information generated can be overwhelming, making it difficult to manage and analyze. In this regard, companies are deploying artificial intelligence and other tools to help unlock the potential of big data.
While most Americans are optimistic about the overall impact of these innovations, some are concerned about potential ethical issues that may arise from their use. Nearly seven-in-ten say that if gene editing techniques become widely available, some people would definitely or probably go too far in eliminating natural differences between individuals.
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