Justices Appear Skeptical Of Patenting Human Genes
A case considered pivotal to the future of science and medicine came before the Supreme Court on Monday, involving a company that has patented two genes linked to cancer. While the patent challengers...
View ArticleCustom Chromo: First Yeast Chromosome Built From Scratch
It's not about making designer beer. Johns Hopkins scientists and undergrads stitched together strands of yeast DNA as a step in exploring the essential genetics of various species: What makes us us?
View ArticleWhy Is Insulin So Expensive In The U.S.?
The hormone that controls blood sugar among diabetics is one of the oldest medicines used today. But more than 90 years after its discovery, a low-cost version is no longer available in the U.S.
View ArticleScientists Urge Temporary Moratorium On Human Genome Edits
Researchers who helped develop powerful techniques warn that tweaking the genome is now easy. More public debate's needed, they say, before making changes in genes passed from parent to child.
View ArticleIn Massachusetts Lab, Scientists Grow An Artificial Rat Limb
The regenerated forelimb, made from living rat cells, may be the first step toward creating functional, bioartificial limbs. The scientists were thrilled to see the muscle fibers twitch.
View ArticleEngineers Make Narcotics With Yeast. Is Home-Brewed Heroin Next?
The yeast produce only tiny amounts of the drug. But eventually, the technology could lead to better painkillers and other medicines. Drug officials worry the microbes could fall into the wrong hands.
View ArticleBiotech's Theranos Offers A Cautionary Tale For Silicon Valley
The blood-testing startup led by Elizabeth Holmes soared on hype and celebrity boosters. Now it's under federal scrutiny. It could show that Silicon Valley's success model doesn't work in biotech.
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