Genomic Techniques Research Articles

The Role of Immunohistochemistry as a Surrogate Marker in Molecular Subtyping and Classification of Bladder Cancer

Background/Objectives: Bladder cancer (BC) is a highly heterogeneous disease, presenting clinical challenges, particularly in predicting patient outcomes and selecting effective treatments. Molecular subtyping has emerged as an essential tool for understanding the biological diversity of BC; however, its implementation in clinical practice remains limited due to the high costs and complexity of genomic techniques. This review examines the role of immunohistochemistry (IHC) as a surrogate marker for molecular subtyping in BC, highlighting its potential to bridge the gap between advanced molecular classifications and routine clinical application; Methods: We explore the evolution of taxonomic classification in BC, with a particular focus on cytokeratin (KRT) expression patterns in normal urothelium, which are key to identifying basal and luminal subtypes. Furthermore, we emphasise the need for consensus on IHC markers to reliably define these subtypes, facilitating wider and standardised clinical use. The review also analyses the application of IHC in both muscle-invasive (MIBC) and non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), with particular attention to the less extensively studied NMIBC cases. We discuss the practical advantages of IHC for subtyping, including its cost effectiveness and feasibility in standard pathology laboratories, alongside ongoing challenges such as the requirement for standardised protocols and external validation across diverse clinical settings; Conclusions: While IHC has limitations, it offers a viable alternative for laboratories lacking access to advanced molecular techniques. Further research is required to determine the optimal combination of markers, establish a consensus diagnostic algorithm, and validate IHC through large-scale trials. This will ultimately enhance diagnostic accuracy, guide treatment decisions, and improve patient outcomes.

4.P. Round table: Advancing genomic diagnostics for rare genetic diseases: a focus on non-clinical domains of HTA

Abstract Genetic rare diseases are a burning global public health issue requiring a thorough assessment of the related burden. Unfortunately, curative therapies are oftentimes unavailable for genetic rare diseases; nevertheless, a prompt diagnosis could allow clinicians to elaborate supportive care plans for patients and their caregivers, determine the best care setting, and potentially consider enrolling them in clinical trials, if suitable. Innovative, effective, and sustainable diagnostic techniques, such as Whole genome sequencing (WGS), are needed to address this growing health concern. At global level, there is a paucity of research that specifically investigates the implementation of WGS into clinical practice which is even more constrained at the European level. Furthermore, given the current challenges impacting pediatric patients suspected of having genetic diseases without a definitive diagnosis, there is an urgent need to improve the diagnostic workflow based on genomic techniques, such as WGS. Delving into this topic could contribute valuable insights that can inform policymakers, at macro-level, and health professionals, at micro-level, on how to develop suited genomic policies and clinical guidelines for the proper adoption of WGS within the daily clinical practice. From an international standpoint, it could be argued that these considerations resonate with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (i.e., “Good health and well-being”) and 10 (i.e., “Reduced inequalities”), as a priority for research and action. Notwithstanding, the broader implementation of WGS encounters hindrances owing to its complexity and the multifaceted social, economic, organizational, and ethical implications. In view of these challenges, Health Technology Assessment (HTA), as an integrated and multidisciplinary process, provides a comprehensive framework for the evaluation of these dimensions. This round table is intended to provide attendees with insights into nonclinical domains of HTA of WGS which, unlike clinical domains, demand a nuanced approach within the framework of the HTA. The intended objective is pursued through the initial presentation of a case study on the evaluation of WGS in paediatric genetic disorders from the Italian National Health Service perspectives followed by an open discussion with experts. The discussion will delve into issues related to economics, genomics, health services organization and ethics. Key messages • For pediatric patients suspected of having a genetic disease, WGS could shorten the so-called diagnostic odyssey. • Context-depending aspects of implementing WGS should be properly taken into account through HTA.

Microhomology-mediated end-joining Knock-In approaches to delete the allergenic domain of trout parvalbumin beta-1. Preliminary results in F0 animals and feedback

Background Gene editing techniques offer new opportunities to improve important traits in aquaculture. The allergenicity of fish flesh is a major problem in aquaculture. Parvalbumin (Parv) is the most prevalent fish allergen. For instance, in salmonids, a single parvalbumin beta-1 protein (parvb1) has been identified as an allergen in specific patients. Therefore, generating trout carrying two parvb1 alleles deleted from the allergenic peptide-encoding region could prevent allergies in these sensitive individuals. Methods Here, we describe the application of the Crispr/cas9 system in an attempt to delete parvb1 exon 2 encoding the allergenic peptide and, alternatively, to replace exon 2 of parvb1 with exon2 of parvalbumin beta-2 protein (parvb2,) which does not encode the allergenic peptide. Exon skipping and swapping were pursued through microhomology-mediated end-joining (MMEJ) knock-In using specifically designed double-stranded donor DNA. Results Genotyping of approximately 200 F0 fingerlings originating from eggs injected with donor DNA designed for exon 2 skipping led to the identification of only one animal carrying an allele lacking exon 2. Genotyping of approximately 150 fingerlings originating from eggs injected with donor DNA for exon 2 swapping did not result in any trout carrying the expected modified allele. Conclusions These preliminary results indicate the potential difficulties associated with the MMEJ KI experiments performed in farmed fish. Finally, new genomic techniques in aquaculture are further discussed in the context of lively debates taking place in the European parliament regarding a possible revision of the current law that determines the legal status of farm animals modified by genome editing. Gene editing, microhomology-mediated end-joining knock-in, parvalbumin, allergenicity, trout, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Genomic Insights and Conservation Priorities for Kongshan Cattle: A Whole-Genome Resequencing Approach

Kongshan Cattle, indigenous to Sichuan Province and recognized as China’s 56th local cattle breed in 2024, exhibit unique adaptations including superior resistance to harsh conditions. Despite a declining population due to the influx of foreign breeds, there is a significant focus on preserving their genetic diversity through advanced genomic techniques. This study utilized whole-genome resequencing, a cost-effective and information-rich method, to perform a comprehensive genetic assessment of the Kongshan Cattle. High-quality resequencing data yielded an average of 17.5 billion clean bases per sample, with high proportions of Q20 and Q30 bases and a balanced GC content. SNP analysis revealed an average of 14 million SNPs per sample, with a notable transition-to-transversion ratio and a significant portion of heterozygosity. Further analysis of genomic and coding regions identified substantial insertions and deletions, particularly in coding sequences affecting gene functionality. A detailed examination of these genetic variations highlighted genes, including NEIL2 and PNKP, which are integral to stress resistance pathways, indicating potential adaptive advantages. This study not only underscores the genetic diversity of Kongshan Cattle but also contributes to broader efforts in germplasm conservation.

Sustainability requires the integration of farmer knowledge, scientific advancements, and comprehensive innovation.

This viewpoint paper emphasises the need to diversify food production methods to simultaneously combat hunger and reduce environmental problems. The recommendations of the UN Food System Summit 2021 relate primarily to (i) the conservation of natural ecosystems, (ii) the sustainable management of existing agricultural land while increasing productivity and (iii) the restoration of already degraded land. Europe in particular faces unique challenges, such as reducing pollution and promoting organic farming up to 25 percent of the agricultural land area while maintaining food production. Ongoing efforts aim to create a transparent, fair and multi-level regulatory framework to support the Green Deal. The implementation of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which will sooner or later affect a larger proportion of European farmers, should support the transition. Science and innovation play a central role in this, as they are the cornerstones on which sustainable food systems are built. It is imperative that farmers actively participate in the co-design processes and utilise their wealth of experience and creativity to drive these innovations forward. A crucial aspect of the transition to sustainability is changing consumption patterns to limit food waste and reduce meat consumption. While this transition is essential, it is not without its formidable challenges. Diversification of agriculture, encompassing a spectrum of established techniques, is touted as a promising approach to achieving sustainability without sacrificing productivity. Furthermore, integrating truly sustainable agricultural practices with cutting-edge innovations, including new genomic techniques, has the potential to be a transformative solution.

Oxygen exposure decreases the yield of high-molecular-weight DNA from some anaerobic bacteria and bacterial communities during DNA extraction

ObjectivesThe central challenge in third-generation sequencing lies in meeting the requirements for DNA quality (integrity and purity) and quantity. Therefore, novel improvements in DNA extraction methods are needed to satisfy these requirements. We reasoned that in anaerobic microbial communities, the presence of certain strict anaerobes containing oxygen-activated DNase activity might contribute substantially to the poor integrity of extracted metagenomic DNA (or genomic DNA from some pure cultures) if exposed to air. MethodsTo test this hypothesis, we developed an enhanced genomic and metagenomic DNA isolation technique that we applied to a specifically chosen set of both strict and aerotolerant anaerobes, as well as to the hindgut microbiota of a herbivorous marine fish. ResultsConsidering the quality (or degradation) of extracted DNA obtained under anaerobic versus aerobic conditions, we found that DNA extracted aerobically from cells of some strict anaerobes showed more degradation of high molecular weight DNA than analogous preparations under anaerobic conditions. In contrast, with the selected aerotolerant anaerobes, no discernible difference was found between the molecular sizes of DNA extracted aerobically and anaerobically. Metagenomic DNA extracted from the fish hindgut microbiota showed higher yields and better quality under anaerobic conditions compared to aerobic conditions. ConclusionOur study effectively demonstrates the advantages of our improved extraction protocol in anaerobic conditions. This is evident through the improved quality of extracted DNA. Such findings may be valuable for studies, especially metagenomic studies, where the quality and quantity of DNA are crucial for downstream analysis.

From landraces to haplotypes, exploiting a genomic and phenomic approach to identify heat tolerant genotypes within durum wheat landraces

Dry and hot climates severely impact wheat yields, necessitating the development of innovative solutions to accelerate the breeding and selection of more adaptable durum wheat genotypes. The aim of this study was to identify new wheat ecotypes that can bridge the gap between commercial varieties and adaptability to ongoing climate change. In this study, advanced genomic and phenomic techniques were combined to characterize a set of durum wheat landraces derived from single seed descent (SSD). This approach enabled the identification of novel variability in the TdHsp26-A1 and -B1 genes. As a result, 38 durum wheat genotypes were analyzed using targeted enrichment PCR, leading to the identification of 17 novel haplotype combinations with SNPs in the TdHsp26 genes. The response of these SSD haplotypes to heat stress was characterized at both the seedling and tillering growth stages. Phenotypic analysis of contrasting genotypes led to the selection of two distinct genotypes: SSD69 and SSD397. During heat stress, SSD69 exhibited altered accumulation of H2O2 and MDA content under both growth conditions, providing new insights into the oxidative response to heat stress. Additionally, this work identifies phenotypic traits that are suitable for detecting differences between variants. The geographic distribution of the different alleles aligned with the spread of durum wheat from its center of origin.

From genes to color: Evolutionary insights and mechanistic pathways of the yellow gene in insect pigmentation

Insect pigmentation plays a vital role in ecology and evolution, influencing survival, mate attraction, and communication. This review examines the complex mechanisms governing insect coloration, focusing on the roles of pigments (melanins and carotenoids) and structural colors. Specifically, the yellow gene in Drosophila is highlighted for its critical function in melanin biosynthesis and its evolutionary implications. Variations in the yellow gene's expression and regulation, influenced by both cis- and trans-regulatory elements, contribute to the phenotypic diversity of pigmentation patterns across insect species. The interplay between developmental genes and the yellow gene further illustrates how subtle genetic changes drive morphological diversity. While advances in CRISPR and other genetic tools have enhanced our understanding of pigmentation, challenges remain in deciphering the gene’s complex interactions and the influence of environmental factors. Future research should focus on refining genomic techniques, exploring environmental impacts on pigmentation, and utilizing single-cell omics to gain deeper insights into the regulatory networks governing the yellow gene. This comprehensive understanding of insect pigmentation will not only enrich our knowledge of biodiversity but also inform conservation and biotechnological innovations.

Effects of Ethylene Inhibitors on the Long-Term Maintenance of the Embryogenic Callus of Vitis vinifera L.

Vitis vinifera is an important fruit crop which is mainly consumed fresh or used for the production of wine. Genetic improvement programs through New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) aim to develop grapevine varieties resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses or enhancing nutraceutical properties. In order to apply NGTs, maintaining embryogenic calluses from flower tissues is critical. Optimizing culture conditions—pH, gelling agents, temperature, light, growth regulators, and gas composition—is essential for inducing efficient embryogenic responses tailored to each genotype/explant. Ethylene, a pivotal gaseous plant hormone, significantly influences tissue culture by affecting organogenesis and embryogenesis processes in several plants. Modulating ethylene levels shows promise for improving tissue culture vitality. This study evaluates in Vitis vinifera the effects of silver thiosulfate (STS) and salicylic acid (SA) on embryogenic callus growth, specifically investigating their roles in maintaining and inducing embryogenic competence. STS, particularly at 40 µM and 60 µM concentrations, effectively preserved embryogenic competence in Italia and Red Globe calluses, while high SA concentrations showed varied and occasionally adverse effects. At the same time, STS markedly suppressed the non-embryogenic callus growth in recalcitrant variety Italia, potentially increasing the ratio between embryogenic to non-embryogenic calluses development.

Extensive genomic study characterizing three Paracoccaceae populations and revealing Pseudogemmobacter lacusdianii sp. nov. and Paracoccus broussonetiae sp. nov.

Bacteria within the family Paracoccaceae show promising potential for applications in various fields, garnering significant research attention. Three Gram stain-negative bacteria, strains CPCC 101601T, CPCC 101403T, and CPCC 100767, were isolated from diverse environments: freshwater, rhizosphere soil of Broussonetia papyrifera, and the phycosphere, respectively. Analysis of their 16S rRNA gene sequences, compared with those in the GenBank database, indicated that they belong to the family Paracoccaceae, with nucleotide similarities of 92.5%-99.9% to all of the Paracoccaceae members with valid taxonomic names. Phylogenetic studies based on 16S rRNA gene and whole-genome sequences identified CPCC 101601T as a member of the genus Pseudogemmobacter, CPCC 101403T belonging to the genus Paracoccus, and CPCC 100767 as part of the genus Gemmobacter. Notably, genomic analysis using average nucleotide identity (ANI; <95%) and digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH; <70%) with their closely related strains suggested that CPCC 101601T and CPCC 101403T represent new species within their respective genera. Conversely, CPCC 100767 exhibited high ANI (98.5%) and dDDH (87.4%) values with Gemmobacter fulvus con5T, indicating it belongs to this already recognized species. The in-depth genomic analysis revealed that strains CPCC 101601T, CPCC 101403T, and CPCC 100767 harbor key genes related to the pathways for denitrifying, MA utilization, and polyhydroxyalkanoate biosynthesis. Moreover, genotyping and phenotyping analysis confirmed that strain CPCC 100767 has the ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia and produce 5-aminolevulinic acid, whereas CPCC 101601T can only perform the former bioprocess.IMPORTANCEBased on polyphasic taxonomic study, two new species, Pseudogemmobacter lacusdianii and Paracoccus broussonetiae, affiliated with the family Paracoccaceae were identified. This expands our understanding of the family Paracoccaceae and provides new microbial materials for further studies. Modern genomic techniques such as average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization were utilized to determine species affiliations. These methods offer more precise results than traditional classification mainly based on 16S rRNA gene analysis. Beyond classification of these strains, the research delved into their genomes and discovered key genes related to denitrification, MA utilization, and polyhydroxyalkanoate biosynthesis. The identification of these genes provides a molecular basis for understanding the environmental roles of these strains. Particularly, strain CPCC 100767 demonstrated the ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia and produce 5-aminolevulinic acid. These bioprocess capabilities are of significant practical value, such as in agricultural production for use as biofertilizers or biostimulants.

Comment on, "Expression of decitabine-targeted oncogenes in meningiomas in vivo".

The study by Canisius et al. (2022) explores the expression of decitabine-targeted oncogenes (TRIM58, FAM84B, ELOVL2, DIO3) in meningiomas, aiming to evaluate decitabine's therapeutic potential for high-grade tumors. Using immunohistochemical staining and RT-PCR in over 100 patient samples, the authors found significant correlations between oncogene expression and tumor grade, with elevated ELOVL2 levels being linked to tumor recurrence. This work highlights the role of decitabine in modulating oncogene expression and suggests its potential in treating refractory meningiomas. Despite the robust methodology, limitations such as the small sample size and the lack of comprehensive molecular data were noted. Future research should incorporate larger sample sizes and advanced genomic techniques like RNA sequencing to better understand oncogenic mechanisms. The study emphasizes the need for further in situ analyses of decitabine's efficacy, setting the foundation for future neuro-oncological treatments.

Emerging public health strategies in malaria control: innovations and implications

Malaria remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in regions with limited resources and tropical climates. Despite extensive efforts, the disease continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality, with approximately 229 million cases and 409,000 deaths reported in 2020. However, recent years have seen promising advancements in public health strategies aimed at malaria control and elimination. Technological advancements have played a crucial role in improving malaria control efforts. Genomic surveillance techniques enable the monitoring of malaria parasite populations, aiding in the detection of drug resistance and informing targeted interventions. Additionally, innovative diagnostic technologies, such as rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and molecular assays, have enhanced the speed and accuracy of malaria diagnosis, facilitated prompt treatment and reduced transmission. These tools are instrumental in achieving the World Health Organization’s (WHO) goals of reducing malaria cases and deaths by at least 90% by 2030. Novel vector control methods offer innovative approaches to reduce malaria transmission. Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS) remain foundational strategies, with advancements including the development of next-generation insecticides and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs). Furthermore, genetic modification of mosquitoes, such as gene drive technology, holds promise for reducing mosquito populations and interrupting malaria transmission. These vector control innovations complement other strategies, contributing to comprehensive malaria control efforts aimed at achieving sustainable disease reduction and eventual elimination.

Advancements in Lentil Genomics for Enhanced Crop Breeding: A Review

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik) is an essential pulse crop that is widely grown for its high nutritional value, notably its high protein content, making it an important dietary component for vegetarians and vegans. Despite being the world's fifth most produced pulse, with large contributions from Canada and India, lentil production confronts obstacles such as poor productivity due to limited genetic improvement against biotic and abiotic stresses under rainfed cultivation conditions. Recent advances in lentil genetics and genomics, such as the discovery of genes related to yield, disease resistance, and nutritional content, have boosted breeding efforts to generate improved lentil varieties. The use of contemporary genomic techniques like molecular markers, marker-assisted selection (MAS), genomic selection (GS), and next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology has sped up the discovery of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and the production of novel cultivars with superior agronomic characteristics. Databases such as NCBI and ENA, as well as specialized resources like KnowPulse, provide critical genomic data, while the creation of lentil genome assemblies, notably the CDC Redberry variety, has improved our understanding of lentil genetics. These resources help to solve the constraints of traditional breeding, particularly for complex characteristics impacted by genotype-environment interactions, opening the way for more robust and productive lentil varieties. Although the application of advanced tools such as genetic engineering, cisgenesis, and genome editing has moved more slowly in lentils than in other crops, their potential to improve lentil output is encouraging. Recent studies on lentil genomes, together with the creation of increased genetic resources and cutting-edge techniques, offer the ability to overcome production constraints and dramatically increase lentil production and quality throughout the world.

Genetic improvement and genomic resources of important cyprinid species: status and future perspectives for sustainable production.

Cyprinid species are the most cultured aquatic species around the world in terms of quantity and total value. They account for 25% of global aquaculture production and significantly contribute to fulfilling the demand for fish food. The aquaculture of these species is facing severe concerns in terms of seed quality, rising feed costs, disease outbreaks, introgression of exotic species, environmental impacts, and anthropogenic activities. Numerous researchers have explored biological issues and potential methods to enhance cyprinid aquaculture. Selective breeding is extensively employed in cyprinid species to enhance specific traits like growth and disease resistance. In this context, we have discussed the efforts made to improve important cyprinid aquaculture practices through genetic and genomic approaches. The recent advances in DNA sequencing technologies and genomic tools have revolutionized the understanding of biological research. The generation of a complete genome and other genomic resources in cyprinid species has significantly strengthened molecular-level investigations into disease resistance, growth, reproduction, and adaptation to changing environments. We conducted a comprehensive review of genomic research in important cyprinid species, encompassing genome, transcriptome, proteome, metagenome, epigenome, etc. This review reveals that considerable data has been generated for cyprinid species. However, the seamless integration of this valuable data into genetic selection programs has yet to be achieved. In the upcoming years, genomic techniques, gene transfer, genome editing tools are expected to bring a paradigm shift in sustainable cyprinid aquaculture production. The comprehensive information presented here will offer insights for the cyprinid aquaculture research community.

Candida auris: An Emerging Challenge in Clinical Mycology and Public Health in Latin America

Candida auris is an emerging fungus that poses a critical challenge in clinical mycology and global public health. Identified in 2005, this pathogen has caused hospital outbreaks due to its resistance to multiple antifungals and ability to persist in hospital settings. In Latin America, C. auris has been reported since 2012 in several countries, including a case in Ecuador in 2024. Its emergence has been linked to climate change and the excessive use of antifungals, which could be favoring its proliferation. The diagnosis of C. aurisis complex and requires advanced methods such as MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and molecular techniques due to its phenotypic variability. Another factor to be relevant to public health is resistance to conventional treatments. In addition, genomic surveillance is essential to understand the epidemiology of this pathogen and control its spread in hospital settings. Urgent prevention, detection, and treatment measures are necessary to limit the spread of C. auris in the region and minimize its impact on public health. Implementing comprehensive strategies, including genomic surveillance and advanced diagnostic techniques, is crucial to address this emerging problem in Latin America. Keywords: Candida auris, Fungal infections, Antifungal resistance, Clinical mycology, Genomic surveillance, Latin America.

Efficiency Evaluation of DNA Isolation Techniques in Fins of Channa marulius Using PCR Amplification and NanoDrop

Highly pure and good-quality extracted DNA is vital for PCR amplification, gene sequencing, and species identification. Seven genomic DNA isolation techniques were used to isolate the DNA from the fins of Channa marulius. The concentration and purity of isolated DNA were assessed with PCR amplification of the mitochondrial COI gene and NanoDrop. The phenol-chloroform method was found significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher in concentration (1001 ng.ul-1) as compared to all other six evaluated DNA isolation methods. In terms of purity of isolated DNA GeneJET, the Genomic DNA Purification Kit was found significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher among all analyzed methods. Both the Phenol chloroform method and GeneJET Genomic DNA Purification Kit were successfully used in PCR amplification. Concluding that the Phenol chloroform method and GeneJET Genomic DNA Purification Kit may be successfully used in PCR amplification. The phenol-chloroform method and GeneJET Genomic DNA Purification Kit proved the best in the extraction of DNA in high concentration with maximum yield and purity from fins of C. marulius and can be helpful to isolate DNA from fish species because a small quantity of fin tissues is required for DNA isolation without harm to fish. Moreover, data reported from this study about DNA isolation techniques may be used for molecular approaches like PCR amplification and gene sequencing of fishes.

Exploring the Frontier of Wheat Rust Resistance: Latest Approaches, Mechanisms, and Novel Insights.

Wheat rusts, including leaf, stripe, and stem rust, have been a threat to global food security due to their devastating impact on wheat yields. In recent years, significant strides have been made in understanding wheat rusts, focusing on disease spread mechanisms, the discovery of new host resistance genes, and the molecular basis of rust pathogenesis. This review summarizes the latest approaches and studies in wheat rust research that provide a comprehensive understanding of disease mechanisms and new insights into control strategies. Recent advances in genetic resistance using modern genomics techniques, as well as molecular mechanisms of rust pathogenesis and host resistance, are discussed. In addition, innovative management strategies, including the use of fungicides and biological control agents, are reviewed, highlighting their role in combating wheat rust. This review also emphasizes the impact of climate change on rust epidemiology and underscores the importance of developing resistant wheat varieties along with adaptive management practices. Finally, gaps in knowledge are identified and suggestions for future research are made. This review aims to inform researchers, agronomists, and policy makers, and to contribute to the development of more effective and sustainable wheat rust control strategies.

Intellectual property rights and plants made by new genomic techniques: Access to technology and gene-edited traits in plant breeding

Gene editing has the potential to make new crop varieties faster and more efficiently. New and more suitable crop varieties can increase sustainable agriculture, for instance, in the form of disease-resistant varieties that facilitate integrated pest management. The European Commission's proposal on the regulation of gene-edited and cisgenic plants produced with New Genomic Techniques (including CRISPR/Cas) has re-opened the discussion on Intellectual Property Rights on plants in Europe. We provide an overview of the possible impact of patent rights and Plant Variety Rights on the availability of technology and gene-edited alleles to breeders on an European level. We highlight potential problems with the two Intellectual Property Right systems and indicate potential avenues to solutions.

Biological Diversity of Seawater Microalgae Isolated from Ujung Genteng Sukabumi and Their Novel Genomic DNA Isolation Technique

Biological Diversity of Seawater Microalgae Isolated from Ujung Genteng Sukabumi and Their Novel Genomic DNA Isolation Technique

Computational Approaches to Drug Repurposing: Methods, Challenges, and Opportunities.

Drug repurposing refers to the inference of therapeutic relationships between a clinical indication and existing compounds. As an emerging paradigm in drug development, drug repurposing enables more efficient treatment of rare diseases, stratified patient populations, and urgent threats to public health. However, prioritizing well-suited drug candidates from among a nearly infinite number of repurposing options continues to represent a significant challenge in drug development. Over the past decade, advances in genomic profiling, database curation, and machine learning techniques have enabled more accurate identification of drug repurposing candidates for subsequent clinical evaluation. This review outlines the major methodologic classes that these approaches comprise, which rely on (a) protein structure, (b) genomic signatures, (c) biological networks, and (d) real-world clinical data. We propose that realizing the full impact of drug repurposing methodologies requires a multidisciplinary understanding of each method's advantages and limitations with respect to clinical practice.