Use Of Deoxyribonucleic Acid Research Articles

Design and simulation of a wireframe DNA origami nanoactuator.

This paper explores the use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) origami structures as nanorobot components. Investigating the functional properties of DNA origami structures can facilitate the fabrication of DNA origami-based nanorobots. The wireframe structure stands out as one of the most interesting DNA origami structures. Hence, the present study aims to employ these structures to create DNA origami nanoactuators. The research delves into the design of DNA origami structures with the aim of opening under specific temperature conditions. Short DNA strands (staples) are one of the crucial parts of DNA origami structures, and the appropriate design of these strands can lead to the creation of structures with different properties. Thus, the components of the DNA origami nanoactuator are tailored to enable intentional opening at specific temperatures while maintaining stability at lower temperatures. This structural modification showcases the functional property of the DNA origami structure. The engineered DNA origami nanoactuator holds potential applications in medicine. By carrying drugs under specific temperature conditions and releasing them under different temperature conditions, it can serve as a platform for smart drug delivery purposes.

DNA methylation signatures as biomarkers of socioeconomic position.

This review article provides a framework for the use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation (DNAm) biomarkers to study the biological embedding of socioeconomic position (SEP) and summarizes the latest developments in the area. It presents the emerging literature showing associations between individual- and neighborhood-level SEP exposures and DNAm across the life course. In contrast to questionnaire-based methods of assessing SEP, we suggest that DNAm biomarkers may offer an accessible metric to study questions about SEP and health outcomes, acting as a personal dosimeter of exposure. However, further work remains in standardizing SEP measures across studies and evaluating consistency across domains, tissue types, and time periods. Meta-analyses of epigenetic associations with SEP are offered as one approach to confirm the replication of DNAm loci across studies. The development of DNAm biomarkers of SEP would provide a method for examining its impact on health outcomes in a more robust way, increasing the rigor of epidemiological studies.

Salmon Sperm DNA As a Corrosion Inhibitor on Ductile Cast for Use in Water Distribution System Pipes

Ductile cast iron (DCI) is a high carbon iron alloy with a composition of up to 3.7% C, 2.3% Si, 0.35% Mn and various smaller constitutes. Upon casting of DCI, the high carbon content results in solidification in a secondary phase in the form of graphite nodules. These graphite nodules form around a matrix of ferrite (α-Fe) and pearlite (α-Fe + Fe3C) and impart desirable properties such as high strength properties and corrosion resistance due to graphite’s cathodic potential. DCI is commonly used for water distribution pipework and contribute to 40% of all drinking water distribution pipes in Wales. Several different corrosion inhibitors are used to prevent corrosion of DCI in drinking water distribution applications, such as sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) and ortho-polyphosphates. However, the use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) could provide a novel alternative to conventional corrosion inhibitors currently in service. The DNA molecule is formed by a double helix polynucleotide strand of phosphate and sugar groups via covalent bonds and base pairs bonded by hydrogen bonds to the molecule. The main advantage of DNA as a corrosion inhibitor is the surplus of phosphate molecules available to be chemisorbed to the surface of DCI. Alongside the potential of aromatic heterocyclic compounds found in base pairs, which could also provide corrosion inhibition via physicochemical adsorption.This work aims to assess the use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) on the corrosion of ductile cast iron (DCI) in a corrosive electrolyte. DNA is considered a green, non-toxic inhibitor that shows potential when used in immersion corrosion conditions. Literature has demonstrated the use of DNA as a corrosion inhibitor for other materials such as Magnesium alloys, Copper and X80 steel. However, there is little published work on the use of DNA as a corrosion inhibitor on DCI. The DNA used in this study was extracted from salmon sperm (Sigma-Aldrich) and dissolved into a 0.17 mol dm-3 sodium chloride (NaCl) solution at the concentrations of 50, 100 and 500 mg/L adjusted to pH 7 via Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH). Electrochemical analysis and surface characterisation was carried out over a range of time periods. The corrosion inhibition afforded by DNA was determined through using a variety of electrochemical techniques such as: open circuit potential (OCP), anodic and cathodic polarisation and linear polarisation resistance (LPR). In-situ microscopy was used to study the corrosion mechanisms that occur on the surface microstructure of DCI. Post corrosion, the DCI surface was characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FTIR (Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy).Electrochemical results, performed over a 24-hour period, showed that as concentration of DNA increased an increase in voltage potential and decrease in corrosion rate (mpy) was observed. A decrease of 60% in corrosion rate after 24 hours is provided by 500 mg/L DNA compared to the control of 1% NaCl. However, after 30 minute’s immersion followed by cathodic polarisation studies showed an increased concentration of DNA can behave as a cathodic inhibitor. A theory for this inhibitive effect is that a passivating film forms on the DCI surface and that it is most effective after 30 minutes exposure due to the high efficiency observed during the longer-term studies. This could suggest that a film formed on the surface is most efficient after 30 minutes adsorption due to the high efficiency seen during the longer-term studies. After 72 hours of immersion there is a change in the surface of DCI, with a more robust scale appearing at higher concentrations. This change in coating surface may provide the increase in corrosion inhibition as the pathway for further corrosion attack is blocked by a protective scale. The protective scale is characterised using FTIR to examine the changes in chemical structure of the corrosion layer. Whereby PO-2 and base pairs are identified on the corrosion scale surface after 24-hours immersion in DNA. The corrosion inhibition observed using DNA on DCI in neutral immersion conditions is afforded to the adsorption of inhibitive species onto the DCI surface, providing an insoluble layer.

A MISSED OPPORTUNITY TO SETTLE THE LAW ON DNA TESTING IN PATERNITY DISPUTES YD (now M) v LB 2010 6 SA 338 (SCA)

On 17 September 2010, in (YD (Now M) v LB (2010 6 SA 338 (SCA)), the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) unanimously delivered what should have been a ground-breaking decision in the use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) testing for paternity disputes. This was an appeal against the decision of Murphy J, in order to determine the child’s paternity. An order for DNA tests was granted by the court a quo against the mother and her daughter, Y, to determine whether Mr LB (B) was the biological father of Y in the case of unmarried persons. If the tests proved that he was the father, he would then be entitled to full parental rights. This judgment should have been ground-breaking for two main reasons. First, YD was the first SCA judgment dealing with the use of scientific tests in paternity disputes. Until then, different provincial divisions had reached different conclusions on the court’s power to compel either a minor or an adult to submit to the tests. Thus, YD was an ideal opportunity for the SCA to unify “the provincial divisions”, that is, to bring certainty of law regarding DNA testing for paternity disputes. Second, the decision came at a time of the constitutional era and the era of the Children’s Act (38 of 2005) with its section 37, which deals with parties not willing to submit to DNA testing in paternity disputes. In particular, section 37 is meant to be a statutory intervention seeking to achieve a compromise position where the court is faced with the evil of having to force a recalcitrant adult to submit himself or the minor child, against his or her will, for testing where paternity is disputed. Hence, this was an opportunity for the SCA to put section 37, which had not been tested before a court of law, into perspective. However, the court missed this golden opportunity. Therefore, the purpose of this note is to provide a critical analysis of the SCA’s decision of YD. It begins with a brief overview of the legal position prior to the judgment of YD and concludes by reviewing the possible effects of the YD judgment.

Silicene Quantum Capacitance Dependent Frequency Readout to a Label-Free Detection of DNA Hybridization- A Simulation Analysis.

The use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) hybridization to detect disease-related gene expression is a valuable diagnostic tool. An ion-sensitive field-effect transistor (ISFET) with a graphene layer has been utilized for detecting DNA hybridization. Silicene is a two-dimensional silicon allotrope with structural properties similar to graphene. Thus, it has recently experienced intensive scientific research interest due to its unique electrical, mechanical, and sensing characteristics. In this paper, we proposed an ISFET structure with silicene and electrolyte layers for the label-free detection of DNA hybridization. When DNA hybridization occurs, it changes the ion concentration in the surface layer of the silicene and the pH level of the electrolyte solution. The process also changes the quantum capacitance of the silicene layer and the electrical properties of the ISFET device. The quantum capacitance and the corresponding resonant frequency readout of the silicene and graphene are compared. The performance evaluation found that the changes in quantum capacitance, resonant frequency, and tuning ratio indicate that the sensitivity of silicene is much more effective than graphene.

DNA vaccines and recombinant allergens with reduced allergenic activity treat allergies

This review is intended to familiarize readers with major novel directions of developing allergy vaccines, their structure, as well as the mechanisms of forming a new immunological response in the course of the treating immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergic diseases. Currently, science offers a huge variety of new experimental forms of recombinant allergens with reduced allergenic activity and increased immunogenicity, or vice-versa, immune tolerance. Often, the mechanisms of their effect on the immune system are not fully understood. Scientific publications, including reviews covering this topic, allowed us identifying top priority areas in the development of allergy vaccines: recombinant hypoallergenic allergen derivatives, T cell epitope-based allergy vaccines, and B cell epitope-based allergy vaccines. In addition, the review discusses use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) vaccines. Immunotherapy with DNA vaccines is the newest and least studied method of treating allergic diseases.

Effect of ionic liquid on the long-term structural and chemical stability of basidiomycetes DNAs integrated within Schottky-like junctions

There is much interest in the use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) for applications in the field of molecular electronics and biosensors because of its unique self-assembling behaviour. Studying its sequence-specific electronic properties is one such analysis that could be employed as a tool for understanding mechanisms of charge transfer for integration into DNA-based devices. Although known to be reasonably stable in aqueous solution, environmental factors can affect the helical structure, resulting in significantly attenuated electronic profile. DNA molecules are also not stable when stored for long periods in solution form at room temperature prompting many interests for solvents in which DNA structures exhibit long-term stability. Ionic liquid (IL), 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate ([BMIM][Ace]), is a potential solvent that ensures long-term stability of DNA. Therefore, in this work, the effect of IL on basidiomycetes DNAs integrated within an aluminium (Al)–indium tin oxide (ITO) Schottky junction was investigated. Significant improvement in the rectifying profiles was observed for DNA dissolved in [BMIM][Ace] (IL/DNA) compared to DNA in aqueous solution (aq/DNA) without the addition of IL when stored at different temperatures and time intervals. In general, the junction structure exhibited insulating behaviour when DNA was stored at room temperature for three months. This results in loss of its structure and stability for long periods of use at room temperature. Meanwhile, IL sample itself (control) shows a linear conductive profile. Furthermore, different solid-state parameters calculated allow us to understand the charge transfer mechanism in DNA molecules as a function of IL.

Study on Commercial Spice and Herb Products Using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS).

Background: The use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-based testing methods is increasing in the food sector. DNA analyses can be a helpful tool for the analysis of many food products and can address some of the present concerns about adulteration and authenticity. Several analytical methods have been proposed to answer the specific topic of species composition in foods. Objective: The aim is to show that Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a suitable tool for food analysis including spices, herbs, seasoning, etc. Method: In the present study, we show how an internal NGS workflow was setup and tested for species composition in real food seasoning samples. Results: Commercial samples of different spice and herb mixtures were analysed by our internal developed NGS workflow. The results obtained will be discussed based on the labeling of the products relative to the type of sample and species mixtures. Conclusions: Here we show that our internal NGS workflow can be successfully applied in complex commercial samples. Highlights: NGS can become a powerfull and reliable tool for authentication of spices and herbs products.

USE OF DNA IN HUMAN IDENTIFICATION: FROM SKIN TO GENES

This article is based on ‘use of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) in human identification, from skin to genes’. DNA has been used as a vital element in the identification of the individuals on the basis of the human genes. The study is based on secondary data analysis. The sources were analyzed critically, and information relevant to the research was extracted. Many different kinds of libraries, journals and articles were reviewed in order to gain extensive insight about the proposed study. Some of the databases include Google scholar, sage publications and other relevant websites. Today, the accuracy of DNA tests requires a commitment to quality scientific excellence, since the results may be crucial for resolving cases of child custody, inheritance, assaults, identification of biological remains or finding the missing link in searching the lineage of an adopted.

Some Pragmatic Approaches to the Potential Use of Deoxyribonucleic Acid as a Computer Information Storage Medium

Some Pragmatic Approaches to the Potential Use of Deoxyribonucleic Acid as a Computer Information Storage Medium

The Results of CODIS-Hit Investigations in a Sample of Cases With Unsubmitted Sexual Assault Kits

The use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) evidence in criminal cases, especially exonerations, has received high levels of public and media attention. Studies show DNA evidence can have a significant effect on case outcomes, whereas other studies have found that police investigators rarely use DNA. Coupled with work in many cities to test large numbers of older sexual assault kits, Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) holds great promise for holding offenders accountable. Despite the potential value of DNA evidence, few studies have measured case processing after forensic matches have been made. This study examines investigation outcomes following DNA testing and forensic matches in a sample of previously untested sexual assault kits in the Houston Police Department. Of 104 CODIS-hit cases, one case resulted in new charges.

Genomics and Disease Progression in IgA Nephritis

Apart from clinical, histological and biochemical indices, genomics are now being employed to unravel the pathogenetic mechanisms in the disease progression of IgA nephritis (IgAN). The results of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) gene polymorphism have been controversial. Those patients with the DD genotype seem to have a poorer prognosis. However, with high dose angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) therapy, the ACE gene polymorphism status of a patient may no longer be a matter for concern as those with the DD genotype would also respond favourably to high dose ARB therapy. Association studies with gene sequencing and haplotypes have suggested that multiple genes are involved in the pathogenesis of IgAN. Some workers have reported a synergistic effect in the combined analysis of AGT-M235T and ACE I/D polymorphism. With the use of deoxyribo nucleic acid (DNA) microarray, tens of thousands of gene expressions genome-wide can be examined together simultaneously. A locus of familial IgAN has been described with strong evidence of linkage to IgAN1 on chromosome 6q22-23. Two other loci were reported at 4q26-31 and 17q12-22. DNA microarray techniques could also help in the identification of specific pathogenic genes that are up- or down-regulated and this may allow genome wide analyses of these genes and their role in the pathogenesis and progression of IgAN. Recently, using genome-wide association studies (GWAS) more loci for disease susceptibility for IgAN have been identified at 17p13, 8p23, 22q12, 1q32 and 6p21.

DNA-Promoted Auto-Assembly of Gold Nanoparticles: Effect of the DNA Sequence on the Stability of the Assemblies

The use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) oligonucleotides has proven to be a powerful and versatile strategy to assemble nanomaterials into two (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) superlattices. With the aim of contributing to the elucidation of the factors that affect the stability of this type of superlattices, the assembly of gold nanoparticles grafted with different DNA oligonucleotides was characterized by UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy as a function of temperature. After establishing an appropriate methodology the effect of (i) the length of the grafted oligonucleotides; (ii) the length of their complementary parts and also of (iii) the simultaneous grafting of different oligonucleotides was investigated. Our results indicate that the electrostatic repulsion between the particles and the cooperativity of the assembly process play crucial roles in the stability of the assemblies while the grafting density of the oligonucleotide strands seems to have little influence.

Public Perceptions and Expectations of the Forensic Use of DNA

The forensic use of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) is demonstrating significant success as a crime-solving tool. However, numerous concerns have been raised regarding the potential for DNA use to contravene cultural, ethical, and legal codes. In this article the expectations and level of knowledge of the New Zealand public of the DNA data-bank and the surrounding processes are discussed. A questionnaire was developed in consultation with key stakeholders, comprising a combination of open and closed questions. The ensuing survey comprised a sample of 100 participants. Although participants initially appeared in favor of the forensic use of DNA, particularly in regard to the collection of DNA from sex offenders, perceptions and attitudes were based on limited knowledge of processes, policies, and implications. Upon further discussion and reflection a number of concerns were raised, such as ownership of DNA samples and the potential for misuse.

Gene Expression Profiling of Experimental Saccular Aneurysms Using Deoxyribonucleic Acid Microarrays: Fig 1.

The molecular characteristics of the pathophysiology of saccular aneurysms remain poorly understood. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the expression of various groups of genes at different stages of aneurysm age in elastase-induced saccular aneurysms in rabbits through the use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) microarrays. A microarray consisting of genes related to cell adhesion, apoptosis, cell signaling, growth, inflammation, vascular remodeling, and oxidative stress was constructed by using rabbit nucleotide sequences. Elastase-induced saccular aneurysms were created at the origin of the right common carotid artery (CCA) in 12 rabbits. Two weeks (n=6) and 12 weeks (n=6) after aneurysm creation, ribonucleic acid (RNA) was isolated from the aneurysm and the control unoperated left CCA and was used for microarray experiments. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed for validation of microarray results. Of 209 genes, 157 (75%) at 2 weeks and 88 (42%) at 12 weeks demonstrated statistically significant differential expression between aneurysm tissue and the control left CCA tissue (P < .05). Multiple genes implicated in vessel wall remodeling were found to be elevated at 2 weeks and at 12 weeks. Expression of cell adhesion molecules and antioxidant enzymes was down-regulated at 2 weeks but was not significantly different from that of controls at 12 weeks. Most transcription factors, inflammatory genes, and structural genes showed underexpression at both time points. The expression profiles of selected genes were confirmed by RT-PCR. Multiple genes in diverse pathways have been differentially expressed in the rabbit aneurysm model.

In Vitro and In Vivo Effects of Deoxyribonucleic Acid–Based Coatings Funtionalized with Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor

Vascularization is important in wound healing and essential for tissue ingrowth into porous tissue-engineering matrices. Furthermore, peri-implant tissue vascularization is known to be important for the functionality of subcutaneously implanted biosensors (e.g., glucose sensors). As a first exploration of the use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-based coatings for the optimization of biosensor functionality, this study focused on the effect of DNA-based coatings functionalized with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on in vitro endothelial cell behavior and vascularization of the peri-implant tissue in vivo. To that end, DNA-based coatings consisting of poly-D-lysine and DNA were functionalized with different amounts of VEGF (25 and 250 ng) and compared to non-coated controls and non-functionalized DNA-based coatings. The results demonstrated the superiority of VEGF-functionalized DNA-based coatings in increasing endothelial cell proliferation and migration in vitro over non-coated controls and non-functionalized DNA-based coatings. In vivo, a significant increase in vascularization of the peri-implant area was observed for VEGF-functionalized DNA-based coatings. Because no dosage-dependent effects were observed, future experiments should focus on optimizing VEGF concentration for this purpose. Additionally, the administration of VEGF in combination with other (pro-angiogenic) factors should be considered.

Conferring a Federal Property Right in Genetic Material: Stepping into the Future with the Genetic Privacy Act

“A wise man can hear profit in the wind.”—Pel, quoting the Ferengi Rules of AcquisitionThe expansive biotechnology field includes many facets of medical research, from drug discovery and design, to gene therapy and the diagnosis of genetic diseases, to the use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) evidence to identify individuals and genetic characteristics. The biotechnology industry requires a readily available supply of biological raw materials; much of current research is founded on cells, tissues, organs, fetal tissues and placentas, and other samples derived from human donors. However, this growing need for raw materials presents many economic, social, and ethical issues to society, researchers, and the existing legal regime. Furthermore, because courts and legislatures fail to provide a clear national rule regarding biological materials, the resulting legal uncertainties chill research and investment. Although very few cases address property rights in a person’s organs, tissues, and genetic material, the issues of autonomy and privacy involved evoke analogies to deep-seated issues such as slavery, the freezing of embryos, and abortion.

Identification of a High Risk Subgroup of Grade 1 Transitional Cell Carcinoma Using Image Analysis Based Deoxyribonucleic Acid Ploidy Analysis of Tumor Tissue

The use of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) cytometry to identify a subset of patients with grade 1, stage Ta or T1 transitional cell carcinoma at high risk for death or recurrence was investigated in a retrospective study using paraffin blocks from 88 low grade transitional cell carcinomas of the bladder with an absorptiometric video-based image analysis system. Tumors were evaluated for ploidy (70 diploid, 16 aneuploid and 2 tetraploid) and the presence of cells with greater than 5C DNA. Survival analysis of 62 patients with adequate followup (15 to 20 years) showed that 43 of 62 (69%) suffered recurrences and 13 (21%) died of bladder cancer. The single most important predictors of death and recurrence were stem line aneuploidy and the presence of cells with greater than 5C DNA, respectively.

Use of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Fingerprints for Identity Determination: Comparison with Traditional Paternity Testing Methods—Part II

A study involving comparison of the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) finger-printing test with traditional methods used for paternity testing is presented. Samples from 191 cases were tested for a series of blood group and polymorphic protein markers. DNA "fingerprints" were then obtained for all samples using the multilocus probes 33.6 and 33.15. The results of DNA fingerprinting correlated well with those of traditional methods and proved to be informative in cases where traditional methods yielded inconclusive or insufficient results.

Use of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Fingerprints for Identity Determination: Comparison with Traditional Paternity Testing Methods—Part I

Abstract A study involving comparison of the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fingerprinting test with traditional methods used for paternity testing is presented. Samples from 191 cases were tested for a series of blood group and polymorphic protein markers. DNA “fingerprints” were then obtained for all samples using the multilocus probes 33.6 and 33.15. The results of DNA fingerprinting correlated well with those of traditional methods and proved to be informative in cases where traditional methods yielded inconclusive or insufficient results.