Health and Medicine

The Doctor Is In

admin — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:33:41 +0000

The Doctor Is In admin Thu, 07/31/2025 - 16:33

Shao-Yun Hsu kept seeing the same name on research study after research study: Brandon Dixon, an engineer at Georgia Tech.

Hsu, a microsurgeon in Taiwan, was trying to figure out how to help her patients with lymphedema — an uncomfortable and life-limiting swelling in limbs that results from lymph nodes failing to drain fluid from an arm or leg.

Hsu had what she thought was a basic question: exactly how much fluid each small lymphatic vessel could drain. And as she dug into the clinical research, she saw Dixon’s name over and over.

Spoiler alert: There’s no good answer to Hsu’s question. At least not yet. But the search has brought her to Atlanta to pursue a biomedical engineering Ph.D. in Dixon’s lab.

Together, they’re embarking on a new project with support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that could one day help Hsu’s patients by making a lymph node transplant a viable option for many more people who suffer from lymphedema.

Read the full story on the College of Engineering website.

Summary sentence

Microsurgeon Shao-Yun Hsu takes treating her patients all the way to Georgia Tech, where she’s getting a Ph.D. and developing biomaterials to restore function — and quality of life — for people with lymphedema.

Summary

Dateline

Thu, 07/31/2025 - 12:00

jstewart@gatech.edu

Contact

Joshua Stewart
College of Engineering

Associated importer

Keywords

lymphedema

brandon dixon

go-bio

go-ibb

News room topics

Health and Medicine

Mercury ID

683452

Source updated

Thu, 07/31/2025 - 16:32

These ‘Exploding’ Capsules Could Deliver Insulin Without a Needle

admin — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:22:30 +0000

These ‘Exploding’ Capsules Could Deliver Insulin Without a Needle admin Tue, 07/08/2025 - 09:22

Georgia Tech engineers have created a pill that could effectively deliver insulin and other injectable drugs, making medicines for chronic illnesses easier for patients to take, less invasive, and potentially less expensive.

Along with insulin, it also could be used for semaglutide — the popular GLP-1 medication sold as Ozempic and Wegovy — and a host of other top-selling protein-based medications like antibodies and growth hormone that are part of a $400 billion market.

These drugs usually have to be injected because they can’t overcome the protective barriers of the gastrointestinal tract. Georgia Tech’s new capsule uses a small pressurized “explosion” to shoot medicine past those barriers in the small intestine and into the bloodstream. Unlike other designs, it has no complicated moving parts and requires no battery or stored energy.

“This study introduces a new way of drug delivery that is as easy as swallowing a pill and replaces the need for painful injections,” said Mark Prausnitz, who created the pill in his lab with former Ph.D. student Joshua Palacios and other student researchers.

In animal lab tests, they showed their capsule lowered blood sugar levels just like traditional insulin injections. The researchers reported their pill design and study results DATE in the Journal of Controlled Release.

Read about the technology on the College of Engineering website.

Summary sentence

Engineers use sodium bicarb to “self-pressurize” a pill able to deliver drugs that usually require injection directly to the small intestine.

Summary

Engineers use sodium bicarb to “self-pressurize” a pill able to deliver drugs that usually require injection directly to the small intestine.

Dateline

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 12:00

jstewart@gatech.edu

Contact

Joshua Stewart
College of Engineering

Associated importer

Keywords

Mark Prausnitz

go-researchnews

go-bio

News room topics

Health and Medicine

Categories

Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics

Chemistry and Chemical Engineering

Research

Mercury ID

682959

Source updated

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 09:21

Shriners Children’s to Establish Research Institute at Science Square

admin — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 12:58:49 +0000

Shriners Children’s to Establish Research Institute at Science Square admin Thu, 07/03/2025 - 08:58

Gov. Brian P. Kemp has announced a new world-renowned tenant for Science Square, signaling Georgia Tech's role in Atlanta and Georgia's expanding life sciences sector. According to the governor’s office, Shriners Children’s will establish a new pediatric medical research facility at Science Square, investing more than $153 million into the facility and creating 470 new jobs. The move by this nonprofit healthcare system, which has locations across North America and a global reach, shows the continued momentum in the region for this important area of research and development.

The Shriners Children’s Research Institute will be in Science Square Labs, positioned across from Georgia Tech’s North Avenue Research Area. The institute will serve as a multidisciplinary innovation hub focused on advancing healthcare for children. Areas of research will include cell and gene therapies, robotics, artificial intelligence, medical devices, biologics, and data informatics.

"Georgia Tech is excited to welcome Shriners Children’s to Science Square,” said Georgia Tech President Ángel Cabrera. “We developed Science Square to create a leading hub for life sciences research and innovation, and Shriners’ decision to be here will accelerate our progress to drive medical innovation, create high-impact jobs, and greatly strengthen Atlanta's thriving innovation ecosystem.”

Georgia Tech’s proximity and research strengths were key factors in the decision to locate the institute in Atlanta. The collaboration is expected to enhance the region’s growing reputation in life sciences and advanced research. Projected to be the largest tenant of Science Square, Shriners Children's would put the facility at 82% occupancy.

Shriners Children’s, founded in 1922 by members of the Shriners International fraternity, focuses on orthopedic and neuromuscular conditions, burn injuries, spinal cord injury rehabilitation, and cleft lip and palate. The organization also maintains a strong commitment to education and research. In 2024, Shriners Children’s served patients from all 50 U.S. states, every Canadian province, and 128 countries.

This news comes after Tech’s recent announcement regarding the move-in of about seven biomedical research labs into Science Square.

Science Square, a mixed-use development adjacent to Georgia Tech’s Midtown campus, continues to attract leading organizations in healthcare, technology, and research. The addition of Shriners Children’s further establishes the district as a hub for global innovation and community impact.

Subtitle

Governor’s office touts move that will create 470 new jobs.

Summary sentence

Shriners Children’s will open a $153 million pediatric medical research facility at Science Square, becoming the largest tenant in the development and contributing to Georgia Tech’s growing role in Atlanta’s life sciences sector.

Summary

Shriners Children’s will establish a new pediatric medical research facility at Science Square in Atlanta, investing more than $153 million into the project. Located across from Georgia Tech’s North Avenue Research Area, the facility will collaborate with Georgia Tech researchers and focus on advancing care in areas such as orthopedic and neuromuscular conditions, burn injuries, spinal cord injury rehabilitation, and cleft lip and palate.

Dateline

Thu, 07/03/2025 - 12:00

media@gatech.edu

Contact

Siobhan Rodriguez
Senior Media Relations Representative
Institute Communications

Keywords

Shriners Children’s

Georgia Tech

science square

pediatric research

medical research facility

atlanta

orthopedic conditions

neuromuscular conditions

spinal cord injury

burn injuries

cleft lip and palate

Biomedical Engineering

artificial intelligence

robotics

Gene Therapy

Medical Devices

biologics

data informatics

research collaboration

Life Sciences

healthcare innovation

research institute

North Avenue Research Area

investment

nonprofit healthcare

go-researchnews

News room topics

Campus and Community

Health and Medicine

Categories

Institute and Campus

Life Sciences and Biology

Research

Mercury ID

683000

Source updated

Thu, 07/03/2025 - 08:58

How New Information Triggers the Brain to Navigate Changing Environments

admin — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 15:54:41 +0000

How New Information Triggers the Brain to Navigate Changing Environments admin Tue, 06/24/2025 - 11:54

Stephanie Prince explains her research with a scenario many Atlantans can relate to.

Imagine you’re driving to the Atlanta airport to pick up a friend. They call to say they’re in the terminal — but they’re not sure which one. North, maybe? You head that direction through the maze of roads around the airport.

Then they call back. They’re actually in the South Terminal. So you make a quick mental adjustment and switch your route to arrive at the correct side of the airport.

You had a plan. You received new information. You quickly changed your destination.
The question Prince has studied is this: How does that process happen in the brain?

A new research paper in Nature Communications is offering insights into that decision-making. And it could help scientists as they work to better understand when brain disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s impair those processes.

Read the full story on the College of Engineering website.

Summary sentence

Biomedical engineers show how two brain regions quickly adapt to shift focus from one planned destination to another.

Summary

Biomedical engineers show how two brain regions quickly adapt to shift focus from one planned destination to another.

Dateline

Tue, 06/24/2025 - 12:00

jstewart@gatech.edu

Contact

Joshua Stewart
College of Engineering

Associated importer

Keywords

Annabelle Singer

Biomedical Engineering

go-researchnews

go-bio

go-neuro

News room topics

Health and Medicine

Categories

Research

Mercury ID

682871

Source updated

Tue, 06/24/2025 - 11:53

Georgia Tech, Emory Expand Research at Science Square

admin — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 19:39:41 +0000

Georgia Tech, Emory Expand Research at Science Square admin Wed, 06/18/2025 - 15:39

Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University are taking medical and biomedical research to the next level by moving seven cutting-edge labs into Science Square, the Southeast’s premier life sciences district. This expansion is more than just growth in square footage; it marks a major push to establish Atlanta as a Top 5 technology hub in the U.S.

“Science Square Labs marks a pivotal step forward for Georgia Tech and for Atlanta’s growing life sciences ecosystem. We’re not only accelerating our research and innovation — we’re building powerful momentum across the region,” said Ángel Cabrera, president of Georgia Tech. “Our labs moving to this space will attract top talent and drive medical innovation. The move sets the stage for transformative discoveries, and we hope others will join us to continue Atlanta’s evolution into a global hub for medical breakthroughs.”

This move comes as Georgia Tech saw a 46% increase in research awards from 2018 to 2024, evidence of the Institute’s fast-growing impact. By adding these labs, Atlanta strengthens its position on the national stage for advanced tech and life sciences innovation.

Why It Matters

Saving lives: From early cancer detection and more innovative immune therapies to healing damaged tissues and managing chronic diseases, the research that will be conducted at Science Square tackles health issues millions face.
Fueling a tech hub: By combining research powerhouses like Georgia Tech and Emory with next-gen laboratory facilities, Atlanta is building the brainpower and resources to compete with national tech centers.
Economic growth: Science Square is helping attract top researchers, startups, and funding — bringing jobs, investment, and opportunities to Georgia. Most recently, Duracell announced they are moving their research and development headquarters to Science Square.

Research for Real Life

The new labs at Science Square will support teams tackling life-changing challenges:

Gabe Kwong, Robert A. Milton Chair, College of Engineering, is developing a two-step cancer defense: tagging tumor cells with a synthetic “flag,” then supercharging T cells (the body’s infection-fighting white blood cells) to track down and destroy them. Early lab tests show the technique works against breast, brain, and colon cancers — and prevents regrowth.
Tara Deans and her team are teaching cells new jobs — when to grow, which type of cell to become, or how to release medicine. Their goal is to design smart cells that can sense what’s happening in the body and act as “living therapies,” delivering treatment exactly where, when, and at the level needed.
Alex Vlahos is developing ways to reprogram cells to understand and treat diseases. His team makes new protein tools that help cells sense their environment, communicate with each other, and respond to problems — repairing tissues, fighting cancer, or calming an overactive immune system.
Ed Botchwey co-directs the Regenerative Engineering and Medicine Center, a collaboration between Georgia Tech, Emory University, and the University of Georgia. His team develops advanced biomaterials that work with the body’s immune system, combined with specialized methods, to produce therapeutic cells and their beneficial byproducts. They focus on innovative regenerative treatments for conditions like sickle-cell disease complications, severe muscle injuries, and injuries affecting the mouth, face, and skull.
John Blazeck designs new ways to help the immune system fight disease. His team engineers cells and proteins to better target cancer, improve immune therapies, and develop next-generation treatments.
Corey Wilson, Love Family Professorship, College of Engineering, is building custom-made biological systems from scratch. By mixing protein engineering with genetic tinkering, his team is creating powerful new tools for science and medicine that help us understand how proteins and genes work.
Alyssa Panitch, professor and chair in the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, designs innovative materials that help tissues heal better and scar less — whether skin, blood vessels, or even joints. Her team’s biomaterials promote healing on both the inside and outside of cells, guiding the body’s natural repair process.

More About Science Square Labs

Science Square Labs, which opened in 2024, offers more than 368,000 square feet of premium lab and innovation space across 13 floors. Strategically located across from Georgia Tech’s North Avenue Research Area, the building is designed to bring together academic institutions, startups, and industry leaders.

As part of the continued expansion, Georgia Tech announces a major new lease at Science Square. Jon Mayeske of Cushman and Wakefield represented Georgia Advanced Technology Ventures, an affiliate organization of Georgia Tech, which signed a 10-year lease beginning February 15, 2026, for a 36,364 square-foot space on the sixth floor of Science Square Labs. This cutting-edge life sciences facility includes modern lab spaces, offices, and amenity areas designed to foster collaboration among researchers.

Trammell Crow is the master developer of the Science Square District, programmed for over 2.1 million square feet of labs, offices, and residential and retail spaces in multiple phases.

Summary sentence

Georgia Tech and Emory University are advancing Atlanta’s position as a top U.S. tech hub by relocating seven pioneering biomedical research labs to Science Square, a premier life sciences district driving innovation, talent, and economic growth.

Summary

Georgia Tech and Emory University are accelerating Atlanta’s emergence as a national leader in life sciences and technology by relocating seven advanced biomedical research labs to Science Square, a state-of-the-art innovation district.

Dateline

Wed, 06/18/2025 - 12:00

media@gatech.edu

Contact

Siobhan Rodriguez
Senior Media Relations Representative
Institute Communications

Keywords

Georgia Institute of Technology

Emory University

Science Square Labs

Atlanta tech hub

Life sciences innovation

biomedical research

Medical breakthroughs

research and development

Advanced laboratory facilities

Georgia Tech Research

Top 5 technology hub

Southeast life sciences district

Research awards growth

Immune therapies

Cancer detection research

Regenerative Medicine

Synthetic Biology

Smart cells

Protein engineering

Chronic disease management

Georgia Advanced Technology Ventures

Economic development Georgia

Tech talent attraction

innovation ecosystem

Startup incubation

public-private partnerships

research commercialization

Lab space expansion

go-researchnews

News room topics

Business and Economic Development

Campus and Community

Health and Medicine

Science and Technology

Categories

City Planning, Transportation, and Urban Growth

Economic Development and Policy

Institute and Campus

Mercury ID

682819

Source updated

Wed, 06/18/2025 - 15:38

Georgia Tech, Emory Expand Research at Science Square

admin — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 17:55:40 +0000

Georgia Tech, Emory Expand Research at Science Square admin Wed, 06/18/2025 - 13:55

ATLANTA, GA – June 2025 – Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University are taking medical and biomedical research to the next level by moving seven cutting-edge labs into Science Square, the Southeast’s premier life sciences district. This expansion is more than just growth in square footage; it marks a major push to establish Atlanta as a Top 5 technology hub in the U.S.

“Every new lab, every partnership, brings Atlanta one step closer to being one of the nation’s top tech hubs,” said Pat Wilson, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. “This investment signals to the world that Georgia is serious about innovation. Strong research attracts talent and companies — and delivers breakthroughs that improve lives right here in our backyard.”

Why It Matters

Saving lives: From early cancer detection and more innovative immune therapies to healing damaged tissues and managing chronic diseases, the research that will be conducted at Science Square tackles health issues millions face.

Fueling a tech hub: By combining research powerhouses like Georgia Tech and Emory with next-gen laboratory facilities, Atlanta is building the brainpower and resources to compete with national tech centers.

Economic growth: Science Square is helping attract top researchers, startups, and funding — bringing jobs, investment, and opportunities to Georgia. Most recently, Duracell announced they are moving their research and development headquarters to Science Square.

Research for Real Life

The new labs at Science Square will support teams tackling life-changing challenges:

Gabe Kwong, Robert A. Milton Chair, College of Engineering, is developing a two-step cancer defense: tagging tumor cells with a synthetic “flag,” then supercharging T cells (the body’s infection-fighting white blood cells) to track down and destroy them. Early lab tests show the technique works against breast, brain, and colon cancers — and prevents regrowth.

Tara Deans and her team are teaching cells new jobs — when to grow, which type of cell to become, or how to release medicine. Their goal is to design smart cells that can sense what’s happening in the body and act as “living therapies,” delivering treatment exactly where, when, and at the level needed.

Alex Vlahos is developing ways to reprogram cells to understand and treat diseases. His team makes new protein tools that help cells sense their environment, communicate with each other, and respond to problems — repairing tissues, fighting cancer, or calming an overactive immune system.

Ed Botchwey co-directs the Regenerative Engineering and Medicine Center, a collaboration between Georgia Tech, Emory University, and the University of Georgia. His team develops advanced biomaterials that work with the body’s immune system, combined with specialized methods, to produce therapeutic cells and their beneficial byproducts. They focus on innovative regenerative treatments for conditions like sickle-cell disease complications, severe muscle injuries, and injuries affecting the mouth, face, and skull.

John Blazeck designs new ways to help the immune system fight disease. His team engineers cells and proteins to better target cancer, improve immune therapies, and develop next-generation treatments.

Corey Wilson, Love Family Professorship, College of Engineering, is building custom-made biological systems from scratch. By mixing protein engineering with genetic tinkering, his team is creating powerful new tools for science and medicine that help us understand how proteins and genes work.

Alyssa Panitch, Wallace H. Coulter Department Chair, College of Engineering, designs innovative materials that help tissues heal better and scar less — whether skin, blood vessels, or even joints. Her team’s biomaterials promote healing on both the inside and outside of cells, guiding the body’s natural repair process.

More About Science Square Labs

Trammell Crow is the master developer of the Science Square District, programmed for over 2.1 million square feet of labs, offices, and residential and retail spaces in multiple phases.

Summary sentence

Summary

Dateline

Wed, 06/18/2025 - 12:00

media@gatech.edu

Contact

Siobhan Rodriguez
Senior Media Relations Representative
Institute Communications

Keywords

Georgia Institute of Technology

Science Square Labs

Atlanta tech hub

Life sciences innovation

biomedical research

Medical breakthroughs

research and development

Advanced laboratory facilities

Georgia Tech Research

Top 5 technology hub

Southeast life sciences district

Research awards growth

Immune therapies

Cancer detection research

Regenerative Medicine

Synthetic Biology

Smart cells

Protein engineering

Chronic disease management

research commercialization

Lab space expansion

News room topics

Business and Economic Development

Campus and Community

Health and Medicine

Science and Technology

Categories

Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics

City Planning, Transportation, and Urban Growth

Institute and Campus

Life Sciences and Biology

Mercury ID

682818

Source updated

Wed, 06/18/2025 - 13:54

Georgia Tech, Emory Expand Research at Science Square

admin — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 17:34:41 +0000

Georgia Tech, Emory Expand Research at Science Square admin Wed, 06/18/2025 - 13:34

Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University are taking medical and biomedical research to the next level by moving seven cutting-edge labs into Science Square, the Southeast’s premier life sciences district. This expansion is more than just growth in square footage; it marks a major push to establish Atlanta as a Top 5 technology hub in the U.S.

Why It Matters

Saving lives: From early cancer detection and more innovative immune therapies to healing damaged tissues and managing chronic diseases, the research that will be conducted at Science Square tackles health issues millions face.

Fueling a tech hub: By combining research powerhouses like Georgia Tech and Emory with next-gen laboratory facilities, Atlanta is building the brainpower and resources to compete with national tech centers.

Economic growth: Science Square is helping attract top researchers, startups, and funding — bringing jobs, investment, and opportunities to Georgia. Most recently, Duracell announced they are moving their research and development headquarters to Science Square.

Research for Real Life

The new labs at Science Square will support teams tackling life-changing challenges:

Gabe Kwong, Robert A. Milton Chair, College of Engineering, is developing a two-step cancer defense: tagging tumor cells with a synthetic “flag,” then supercharging T cells (the body’s infection-fighting white blood cells) to track down and destroy them. Early lab tests show the technique works against breast, brain, and colon cancers — and prevents regrowth.

Tara Deans and her team are teaching cells new jobs — when to grow, which type of cell to become, or how to release medicine. Their goal is to design smart cells that can sense what’s happening in the body and act as “living therapies,” delivering treatment exactly where, when, and at the level needed.

Alex Vlahos is developing ways to reprogram cells to understand and treat diseases. His team makes new protein tools that help cells sense their environment, communicate with each other, and respond to problems — repairing tissues, fighting cancer, or calming an overactive immune system.

Ed Botchwey co-directs the Regenerative Engineering and Medicine Center, a collaboration between Georgia Tech, Emory University, and the University of Georgia. His team develops advanced biomaterials that work with the body’s immune system, combined with specialized methods, to produce therapeutic cells and their beneficial byproducts. They focus on innovative regenerative treatments for conditions like sickle-cell disease complications, severe muscle injuries, and injuries affecting the mouth, face, and skull.

John Blazeck designs new ways to help the immune system fight disease. His team engineers cells and proteins to better target cancer, improve immune therapies, and develop next-generation treatments.

Corey Wilson, Love Family Professorship, College of Engineering, is building custom-made biological systems from scratch. By mixing protein engineering with genetic tinkering, his team is creating powerful new tools for science and medicine that help us understand how proteins and genes work.

Alyssa Panitch, Wallace H. Coulter Department Chair, College of Engineering, designs innovative materials that help tissues heal better and scar less — whether skin, blood vessels, or even joints. Her team’s biomaterials promote healing on both the inside and outside of cells, guiding the body’s natural repair process.

More About Science Square Labs

Trammell Crow is the master developer of the Science Square District, programmed for over 2.1 million square feet of labs, offices, and residential and retail spaces in multiple phases.

Summary sentence

Summary

Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University are taking medical and biomedical research to the next level by moving seven cutting-edge labs into Science Square, the Southeast’s premier life sciences district. This expansion is more than just growth in square footage; it marks a major push to establish Atlanta as a Top 5 technology hub in the U.S.

Dateline

Tue, 06/17/2025 - 12:00

media@gatech.edu

Contact

Siobhan Rodriguez
Senior Media Relations Representative
Institute Communications

Keywords

Georgia Institute of Technology

Emory University

Science Square Labs

Atlanta tech hub

Life sciences innovation

biomedical research

Medical breakthroughs

research and development

Advanced laboratory facilities

Georgia Tech Research

Top 5 technology hub

Southeast life sciences district

Research awards growth

Immune therapies

Cancer detection research

Regenerative Medicine

Synthetic Biology

Smart cells

Protein engineering

Chronic disease management

Ángel Cabrera

Pat Wilson

Gabe Kwong

Tara Deans

Alex Vlahos

Ed Botchwey

John Blazeck

Corey Wilson

Alyssa Panitch

Georgia Advanced Technology Ventures

Economic development Georgia

Tech talent attraction

innovation ecosystem

Startup incubation

public-private partnerships

Cushman and Wakefield

Trammell Crow

Duracell R&D headquarters

research commercialization

Lab space expansion

News room topics

Business and Economic Development

Campus and Community

Health and Medicine

Science and Technology

Categories

City Planning, Transportation, and Urban Growth

Institute and Campus

Mercury ID

682817

Source updated

Wed, 06/18/2025 - 13:33

RNA Has Newly Identified Role: Repairing Serious DNA Damage to Maintain the Genome

admin — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 00:50:38 +0000

RNA Has Newly Identified Role: Repairing Serious DNA Damage to Maintain the Genome admin Mon, 06/16/2025 - 20:50

Your DNA is continually damaged by sources both inside and outside your body. One especially severe form of damage called a double-strand break involves the severing of both strands of the DNA double helix.

Double-strand breaks are among the most difficult forms of DNA damage for cells to repair because they disrupt the continuity of DNA and leave no intact template to base new strands on. If misrepaired, these breaks can lead to other mutations that make the genome unstable and increase the risk of many diseases, including cancer, neurodegeneration and immunodeficiency.

Cells primarily repair double-strand breaks by either rejoining the broken DNA ends or by using another DNA molecule as a template for repair. However, my team and I discovered that RNA, a type of genetic material best known for its role in making proteins, surprisingly plays a key role in facilitating the repair of these harmful breaks.

These insights could not only pave the way for new treatment strategies for genetic disorders, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, but also enhance gene-editing technologies.

Sealing a Knowledge Gap in DNA Repair

I have spent the past two decades investigating the relationship between RNA and DNA in order to understand how cells maintain genome integrity and how these mechanisms could be harnessed for genetic engineering.

A long-standing question in the field has been whether RNA in cells helps keep the genome stable beyond acting as a copy of DNA in the process of making proteins and a regulator of gene expression. Studying how RNA might do this has been especially difficult due to its similarity to DNA and how fast it degrades. It’s also technically challenging to tell whether the RNA is directly working to repair DNA or indirectly regulating the process. Traditional models and tools for studying DNA repair have for the most part focused on proteins and DNA, leaving RNA’s potential contributions largely unexplored.

RNA plays a key role in protein synthesis.

My team and I were curious about whether RNA might actively participate in fixing double-strand breaks as a first line of defense. To explore this, we used the gene-editing tool CRISPR-Cas9 to make breaks at specific spots in the DNA of human and yeast cells. We then analyzed how RNA influences various aspects of the repair process, including efficiency and outcomes.

We found that RNA can actively guide the repair process of double-strand breaks. It does this by binding to broken DNA ends, helping align sequences of DNA on a matching strand that isn’t broken. It can also seal gaps or remove mismatched segments, further influencing whether and how the original sequence is restored.

Additionally, we found that RNA aids in double-strand break repair in both yeast and human cells, suggesting that its role in DNA repair is evolutionary conserved across species. Notably, even low levels of RNA were sufficient to influence the efficiency and outcome of repair, pointing to its broad and previously unrecognized function in maintaining genome stability.

RNA in Control

By uncovering RNA’s previously unknown function to repair DNA damage, our findings show how RNA may directly contribute to the stability and evolution of the genome. It’s not merely a passive messenger, but an active participant in genome maintenance.

One type of RNA that has been effectively used in treatments is mRNA. Aldona/iStock via Getty Images Plus

These insights could help researchers develop new ways to target the genomic instability that underlies many diseases, including cancer and neurodegeneration. Traditionally, treatments and gene-editing tools have focused almost exclusively on DNA or proteins. Our findings suggest that modifying RNA in different ways could also influence how cells respond to DNA damage. For example, researchers could design RNA-based therapies to enhance the repair of harmful breaks that could cause cancer, or selectively disrupt DNA break repair in cancer cells to help kill them.

In addition, these findings could improve the precision of gene-editing technologies like CRISPR by accounting for interactions between RNA and DNA at the site of the cut. This could reduce off-target effects and increase editing precision, ultimately contributing to the development of safer and more effective gene therapies.

There are still many unanswered questions about how RNA interacts with DNA in the repair process. The evolutionary role that RNA plays in maintaining genome stability is also unclear. But one thing is certain: RNA is no longer just a messenger, it is a molecule with a direct hand in DNA repair, rewriting what researchers know about how cells safeguard their genetic code.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Summary sentence

Insights could not only pave the way for new treatment strategies for genetic disorders, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, but also enhance gene-editing technologies.

Summary

Insights could not only pave the way for new treatment strategies for genetic disorders, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, but also enhance gene-editing technologies.

Dateline

Mon, 06/16/2025 - 12:00

Contact

Author:

Francesca Storici, professor of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology

Media Contact:

Shelley Wunder-Smith
shelley.wunder-smith@research.gatech.edu

Keywords

go-researchnews

News room topics

Health and Medicine

Mercury ID

682802

Source updated

Mon, 06/16/2025 - 20:49

Acclimation and Hydration Are Keys to Beating Summer Heat

admin — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 17:05:41 +0000

Acclimation and Hydration Are Keys to Beating Summer Heat admin Wed, 06/11/2025 - 13:05

As temperatures and humidity levels rise in the summer months, hydration and heat acclimatization become increasingly vital in maintaining physical and mental health and maximizing performance.

Research from the Exercise Physiology Laboratory, led by Professor Mindy Millard-Stafford, director, and Adjunct Professor Mike Sawka in the School of Biological Sciences, aims to help athletes and occupational workers better understand and prevent sweat loss and dehydration through the development of predictive tools.

Heat Acclimation Takes Time

According to Millard-Stafford, it can take between five and seven days of active exposure in hot conditions to properly acclimate the body to extreme temperatures. During this period, taking frequent breaks, along with proper hydration, is necessary while the body attempts to thermoregulate through the evaporation of perspiration. She also advises easing into a full workload or exercise routine, if possible, and seeking shade with intermittent breaks when working outdoors for long periods.

Sawka, retired senior scientist for environmental medicine, stressed that even those familiar with summer conditions can be susceptible to the symptoms of overheating following months of cooler temperatures or indoor activity. A predictive tool developed by collaborating with the University of Canberra, Australia, and recently published in the Journal of Comprehensive Physiology illustrates the benefits of heat acclimation based on environmental factors like temperature, humidity, duration of exposure, and other factors to inform their training and recovery plans.

"Just like you train for your activity, whether it's running or tennis or basketball, it's the same with adapting to environmental extremes. It's specific, and the tool allows you to input the unique conditions you will attempt to acclimate to," he said.

Staggering start times can also effectively mitigate injury and heat-related incidents until an individual is properly acclimated to the climate.

Staying Sharp

Studies from the Exercise Physiology Laboratory have revealed a drop in performance and cognitive function when subjects lose 2% of their body mass during exposure to heat. Without proper planning and fluid replacement, thermoregulation can be hindered, cardiovascular strain increases, and an individual's energy levels and performance can diminish. As more body water is lost, more significant symptoms can occur.

The amount of sweat lost during heat exposure is another key indicator of how much fluid an individual needs to avoid these symptoms. A sweat loss prediction calculator, recently published in the Journal of Applied Physiology and funded by Coca-Cola in collaboration with the University of Sydney and Canberra University, uses predicted output and other factors to help individuals plan hydration management strategies for exercise in hot conditions. Relying solely on thirst as a guide frequently leads to underhydration by nearly 50%; therefore, fluids should be consumed before, during, and after exposure to heat.

Understanding sweat loss can also help individuals avoid the dangers of overhydration. "This is not a 'more-is-always-better' kind of approach. You can run into problems by drinking too much over extended periods while exercising," Millard-Stafford said. "Hyponatremia, or water intoxication, can be lethal. You want to follow the Goldilocks theory of ‘not too much and not too little’ to maintain fluid balance with the sweat loss calculator.”

Elderly adults are at an increased risk of heat-related incidents, even if they aren't outside as much, due to differences in their body's ability to regulate temperature and potential adverse effects of medication such as diuretics. Older adults also have a diminished thirst sensation when dehydrated, so they tend to underdrink.

More Than One Way to Hydrate

Eighty percent of human hydration comes from consuming liquids, while the remaining 20% comes from food. Millard-Stafford recommends adding more fresh fruits and vegetables as a part of your diet over the summer.

Drinking fluids remains the primary combatant against dehydration, but she and Sawka also recommend pre-planning meals that include sodium to better retain fluids and nutrients. Humans generally rehydrate at mealtime, with food stimulating thirst and fluid consumption, helping cells maintain balance. Electrolytes in sports drinks can also help hydrate during and after sustained heat exposure.

For many, simply choosing not to go outdoors in the heat is not an option. So, Millard-Stafford and Sawka continue to share best practices and strategies to avoid heat-related illness and dehydration while optimizing performance.

Subtitle

As temperatures rise, proper hydration and heat acclimatization can help maintain physical and mental health.

Summary sentence

As temperatures rise, proper hydration and heat acclimatization can help maintain physical and mental health.

Summary

As temperatures rise, proper hydration and heat acclimatization can help maintain physical and mental health.

Dateline

Wed, 06/11/2025 - 12:00

steven.gagliano@gatech.edu

Contact

Steven Gagliano – Institute Communications

Associated importer

Keywords

summer heat

hydration

Exercise Physiology Lab

Atlanta climate

News room topics

Health and Medicine

Categories

Biotechnology, Health, Bioengineering, Genetics

Mercury ID

682767

Source updated

Wed, 06/11/2025 - 13:05

Painting a Target on Cancer to Make Therapy More Effective

admin — Mon, 19 May 2025 12:10:41 +0000

Painting a Target on Cancer to Make Therapy More Effective admin Mon, 05/19/2025 - 08:10

Biomedical engineers at Georgia Tech created a treatment that could one day unlock a universal strategy for treating some of the hardest-to-treat cancers — like those in the brain, breast, and colon — by teaching the immune system to see what it usually misses.

Their experimental approach worked against those kinds of cancers in lab tests and didn’t damage healthy tissues. Importantly, it also stopped cancer from returning.

While the therapy is still in early stages of development, it builds on well established, safe technologies, giving the treatment a clearer, quicker path to clinical trials and patient care.

Reported in May in the journal Nature Cancer, their technique is a one-two punch that flags tumor cells so they can be recognized and then eliminated by specially enhanced T cells from the patient’s own immune system.

Get all the details on the College of Engineering website.

Summary sentence

A BME team is putting a synthetic flag on tumors, then engineering a patient’s immune cells to find and eliminate cancer.

Summary

A BME team is putting a synthetic flag on tumors, then engineering a patient’s immune cells to find and eliminate cancer.

Dateline

Mon, 05/19/2025 - 12:00

jstewart@gatech.edu

Contact

Joshua Stewart
College of Engineering

Associated importer

Keywords

Gabe Kwong

CAR T-Cells

cancer therapy

go-bio

go-researchnews

News room topics

Health and Medicine

Mercury ID

682433

Source updated

Mon, 05/19/2025 - 08:10

Health and Medicine

The Doctor Is In

Keywords

News room topics

These ‘Exploding’ Capsules Could Deliver Insulin Without a Needle

Keywords

News room topics

Categories

Shriners Children’s to Establish Research Institute at Science Square

Related links

Keywords

News room topics

Categories

How New Information Triggers the Brain to Navigate Changing Environments

Keywords

News room topics

Categories

Georgia Tech, Emory Expand Research at Science Square

Why It Matters

Research for Real Life

Related links

Keywords

News room topics

Categories

Georgia Tech, Emory Expand Research at Science Square

Related links

Keywords

News room topics

Categories

Georgia Tech, Emory Expand Research at Science Square

Related links

Keywords

News room topics

Categories

RNA Has Newly Identified Role: Repairing Serious DNA Damage to Maintain the Genome

Sealing a Knowledge Gap in DNA Repair

RNA in Control

Author:

Media Contact:

Related links

Keywords

News room topics

Acclimation and Hydration Are Keys to Beating Summer Heat

Heat Acclimation Takes Time

Staying Sharp

More Than One Way to Hydrate

Keywords

News room topics

Categories

Painting a Target on Cancer to Make Therapy More Effective

Keywords

News room topics