Abstract: A method for acquiring and producing high-purity renal progenitor cells from a renal progenitor cell population into which pluripotent stem cells are induced to differentiate, by identifying a cell surface antigen marker specific to renal progenitor cells. The disclosed method may include, for example, the steps of: (i) culturing the pluripotent stem cells under conditions that induce differentiation into renal progenitor cells; and (ii) sorting a cell population from the cells obtained at step (i), by using at least one cell surface marker selected from the group consisting of CD9(?), CD55(?), CD106(+), CD140a(+), CD140b(+), CD165(+), CD271(+) and CD326(?).

Abstract: It is intended to provide a cancer stem cell and a method for preparing the same. The present invention provides a method for preparing a pluripotent cancer stem cell, comprising transferring Oct3/4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc genes to an immortalized epithelial cell. The present invention also provides a pluripotent cancer stem cell as prepared by the above method.

Abstract: A method for vascular regeneration comprises delivering endothelial cells to a lung scaffold, delivering perivascular cells to the lung scaffold, and providing a multiphase culture program to the scaffold. The multiphase culture program comprises a first phase including delivering an angiogenic medium, e.g., having 40-100 ng/ml of pro-angiogenic factors, and a second phase including delivering a stabilization medium, e.g., having 0.5-2% of serum and 1-20 ng/ml of angiogenic factors.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of a virus, preferably an adenovirus, for producing a medicament. Said virus is replication-deficient in cells which do not contain YB-1 in the core and codes for an oncogene or ongogene product, especially an oncogene protein, which transactivates at least one viral gene, preferably an adenoviral gene, said gene being selected among the group comprising E1B55kDa, E4orf6, E4orf3, and E3ADP.

Abstract: The present invention relates to new lactaldehyde reductase (LAR) enzymes useful for the production of 1,2-propanediol and to microorganisms overexpressing said enzymes. The invention also relates to a method for producing 1,2-propanediol by converting lactaldehyde into 1,2-propanediol with said enzymes.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a formate dehydrogenase mutant with improved enzyme activity and stability and a construction method thereof, which belongs to the technical field of genetic engineering. The mutant of the present invention is obtained by mutating alanine at a 10th site to cysteine based on the amino acid shown in SEQ ID NO. 2. The specific enzyme activity of the mutant enzyme obtained by the present invention is improved by 1.3 times compared with that before the mutation, a half-life period (t1/2) at 60° C. is increased by 6.8 times compared with that in the mutation period, the copper ion tolerance is increased by 30 times compared with that before the mutation, and when pH is 4, the stability is improved by 2.0 times, and the catalytic efficiency is increased by 1.4 times.

Abstract: Genetically modified proteins with uricolytic activity are described. Proteins comprising truncated urate oxidases and methods for producing them, including PEGylated proteins comprising truncated urate oxidase are described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having glucuronyl esterase activity, catalytic domains and polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides or catalytic domains. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides or catalytic domains.

Abstract: Provided are nucleic acids encoding engineered polymerases comprising at least one modification in a motif A and/or at least one modification in a motif B of the polymerase and engineered polymerases encoded by the nucleic acids. Also provided are engineered DNA polymerases comprising a variant of SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO:2, or SEQ ID NO:3, the variant being at least 80% identical to SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO:2 or SEQ ID NO:3 and comprising an amino acid substitution at one or more positions selected from the group consisting of L408, Y409, P410, R484, A/L485, and I486. Methods, vectors, kits, and compositions comprising the nucleic acids and compositions, methods and kits comprising the engineered polymerases are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of genetic engineering and more particularly to nucleic acid editing and genome modification. The present invention provides an isolated Cas protein or polypeptide fragment thereof having an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 or a sequence of at least 77% identity therewith, wherein the Cas protein or polypeptide is capable of DNA cleavage at a temperature in the range 50° C. and 100° C. inclusive. The invention further provides isolated nucleic acid molecules encoding said Cas9 nucleases, expression vectors and host cells. The Cas9 nucleases disclosed herein provide novel tools for genetic engineering at elevated temperatures and are of particular value in the genetic manipulation of thermophilic organisms; particularly microorganisms.

Abstract: Methods for producing a trans-splicing intein-modified protease with enhanced solubility and regulating its activity are described. Intein-modified proteases having enhanced solubility and polynucleotides encoding the same are provided. Methods of storing trans-splicing proteases are also described.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for the production of mature proteases in bacterial host cells. The compositions include polynucleotides encoding serine protease sequences with modified or heterologous propeptide regions; polypeptides comprising serine proteases with modified or heterologous propeptide regions; expression cassettes, DNA constructs, vectors, and chromosomes comprising such polynucleotides; and bacterial host cells comprising such polynucleotides. The methods include methods for enhancing the production of mature proteases in bacterial host cells (e.g. Bacillus sp. host cells). The produced proteases find use in the industrial production of enzymes, suitable for use in various industries, including but not limited to the cleaning, animal feed and textile processing industry.

Abstract: Device, and methods of using or making the device, for engineering cells in vitro are disclosed. In some aspects, a cell culture device comprises at least one glass or polymer surface configured for incubating cells in a culture medium; a charged molecule electrostatically bound to the surface; and a polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEM) electrostatically bound to the charged molecule, the PEM comprising one or more bi-layers of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes, and the PEM having a sufficient thickness to permit release of the charged molecule into the culture medium in a controlled released manner.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for nucleic acid isolation from an environmental or biological sample comprising nucleic acid-analysis interferents, particularly from microbiome-containing samples, are provided.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to methods for nucleic acid purification, comprising (a) combining a sample comprising at least one nucleic acid with a binding buffer comprising at least one magnetic particle and having a pH ranging from about 4 to about 10 to form a solution; (b) incubating the sample with the binding buffer for a time period sufficient to reversibly bind the at least one nucleic acid to the at least one magnetic particle to form at least one modified magnetic particle, (c) separating the at least one modified magnetic particle from the solution, (d) washing the at least one modified magnetic particle with at least one wash buffer; and (e) combining the at least one modified magnetic particle with an elution buffer Kits comprising these buffers and magnetic particles are also disclosed herein.

Abstract: Methods and systems for increasing the stability of a nucleic acid template that encodes a protein of interest in a cell free translation system or a ribosomal display reaction system are described. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid template is an RNA or mRNA. The stability of the RNA template is increased by adding the bacteriophage lambda protein Gam to the cell free extract used in the translation system. The addition of Gam protein increases the longevity of the reaction system, thereby increasing the efficiency of the ribosomal display reaction system.

Abstract: The present invention, SMASH (Short Multiply Aggregated Sequence Homologies), is a technique designed to pack multiple independent mappings into every read. Specifically, the invention relates to a composition comprising a first mixture of different chimeric genomic nucleic acid fragments, wherein each different fragment in the mixture comprises randomly ligated DNA segments, wherein each DNA segment in the fragment is a nucleic acid molecule at least 27 base pairs in length resulting from random fragmentation of a single genome. The invention also relates to methods for generating said composition and use of said composition to obtain genomic information, for example, copy number variation.

Abstract: Multimeric barcoding reagents for labelling a target nucleic acid comprise: first and second barcode molecules linked together, wherein each of the barcode molecules comprises a nucleic acid sequence comprising a barcode region; and first and second barcoded oligonucleotides. The multimeric barcoding reagents enable spatial sequencing. A single multimeric barcoding reagent can be used to label sub-sequences of an intact nucleic acid molecule or co-localised fragments of a nucleic acid molecule. The labelled sub-sequences can be sequenced and the sequencing data processed to determine the sequence of sub-sequences from a single intact nucleic acid molecule or from co-localised fragments of a nucleic acid molecule. Corresponding libraries, kits, methods and uses are provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for synthesising templated molecules attached to the templated which directed the synthesis thereof. The method involves a template, a scaffold functional entity and a functional entity attached to a building block, which, in turn, is attached the template. The scaffold functional entity and the functional entity of the building block are both provided with complementary dimerization domains allowing the functional entities to come into close proximity when the complementary domains interact with to each other. The method may be used for generating libraries of templated molecules which may be selected for biological activity.

Abstract: A composition and method for controlled in vitro fragmentation of nucleic acids. A transposase forms catalytically active complexes with a modified transposon end that contains within its end sequence degenerate, apurinic/apyrimidinic sites, nicks, or nucleotide gaps, to fragment or shear a target nucleic acid sample in a controlled process. This method yields desired average nucleic acid fragment sizes. The inventive composition and method may be applied for generation of DNA fragments containing shortened transposon end sequences to facilitate subsequent reactions, for production of asymmetrically tailed DNA fragments, etc.

Abstract: The disclosure provides novel large serine recombinases and their respective recognition sites, as well as libraries of orthogonal recombinase recognition sites. Uses of the large serine recombinases, recognition sites, and libraries of orthogonal recombinase recognition sites also are provided.

Abstract: A single stranded oligonucleotide containing two or more acyl-amino-LNA or hydrocarbyl-amino-LNA nucleotide monomers, in which other nucleotide monomers can be DNA, RNA or chemically modified nucleotide monomers; in which the monomers of the oligonucleotide are linked by phosphodiester linkages and/or phosophorothioate linkages and/or phosphotriester linkages, in which the acyl and hydrocarbyl groups of the acyl-amino-LNA and hydrocarbyl-amino-LNA monomers are optionally substituted and thus optionally contain one or more hydroxyl group(s), amino group(s), thio group(s), oxo group(s), alkylthio group(s), ether group(s), and/or thiol (mercapto) group(s), and in which the acyl and hydrocarbyl groups of the acyl-amino-LNA and hydrocarbyl-amino-LNA monomers are linear or branched chains, cyclic or a combination of both, provided that the total number of carbon atoms in each acyl and hydrocarbyl group is less than 30.

Abstract: The invention provides engineered RNA precursors that when expressed in a cell are processed by the cell to produce targeted small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that selectively silence targeted genes (by cleaving specific mRNAs) using the cell's own RNA interference (RNAi) pathway. By introducing nucleic acid molecules that encode these engineered RNA precursors into cells in vivo with appropriate regulatory sequences, expression of the engineered RNA precursors can be selectively controlled both temporally and spatially, i.e., at particular times and/or in particular tissues, organs, or cells.

Abstract: Provided are oligonucleotides capable of binding to and modulating the splicing of the pre-mRNA of the CFTR gene, compositions including said oligonucleotides, kits including the compositions, and uses thereof. In particular, the subject matter provides compositions of oligonucleotides useful in methods for suppressing exon skipping optionally in combination with additional CFTR therapeutics.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel self-forming polynucleotide nanoparticles, and the use of such nanoparticles and compositions comprising the same for gene modulation in a variety of organisms.

Abstract: The invention in some aspects relates to methods and compositions for assessing the effectiveness of miRNA inhibitors. In other aspects of the invention, methods and compositions for treating cholesterol related disorders are provided. In one aspect of the invention, miRNA inhibitors against miR-122 and rAAV-based compositions comprising the same are provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides a compound represented by the formula (Ia) as a novel cationic lipid that forms a lipid particle and also provides a lipid particle comprising the compound. The present invention further provides a nucleic acid lipid particle containing the lipid particle, and a pharmaceutical composition containing the nucleic acid lipid particle as an active ingredient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods of use thereof for inhibiting mutant HTT mRNA transcription or CAG-expanded HTT protein expression in a cell, comprising contacting the cell with an effective amount of an oligomer targeting a differentiating polymorphism, wherein the differentiating polymorphism is selected from rs72239206, rs363107, rs362313, rs2530595, rs113407847. Specific oligomer sequences are also provided.

Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter provides a novel approach for the treatment, prevention, and diagnosis of Cap-Snatching virus infections, particularly all classes of human influenza, including pandemic influenza. The methods involve the use of constructs for RNA-interference (RNAi).

Abstract: Described herein are methods and assays relating to the presence and/or level of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). These CTC-Cs represent a highly metastatic subpopulation of CTCs. In some embodiments, the methods and assays described herein relate to the treatment of cancer.

Abstract: An antisense oligonucleotide comprising a sequence targeted to the 3? untranslated region (3? UTR) of the TNFAIP3 (A20) transcript and its use as a medicament, for example in the treatment of cancer or an autoimmune disease.

Abstract: An aptamer-N-heterocyclic-carbene metal complex conjugate (aptamer-NHCM conjugate) or an aptamer-bis-N-heterocyclic-carbene metal complex conjugate (aptamer-bis-NHCM conjugate) includes an aptamer coupled through a hydrolytically stable bond to an N-heterocyclic-carbene metal complex (NHCM) or a bis-N-heterocyclic-carbene metal complex (bis-NHCM). The aptamer-NHCM conjugate is prepared where the chosen aptamer displays selective binding to a cell specific receptor, such that the cytotoxic NHCM can be directed specifically to cells responsible for a target disease (e.g., a specific cancer type). A method of preparing the aptamer-N-heterocyclic-carbene metal complex conjugate involves installing a coupling group to an N-heterocyclic-carbene metal complex that can specifically bond with a functional group on an aptamer; the bond, covalent or non-covalent, is stable hydrolytically in the absence of an environment that promotes intentional cleavage of the bond.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are RNA molecules with particular nucleotide sequences that, through Watson-Crick base pairing, enable the RNAs to form a hydrogel.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided to identify oligonucleotides that bind targets of interest. The targets include tissues, cells, circulating biomarkers such as microvesicles, including those derived from various diseases. The oligonucleotides can be used in diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Abstract: Computer programs, algorithms, and methods for identifying TALE-activator binding sites, and methods for generation and use of TALE-activators that bind to these sites.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to compositions and methods useful for the production of heterologous proteins in filamentous fungal cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to transgenic nucleic acids, expression cassettes, vectors, plant cells, plant organs and plants. The invention also relates to methods for increasing expression or activity of a target gene, particularly in a plant cell or plant organ, and also to uses of recombinant nucleic acids and expression cassettes to increase expression or activity of a target gene or for manufacturing of a vector, plant cell, plant organ or plant. Incidentally, the invention relates to enhancers for achieving increased expression or activity of a target gene, particularly in a plant cell or plant organ, when operably linked to a promoter functional in such plant cell, plant organ or plant. The invention is described herein with reference to the technical field of production of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), without being limited to this technical field. For the production of desired molecules in plant cells, e.g.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel DNA molecules and constructs, including their nucleotide sequences, useful for modulating gene expression in plants and plant cells. The invention also provides transgenic plants, plant cells, plant parts, seeds, and commodity products comprising the DNA molecules operably linked to heterologous transcribable polynucleotides, along with methods of their use.

Abstract: This disclosure concerns compositions and methods for promoting transcription of a nucleotide sequence in a plant or plant cell, employing a promoter from a Zea mays KN1 gene. Some embodiments relate to a promoter from a Zea mays KN1 gene that functions in plants to promote transcription of operably linked nucleotide sequences.

Abstract: MPO1 and MPO2 can be regulated for either decreasing or increasing alkaloid levels in plants, in particular in Nicotiana plants. In particular, suppressing or overexpressing one or more of MPO1 and MPO2 may be used to decrease or increase nicotine and nicotinic alkaloid levels in tobacco plants. Suppression or overexpression of one or more of MPO1 and MPO2 may be used in combination with modification of expression of other genes encoding enzymes on the nicotinic alkaloid biosynthetic pathway such as A622, NBB1, PMT, and QPT.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides the identification of genes involved in sucker growth in tobacco. Also provided are promoters that are preferentially active in tobacco axillary buds. Also provided are modified tobacco plants comprising reduced or no sucker growth. Also provided are methods and compositions for producing modified tobacco plants comprising reduced or no sucker growth.

Abstract: The present invention relates a plant which may comprise a modified F5H gene homolog, wherein said gene homolog may comprise a modification as compared to its corresponding wild type F5H gene homolog, wherein the presence of the modified F5H gene homolog in the plant leads to a reduction of wound-induced surface discoloration in comparison to a plant not comprising the modified F5H gene homolog. The invention also relates to a modified F5H gene homolog that leads to the reduced wound-induced surface discoloration. The invention further relates to use of the gene in breeding and producing plants that show reduced wound-induced surface discoloration.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new nucleic acid molecule which encodes a polypeptide that is able to convey a resistance to a pathogen, in particular to “Beet Necrotic Yellow Vein Virus” in a plant, in particular a plant of the Beta genus, in which the polypeptide is expressed, and also a preferred nucleic acid molecule encoding the RZ-3 gene of Beta maritima, derivatives and homologues thereof. Further aspects of the invention include vectors, transgenic plant cells, transgenic plants, methods for production thereof, and methods for identifying a resistance-conveying nucleic acid molecule.

Abstract: DIG-305 insecticidal protein toxins, polynucleotides encoding such toxins, and transgenic plants that produce such toxins are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods for using such toxins to control insect pests in plants, especial crop plants. Methods for preparing transgenic plants expressing the protein toxins and methods for detecting the claimed toxins and polynucleotides in transgenic plants are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to nucleic acid regulatory elements that are able to enhance muscle-specific expression of genes, in particular expression in cardiac muscle and/or skeletal muscle, methods employing these regulatory elements and uses of these elements. Expression cassettes and vectors containing these nucleic acid regulatory elements are also disclosed. The present invention is particularly useful for applications using gene therapy, more particularly muscle-directed gene therapy, and for vaccination purposes.

Abstract: The invention in some aspects relates to recombinant adeno-associated viruses useful for targeting transgenes to CNS tissue, and compositions comprising the same, and methods of use thereof. In some aspects, the invention provides methods and compositions for treating CNS-related disorders.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to populations of microvesicles containing or otherwise associated with viral particles, methods of producing these purified populations, and methods of using these purified populations in a variety of diagnostic, therapeutic and/or prophylactic indications.

Abstract: Described herein are methods and vectors for rational, multiplexed manipulation of chromosomes within open reading frames (e.g., in protein libraries) or any segment of a chromosome in a cell or population of cells, in which various CRISPR systems are used.

Abstract: The present invention provides RNA-guided endonucleases, which are engineered for expression in eukaryotic cells or embryos, and methods of using the RNA-guided endonuclease for targeted genome modification in eukaryotic cells or embryos. Also provided are fusion proteins, wherein each fusion protein comprises a CRISPR/Cas-like protein or fragment thereof and an effector domain. The effector domain can be a cleavage domain, an epigenetic modification domain, a transcriptional activation domain, or a transcriptional repressor domain. Also provided are methods for using the fusion proteins to modify a chromosomal sequence or regulate expression of a chromosomal sequence.

Abstract: The use of a product for internal dehydration of hydrogenated sugar as a methanogen substrate in a method for biogas production, a composition including a monoanhydrohexitol (M), a dianhydrohexitol (D), and anhydrohexitol polymers (P), and a methanisation method.