Introduction Via Electroporation, Particle, Fiber Or Microprojectile Mediated Insertion, Or Injection Patents (Class 435/470)
  • Patent number: 10766934
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides genetically modified Chlorella sorokiniana. DAD1 gene is overexpressed in wild type Chlorella sorokiniana to obtain the genetically modified Chlorella sorokiniana. The genetically modified Chlorella sorokiniana is characterized by increased biomass, increased carrying capacity, reduced clumping, and increased stress tolerance to ultraviolet light and high light intensity, as compared to the wild type Chlorella sorokiniana. The genetically modified Chlorella sorokiniana can be used for the production of industrially important products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: RELIANCE INDUSTRIES LIMITED
    Inventors: Manoj Bhosale, Gautam Das, Tuhin Maity, Pranali Deore, Venkatesh Prasad, Santanu Dasgupta
  • Patent number: 10676755
    Abstract: Provided are mutated acetohydroxyacid synthase (AHAS) nucleic acids and the proteins encoded by the mutated nucleic acids. Also provided are cassava plants, cells, and seeds comprising the mutated genes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignees: CIBUS US LLC, CIBUS EUROPE B.V.
    Inventors: Tracey A. Lincoln, Gregory F. W. Gocal
  • Patent number: 9232803
    Abstract: The subject invention relates in part to the control of AAD-12 dicot volunteers in fields planted with monocot crops such as corn. The dicots can include soybeans and cotton.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: Dow AgroSciences LLC
    Inventors: Gregory Hanger, Andrew E. Robinson, Norbert Satchivi, Terry R. Wright, Richard Chambers
  • Patent number: 9029109
    Abstract: A system and method include delivering cells of interest to multiple traps via a channel connecting the traps, maintaining a vortex flow in the traps to trap the cells of interest in the traps, providing first molecules of interest to the traps, and providing an electric field across the traps to perform electroporation of the first molecules of interest into the cells of interest in the traps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: President and Fellows of Harvard College
    Inventors: Soojung Claire Hur, Hoyoung Yun
  • Patent number: 9018013
    Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for the genetic manipulation of Algal cells. The compositions and methods allow enhanced transfer of genetic material into Algal cells and the cloning and selection of genetically modified cells. Expression of proteins encoded by the genetic material will be enhanced by the methods and compositions of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Life Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Farzad Haerizadeh, Todd Peterson, Wen Chen, Ewa Lis
  • Patent number: 8993327
    Abstract: Systems and methods are described for parallel macromolecular delivery and biochemical/electrochemical interface to whole cells employing carbon nanostructures including nanofibers and nanotubes. A method includes providing a first material on at least a first portion of a first surface of a first tip of a first elongated carbon nanostructure; providing a second material on at least a second portion of a second surface of a second tip of a second elongated carbon nanostructure, the second elongated carbon nanostructure coupled to, and substantially parallel to, the first elongated carbon nanostructure; and penetrating a boundary of a biological sample with at least one member selected from the group consisting of the first tip and the second tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: UT-Battelle, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy E. McKnight, Anatoli V. Melechko, Guy D. Griffin, Michael A. Guillorn, Vladimir L. Merkulov, Michael L. Simpson
  • Publication number: 20150082478
    Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided for genome modification of a target sequence in the genome of a plant or plant cell. The methods and compositions employ a guide RNA/Cas endonuclease system to provide an effective system for modifying or altering target sites within the genome of a plant, plant cell or seed. Also provided are compositions and methods employing a guide polynucleotide/Cas endonuclease system for genome modification of a nucleotide sequence in the genome of a cell or organism, for gene editing, and/or for inserting or deleting a polynucleotide of interest into or from the genome of a cell or organism. Once a genomic target site is identified, a variety of methods can be employed to further modify the target sites such that they contain a variety of polynucleotides of interest. Breeding methods and methods for selecting plants utilizing a two component RNA guide and Cas endonuclease system are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: Andrew Mark Cigan, Saverio Carl Falco, Huirong Gao, Zhongsen Li, Zhan-Bin Liu, L. Aleksander Lyznik, Jinrui Shi, Sergei Svitashev, Joshua K. Young
  • Patent number: 8921092
    Abstract: A system and method are described for electroporating a sample that utilizes one or more sets of electrodes that are spaced apart in order to hold a surface tension constrained sample between the electrodes. The first electrode is connected to the lower body of the system while the second electrode is connected to the upper body. Both electrodes are connected to a pulse generator. Each electrode has a sample contact surface such that the first electrode and the second electrode may be positioned to hold a surface tension constrained sample between the two sample contact surfaces and the sample may receive a selected electric pulse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Applied Biosystems LLC
    Inventors: Richard Jarvis, Mike Byrom, Dmitriy Ovcharenko
  • Patent number: 8901372
    Abstract: This invention relates to a nucleic acid construct. The construct includes a nucleic acid molecule configured to silence Banana bunchy top virus (BBTV), a 5? DNA promoter sequence, and a 3? terminator sequence. The nucleic acid molecule, the promoter, and the terminator are operatively coupled to permit transcription of the nucleic acid molecule. The present invention also relates to expression vectors, host cells, and transgenic plants containing the nucleic acid construct of the present invention. Also disclosed are methods of imparting BBTV resistance to plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: University of Hawaii
    Inventors: John Hu, Wayne Borth, Eden A. Perez, Kheng Cheah
  • Publication number: 20140317784
    Abstract: The invention relates to the genetic manipulation of plants, particularly plants of the genus Brassica. Methods are provided for producing transgenic Brassica plants involving the introduction of a DNA construct by microprojectile bombardment into pre-incubated microspores, microspore-derived embryos and microspore-derived hypocotyls. The methods find use in the development of improved agricultural varieties of Brassica plants through the incorporation of desirable agronomic traits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: WENPIN CHEN, LOMAS TULSIERAM
  • Patent number: 8865969
    Abstract: According to the present invention, a technique of increasing the frequency of genetic recombination in genomic DNA of a plant is established. Such technique comprises: introducing a restriction enzyme gene that can be expressed in a target plant cell into the plant cell and causing the restriction enzyme gene to be transiently expressed so as to induce genetic recombination of genomic DNA; or introducing a promoter and a restriction enzyme gene using the Agrobacterium method so as to induce genetic recombination of genomic DNA.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Riken
    Inventors: Satoshi Kondo, Chikara Ohto, Kunihiro Ohta, Shuichi Ohsato, Norihiro Mitsukawa, Nobuhiko Muramoto, Hiroki Sugimoto
  • Publication number: 20140242703
    Abstract: Provided are methods for introducing a molecule of interest into a plant cell comprising a cell wall. Methods are provided for genetically or otherwise modifying plants and for treating or preventing disease in plant cells comprising a cell wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: DOW AGROSCIENCES LLC
    Inventors: Jayakumar Pon Samuel, Frank G. Burroughs, Suraj K. Dixit, Mark W. Zettler
  • Patent number: 8759615
    Abstract: Exemplary methods include a method for transforming an algal cell by preparing a transformation construct, preparing a particle for bombarding the algal cell, adhering the transformation construct to the particle, bombarding the algal cell with the particle, and growing the algal cell into a colony. The transformation construct is replicated within a nuclear genome of the algal cell and the growing of the algal cell is in a nutrient medium. Another exemplary method may include a method for genetically modifying an algal cell, by adding nucleic acid to the algal cell while the algal cell is suspended in a solution of low conductivity, introducing the nucleic acid into the algal cell by application of an electrical pulse resulting in a transformed algal cell, and selecting a colony that includes the transformed algal cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Aurora Algae, Inc.
    Inventors: Bertrand Vick, Oliver Kilian
  • Publication number: 20140173770
    Abstract: Methods and means are provided to modify in a targeted manner the genome of a cotton plant using a double stranded DNA break inducing enzyme and embryogenic callus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Bayer CropScience NV
    Inventor: Katelijn D'Halluin
  • Patent number: 8742202
    Abstract: Methods for the transformation of sugar cane are provided. The methods comprise utilizing sugar cane immature shoots as the source of plant material for transformation. Segments of the immature shoot are excised and transformed by any suitable transformation methodology. In some embodiments, the segments are cultured in embryogenic culture induction medium prior to transformation. Transformation can be performed via Agrobacterium-mediated gene delivery, biolistic transformation, and the like. Transgenic plants are regenerated from plantlets grown under conditions favoring growth of transformed cells while substantially inhibiting growth of non-transformed cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Syngenta Participations AG
    Inventor: Heng Zhong
  • Patent number: 8722410
    Abstract: Provided are methods for introducing a molecule of interest into a plant cell comprising a cell wall. Methods are provided for genetically or otherwise modifying plants and for treating or preventing disease in plant cells comprising a cell wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Dow AgroSciences, LLC.
    Inventors: Jayakumar P. Samuel, Frank Burroughs, Suraj Dixit, Mark W. Zettler
  • Patent number: 8709766
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to novel polynucleotide sequences for use in Nannochloropsis gaditana. The novel polynucleotide sequences include control sequences and coding sequences. Also disclosed are novel gene expression constructs wherein N. gaditana promoters/control regions are operatively linked to N. gaditana or non-N. gaditana coding sequences. These novel polynucleotide sequences and expression constructs can be introduced into N. gaditana and can recombine into the N. gaditana genome. Expression from these polynucleotide sequences and expression constructs can enhance N. gaditana biomass and/or lipid biosynthesis. Also disclosed are methods for modifying N. gaditana, for example by stably transforming N. gaditana with nucleic acid sequences, growing the modified N. gaditana, and obtaining biomass and biofuels from the modified N. gaditana.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Colorado School of Mines
    Inventors: Randor Radakovits, Robert Jinkerson, Matthew Posewitz
  • Patent number: 8697949
    Abstract: This invention provides molecular constructs and methods for the temporally specific control of gene expression in plants or in plant pests or pathogens. More specifically, this invention provides plant miRNA genes having novel circadian expression patterns that are useful for designing recombinant DNA constructs for temporally specific expression of at least one gene. Also provided are non-natural transgenic plant cells, plants, and seeds containing in their genome a recombinant DNA construct of this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Monsanto Technology LLC
    Inventors: Edwards Allen, Sara E. Heisel, Sergey Ivashuta, Elysia Krieger, Jennifer Lutke, Robert J. Meister, Yuanji Zhang
  • Publication number: 20140096284
    Abstract: The invention provides particles and methods to deliver freeze- or air-dried molecules to cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventors: Susana Martin-Ortigosa, Kan Wang
  • Patent number: 8680366
    Abstract: The present invention provides a novel method for the transduction and/or transfection of plant cells. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have been successfully employed as nanocarriers to deliver proteins and oligonucleotides to single plant cell microspores as well as multi-cellular zygotic embryos. The efficiency of CPP internalization and further delivery of a macromolecular cargo comprising a protein and/or an oligonucleotide can be enhanced by permeabilization of the zygotic embryos.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
    Inventors: Francois Eudes, Archana Chugh
  • Publication number: 20140082767
    Abstract: A transgenic plant includes a first gene having a first polynucleotide and a recombinant construct having a second polynucleotide. The first polynucleotide is homologous to a Atclb gene fragment represented by nucleotide acids 963-1205 of SEQ ID NO:1. The first polynucleotide encodes a C2-like domain, and the Atclb gene fragment encodes a C2 domain represented by amino acids 265-345 of SEQ ID NO:2. The C2-like domain is homologous to the C2 domain. The second polynucleotide has at least 90% identity to the first polynucleotide or a sequence complimentary to the first polynucleotide. The recombinant construct is configured to silence the first gene such that the transgenic plant is tolerant to abiotic stress. A method to produce the transgenic plants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS
    Inventor: Mariya Khodakovskaya
  • Patent number: 8673623
    Abstract: An apparatus for performing magnetic electroporation is disclosed. A required electric field for electroporation is generated using a pulsed magnetic field through a closed magnetic yoke, such as a toroid, placed in a flow path of a fluid medium to be processed. The fluid medium flows through the orifice of the magnetic yoke, with the fluid medium flowing through and around the yoke. The required power to send a maximum flux through the magnetic yoke is less than the required power in a conventional apparatus for performing electroporation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventor: Kent Davey
  • Patent number: 8653327
    Abstract: Methods for introducing a linear nucleic acid molecule of interest into a cell comprising a cell wall include use of nanoparticles coated with polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, the cell comprising a cell wall is a plant cell. Methods include genetically or otherwise modifying plants and for treating or preventing disease in plant cells comprising a cell wall. Transgenic plants include a nucleic acid molecule of interest produced by regeneration of whole plants from plant cells transformed with linear nucleic acid molecules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Agrigenetics, Inc.
    Inventors: Narasimha C. Samboju, Kerrm Y. Yau, Frank Burroughs, Jayakumar P. Samuel, Steven R. Webb
  • Publication number: 20140007295
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods for producing a transgenic soybean plant, soybean plant part, or soybean plant cell having increased resistance to soybean cyst nematode parasitism, comprising introducing into the soybean plant, soybean plant part, or soybean plant cell, a heterologous miR164 nucleotide sequence, wherein the heterologous miR164 nucleotide sequence is expressed in the soybean plant, soybean plant part or soybean plant cell, thereby producing a transgenic soybean plant, soybean plant part, or soybean plant cell having increased resistance to soybean cyst nematode parasitism relative to a control soybean plant, soybean plant part, or soybean plant cell. The invention further provides methods of reducing soybean cyst nematode cyst formation in a soybean plant, soybean plant part, or soybean plant cell as well as compositions including nucleic acid constructs for transforming a plant, plant part or plant cell and transformed plants, plant parts and plant cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: SYNGENTA PARTICIPATIONS AG
    Inventors: Xiang Huang, Katie Seguin
  • Patent number: 8609420
    Abstract: Provided are methods for introducing a molecule of interest into a plant cell having a cell wall by using a QD-peptide conjugate having a quantum dot (QD) with one or more cell penetrating peptides (CPPs). Methods are provided for genetically or otherwise modifying plants and for treating or preventing disease in plant cells comprising a cell wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Dow AgroSciences, LLC.
    Inventors: Jayakumar P. Samuel, Narasimha C. Samboju, Kerrm Y. Yau, Gaofeng Lin, Steven R. Webb, Frank Burroughs
  • Patent number: 8581035
    Abstract: The invention provides methods for identifying regenerated transformed plants and differentiated transformed plant parts, obtained without subjecting plant cells to selective conditions prior to regenerating the cells to obtain differentiated tissues. In particular embodiments, the plant cells are corn plant cells. Methods for growing and handling plants, including identifying plants that demonstrate specific traits of interest are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Monsanto Technology LLC
    Inventor: Jyoti R. Rout
  • Patent number: 8580544
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for introducing a biological material, a method of introducing a biological material, and a magnetic support for introducing a biological material with the object of providing an apparatus for introducing a biological material, a method of introducing a biological material, and a magnetic support for introducing a biological material whereby a biological material can be efficiently introduced into a host. The invention comprises: one or more packing units in which a mixture solution containing a large number of magnetic supports carrying a biological material to be introduced into a host such as cells upon using, together with a large number of the hosts in a liquid is pooled; and an introduction treatment unit in which a magnetic force affecting the inside of the packing unit is controlled so as to move the magnetic supports relatively with respect to the host so that the biological material can be introduced into the host.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignees: Universal Bio Research Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideji Tajima, Yoshiro Okami
  • Patent number: 8581036
    Abstract: A method of introducing a molecule of interest into a plant cell having a cell wall includes interacting a gamma-zein peptide with a molecule of interest to form a gamma-zein linked structure. The gamma-zein linked structure is then placed in contact with the plant cell having a cell wall, and allowing uptake of the gamma-zein linked structure into the plant cell. Alternatively, a gene of interest can be expressed in a plant cell having an intact cell wall by interacting a gamma-zein peptide with the gene of interest to form a gamma-zein linked gene structure, allowing uptake of the gamma-zein linked gene structure into the plant cell, and expressing the gene of interest in the plant cell and its progeny.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Dow AgroSciences, LLC.
    Inventors: Narasimha C. Samboju, Jayakumar P. Samuel, Gaofeng Lin, Steven R. Webb, Frank Burroughs
  • Patent number: 8575424
    Abstract: Methods for introducing a functionalized linear nucleic acid cassette molecule of interest into a plant cell comprising a cell wall include use of nanoparticles. In some embodiments, the cell comprising a cell wall is a cultured plant cell. Methods include genetically or otherwise modifying plant cells and for treating or preventing disease in any plant, especially crop plants. Transgenic plants include a nucleic acid molecule of interest produced by regeneration of whole plants from plant cells transformed with functionalized linear nucleic acid cassette molecules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Dow AgroSciences, LLC.
    Inventors: Kerrm Y. Yau, Jayakumar P. Samuel, Frank Burroughs, Narasimha C. Samboju, Steven R. Webb
  • Patent number: 8519101
    Abstract: Disclosed are a protein encoded by any one of nucleic acids (i) to (iv): (i) a nucleic acid having a base sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1; (ii) a nucleic acid encoding a protein having an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; (iii) a nucleic acid encoding a dragline protein and having a sequence identity of 90% or more with the nucleic acid (i); (iv) a nucleic acid which encodes a dragline protein and hybridizes with a complementary chain of the nucleic acid (i) under stringent conditions, and a silk thread containing the protein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Okamoto Corporation
    Inventors: Tianfu Zhao, Masao Nakagaki
  • Patent number: 8513019
    Abstract: A fluid containing cells and free genetic material is acoustically coupled to a propulsion surface of a diaphragm. A blast-receiving surface of the diaphragm is acoustically coupled to an explosion chamber in which an explosive material is disposed. An ignition system ignites the explosive material in the explosion chamber to create a blast wave. The diaphragm transfers momentum from the blast wave to the fluid containing cells and free genetic material sufficient to cause the cells to take up the free genetic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Indian Institute of Science
    Inventor: Gopalan Jagadeesh
  • Patent number: 8513000
    Abstract: Transfecting biology cells with nucleic acid molecules (DNA, siRNA) is an essential prerequisite in elucidating how genes function in complex cellular context and how their activities could be modulated for therapeutic intervention. Traditionally studies are carried out on a low throughput gene-by-gene scale, which has created a huge bottleneck in functional genomic study and drug discovery. Development of high-throughput cell transfection technology will permit functional analysis of massive number of genes and how their activities could be modulated by chemical or biological entities inside cells. This invention describes design, construction of device and apparatus for high throughput effective cell transfection. Procedures and protocols for using the device and apparatus are also described in the application. Novel methods of using the device in cell-based assays are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Rational Biotechnology, Inc.
    Inventor: Yong Huang
  • Publication number: 20130212725
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of modifying a target sequence in the genome of a eukaryotic cell, the method comprising the step: (a) introducing into the cell a fusion protein comprising a DNA-binding domain of a Tal effector protein and a non-specific cleavage domain of a restriction nuclease or a nucleic acid molecule encoding the fusion protein in expressible form, wherein the fusion protein specifically binds within the target sequence and introduces a double strand break within the target sequence. The present invention further relates to the method of the invention, wherein the modification of the target sequence is by homologous recombination with a donor nucleic acid sequence further comprising the step: (b) introducing a nucleic acid molecule into the cell, wherein the nucleic acid molecule comprises the donor nucleic acid sequence and regions homologous to the target sequence.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: HELMHOLTZ ZENTRUM MUNCHEN DEUTSCHES FORSCHUNGSZENTRUM FUR GESUNDHEIT UND
    Inventors: Ralf Kühn, Wolfgang Wurst, Melanie Meyer
  • Patent number: 8507220
    Abstract: An expression vector is constructed by transferring recombinant tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) cDNA, in which a coat protein gene of ToMV having a suppressor against a virus resistant reaction has been substituted by a GFP gene, into the downstream of a promoter capable of inducing steroid hormone-dependent transcription. In a transformed tobacco BY-2 cell obtained by transferring the above expression vector into a tobacco BY-2 cells, steroid hormone-dependent transcription is induced, thereby enabling the amplification of mRNA of the GFP gene and induction of the expression of GFP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Japan Science and Technology Agency
    Inventors: Masashi Mori, Koji Dohi, Masayuki Ishikawa, Tetsuo Meshi, Masaki Nishikiori, Atsushi Tamai
  • Publication number: 20130198899
    Abstract: The present invention relates to excision of explant material comprising meristematic tissue from seeds, and storage of such material prior to subsequent use in plant tissue culture and genetic transformation. Methods for tissue preparation, storage, and transformation are disclosed, as is transformable meristem tissue produced by such methods, and apparati for tissue preparation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Monsanto Technology LLC
    Inventor: Monsanto Technology LLC
  • Patent number: 8497119
    Abstract: A method for performing micro-operations on a vesicular object comprising securing the vesicular object by applying negative pressure in a radial vacuum passage; advancing a pipette into the vesicular object through an axial vacuum passage; ensuring that the axial vacuum passage and the radial vacuum passage are not in fluid contact with each other; controlling the negative pressure in both axial and radial vacuum passages, and the pressure or vacuum in the pipette separately; whereby allowing the simultaneous holding of the vesicular object by applying negative pressure in the radial vacuum passage; injection into or aspiration from the vesicular object via the pipette; and aspiration from the vesicular object by applying negative pressure in the axial vacuum passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventor: Paul J. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20130145488
    Abstract: The invention provides gold-plated mesoporous silicate bodies comprising pores and at least one agent and methods of using those bodies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Kan Wang, Brian G. Trewyn, Susana Martin-Ortigosa, Justin Valenstein
  • Patent number: 8435790
    Abstract: The present invention is based on the discovery of a set of genes that are involved in lipid-droplet formation and regulation. Accordingly, the present invention provides methods of increasing or decreasing lipid concentrations in eukaryotic cells by decreasing or increasing expression of one of these genes. Increased lipid concentrations may be useful, for example, in the generation of biofuels. Decreased lipid concentration may be useful in the treatment of diseases characterized by excessive lipid storage. In addition, the invention provides methods of identifying markers of diseases characterized by excessive lipid storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignees: The Regents of the University of California, The J. David Gladstone Institutes
    Inventors: Robert V. Farese, Jr., Yi Guo, Tobias C. Walther, Peter Walter
  • Patent number: 8420891
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for introducing a foreign substance (3) into a cell (1) having a cell wall. The method comprises the steps of: providing a carbon nanotube (2) carrying at least one enzyme capable of decomposing a cell wall; supplying the carbon nanotube (2) and the foreign substance (3) into a treatment solution containing the cell (1); decomposing the cell wall of the cell (1) by the action of the enzyme carried on the carbon nanotube (2) upon the contact of the carbon nanotube (2) with the cell (1); and introducing the foreign substance (3) into the cell (1) through a site decomposed with the enzyme on the cell wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: National University Corporation Nagoya University
    Inventors: Yoshinobu Baba, Manabu Tokeshi, Noritada Kaji, Ibrahim Maged Fouad Serag Eldin Bayoumi
  • Patent number: 8415160
    Abstract: Disclosed is a transfection method, which includes the steps of: (a) adhering the gene fragments to dry ice particles; (b) adding the dry ice particles into the medium/liquid that contains target cells; and (c) transporting the gene fragments into the target cells via the micro explosion/sublimation of the dry ice particles. In addition, the gene fragments can also adhere first to nanoparticles, which can then adhere to dry ice particles. Subsequently, gene fragments enter cells by micro explosion/sublimation. The present invention can be applied in transgenic research on prokaryotic, eukaryotic, plant and animal cells and in the development of new species in agriculture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: National Yang Ming University
    Inventors: Fu-Jen Kao, Yung-En Kuo
  • Publication number: 20130061349
    Abstract: The invention relates to methods and compositions for genetic transformation of both juvenile and mature citrus. In some embodiments, the invention provides methods and compositions for genetic transformation of citrus using Rhizobia-mediated DNA delivery, and also methods of enhancing the frequency of genetic transformation of mature citrus by any DNA transfer method, including Sinorhizobium. Internodal stem sections prepared from epicotyls of citrus seedlings or freshly emerging shoots of mature citrus plants (e.g., first shoots from buds of mature plants following grafting onto rootstock or very young shoots of mature plants) are preconditioned for transformation by inducing callus formation on an artificial medium. All callus and any developing meristematic regions in immediately adjacent tissue are substantially or completely removed and the preconditioned explants are then transformed by Sinorhizobium or other known methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: Integrated Plant Genetics, Inc.
    Inventors: Dean W. Gabriel, Giovana J. Perazzo-Ratto, Yingnan Jiang
  • Patent number: 8383394
    Abstract: A system and method are described for electroporating a sample that utilizes one or more sets of electrodes that are spaced apart in order to hold a surface tension constrained sample between the electrodes. The first electrode is connected to the lower body of the system while the second electrode is connected to the upper body. Both electrodes are connected to a pulse generator. Each electrode has a sample contact surface such that the first electrode and the second electrode may be positioned to hold a surface tension constrained sample between the two sample contact surfaces and the sample may receive a selected electric pulse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Applied Biosystems, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Jarvis, Mike Byrom, Dmitriy Ovcharenko
  • Publication number: 20130007916
    Abstract: The invention provides the disclosure of a novel plant/algae/cyanobacteria photosynthesis, biomass production, and productivity pathway involving low carbon dioxide inducible (LCI) proteins. According to the invention, the activity of one or more LCI proteins may be modulated to increase the same under conditions where such proteins are typically repressed. According to the invention, modulation of LCI protein activity was able to increase biomass production by as much as 80% under elevated CO2 conditions. The invention includes methods, and genetically modified plants/algae/cyanobacteria, cells, plant parts and tissues.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY RESEARCH FOUNDATION, INC.
    Inventor: Martin H. Spalding
  • Patent number: 8343766
    Abstract: A method for the transient transformation of a living biological cell having an intact cell membrane defining an intracellular domain, and an apparatus for the transient transformation of biological cells. The method and apparatus include introducing a compartmentalized extracellular component fixedly attached to a cellular penetrant structure to the intracellular domain of the cell, wherein the cell is fixed in a predetermined location and wherein the component is expressed within in the cell while being retained within the compartment and wherein the compartment restricts the mobility and interactions of the component within the cell and prevents transference of the component to the cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: UT-Battle, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy E. McKnight, Anatoli V. Melechko, Michael L. Simpson
  • Patent number: 8323955
    Abstract: A micromachined patch-clamp apparatus is disclosed for holding one or more cells and providing electrical, chemical, or mechanical stimulation to the cells during analysis with the patch-clamp technique for studying ion channels in cell membranes. The apparatus formed on a silicon substrate utilizes a lower chamber formed from silicon nitride using surface micromachining and an upper chamber formed from a molded polymer material. An opening in a common wall between the chambers is used to trap and hold a cell for analysis using the patch-clamp technique with sensing electrodes on each side of the cell. Some embodiments of the present invention utilize one or more electrostatic actuators formed on the substrate to provide mechanical stimulation to the cell being analyzed, or to provide information about mechanical movement of the cell in response to electrical or chemical stimulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventor: Murat Okandan
  • Patent number: 8323976
    Abstract: Alterations utilizing nanoparticles. Certain embodiments of the invention are methods of delivering a substance to a target using a delivery-aid which includes nanoparticles. Those nanoparticles may be nanocarbon particles. Other embodiments are methods of delivering nanoparticles to a target involving placing a mask between a source of ballistic delivery of nanoparticles and the target. Other embodiments include irradiating a target to cause localized heating of the region of the target in which the nanodiamonds or OLC particles are present. Other embodiments utilize nanoparticles to make cells competent for genetic transformation. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: International Technology Center
    Inventors: Varvara Grichko, Olga Alexander Shenderova
  • Patent number: 8304240
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a method for introducing a physiologically active substance such as a gene into a cell, which introduces a physiologically active substance such as any given gene into any given cell in a view under a microscope, while significantly reducing invasiveness to the cell, and a device used for the above method. The present invention provides a method for introducing a physiologically active substance into a cell, which comprises: allowing a physiologically active substance to attach around a needle having a diameter of 500 nm or less, provided that it is able to be inserted into a cell; and inserting the above-described needle into the cell; and a microinjection device for carrying out the aforementioned method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Atsushi Miyawaki, Hiroyuki Imabayashi, Sachiko Karaki
  • Patent number: 8283171
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for transferring an agent into a cell. The method includes the steps of providing an agent outside of a cell and generating a vapor bubble and a plasma discharge between an avalanche electrode and a conductive fluid surrounding the cell. The vapor bubble and plasma discharge generate a mechanical stress wave and an electric field, respectively. The combination of this mechanical stress wave and electric field results in permeabilization of the cell, which in turn results in transfer of the agent into the cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventors: Alexander Vankov, Thomas W. Chalberg, Philip Huie, Jr., Daniel V. Palanker
  • Patent number: 8222479
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a recombinant organism having any one of nucleic acids (i) to (iv) introduced therein: (i) a nucleic acid having a base sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1; (ii) a nucleic acid encoding a protein having an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; (iii) a nucleic acid encoding a dragline protein and having a sequence identity of 90% or more with the nucleic acid (i); (iv) a nucleic acid which encodes a dragline protein and hybridizes with a complementary chain of the nucleic acid (i) under stringent conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Okamoto Corporation
    Inventors: Tianfu Zhao, Masao Nakagaki
  • Patent number: 8206903
    Abstract: The present invention includes devices and methods for transfecting a cell or cell population and dynamic monitoring of cellular events. A variety of microelectronic devices are provide that incorporate functions such as electroporation, modulation of a transmembrane potential and dynamic monitoring of cellular functions and mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Acea Biosciences
    Inventors: Xiaobo Wang, Yama A. Abassi, Josephine Atienza, Xiao Xu, Junquan Xu