The Week in Bio #39
Research highlights from the week
Genome modelling and design across all domains of life with Evo 2 (link). The latest foundation model from Brian Hie’s lab at the Arc Institute. I co-wrote a short summary for Decoding Bio here.
In vivo directed evolution of an ultra-fast RuBisCO from a semi-anaerobic environment imparts oxygen resistance (link). A preprint from the Shoulders Lab using their MutaT7 system to do in vivo directed evolution for RuBisCO.
An RNA Splicing System that Excises Transposons from Animal mRNAs (link). A preprint describing a novel system whereby transposable elements are removed from mRNAs to prevent gene disruption.
Internal cap-initiated translation for efficient protein production from circular mRNA (link). Paper describing the covalent or non-covalent addition of a cap to circular RNAs to enhance their translation. A commentary article can be found here.
AI mirrors experimental science to uncover a novel mechanism of gene transfer crucial to bacterial evolution (link). Preprint demonstrating that an AI can generate useful scientific hypotheses to help answer specific research questions.
Sustained in situ protein production and release in the mammalian gut by an engineered bacteriophage (link). Paper outlining the use of bacteriophage to infect bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, which subsequently secrete a therapeutic protein.
The reverse transcriptase domain of prime editors contributes to DNA repair in mammalian cells (link). Paper suggesting that the reverse transcriptase domain in prime editors may alter DNA repair dynamics in cells.
Blebbisomes are large, organelle-rich extracellular vesicles with cell-like properties (link). Paper describing the discovery of exceptionally large extracellular vesicles, termed blebbisomes.