Single-Strand Conformation Polymorphism Fingerprint Method for Dictyostelids

Recent advancements in nanomaterial-based biosensors for diagnosis of breast cancer: a comprehensive review

Researchers have found that mutations in the BRCA gene associated with breast cancer have a 40-50% chance of being associated with high risk for hereditary breast cancer (BC). Therefore, detecting BRCA1 is crucial for genetic analysis, early detection, and clinical treatment of BC. Traditional detection methods for BRCA1 include high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), single-strand conformation polymorphism assays (SSCP), PCR, real-time PCR, and DNA sequencing. However, these methods are limited by cost, analysis time, and complexity. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an ultrasensitive, fast, low-cost, simple method for BRCA1 detection. In recent years, various BC biosensing strategies have been investigated, including optical, electrical, electrochemical, and mechanical biosensing. In particular, the high sensitivity and short detection times of electrochemical biosensors make them suitable for recognizing BC biomarkers. Additionally, the sensitivity of electrochemical biosensors can be increased by incorporating nanomaterials. In this regard, the main focus of the present study is the introduction of common methods for diagnosing the BRCA-1/2 genes. In addition to introducing biosensors as an efficient tool, it also discusses the latest and most significant biosensors developed for detecting the BRCA gene.

Limitations of 18S rDNA Sequence in Species-Level Classification of Dictyostelids

Dictyostelid species classification has traditionally relied on morphology, a time-intensive method requiring expert knowledge. This study evaluated the potential and limitations of using the 18S rDNA sequence for species-level classification. 18S rDNA sequences of 16 samples from the Dicty stock center, including 14 samples found in Thailand, were analyzed. Signature sequence analyses confirmed genus-level identification with high accuracy. These sequences were analyzed alongside 309 database entries retrieved from the GenBank database. The analyses confirmed genus-level identification accuracy but highlighted challenges in distinguishing species due to overlapping intraspecific and interspecific variations, negative barcoding gaps, and incorrectly grouped samples to putative taxa by species delimitation analyses. Species delimitation methods, including maximum likelihood (ML) phylogenetic analysis, achieved limited success, with ML showing the highest accuracy but not exceeding 50%. However, species with high barcoding gaps, such as Raperostelium and Rostrostelium, demonstrated potential for accurate classification. These findings support using 18S rDNA for genus-level identification and suggest its possible application for certain species. Expanded sampling is needed to improve species-level classification and to identify more robust DNA markers for dictyostelid diversity studies.

Circulating Nucleic Acids in Colorectal Cancer: Diagnostic and Prognostic Value

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer in the world and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality. DNA (cfDNA/ctDNA) and RNA (cfRNA/ctRNA) in the blood are promising noninvasive biomarkers for molecular profiling, screening, diagnosis, treatment management, and prognosis of CRC. Technological advancements that enable precise detection of both genetic and epigenetic abnormalities, even in minute quantities in circulation, can overcome some of these challenges. This review focuses on testing for circulating nucleic acids in the circulation as a noninvasive method for CRC detection, monitoring, detection of minimal residual disease, and patient management. In addition, the benefits and drawbacks of various diagnostic techniques and associated bioinformatics tools have been detailed.

Detection of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein D614G mutation using μTGGE

BACKGROUND

The accurate and expeditious detection of SARS-CoV-2 mutations is critical for monitoring viral evolution, assessing its impact on transmission, virulence, and vaccine efficacy, and formulating public health interventions. In this study, a detection system utilizing micro temperature gradient gel electrophoresis (μTGGE) was developed for the identification of the D614 and G614 variants of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.

METHODS

The in vitro synthesized D614 and G614 gene fragments of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein were amplified via polymerase chain reaction and subjected to μTGGE analysis.

RESULTS

The migration patterns exhibited by the D614 and G614 variants on the polyacrylamide gel were distinctly dissimilar and readily discernible by μTGGE. In particular, the mid-melting pattern of D614 was shorter than that of G614.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate the capability of μTGGE for the rapid, precise, and cost-effective detection of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein D614 and G614 variants without the need for sequencing. Therefore, this approach holds considerable potential for use in point-of-care mutation assays for SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens.