Biotechnology is reshaping scientific research, as well as the lives of people who struggle with many different medical conditions. Recent biotechnology breakthroughs show significant promise. Learn about five of these innovations and what they could offer the world.
Research involving clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) relies on a guided enzyme to cut and modify DNA. This area of biotechnology research offers the chance to address genetic disorders.
The most recent advancements are focused on improving the delivery system of CRISPR, mainly by relying more on RNA and nanoparticles. There has also been a push to allow for single-letter base editing and the deletion or insertion of small DNA segments without the use of double-strand breaks.
To accomplish this, AI is lending a hand. Scientists now use AI-powered CRISPR to design complex experiments much more rapidly and to predict optimal guide RNAs.
Using AI, scientists can accelerate how quickly they discover new medications. One of the ways that this form of biotechnology works is by predicting how proteins will interact.
One of the biotechnology breakthroughs in this area is powered by Google DeepMind’s AlphaFold 3 model. It can identify therapeutic candidates much faster and simulate millions of compounds. AI in drug discovery is particularly important for addressing proteins that impact neurodegenerative disorders and cancers.
The COVID-19 vaccine brought more attention to mRNA vaccines and their potential to help people. Scientists are now working on using mRNA biotechnology to develop personalized cancer treatments. By using a patient’s existing tumor to create a vaccine, they aim to teach the patient’s immune system how to fight off cancerous cells.
These mRNA vaccines might be able to fight even the most aggressive forms of cancer. Additionally, scientists are working on self-amplifying mRNA to achieve results with smaller treatment doses. If these efforts are successful, they could reduce the logistical challenges involved in getting vaccines to the resource-strapped areas where they are most needed.
One biotechnology breakthrough making a difference is the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to address chronic diseases instead of just focusing on symptom management. Clinical trials show that these stem cells may be able to restore insulin production in patients with type 1 diabetes.
While iPSC technology holds promise for reducing dependence on external insulin for people with type 1 diabetes, it could also be used to treat other chronic conditions. Scientists are looking at tackling neurodegenerative diseases next.
GLP-1 receptor agonists have been all over the news lately. Originally created to help people with type 2 diabetes better manage their blood sugar levels, these drugs are now commonly prescribed to treat obesity and other conditions.
Scientists have crafted newer versions of these medications using dual and triple agonists. These versions may offer even better metabolic outcomes.
Additionally, clinical researchers are investigating whether GLP-1 receptor agonists could be effective in treating addiction because these medications influence the brain pathways that deal with impulse control and reward. A breakthrough in this area could improve the lives of millions of people throughout the world.
Another potential use of GLP-1 receptor agonists involves neuroprotection and pain. Some research shows that these drugs can reduce inflammation while improving neural function.
Through clinical research, scientists develop new treatments, medications, and technologies. Conducting clinical trials is the only way that the field of medicine can advance and help more people. Recently, clinical trials have led to many promising biotechnology breakthroughs, some of which are being used today.
At Orlando Clinical Research Center, we are dedicated to helping scientists and pharmaceutical companies improve lives. That’s why we offer state-of-the-art facilities where researchers conduct clinical trials to test investigational medications and procedures.
We encourage individuals to engage with the scientific community by exploring the current studies taking place at our Orlando facility. Whether you’re a member of a team searching for the right location for a new trial or you would like to participate in ongoing medical research, contact us to get started.
