News

Grafting with epigenetically-modified rootstock yields surprise

Novel grafted plants—consisting of rootstock epigenetically modified to “believe” it has been under stress joined to an unmodified scion, or above-ground shoot—give rise to progeny that are more vigorous, productive and resilient than the parent plants.

Novel bioresorbable, tissue-healing surgical device approved by FDA

A new surgical tendon fixation system that not only re-attaches damaged tissues but also facilitates healing as it is absorbed by the body has been granted 510(k) clearance by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, indicating that the device is “as safe and effective” as other legally marketed devices and is ready to go to market.

Mouthwashes, oral rinses may inactivate human coronaviruses

Certain oral antiseptics and mouthwashes may have the ability to inactivate human coronaviruses, according to a Penn State College of Medicine research study.

Andrew Zydney, Ph.D., spoke at the recent “BioProcess International” Conference, which was held virtually for the first time.

Andrew Zydney Shares Continuous Bioprocessing Strategies with a Global Audience

Andrew Zydney, Ph.D., continued sharing his knowledge of bioprocessing with a global audience when he recently spoke at the “BioProcess International” Conference, held virtually for the first time in 2020.

Gel instrumental in 3D bioprinting biological tissues

The eventual creation of replacement biological parts requires fully three-dimensional capabilities that two-dimensional and three-dimensional thin-film bioprinting cannot supply. Now, using a yield stress gel, Penn State engineers can place tiny aggregates of cells exactly where they want to build the complex shapes that will be necessary to replace bone, cartilage and other tissues.

Researchers deconstruct the 'biological clock' that regulates birdsong

The precise timing of a bird's complex song is driven in part by the often-ignored “wires” connecting neurons in the bird's brain, according to a new study. A team of researchers from Penn State and NYU Langone Health has deconstructed an important “biological clock” that regulates birdsong and other behaviors, leading to new ways of thinking about the function of neuronal networks.

Grant supports study of how carnivorous plants repurpose genes to digest prey

A Penn State researcher has received funding to examine the genetic mechanisms that enable carnivorous plants to repurpose defense proteins to digest their insect prey.

Kateryna Makova IMAGE: PENN STATE

Makova selected as holder of the Verne M. Willaman Chair in the Life Sciences

Kateryna Makova, Pentz Professor of Biology at Penn State, has been appointed as holder of the Verne M. Willaman Chair in the Life Sciences. The appointment, effective on Sept. 1, was made by the Office of the President of the University, based on the recommendation of the dean, in recognition of Makova’s national and international reputation for excellence in research and teaching.

Podcast unpacks interdisciplinary team’s rapid new virus diagnostics

The latest episode of The Symbiotic Podcast welcomes its largest-ever crew of guests, collaborators from a multi-disciplinary, multi-institution team that came together via video conference to talk about their work on a newly developed rapid diagnostic tool for COVID-19 and other viruses.

Penn State researcher part of project to develop novel COVID-19 vaccine

A researcher in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences is part of a team of scientists working to develop a unique COVID-19 vaccine that uses a bovine adenovirus as a safe and effective delivery vehicle.