Biotech Updates

A research team from South Africa developed a serological assay using plant-derived recombinant viral proteins in order to measure seroprevalence and understand protective immunity to SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Results were favorable as antibody responses were recorded in COVID-19 patients.

Experts Urged to Consider Audience Values when Communicating about Gene Technologies

Scientists' inability to effectively engage with the public has partly contributed to public misunderstanding of gene technologies. This is according to Dr. Craig Cormick, a renowned science communication expert and author from Australia. This could be attributed to the fact that experts tend to believe that the general public wants to know as much about science as they do.

Study Finds Decline in Plant Breeding Programs in the US, Possible Impact on Food Security

A team of scientists from Washington State University (WSU) led by Kate Evans who leads WSU's pome fruit (apples and pears) breeding program, found that public plant breeding programs are seeing decreases in funding and personnel. The research team conducted a study of 278 plant breeding programs around the United States. These programs are federal programs, such as those run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, or based at public research universities.

CRISPR Dominates Genome Editing Market, TALENs Projected to Grow until 2025

The North America genome editing market is expected to reach US$ 4,148.1 Mn in 2025 from US$ 1,234.5 Mn in 2017. The market is estimated to grow with a CAGR of 17.2% from 2018-2025. This is according to the genome editing market report released by Cue Report.