This article provides a brief overview of the CRISPR gene-editing technique and analyses the patent strategies employed by the two lead groups claiming this technique. [ + ]

US chemists have developed a powerful method of selectively linking chemicals to proteins, in an advance that could transform the way drugs are developed, proteins are probed and molecules are tracked. [ + ]

Researchers have identified the cells responsible for a particularly recurrent form of cancer, giving hope that better treatments can be developed for so-called 'triple negative' breast cancers. [ + ]

A collaborative study has identified 43 new genes that may help those individuals most susceptible to deadly lung diseases such as asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, airway inflammation and airway narrowing. [ + ]

Knowing exactly when to replace gaskets is almost impossible, since the timing varies depending on the application. Without preventive maintenance, users risk unplanned downtime that can be costly. [ + ]

Researchers have developed a highly sensitive and flexible temperature sensor that could soon be integrated into artificial skin on prosthetic limbs or robotic arms. [ + ]

The discovery of a gene that affects nose growth during embryonic development may hold the key to preventing a currently untreatable form of muscular dystrophy. [ + ]

German researchers have successfully created a cloud of ultracold atoms in space — and begun testing a theory of Albert Einstein's in the process. [ + ]

Dr Gene Elliott explores how decades-old car manufacturing ideas could now help laboratories support better patient outcomes, lower costs and meet hugely rising demand. [ + ]

A collaborative effort between the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, the Methuselah Foundation and Organovo has created a new hope for children suffering from kidney disease, with a pioneering use of 3D bioprinting technology. [ + ]

Researchers have revealed the role of protein synthesis in encoding long-term memories — specifically, memories associated with fear of a specific environmental cue. [ + ]

It doesn't take a genius to know that if you knock a glass of water on its side, the liquid will spill out. However, if you happened to be drinking your water through a thin straw, some of the liquid will be retained within this straw. [ + ]

When it comes to laboratory research the degree of required disclosure is relatively transparent, but some local scientists have been looking at the way industry funding for patient advocacy groups is shaping opinion — and the results are insidious. [ + ]

At first glance, many evolutionary adaptations appear to be unfavourable. However, a closer look at sickle cell disease and other adaptations reveals that in some cases they are advantageous and that this may be the reason the adaptations persist. [ + ]

Researchers from Tokyo Tech sent tiny Japanese rice fish to the International Space Station (ISS), where they were exposed to microgravity. [ + ]