Enhancing the reverse transcriptase function in Taq polymerase via AI-driven multiparametric rational design.

Introduction: Modification of natural enzymes to introduce new properties and enhance existing ones is a central challenge in bioengineering. This study is focused on the development of Taq polymerase mutants that show enhanced reverse transcriptase (RTase) activity while retaining other desirable properties such as fidelity, 5'- 3' exonuclease activity, effective deoxyuracyl incorporation, and tolerance to locked nucleic acid (LNA)-containing substrates. Our objective was to use AI-driven rational design combined with multiparametric wet-lab analysis to identify and validate Taq polymerase mutants with an optimal combination of these properties.

Sorafenib or anthracycline-based chemotherapy for progressive desmoid tumors.

Background: Desmoid tumors can cause morbidity due to local invasion, potentially being fatal when fast growth compromises vital structures. In this context, a timely treatment response is required. This study aims to compare the activity of sorafenib and anthracycline-containing regimens during the first year of treatment.

Advancing the early detection of canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome with machine learning-enhanced blood-based biomarkers.

Up to half of the senior dogs suffer from canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS), the diagnosis method relies on subjective questionnaires such as canine cognitive dysfunction rating (CCDR) scores. Therefore, the necessity of objective diagnosis is emerging. Here, we developed blood-based biomarkers for CCDS early detection.

Asian Cohort for Alzheimer's Disease (ACAD) pilot study on genetic and non-genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease among Asian Americans and Canadians.

Introduction: Clinical research in Alzheimer's disease (AD) lacks cohort diversity despite being a global health crisis. The Asian Cohort for Alzheimer's Disease (ACAD) was formed to address underrepresentation of Asians in research, and limited understanding of how genetics and non-genetic/lifestyle factors impact this multi-ethnic population.

Methods: The ACAD started fully recruiting in October 2021 with one central coordination site, eight recruitment sites, and two analysis sites.