Development of a graphical user interface for sgRNAcas9 and its application.

The CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technique is a powerful tool for researchers. However, off-target effects of the Cas9 nuclease activity is a recurrent concern of the CRISPR system. Thus, designing sgRNA (single guide RNA) with minimal off-target effects is very important.

Cystic tumour of the atrioventricular node: a case report and review of the literature.

Cystic tumour of the atrioventricular node is a rare primary cardiac tumour that can cause complete heart block and sudden death. Here, we describe a male case aged 42 years who suddenly died without a medical and family history of cardiac illnesses. After detailed macroscopic and microscopic examinations, a cystic mass was found in the atrioventricular nodal region.

Inhibitory effects of inhaled complex traditional Chinese medicine on early and late asthmatic responses induced by ovalbumin in sensitized guinea pigs.

Background: Many formulae of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been used for antiasthma treatment dating back many centuries. There is evidence to suggest that TCMs are effective as a cure for this allergenic disease administered via gastric tubes in animal studies; however, their efficacy, safety and side effects as an asthmatic therapy are still unclear.

Methods: In this study, guinea pigs sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA) were used as an animal model for asthma challenge, and the sensitization of animals by bronchial reactivity to methacholine (Mch) and the IgE concentration in the serum after OVA challenge were estimated.

Determination of binding constant of DNA-binding drug to target DNA by surface plasmon resonance biosensor technology.

The experimental determination of the binding constant of a drug for its target molecule is of considerable importance. It is a basic experimental parameter in a variety of studies, such as the prediction of drug efficiency, or in the pharmacokinetic drug interaction. DNA-binding drugs have been reported to be able to interfere in a sequence dependent manner with biological functions such as topoisomerase activity, restriction of enzyme cleavage of DNA, protein-DNA interactions and the activity of transcription factors, leading to alteration of gene expression.