14 – 20 November 2016
CRISPR gene-editing tested in a person for the first time
On 28 October, a team led by oncologist Lu You at Sichuan University in Chengdu delivered the modified cells by CRISPR gene-editing into a patient with aggressive lung cancer as part of a clinical trial at the West China Hospital, also in Chengdu. Find source
Scientists have identified an antibody that neutralises 98% of HIV strains
Scientists have discovered an antibody produced by an HIV-positive patient that neutralises 98 percent of all HIV strains tested – including most of the strains that are resistant to other antibodies of the same class. Find source
Experiment to raise the dead blocked in India
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has derailed a controversial experiment that would seek to revive brain-dead accident victims. On 11 November, ICMR’s National Institute of Medical Statistics removed the “ReAnima” trial from India’s clinical trial registry. Find source
Brain implant eases communication by paralysed patient
A paralysed woman has learned to use a brain implant to communicate by thought alone. It is the first time a brain–computer interface has been used at home in a person’s day-to-day life, without the need for doctors and engineers to recalibrate the device. Find source
Genetic Modification Improves Photosynthetic Efficiency
Genetically engineered tobacco plants react more rapidly to sudden switches between light and shade and reported to have an approximately 15 percent improvement in the modified plants’ productivity. Find source
