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Electroporation in small animals: technique and considerations
Electroporation is a technique that uses electric fields to introduce foreign genetic material into cells by creating temporary pores in the cell membrane. In small animal research, electroporation can be employed both in vitro (cell culture) and in vivo (directly in the animal). Here, we will focus on in vivo electroporation in small animals and…
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Lipid-based transfection reagents: composition, benefits, and limitations
Lipid-based transfection reagents are one of the most popular and widely used methods for introducing foreign genetic material into cells. They are composed of cationic lipids, which have a positively charged head group and a hydrophobic tail, allowing them to interact with the negatively charged genetic material (e.g., DNA or RNA) and the cell membrane.…
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Overview of transfection methods for small animals research
Transfection is the process of introducing foreign genetic material, such as DNA or RNA, into cells to study the function and regulation of genes. This technique is widely used in small animal research to understand gene function, develop therapies, and create genetically modified organisms. There are various methods available for transfecting small animals, each with…
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Epidemiology introduction
Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of health and disease in populations. This field plays an essential role in public health, informing decisions about prevention and control measures for a wide range of health conditions. Epidemiologists use a variety of methods to study patterns of disease occurrence and transmission. These methods include…
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Immunology Introduction
Immunology is the study of the immune system and its interactions with pathogens, foreign substances, and abnormal cells. The immune system plays a critical role in protecting the body from infection and disease, and immunology has contributed to numerous advances in medicine, including the development of vaccines and immunotherapies. The immune system is made up…
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Genome Editing
Genome editing is a powerful technology that allows scientists to make precise changes to an organism’s DNA. This technology has the potential to revolutionize fields such as medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology by allowing for the creation of organisms with specific desirable traits. The most widely used genome editing tool is called CRISPR-Cas9. This system relies…
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DNA sequencing
DNA sequencing is the process of determining the precise order of the four chemical building blocks, or nucleotides, that make up an individual’s DNA. This technology has revolutionized the field of genetics, allowing researchers to explore the genetic basis of many diseases and to develop new therapies and treatments. The first DNA sequencing methods were…
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Genetics Introduction
Genetics is the study of how traits are inherited and passed down from one generation to the next. It encompasses the study of genes, their function, and how they interact with one another and with the environment to shape an organism’s characteristics. The field of genetics has undergone tremendous advances in recent years, driven by…
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Toxicology
What is toxicology? Toxicology also called the science of poisons, is a branch of science, medicine, and biology that studies adverse effects that occur in living organisms and the environment due to chemicals, substances (including environmental agents and chemical compounds found in nature, as well as pharmaceutical compounds that are synthesized for medical use by…
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Non-clinical Studies
Non-clinical studies are those that are conducted outside of a healthcare setting, such as in a laboratory. They are an important part of the drug development process, providing information on how a new drug behaves in the body and how it is metabolized. Non-clinical studies are also important for safety testing. Benefits of non-clinical studies:…