Publications by authors named "Maxim A Kovalev"

Epigenome engineering, particularly utilizing CRISPR/dCas-based systems, is a powerful strategy to modulate gene expression and genome functioning without altering the DNA sequence. In this review we summarized current achievements and prospects in dCas-mediated epigenome editing, primarily focusing on its applications in biomedicine, but also providing a wider context for its applications in biotechnology. The diversity of CRISPR/dCas architectures is outlined, recent innovations in the design of epigenetic editors and delivery methods are highlighted, and the therapeutic potential across a wide range of diseases, including hereditary, neurodegenerative, and metabolic disorders, is examined.

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The black garden ant () is a widely distributed species across Europe, North America, and North Africa, playing a pivotal role in ecological processes within its diverse habitats. However, the microbiome associated with remains poorly investigated. In the present study, we isolated a novel species, , from the soil of the anthill.

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The white poplar () is a dioecious woody plant with significant potential for the phytoremediation of soils. To realize this potential, it is necessary to utilize growth-promoting microorganisms. One potential source of such beneficial microorganisms is the rhizosphere community of wild-growing trees.

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It is estimated that nearly all individuals have been infected with herpesviruses, with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) representing the most prevalent virus. In most cases, HSV-1 causes non-life-threatening skin damage in adults. However, in patients with compromised immune systems, it can cause serious diseases, including death.

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Article Synopsis
  • Multidrug-resistant strains, particularly those linked to farm animals, are a growing concern for human health due to their ability to cause severe intestinal and extraintestinal diseases.
  • This study focuses on APEC 36, a strain isolated from a chicken with a serious infection, analyzing its genome and finding it has multiple antibiotic resistance mechanisms, mainly antibiotic efflux.
  • APEC 36 also contains unique genetic traits, such as a rare beta-lactamase variant and genes linked to toxins and iron uptake, indicating that it could pose significant threats to human health.
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The Cas9 endonuclease of the CRISPR/Cas type IIA system from Streptococcus pyogenes is the heart of genome editing technology that can be used to treat human genetic and viral diseases. Despite its large size and other drawbacks, S. pyogenes Cas9 remains the most widely used genome editor.

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Poplar () is a genus of woody plants of great economic value. Due to the growing economic importance of poplar, there is a need to ensure its stable growth by increasing its resistance to pathogens. Genetic engineering can create organisms with improved traits faster than traditional methods, and with the development of CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing systems, scientists have a new highly effective tool for creating valuable genotypes.

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Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) is an autoimmune disease caused by the destruction of insulin-producing β-cells in the pancreas by cytotoxic T-cells. To date, there are no drugs that can prevent the development of T1D. Insulin replacement therapy is the standard care for patients with T1D.

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The white poplar ( L.) has good potential for a green economy and phytoremediation. Bioaugmentation using endophytic bacteria can be considered as a safe strategy to increase poplar productivity and its resistance to toxic urban conditions.

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Annual killifish of the genus Nothobranchius are seeing a rapid increase in scientific interest over the years. A variety of aspects surrounding the egg-laying Cyprinodontiformes is being extensively studied, including their aging. Inhabiting drying water bodies of Africa rarely allows survival through more than one rainy season for the Nothobranchius populations.

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Article Synopsis
  • Almost everyone gets infected with herpes viruses, like HSV-1, which can stay in a dormant state resistant to current antiviral treatments.
  • Reactivation of these viruses can occur under certain conditions, and drug-resistant strains are becoming more common, highlighting the need for new treatment methods.
  • The study explores CRISPR/Cas systems as a potential therapy, demonstrating that engineered plasmids can effectively suppress HSV-1 infection in cell cultures for extended periods.
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