Research


Design of a new siRNA based on a novel oncogene in glioblastoma:

  • We designed a new siRNA, si-EIF6, targeting a rarely reported oncogene in glioblastoma.
  • Identification of this oncogene primarily relied on TCGA data and bioinformatic resources.
  • The design of si-EIF6 utilized bioinformatic methods from the DSIR website.
  • The discovery of EIF6 in glioblastoma and the development of si-EIF6 exemplify the process of identifying new oncogenes using clinical and bioinformatic data.
  • Illustration of the molecular and cellular mechanism of apatinib in glioblastoma:

    1. Discovery of the synergistic anti-tumor effects of si-EIF6 in a glioblastoma cell line:

      • We demonstrated that EIF6 suppression enhances the anti-tumor effects of apatinib by reducing cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion in glioblastoma cells. These findings support the potential use of si-EIF6 as a clinical drug candidate for glioblastoma treatment.
    2. Demonstrating the effects of EIF6 on glycolysis in glioblastoma cells:

      • Further exploration of EIF6's cellular mechanisms revealed that its suppression inhibits glycolysis in glioblastoma cells. These results provide deeper insights into EIF6's role as an oncogene in glioblastoma.




  • Educational Tools


    We have made a significant contribution by creating a children's picture book that combines knowledge about glioblastoma and synthetic biology in an accessible and engaging manner. This book serves as a unique educational tool, bridging the gap between complex scientific concepts and young minds. By developing this book, we have not only created an informative resource but also contributed to raising awareness about glioblastoma and the potential of synthetic biology to address complex medical challenges. In addition to the children's book, we have actively engaged with students in remote mountainous areas through informative outreach sessions. These educational lectures have aimed to demystify the world of science and synthetic biology, making it more approachable for young learners. By sharing our knowledge and experiences with these students, we hope to inspire the next generation of scientists and thinkers, fostering an interest in science, technology, and the remarkable possibilities they hold. Through these initiatives, we have strived to make a positive impact on our community, spreading knowledge, fostering curiosity, and encouraging young minds to explore the fascinating intersection of science and medicine. Our contributions not only empower students with valuable insights but also promote the importance of education and awareness in addressing critical health issues like glioblastoma.

    Figure 1. picture book








    Entrepreneurship


    Our contributions extend to pioneering crucial elements of a sustainable business model. We initiated our journey by meticulously crafting a comprehensive business model canvas, providing a structured roadmap for our project. This served as our strategic blueprint, guiding us through the complexities of product development and market entry.

    With a clear vision in mind, we diligently sought out equipment suppliers, establishing key partnerships to secure the necessary resources for our venture. This not only demonstrated our proactive approach but also ensured a reliable supply chain, a critical component for our project's success.

    The development of a prototype marked a significant milestone in our journey. It showcased our dedication to translating ideas into tangible solutions. Building upon this foundation, we underwent iterative processes to refine and enhance our prototype, ultimately giving birth to the second-generation machine. This iterative approach not only demonstrated our commitment to quality but also highlighted our ability to adapt and improve.

    Figure 2. Business Model Canvas

    Figure 3. prototype of product





    New Basic Parts


    Our iGEM project focuses on the inhibition of EIF6 using siRNA, a critical step in curtailing cancer cell glycolysis, to enhance the efficacy of apatinib in treating glioblastoma. This research has far-reaching social impact as it addresses the pressing issue of glioblastoma, a disease that significantly affects the quality of life and survival of patients. By improving the treatment's effectiveness through innovative methods like siRNA-mediated EIF6 inhibition, we offer a ray of hope to patients and their families, mitigating the physical and emotional suffering caused by this devastating disease. Furthermore, our project has the potential to contribute to the broader field of cancer treatment, introducing innovative therapeutic approaches.

    At its core, our project boasts a robust scientific basis, rooted in the comprehensive understanding of EIF6's crucial role in driving cancer cell glycolysis. We harness the power of siRNA to specifically inhibit EIF6, thereby disrupting glycolytic pathways, and consequently enhancing the sensitivity of apatinib. This scientific approach not only sheds light on the complex landscape of cancer cell metabolism but also opens new avenues for potential therapeutic interventions.

    Our contribution to the Registry enhances the iGEM community by introducing novel genetic parts, including primers for EIF6, GLUT1, LDHA, and HK1. These additions broaden the resources available to future iGEM teams and researchers, fostering collaborative innovation and advancing the field of synthetic biology. They exemplify the essence of iGEM - sharing knowledge, tools, and experiences to inspire and accelerate scientific progress.

    In addition to expanding the Registry, our project represents the practical biological expression of genetic engineering. By designing, assembling, and successfully expressing genetic parts, such as EIF6, in living systems, we bridge the gap between theoretical genetic design and real-world application. This achievement underscores the potential of genetic engineering as a transformative force in modern biology.

    The New Parts is shown as the following table

    Primer Part in the Registry
    EIF6 BBa_K4717000
    GLUT1 BBa_K4717001
    LDHA BBa_K4717002
    HK1 BBa_K4717003




    Hardware


    Hypnosis and sleep, both tied to rest, share similarities and differences. Hypnosis features active sub-conscious brainwave activity (4–13 Hz), but the individual is semi-awake. Sleep involves cyclical brainwave fluctuations (0.3–13 Hz) with no consciousness. Hypnosis can release deep-seated tension, while sleep restores brain fatigue. Extensive research shows those who've experienced hypnosis enjoy improved sleep. The challenge is to standardize hypnosis for self-practice, providing deep mental relaxation that leads to better sleep. We use low-frequency monorhythmic sound waves (20 Hz–300 Hz) via headphones, inducing neural relaxation and reducing resistance. Simultaneously, LED lighting with specific frequencies (0.5 Hz to 35 Hz) stimulates closed eyelids, allowing EEG synchronization. Users, after deep brain relaxation, typically feel drowsy within 1–8 hours, leading to deep sleep. The system integrates six massage devices, and an eye mask with LED lights to control brain activity for sound sleep.

    Figure 4. Trying the Smart Sleep Aid Helmet