Philips bids on ultrasound-guided gene therapy: Delivering DNA sequences to cells for gene therapy is already being investigated, with the current approaches relying on viruses and smart nanoparticles as vectors for gene transfer. But Philips and GlyGenix Therapeutics, out of Woodbridge, Conn., plan on taking another approach, hoping that the large molecules can be pushed to their destination using ultrasound. Specifically, the pre-clinical trials will study the technology, known as ultrasound-mediated plasmid DNA (pDNA) delivery, on Glycogen Storage Disease Type 1a (GSD-1a) that exhibits a defective G6Pase gene. 
MED-EL’s Vibrant Soundbridge middle ear implant gets EU OK: MED-EL, out of Tyrol, Austria, has received European approval to market the Vibrant Soundbridge middle ear implant system for children and adolescents. The device features a single point connection to the skull, so the system can remain permanent as it accommodates the patient’s head growth.
Nanoparticles traverse blood-brain barrier to help improve MRI visualization: Development of a new brain tumor imaging agent is not an easy task, because such a substance can’t only be a good contrast agent; it also has to cross the blood-brain barrier in order to work. Researchers at the University of Washington have now developed fluorescent nanoparticles that can both safely cross the barrier and significantly improve contrast in optical and MRI scans of brain tumors in mice.
Microchip system can perform hundreds of parallel chemical reactions: In an attempt to miniaturize and speed up testing of large numbers of chemical reactions for potential drug candidates, scientists at UCLA have developed a new microfluidic device capable of performing 1,000 simultaneous in situ click chemistry reactions, which can identify chemicals that bind to proteins. Because enzyme reagents required for in situ click reactions can be costly, the researchers believe their approach may save laboratories money, in addition to time and effort.
FDA OKs PlasmaBlade for tonsil and adenoid tissue removal: Peak Surgical, out of Palo Alto, Calif., received FDA approval for its tonsil and adenoid tissue dissection device. The PEAK PlasmaBlade TnA, which features interchangeable tips, is based on the recently introduced PlasmaBlade system that aims to replace the Bovie as a standard dissection and coagulation device. The primary advantage of PEAK’s technology is the low thermal footprint of the cutting tip, leading to less damage to the tissue around the dissection site.
