How quickly can a public charging station fill up an electric car?Ralf Hahn/Getty ImagesChinese car firm BYD has announced that its newest ultra-fast charger can refresh electric vehicle batteries in nearly the time it takes to fill a petrol tank. While this is good news for electric car owners in China, the chargers are unlikely to be available internationally in the immediate future.BYD, the worlds largest electric vehicle manufacturer, says its new charger known as the Super E-Platform can

Updated 2025-03-18T20:35:10Z Read in app As a local of 17 years, I know there are some things you should never do on the Amalfi Coast. Laura Thayer This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now.Have an account? After living on the Amalfi Coast for 17 years, I've seen many tourists make the same mistakes.Instead of taking a day trip, tourists should plan to spend more time on the Amalfi Coast.I also recommend visiting spots outsidePositano, Amalfi, and Ravello.I believe every trip to the Amalfi Coast should be just as beautiful as the coastline itself. Like the roughly 5 million travelers who visit each year, I fell in love with the Amalfi Coast while on vacation. In fact, I loved it so much that it's now been my home for 17 years.However, during my time living on the coast, I've seen tourists make the same mistakes over and over again. Luckily, many blunders can be avoided with some simple tips.Here are the seven most common mistakes I see tourists make while visiting the Amalfi Coast.Choosing the wrong season to travel to the Amalfi Coast For a beach vacation, the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is between July and September. Laura Thayer Tourist season on the Amalfi Coast typically runs from Easter through October. Although the coast is beautiful throughout the year, it's important to keep in mind that many hotels, restaurants, and shops close during the offseason. Additionally, the ferry service connecting the Amalfi Coast villages only runs during tourist season.If you're dreaming of a classic beach vacation, the best time to visit is from July to September. Although April, May, and October are excellent times to visit, the sea might be too chilly for some swimmers.Renting a car and attempting to take on Amalfi DriveDriving the famously narrow and zigzagging Amalfi Drive is not for the faint of heart. It's also not a fun experience for most drivers including the locals. Given the crowded roads and expensive (or nonexistent) parking, tackling the drive as a tourist is not a good idea.Instead, opt for the ferries that connect many of the villages along the coastline. If you're a driving enthusiast and the experience is one you'd like to try, I'd suggest driving along Amalfi Drive during the offseason.Seeing the Amalfi Coast on a day trip Many tourists choose to visit the Amalfi Coast on day trips. AS photo family/Shutterstock The beauty of the Amalfi Coast is no secret, and visitors come from around the world to see the pastel-hued buildings and swim in the turquoise sea.But with travelers arriving every day by ferries, buses, and cruise ships, the narrow roads and small villages are easily overwhelmed, especially during the high season.To avoid getting caught up in the day-tripping crowds, I recommend planning a longer stay. This way, you can enjoy the peaceful mornings and relaxed-evening ambiance. You'll likely enjoy your vacation more, and it's better for the local economy, too.Only visiting the three most popular towns Positano is one of the most popular destinations on the Amalfi Coast. Laura Thayer While Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are the three most popular destinations, the Amalfi Coast is made up of 13 distinct villages. From tiny seaside gems to villages nestled in the mountains, there's so much more to discover.Explore the ruins of an ancient Roman villa in Minori, enjoy the coastline's longest beach in Maiori, try locally caught anchovies in Cetara, taste wine from century-old vines in Tramonti, and shop for colorful ceramics in Vietri sul Mare.Forgetting to carefully check accommodation details before arrivalNothing ruins a trip to the Amalfi Coast like a bumpy arrival. For example, many tourists are surprised to find their accommodation is located far outside the center of a village. Before booking, and certainly before arriving, be sure to check the exact location of where you're staying.Keep in mind that many of the villages on the Amalfi Coast have several frazioni (hamlets). Although they're part of the larger village, these smaller villages can be located well outside the historic center.If you're looking for a quiet getaway, this can be a pleasant surprise. However, it can be far less convenient for transportation and shopping.Likewise, steps are a way of life on the Amalfi Coast. Be sure to check the number of steps it will take to reach your rental and arrange for assistance with luggage in advance.Not wearing proper footwear for hikes There are some great hiking opportunities on the Amalfi Coast. Laura Thayer The Amalfi Coast has two sides the sea and the mountains. Hiking paths offer incredible views that are well worth the many steps.The Path of the Gods, which is located above the towns of Praiano and Positano, has become extremely popular in recent years. However, injuries and even deaths happen every year along this popular hike.It's important to always stay aware even with the distractingly beautiful vistas and to wear proper footwear. While many of the hikes in the area don't require hiking boots, you do need comfortable and supportive shoes with good tread.If you want to hike but aren't very experienced, a local trekking guide can help you plan ahead and enjoy a hike that is safe and right for you.Not taking time to uncover the local historyWhile a day (or two or three) at the beach is a must, the Amalfi Coast has a surprisingly rich history that many visitors completely miss.Uncover the area's ancient Roman past at the Museo Archeologico Romano di Positano, where visitors can see the ruins of an ancient Roman villa that was destroyed by the same 79 AD eruption of Mt. Vesuvius that covered Pompeii.Next, stop at the Cathedral of Amalfi to visit the peaceful Cloister of Paradise and the excellent museum and crypt.Meander through town to the top of the valley to visit the Paper Museum, set in a 13th-century mill, to learn more about the town's important handmade paper tradition.If you're curious to know more about the Amalfi Coast, hiring a local tour guide will bring the past to life.This story was originally published on May 17, 2024, and most recently updated on March 18, 2025.

Nestled along the Wasatch Mountains, known as "Utah's Swiss Alps," is a town splashed with European influence and Germanic heritage.A view of homes in Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider Hence its nickname "Little Switzerland." Altogether, Midway is home to about 6,100 people and located south of Park City.An art gallery in Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider The tourism site for Heber Valley, where Midway is located, said Swiss settlers arrived in Utah in the 1850s, and, upon seeing the mountains, were reminded of the Alps' lush valleys and snowy caps.A view of the Wasatch Mountains from Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider I was lucky enough to view the Swiss Alps a few years ago and saw the resemblance. Both ranges had green rolling hills that eventually turned into snowcapped mountain peaks.A view of central Swiss Alps's valley in the springtime. Comezora/Getty Images The mountains, similar to those in Switzerland, are also what make Midway a popular ski destination in the winter.Snowboarders at Brighton Ski Resort outside of Midway, Utah. Jeremy Christensen/Shutterstock On the outskirts of town, the Soldier Hollow Nordic Center offers cross-country skiing in the colder months. It was also where a few of the Winter Olympics events were held in 2002.Competitors begin the men's 4x10Km cross-country relay at the Winter Olympics Sunday in 2002. Andrew Medichini/AP Photo A sign marks the entrance to downtown Midway. It displays children in traditional lederhosen attire along with "welcome" in German.A sign at the entrance of Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider With the sign in my rearview mirror, I passed homes with varying architectural designs.A home with delicate trim in Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider Some were modern homes with sharp edges, cement exteriors, and unique shapes.A modern home in Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider Other homes had a strong Swiss influence with chalet-style exteriors, gabled roofs, and ornate overhanging eaves.A home in downtown Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider My first stop was the Blue Boar Inn, an Alps-themed chateau, where I spent the night.The exterior of the Blue Boar Inn. Monica Humphries/Business Insider The cozy chateau at the base of the mountains was the most European part of my stay.The entrance when guests first step into the Blue Boar Inn. Monica Humphries/Business Insider The inn had a restaurant and pub with dark, wooden paneling, fireplaces, and a cozy atmosphere.The pub inside the Blue Boar Inn. Monica Humphries/Business Insider Inside my room, the Alps theme continued with ornate furniture, a stone fireplace, and vintage snowshoes above my bed.My bed at the Blue Boar Inn. Monica Humphries/Business Insider After some rest, I woke up the next morning itching for Swiss baked goods or a Swiss-inspired brunch, such as a rsti, a shredded potato dish.A rosti and sausage. Minoru Kuriyama/EyeEm/Getty Images I ventured to the Zermatt Utah Resort and Spa, one of the town's most well-known resorts, and grabbed a chocolate croissant at the traditional European bakery.A Swiss-themed resort. Monica Humphries/Business Insider Still hungry, I headed to Midway's Main Street, hoping to stumble upon more restaurants and cafs selling traditional Swiss dishes.The main street in Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider Instead, I spotted a doughnut shop and an Americana-themed caf among the main street's stores and businesses.Side-by-side images of the donut shop and coffee shop in Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider I did spot plenty of Swiss details sprinkled throughout downtown. For example, murals of men and women in traditional Swiss attire were sprawled across a physical therapy office.A building with a Swiss-themed mural. Monica Humphries/Business Insider And a local cabinetry shop was decorated with stone, wood, chiseled brackets, and whimsical overhanging eaves.A local cabinetry shop in downtown Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider Even chain stores like the Chevron convenience store had an Alps theme.The Chevron gas station on the main street in Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider The town hall reminded me of a fairy tale. Every hour, a wood-carved Glockenspiel popped out to announce the time.The town hall had a European design across its exterior. Monica Humphries/Business Insider As I learned more about the town, I discovered that each Labor Day, its main street fills with people celebrating the town's annual Swiss Days Festival.Main Street in Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider A Swiss-themed parade marches down the street, and locals and visitors alike enjoy a market, food vendors, races, and performances.A view of the mountains from downtown. Monica Humphries/Business Insider I made a note to make it back one day either for the festival or skiing and wrapped up my stay in Midway. While I didn't find Midway an exact replica of Switzerland, I did find a little European oasis worthy of a stop.The author in front of the sign welcoming people to Midway, Utah. Monica Humphries/Business Insider

Its not even been a year since this game was added to PlayStation Plus (Bigmode)Just as eight new games are added to the PS Plus catalogue, the same amount is scheduled to leave next month, including one of last years best titles.Animal Well was undoubtedly one of the best indie games to be released in 2024. In fact, it was one of 2024s best games period and probably would have walked home from The Game Awards 2024 with two trophies, had Balatro not been a thing.Theres no official sales data for the game, but hopefully lots of PlayStation owners checked out the game after publisher Bigmode struck a deal with Sony to add Animal Well to its PlayStation Plus service at launch.Less than a year since then, though, and Sony is poised to delist Animal Well from the service, so you now only have a few weeks to try the game at no extra cost and see what all the fuss is about.Animal Well launched on May 9 and while its yet another indie Metroidvania, it distinguishes itself with a greater emphasis on puzzle solving and being chock full of secrets.Combined with its complete lack of explanations for what anything is and what you need to do, it forces players to cooperate and share solutions and new discoveries with each other online.If you have a PS Plus subscription at either the Extra or Premium tier and havent tried Animal Well yet we highly recommend you put time aside for the next several weeks to experience as much of it as you can.When does Animal Well leave PlayStation Plus?Animal Well is expected to be delisted from PlayStation Plus on April 15. As a reminder, you cant download and keep games from the PlayStation Plus catalogue after theyve gone, so Animal Well will be completely inaccessible once it leaves the service.Afterwards, PlayStation owners will need to buy their own PlayStation 5 copy. The game is also available for purchase on PC, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Series X/S.More TrendingAnimal Well isnt the only game being removed either. The following seven games are also leaving the PlayStation Plus catalogue next month:Deliver Us Mars (PlayStation 5/PlayStation 4)Kena: Bridge Of Spirits (PlayStation 5/PlayStation 4)Miasma Chronicles (PlayStation 5)Nour: Play With Your Food (PlayStation 5/PlayStation 4)Slay The Spire (PlayStation 4)Stray Blade (PlayStation 5)Tales Of Kenzera: ZAU (PlayStation 5)However, its all swings and roundabouts, as today another set of eight games have been added to the catalogue, with our personal headliner being Prince Of Persia: The Lost Crown a more traditional but no less impressive Metroidvania with an increased focus on combat. Not every animal is as friendly looking as these capybaras (Bigmode)Emailgamecentral@metro.co.uk, leave a comment below,follow us on Twitter, andsign-up to our newsletter.To submit Inbox letters and Readers Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use ourSubmit Stuff page here.For more stories like this,check our Gaming page.GameCentralSign up for exclusive analysis, latest releases, and bonus community content.This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy

California governor Gavin Newsom wants tech executives to know they can call him if theyre ever in a pinch. Yes, Politico is out with a weird new story that claims the political leader has been sending a prepaid, inexpensive cell phone (commonly known as a burner, for those of you who havent seen The Wire or Better Call Saul) to tech executives across the state. The phones have been sent to approximately 100 different CEOs, and come equipped with Newsoms number, as well as a personalized note, the outlet writes. If you ever need anything, Im a phone call away, read one note to an undisclosed executive. Its a somewhat bizarre stunt to pull, considering the fact that Californias C-suite can already safely presume that Newsoms got their best interests at heart. More relevantly, in a time when the tech industry is basically synonymous with the authoritarian oligarchy taking over the country, why does it seem like a good idea to signal that youre on their side? Its almost as if someone recently handed the governor a list of all the ways that he could potentially alienate the people most likely to vote for him if he ever runs for president (which many people assume is his long-term goal) and he is now dutifully ticking them off. Seriously, what is the game plan here, governor? The occasional display of good-natured corporate favoritism is common but whats being done to fire up the people who actually go to the polls? Newsom also recently launched a podcast, This Is Gavin Newsom, which hasnt enjoyed much fanfare. Newsoms strategy with the podcast seems to be to court rightwing figures, politely debate them, and then try to find common ground with them. If launching a podcast was technically a good idea, the way that Newsoms team has gone about it is all wrong. Democratic voters want a champion who is going to fight back against the Republicans most odious tendencies. They dont want someone who is going to buddy up to Charlie Kirk, a guy who once said that public employees were worthless parasites, and who has claimed that there is no separation between church and state, or Steve Bannon, Trumps OG hatchet man whose eyes often seem to convey the infernal fires of the underworld. Sentiment analysis of Newsoms podcast showed that many listeners were not particularly impressed. Much ink has already been spilled about the Democratic Partys complete and utter failure to meet the current moment. Recent polling shows that Democrats favorability ratings are at an all-time lowan impressive feat given the fact that the opposing party is currently a maelstrom of chaos and destruction and is threatening to take away Americans Social Security. The general consensus is that Democrats have no strategy, no political identity, and no balls (both figuratively and literally). Jon Stewarts recent takedown of the partys hapless antics says it all.If he wants to win the big prize, Newsom needs to frame himself as a progressive firebrand, not a moderate Democrat. The Democratic delusion that candidates can somehow peel moderate voters away from the Republican party by seeming more conservative has never been borne out in the numbers. If Newsom were to run on a platform that more resembled that of Bernie Sanders (i.e., economic populism, protecting Social Security and Medicaid, caring about human beings instead of just corporate profits, etc.), while remaining centrist on social issues, I think he might have a shot at the White House. If, however, he continues to sell himself as a milquetoast version of a Reagan-era Republican, I do not believe the future looks bright for Newsom.

As Severance heads into its season finale, its devoted fansincluding us obsessives here at io9have come up with a million theories about the shows many mysteries. But amid all the Cold Harbor speculation, the Mark/Mark S./Helly/Gemma drama, and the mystifying true purpose of those damn goats, a few things seem already settled thanks to The After Hours, the shows penultimate season two episode. However, in the world of Severance nothing is every really settled, is it? In case youre not caught up with The After Hours, beware One of the episodes most heartbreaking moments came when Irving (John Turturro) hopped a train out of Kier with his dog Radar, leaving Lumon and his entire life behind. His escape came with the help of Burt (Christopher Walken). The two sparked a workplace romance as their innie personas, and later, when they met as their outies, felt a similar attraction. That situation, explored in the latter half of season two, was exceedingly complicated by the fact that Burt has been with his husband for decades, and is also still in cahoots with Lumon in a more malevolent capability than his innies role as the folksy head of Optics and Design. However, just when you thought Burt was driving Irving (and Radar) to some kind of Sopranos-style doom, he instead bought Irving a train ticket and gently warned him never to return. The two men shared a poignant farewell, acknowledging their mutual feelings before dutifully setting them aside.With Irv effectively in exile now, fans have wondered if itll be the last we see of the character. Its a big loss for Severance, since Irv often served as the emotional heart of the showas well as being someone unafraid to call bullshit, especially valuable in a place like Lumon thats full of it. Speaking to the Hollywood Reporter, Turturro said he wouldnt feel satisfied if the train scene was really the end of Irvings story. If someone wanted the story to be complete? It could be! But I think theres so much more here, he explained, noting that theres a lot more of the characters backstory hed like to dig into.Irving knows a lot that you dont know. Theres a big reason why hes making all those paintings, you know? All that hes searching for. Everyone gets severed on this show for different reasons. Grief, maybe theyre lost, maybe theyre the daughter of the owner. Maybe its also searching for someone, too, Turturro said. Theres just one more episode of Severance season two to goand though Apple TV+ has yet to confirm a third season, it feels like an inevitability at this point. Irvings return is less of a certainty, but wed sure love to learn more about him, and Turturros just given us fresh hope that might happen. Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, whats next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

Bar Cyprez / Studio LTMXSave this picture! Oscar CaballeroArchitects: Studio LTMXAreaArea of this architecture projectArea:66 mYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2024 PhotographsPhotographs:Oscar CaballeroManufacturersBrands with products used in this architecture project Manufacturers: Cemex, Comex, Illux, Ilumileds Lead Architects: Armando Rosas Flores, Simona Lasauskaite More SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. Each element in the design of the new bar serves a dual purpose, becoming part of a larger system that responds to the basic functional needs of a commercial space. The main goal of this system is to provide the customer with the ability to close off and separate the bar from the rest of the spaces while keeping the overall operation intact.Save this picture!The space we are referring to is an old warehouse in the Colonia Jurez, Mexico City, which previously operated as a mechanical workshop. Today, taking advantage of the vastness of this large hall, it has been transformed into a cultural and leisure venue, with access through the bar. It is worth noting that the scope of the project focuses solely on the design of the bar, which will serve as the visible face of the entire complex.Save this picture!The main intention of the project is to create a unique atmosphere and a distinctive sense of space through simple yet powerful gestures. In the center of this large space stands a monolithic, polished concrete bar, upon which a solid-looking volume appears to float. This volume filters both natural and artificial light, creating an immersive atmosphere through the suspended void.In contrast, a common void is created, another distinct atmosphere surrounding the customers. The suspended volume is the key piece in this intervention. It is equipped with a rail that allows a cold storage panel to slide, forming the first part of the mechanism that seals off the space, complemented by the pivoting translucent panel of the entrance wall. The latter not only functions as a transitional element, creating two separate access pointsone for customers and one for service but also allows natural light to filter through, generating visual anticipation from the street.Save this picture!Save this picture!This intervention serves as the perfect excuse to play with light and shadow inside the bar, using translucent materials that soften the light and coppery mirrors that reflect it, enriching the spatial experience.Save this picture!Project gallerySee allShow lessProject locationAddress:Calle Lucerna, Colonia Jurez, CDMX, MexicoLocation to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.About this officeStudio LTMXOfficePublished on March 18, 2025Cite: "Bar Cyprez / Studio LTMX" [Bar Cyprez / Studio LTMX] 18 Mar 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1027985/bar-cyprez-studio-ltmx&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

Read all about the details on CG Cookie https://b3d.cgcookie.com/n4g2ln 00:00 - Intro00:31 - Modeling02:11 - Animation06:01 - Geometry Nodes09:26 - Grease Pencil12:26 - Rendering13:53 - Compositing15:02 - Video Editing15:55 - User Interface18:48 - Python API19:22 - Import / Export20:42 - Conclusion"WHO IS CG COOKIE?"We are real people! (OK, maybe some of us are cyborgs - we don't ask.) CG Cookie is a small crew of Blender artists, baking fresh videos for the Blender community. If you love what we do, consider enrolling to http://cgcookie.com to stream 100's of Blender courses with passionate Blender instructors there to answer your questions. "WHERE SHOULD I START LEARNING BLENDER?"For Blender beginners, we have a free tutorial series "Getting Started with Blender" https://rb.gy/khqdl7 "I WANT MORE CG COOKIE IN MY LIFE!"Got it. Here's where you can reach us!http://instagram.com/cgcookie http://twitter.com/cgcookie http://facebook.com/cgcookieinc Want Blender news in your mailbox? Sign up here for spam-free newsletter https://cgcookie.com/newsletter #CGCookie #blendertutorial #b3d

Green Screen Effects | 4K 60fps | Chroma Screen Rays VFX Footage for DownloadDiscover an impressive collection of Green Screen VFX and Chroma Key Footage in 4K 60fps! This playlist features high-quality VFX assets that are perfect for compositing in your films, videos, and creative projects. With effects from various genres like Fire FX, Smoke FX, and other dynamic elements from Unreal Engine VFX, you can add stunning visual effects to your content effortlessly.Each video includes multiple angles of Chroma Screen footage, allowing you to seamlessly integrate the effects into your scene from different perspectives. These professional-grade assets are optimized for Chroma Key compositing and will save you time on your VFX projects. Key Features:4K 60fps resolution for cinematic-quality visualsMultiple Angles for flexible compositingReady-to-use Fire FX, Smoke FX, and more from Unreal Engine VFXChroma Key (Green Screen) compatible for easy integrationIdeal for filmmakers, video editors, and VFX artistsEnhance your projects with these free downloadable effects and elevate your content. Subscribe for more VFX assets and tutorials!FAB - https://www.fab.com/sellers/CGHOW Whatsapp - https://bit.ly/3LYvxjK Patreon- https://www.patreon.com/Ashif NFT - https://opensea.io/CGHOW Twitter - https://twitter.com/cghow_ If you Liked it - http://bit.ly/2UZmiZ4 Channel Ashif - http://bit.ly/3aYaniw Support me on - paypal.me/9953280644 #cghow #UE5 #UE4Niagara #gamefx #ue5niagara #ue4vfx #niagara #unrealengineniagara #realtimevfxVisit - https://cghow.com/ Unreal Engine Marketplace - https://bit.ly/3aojvAa Artstation Store - https://www.artstation.com/ashif/store Gumroad - https://cghow.gumroad.com/

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S., claiming around 600,000 lives in 2022 alone. A diagnosis can be devastating, as the disease can often resist treatment and spreads uncontrollably.Now, a research team from The Jackson Laboratory (JAX) and UConn Health has identified a potential therapeutic strategy to halt or reverse tumor growth. Their study, published in Nature Communications, reveals how cancer cells disable a built-in "off switch" and how reactivating it could stop tumor proliferation.Overriding the "Off Switch"Cells function through an intricate network of proteins, each designed for specific tasks like metabolism, tissue repair, and immune defense. These proteins are built using genetic blueprints in our DNA. A process called alternative splicing enables a single gene to generate multiple mRNA transcripts molecules carrying genetic instructions allowing for protein diversity.In healthy cells, this process maintains balance. Cancer cells, however, disrupt that process to fuel their unchecked growth by disabling proteins that regulate cell proliferation.The researchers focused on a genetic element known as a poison exon. This natural "off switch" prevents the production of certain proteins by marking their RNA messages for destruction before they can be translated. Cancer cells suppress the poison exon in a key gene called TRA2. Without this regulation, TRA2 levels rise, promoting tumor growth and making cancer cells more aggressive.Read More: How Viruses Could Cure Cancer and Save Lives A New Target for Precision TreatmentTRA2 is a well-known oncogene a gene that can drive cancer development but no existing therapies specifically target it. Until now, scientists had limited understanding of how it is regulated.By analyzing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, researchers discovered that the status of the poison exon in TRA2 could serve as a meaningful target for precision oncology.Weve shown for the first time that low levels of poison exon inclusion in the TRA2 gene are associated with poor outcomes in many different cancer types, and especially in aggressive and difficult-to-treat cancers, said Olga Anczukw, an associate professor at JAX in a press release.To test whether reactivating the "off switch" could slow cancer growth, the team designed synthetic RNA fragments called antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). These molecules were engineered to boost poison exon activity in TRA2, restoring the gene's self-regulating mechanism.The team tested this approach in 3D breast cancer organoids clusters of cancer cells that mimic real tissue and in live mouse models.The results were promising: We found that ASOs can rapidly boost poison exon inclusion, essentially tricking the cancer cell into turning off its own growth signals. That could make ASOs a highly precise and effective therapy for aggressive cancers, said Nathan Leclair, an M.D./Ph.D. graduate student at UConn Health and The Jackson Laboratory, and lead author of the study, in a news release.The Future of "Off Switch" TherapiesIf TRA2 drives tumor growth, why not eliminate it entirely using gene-editing technologies like CRISPR? The researchers attempted this approach but found that the tumors continued to grow.This tells us that poison-exon-containing RNA doesnt just silence TRA2, explained Anczukw in the press release. It likely sequesters other RNA-binding proteins, creating an even more toxic environment for cancer cells.Ongoing research aims to optimize ASO-based therapies and explore the most effective ways to deliver them to tumors. Early findings suggest that ASOs selectively target cancer cells while sparing healthy ones, positioning them as a promising tool for future cancer treatments. This discovery could revolutionize treatment for aggressive cancers like triple-negative breast cancer and certain brain tumors, where current options remain limited.By leveraging the body's own genetic safeguards, scientists may have found a powerful new way to combat some of the most challenging cancers. While further studies are needed, this breakthrough offers a glimpse into the future of precision oncology.Read More: CRISPR Eliminates Targeted Tumors by 50 PercentArticle SourcesOur writers at Discovermagazine.com use peer-reviewed studies and high-quality sources for our articles, and our editors review for scientific accuracy and editorial standards. Review the sources used below for this article:The Jackson Laboratory: What is CRISPR?National Center for Health Statistics: CancerNational Human Genome Research Institute: The Cancer Genome AtlasHaving worked as a biomedical research assistant in labs across three countries, Jenny excels at translating complex scientific concepts ranging from medical breakthroughs and pharmacological discoveries to the latest in nutrition into engaging, accessible content. Her interests extend to topics such as human evolution, psychology, and quirky animal stories. When shes not immersed in a popular science book, youll find her catching waves or cruising around Vancouver Island on her longboard.