Author: Riley Bell

Genetic Symphonies: Building Hox of Life 

Posted on by Riley Bell

Like the recipe book for life, every living creature has DNA. DNA contains genes, which contain instructions for making proteins. There are many types of important proteins that impact the way our body functions. Transcription factors (TFs) are a special protein that controls what other proteins are made by directly interacting with DNA to turn genes “on” or “off.” 

The newest art installation at our Biopharmaceutical Technology Center Institute (BTCI) brings this concept to life. “Genetic Symphonies: Building Hox of Life” uses a human skeleton to showcase how TFs turns on Hox genes by flipping the switches in the correct order. Hox proteins are a special TF that function during growth and development—and all mammals have them. There are 13 groups of Hox TFs (Hox1-Hox13) and unlike other proteins, Hox TFs must be made in a certain order for proper development to occur, starting with Hox1 and ending with Hox13. 

In this interactive exhibit, the user is a TF and must turn on Hox genes by flipping the switches in the correct order on a control podium. Every switch (Hox gene) you flip will be accompanied by light and sound (Hox proteins), representing the production of Hox TF proteins. If you successfully turn on all 13 light switches in the correct order, then the entire skeleton will be lit up, orchestrating your own developmental symphony. 

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Exploring the World Through the Promega and Eppendorf Family Exchange Program

Posted on by Riley Bell

The Eppendorf Family Exchange program offers a unique opportunity for Promega families to participate in an international exchange initiative designed to bring our global community closer together. Through this program, children of Eppendorf and Promega employees immerse themselves in new cultures, gain language skills, and forge lifelong friendships.

The program began in 2019 during the 40th anniversary of Promega when we received the generous gift of an exchange program from a friend in the industry: Eppendorf. Every year, ten children ages 14-18 have the opportunity to participate in this enriching exchange, experiencing daily life from a new cultural perspective in a different country for two to four weeks. In return, Promega families will host a child from an Eppendorf family.

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Lab Safety: The Catalyst for Every Great Experiment 

Posted on by Riley Bell

In any laboratory environment, safety is imperative. From conducting basic research to handling hazardous chemicals, the associated risks require strict attention to safety protocols and procedures. And lab safety isn’t just about protecting yourself—it’s about ensuring the well-being of your colleagues or classmates, upholding the integrity of experiments, and protecting your environment. Here are some tips on how you can protect yourself and your surroundings in the lab.

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The Largest Known Genome: Unveiling Nature’s Genetic Giant 

Posted on by Riley Bell

In genetics, sizes often come with surprises. One tiny fern, Tmesipteris oblanceolata, also known as the Fork Fern, proved this phrase true, taking the scientific community by storm when it broke the record for the largest known genome. Researchers reported this discovery on May 31, 2024, stating that the plant, which is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, harbors a full set of genetic instructions over 50 times the size of the human genome.

Tropical rainforest in New Caledonia with ferns and moss-covered trees
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Community Canvas: Taylor McAda’s Vibrant Mural on Madison’s State Street

Posted on by Riley Bell

On April 21st, 2024, hundreds of volunteers accompanied four local artists in Madison, Wisconsin for a public painting event to help decorate the 400-600 blocks of State Street. This project is the first embodiment of the city of Madison’s pedestrian mall experiment, set to kick off in May. Taylor McAda, Promega Senior Graphic Designer, was selected to design and paint one of four original 20-foot circle murals.

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Celebrating Our 2023 Promega In Action Awardees

Posted on by Riley Bell

Each year, Promega employees are offered the opportunity to receive up to 40 hours paid time off to donate in volunteer service through our Promega In Action program. Providing sustained support of organizations in our community, our employees participate in a wide range of activities.  

In 2023, we awarded 26 individuals who volunteered for 23 different organizations, some bringing along their Promega team members in attendance. From crafting comfort shawls for families of future organ and tissue donors, to volunteering with Meals on Wheels, to journeying to South Africa to deliver charitable donations for children in need, the opportunities to contribute to our community are abundant and impactful.

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Celebrating 10 Years of Innovation: Introducing the CSCB-Promega Innovation Fund 

Posted on by Riley Bell

For the past decade, Promega has supported cutting-edge research through the CSCB-Promega Innovation Award. Now, as we mark 10 years of collaboration with the Chinese Society for Cell Biology (CSCB), the Award is being converted into the CSCB-Promega Innovation Fund.  

The CSCB, founded in 1980, is one of the leading scientific organizations in China. Dedicated to fostering educational opportunities and innovation, the CSCB organizes conferences, publishes journals, promotes research collaborations, offers training for students and young scientists, and educates the general public on cell biology and biomedicine. 

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More Than a Scientist: Paraj Mandrekar’s Career & Contributions to Tabletop Roleplaying Games

Posted on by Riley Bell

Paraj Mandrekar began his career at Promega in 1998 in the Genetic Identity Research and Development program. In 2001, he was a consultant at the World Trade Center to help meet the urgent need to identify victims of the 9/11 attacks. Two products, one of them being our DNA IQ™ System, that Paraj and others used for automating forensic DNA purification at the time were featured in the R&D 100 Award in 2002.

As he progressed through the successive ranks in R&D, Paraj took on more responsibility for the research, design, and development of novel chemistry. A significant high point in his career was being promoted to Senior R&D Scientist 1 in 2010. At that point, he was working on both forensic and non-forensic chemistries with paramagnetic particles. Promega’s non-forensic kit (AS1290) was launched with a new chemistry in March 2010, and a few months later, he got a new version of the Maxwell forensic sample kit (AS1240) out the door.

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Promega’s Top Three Most-Viewed Blog Posts of 2023

Posted on by Riley Bell

This year, our bloggers wrote about a range of topics, including semaglutide, a 20,000-year-old pendant, and type 1 diabetes. Each topic is unique and has proven its popularity by our Promega Connections readers! Take a look at our top three most-viewed blog posts of 2023. 

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World Mental Health Day: Prioritizing Wellness in the Workplace

Posted on by Riley Bell

Celebrated annually on October 10th, World Mental Health Day provides an opportunity for people and communities to improve knowledge, raise awareness, and mobilize efforts in support of mental health.

Many people find that working is beneficial for their mental health. Having a job can help provide financial stability, establish a structured routine, improve one’s sense of identity, and more. However, at times your work may negatively impact your mental health and vice versa. Read some tips on how you can enhance your workplace well-being and cultivate a happier professional life.

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