Gene editing Researchers will work frenzied to evaluate the potential of a new version of the Crispr technique, known as Prime editing, unveiled in October to a lot of fanfare. Prime editing was proposed to have the ability to rectify about 89 percent of the 75,000 adverse genetic mutations that lay behind hereditary diseases, such as cystic fibrosis and sickle cell disease of the blood disorder.

3D rockets Last year, major steps in rocket science were made, with successful testing of a number of 3D-printed engine prototypes.

Stem cells Scientists around the world are collaborating on trials of potential stem cell treatments for blindness, spinal cord injury, heart failure, diabetes, Parkinsons disease and lung cancer, and some of the first findings are expected to be available later this year. Embryonic or pluripotent stem cells have immense therapeutic promise because they can grow into any of the bodys roughly 220 adult, specialized cells, from insulin-making pancreatic cells to the brains nerve cells.

Mars The ExoMars programs 2020 mission, if all goes to plan, will bring to the surface of Mars a European rover and a Russian vehicle. ExoMars will be the first mission to incorporate the ability to move across the planets surface and reach into the ability to study Mars.

Nasa is setting up a separate mission to research Mars habitability and prepare for future human missions. Smart needle Researchers are hoping to get an early indication as to whether a new smart needle they have developed can detect cancer successfully in seconds.

The researchers have so far concentrated on lymphoma, but said the procedure could also be used later down the line to treat other aspects of the disease, such as breast and prostate cancer. The smart needle uses light to near-instantly classify cancerous tissues. Using a Raman spectroscopy procedure, the Optical Biopsy tests the tissue-scattered light when a laser embedded in the needle shines on it.

The light scatters slightly from healthy tissues than from diseased tissues, which ensures that doctors will immediately make a decision. Developed by Toyota, the Human Support Robot and Delivery Support Robot will be used in tandem.

The new plant is designed to handle 5,000 tons of waste a day, burning the waste.

Excerpt from:
It can be difficult to forecast technological and scientific changes, but this is what will happen in 2020 - Medical Herald