Researchers have successfully cloned a key gene responsible for pea stem growth, which codes for an enzyme that converts gibberellic acid into the compound promoting stem elongation. This discovery sheds light on why some plants are tall and others short, illustrating fundamental principles of genetics.
A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has determined the molecular structure of Cre recombinase, an enzyme used in genetically engineering animal models. The detailed structural picture will aid in designing better research models and provide insights into the recombination reaction.
Researchers have discovered a new class of proteins that may provide insights into all dystonia disorders. The DYT1 gene codes for torsinA protein, which is mutated in patients with early-onset torsion dystonia, disrupting communication among neurons responsible for movement and muscle control.
The E. coli genome, consisting of 4,639,221 base pairs, has been fully sequenced, revealing 1,333 known genes and 1,000 unknown functions. The completion of the genome paves the way for a similar analysis of human DNA.
Researchers at University of Florida have developed a small, mobile land mine detector using X-ray probe technology that accurately identifies type and location. The device could be available to governments and humanitarian agencies within a year.
Researchers developed a new type of polymeric membrane that can operate at elevated temperatures and withstand harsh chemical environments. The membrane could potentially recover large volumes of hydrogen gas, reducing the environmental impact of refining processes and making it economically feasible.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have discovered that inhaled nitric oxide can reduce formation of sickle cells in patients with sickle cell disease, potentially interrupting crises. The treatment approach could lead to long-term, outpatient care for affected individuals.
The grant will support various research projects, including climate modeling, molecular dynamics simulations, and interactive learning tools. Cornell aims to create a national model for universities in the information age with this technology.
Researchers found that supplements significantly reduced bone loss and increased bone density in older men, while also reducing the risk of fractures. The study's findings suggest that calcium and vitamin D supplementation can be an effective lifelong strategy for maintaining bone health.
Researchers are investigating how climate change affects plant community composition, whole-ecosystem carbon exchange, and energy balance in northern peatlands. The goal is to determine the mechanisms of biotic control over temperature and its impact on ecosystem processes.
A MGH-led team has pinpointed the location of the DYT1 gene on chromosome 9, revealing it is responsible for virtually all cases of early-onset dystonia. The discovery may help understand how stress triggers neurological diseases and lead to the development of a blood test to diagnose the disorder.
Astronomers using the Hubble Space Telescope have discovered a large crater on asteroid Vesta with an estimated diameter of 285 miles and 8 miles deep. The crater's impact debris is believed to be a source of special types of meteorites, including those found in Hawaii.
Researchers discovered a strain of hepatitis E virus in pigs that is similar to the human strain, but not causative of disease. The finding may contribute to the development of a vaccine and improve our understanding of the virus's transmission and prevalence.
A study of 250 Ohio University students found that men are more likely to play rock music at high volumes, even if they don't like the genre. The researchers suggest that external pressures, such as peer influence, may be a contributing factor.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a genetically engineered enzyme treatment to address Pompe disease, a condition causing skeletal, heart, and lung muscle destruction. The new therapy will be tested in infants with the most severe symptoms first.
Researchers developed a training method to improve perception of air flow resistance in asthma patients. The study found that participants had fewer asthma attacks after completing the training, detecting problems earlier and taking medication before an attack occurred.
A long-term study of women's reproductive cycles aims to understand the patterns of change leading up to menopause. The researchers plan to collect urine samples from 150 women aged 35-60 for six months each year, analyzing hormones linked to the female reproductive cycle.
A study by University of Rochester researchers found that maternal lead exposure leads to a 40% increase in cavities in rats. Lead interferes with saliva production, which protects teeth against decay. The team is now searching for the cause of this link, which could help explain why dental cavities remain a major public health problem.
A new study by Ohio University researchers found that three commonly prescribed antihypertension drugs can enhance a protection mechanism against oxidative stress, which can cause cell damage. The drugs stimulated the production of antioxidant enzymes in most cases, but inhibited it in others.