Scientists at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics identified a genetic variant influencing left-right hand preference in individuals with dyslexia. The study found a strong link between PCSK6 gene variants and relative hand skill, suggesting a novel genetic basis for handedness.
A study of Amish individuals found a rare mitochondrial haplogroup X associated with successful aging, while another haplogroup J had a negative association. The research suggests that genetic variants may play a role in maintaining physical and cognitive function in older age.
A recent study published in PLoS Genetics has identified genetic variants that may modify the risk of breast cancer in women with BRCA2 mutations. The research found that variants near the ZNF365 gene decreased breast cancer risk by approximately 25 percent, while other variants like FGFR2 increased risk.
A genome-wide association study of 2,622 patients with psoriasis and 5,667 healthy individuals has identified six regions of the genome associated with the condition. The study found evidence for an interaction between two associated regions – HLA-C and ERAP1, providing new insights into psoriasis susceptibility.
This special issue of Perspectives on Psychological Science investigates the potential of genetics research, personalized medicine, and behavioral intervention to improve patient care. The articles examine the intersection of behavior and genetics, with a focus on tailoring treatments to individual genetic characteristics.
Researchers from Hopkins, Baylor, and Stanford discovered that arsenite affects the TCP protein folding machine in yeast cells, which is also present in humans. This knowledge could lead to developing safer therapeutic alternatives to arsenite-based medicines.
Researchers identify key genes that allow fruit flies to differentiate between smells, enabling the development of more effective insect repellents. By understanding how these genes are regulated, scientists can target similar genes in other insects to create substances that repel pests.
Dr. Jurg Ott receives the prestigious William Allan Award for his groundbreaking research on linkage analysis and complex disease, advancing genome-wide association scans (GWAS) and related techniques. His contributions have had a significant impact on human genetics, including analyzing gene linkages for various genetic disorders.
Researchers at the University of Maryland have discovered how Mexican blind cavefish evolved adaptations to compensate for their loss of vision, including an enhanced vibration attraction behavior to detect food sources. This study provides new insights into the link between behavior, genetics, and evolution in these unique organisms.
Researchers at VCU have identified a potential risk gene for schizophrenia, CMYA5, associated with cardiomyopathy. The study involved over 33,000 participants and verified the findings through multiple independent samples.
The University of Liverpool will coordinate an international research network, led by Professor Munir Pirmohamed, to investigate the role of genetic variation in drug-induced hypersensitivity reactions. This collaboration aims to identify genetic predisposing factors that can help predict susceptible patients and reduce the patient and...
The International Serious Adverse Events Consortium (SAEC) will collaborate with Newcastle University to research the genetics of drug-induced liver injury. The collaboration aims to develop larger and more diverse collections of subjects to better understand the genetic effects contributing to these diseases.
A new study from North Carolina State University found that genetics play a key role in whether someone is willing to participate in surveys. The research involved sending surveys to over 1,000 sets of twins and measuring response rates. Interestingly, the behavior of identical twins was a good predictor for each other, but not for fra...
Scientists at Max Planck Institute successfully analyze all genes in human genome simultaneously to identify mutation causing Mabry Syndrome. The new process reveals a mutation in PIGV gene leading to mental retardation and other symptoms.
Research suggests SSRIs affect more than one cellular process, including phospholipid membranes and vesicle trafficking, in yeast cells. This discovery could lead to new therapies and explain why different people respond differently to the same medication.
A study published in Genetics found that genetic interaction with diet is the primary cause of variation in metabolic traits like body weight. This discovery helps explain why fad diets are effective for some individuals but not others.
The largest study of its kind has released its first results, providing a wealth of information on how genetic mutations affect cancer responses to treatments. The research aims to improve patient care by tailoring treatment to individual tumour characteristics.
A new study published in Genetics found that mutations in 10 different genes of worms can extend lifespan without reducing oxidative stress. This discovery challenges the long-held notion that oxidative stress is responsible for aging and suggests a slow rate of metabolism may be key to increasing longevity.
Gerald R. Fink receives the prestigious award for his groundbreaking work on yeast genetics, enabling gene manipulation and advancing biomedical science. His discoveries have led to life-saving drugs and vaccines, as well as a deeper understanding of disease-causing fungi.
Gerald Fink has been recognized with the 2010 Gruber Genetics Prize for his revolutionary transformation technique, enabling gene insertion into yeast cells. This breakthrough allows scientists to study specific genes and produce compounds used in vaccines, antibiotics, and biofuel.
Researchers have discovered variations in 10 genes associated with immune response in people with vitiligo, pointing to multiple cellular pathways contributing to the disease. The findings offer potential starting points for developing therapies tailored to individual genetic susceptibilities.
Researchers discovered a small group of genes in fruit flies that likely play important roles in regulating the formation of plaque-like protein aggregates within cells. The identified genes have human counterparts and may be manipulated to stop or slow the formation of these aggregates, which are a hallmark of Huntington's disease.
Mental disorders are likely caused by brain circuit abnormalities, resulting from developmental processes. Genetics play a crucial role in mental illness, with high heritability rates for conditions like autism, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.
Researchers discovered a new factor, DksA, that prevents conflict between DNA replication and transcription in E. coli. When present, DksA tags along with RNA polymerase and removes it from the track when DNA polymerase approaches, allowing for stable replication.
A consensus statement recommends chromosomal microarray (CMA) as the new standard practice for genetic evaluation of children with unexplained developmental delay, autism or birth defects. CMA consistently has a diagnostic yield of 15 to 20 percent, compared to five percent with G-banded karyotyping.
A recent White Paper report by the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) highlights issues with genetic ancestry testing, including imprecise definitions and lack of standard guidelines. The task force recommends a collaborative approach among stakeholders to address concerns and develop best practices.
Dr. Patrick Sullivan is leading a research project to identify genetic links to psychosis in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. He will analyze DNA from four families with a high number of affected members to uncover rare genetic variants and compare them to unrelated samples.
The Genetics Society of America recognized nine students with poster awards for their outstanding research work at the 51st Annual Drosophila Research Conference. The award recipients included postdoctoral, graduate, and undergraduate students who showcased their innovative research in genetics and molecular biology.
Cancer genetics expert Bert Vogelstein will review the landscape of cancer genome research and its applications. He predicts that early detection and prevention will be key to reducing cancer deaths in the future.
A $3.7 million clinical trial will evaluate customized warfarin dosage based on patient genetics to balance blood clotting risks and benefits in orthopedic patients. The study aims to identify the optimal range of blood clotting speed, using genetic formulas to refine warfarin dosing.
Dr. Alecia Willis, a clinical molecular geneticist, was recognized for her platform presentation on personal medical genomics at the American College of Medical Genetics Annual Clinical Genetics Meeting. The Signature Genomic Laboratories Travel Award supports rising medical genetic researchers in the field.
Dr. Marwan Khaled Tayeh was awarded the 2010 Richard King Trainee Award for his groundbreaking research on targeted comparative genomic hybridization array analysis. The award recognizes his contribution to the identification of deletions and duplications responsible for human diseases.
The American College of Medical Genetics Foundation has recognized Dr. Marilyn M. Li's efforts in advancing the field of medical genetics. She is being supported by a $100,000 grant to promote safe and effective genetic testing services.
Dr. Ayman W. El-Hattab, a Medical Genetics fellow, received the 2010-2011 Genzyme/ACMG Foundation Clinical Genetics Fellowship in Biochemical Genetics. The award supports his research on glucose kinetics in patients with MELAS syndrome via stable isotope technology.
Dr. Rimoin was recognized for his research into skeletal dysplasias and heritable disorders of connective tissue, and for helping to organize the field of medical genetics. He is one of the true giants of medical genetics, with a long distinguished career of research and leadership.
Dian Donnai, a leading expert on rare genetic diseases, has been awarded the March of Dimes/Colonel Harland Sanders Award for her pioneering work in defining and researching rare genetic conditions such as Williams syndrome. Her contributions have improved the lives of millions affected by these diseases.
Scientists have made a significant discovery in corn breeding that could lead to higher crop yields, improved disease resistance and heartier plants able to withstand severe weather. By understanding the genetics of photoperiod response, researchers hope to be able to overcome the barrier to using tropical maize for temperate varieties.
The Genetics/Genomics Competency Center is a free, Web-based resource providing materials on genetics and genomics for educators training nurses and physician assistants. The tool helps match existing educational resources with competencies for health professionals.
Researchers used population genetics approaches to identify gene variants that increase or decrease susceptibility to viral infections, finding 139 human genes with this effect. The study suggests these variants could be targeted for novel therapeutic approaches and vaccines.
Developed at the University of Utah's Genetic Science Learning Center, the websites are providing an excellent source of new material while educating a hugely diverse audience. They have been honored with the Science Prize for Online Resources in Education, recognizing their value as educational tools.
The Genetics Society of America has announced the recipients of the 2010 DeLill Nasser Travel Awards, which support young geneticists attending national and international meetings or laboratory courses. The six winners will use their awards to attend various conferences and workshops in the US and internationally.
Researchers identify key molecular switches controlling GABA transport, which could prevent seizure onset. The study uses C. elegans worms to reveal genetic factors contributing to epilepsy susceptibility.
Researchers have discovered how a 'genetic symphony' of genes affects plant development, enabling potential disease resistance and increased yields. The study found that combining different ACS genes regulates ethylene production, which impacts various aspects of plant growth.
Researchers found a gene deletion in chromosome 15 associated with significant learning and behavioral problems, including developmental delay, mental retardation, and epilepsy. The study suggests that the nicotinic receptor plays a crucial role in these conditions.
Researchers discovered a major metabolic switch in fruit flies that plays a key role in alcohol tolerance and found direct translation to humans. This discovery provides a crucial explanation of why some people tolerate alcohol better than others and offers a potential target for preventing or eliminating alcoholism.
UC researchers are examining the effects of ecstasy on young adult cognition, mood, and brain structure. They aim to understand how individual genetics moderate the negative effects of drug use.
Casework Genetics has developed a new technology to overcome mixed sample complexity, enabling law enforcement labs to solve crimes with greater precision and efficiency. The technology uses ultra high-density Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) arrays to distinguish characters within DNA.
The University of North Carolina has been awarded a $8.6 million NIH grant to investigate the complex factors contributing to psychiatric disorders such as autism, depression, and anxiety. By using laboratory mice to screen genetic possibilities, researchers aim to understand how genes and environment interact to shape these traits.
A study published in Genetics suggests that superoxides from the air can harm muscle tissue, leading to problems like aging and Parkinson's disease. Researchers found that introducing a mitochondrial enzyme helped protect muscle cells, increasing survival rates in fruit flies.
Dr. Jue D. Wang and Dr. Iiris Hovatta have been awarded the Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Awards for their pioneering work on DNA replication regulation and neuropsychiatric diseases. They will receive a $75,000 award over three years to support their research.
The American Society of Human Genetics presents the 2009 William Allan Award to Dr. Huntington F. Willard for his seminal findings in understanding chromosome structure and behavior. Willard's work has been instrumental in advancing human genetics, with a focus on X chromosome inactivation and centromeres.
Two studies by Dartmouth researchers analyzed how personal genetic testing companies use genome data to judge customer health, finding the knowledge base is still in its infancy. The authors also used genetic data to reveal ancestry information, discovering six subgroups of people with distinct genetic backgrounds.
A study published in the journal Genetics identified five new proteins necessary for memory, providing insight into fragile X mental retardation. The researchers used an artificial system to analyze the eye deformities caused by overexpression of a key protein, revealing that each protein is required for its function.
A new epigenetic model suggests that environmental factors play a significant role in shaping disease risk and heritability. The study provides a theoretical foundation for future public health interventions to reduce genetic risk by limiting or eliminating epigenetic changes.
Scientists identify a DNA template switching mechanism that can result in rearrangements of genes and exons, leading to copy number variation. This process, called fork stalling and template switching, occurs during cell division and can cause significant changes to the genome.
Researchers identified genetic regions responsible for animal tameness in a rat model of domestication. The study provides insight into the genetics and biology of tameness, potentially leading to more precise breeding strategies for tame animals.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified the FOXF1 transcription factor gene as responsible for a rare and deadly developmental disorder of the lungs, alveolar capillary dysplasia with misalignment of pulmonary veins. The discovery may lead to easier diagnosis and counseling for families affected by the disease.
The American College of Medical Genetics emphasizes the value of residual newborn screening dried blood spots in improving child health. The statement supports the storage and use of these spots to enhance newborn screening programs nationwide, while maintaining privacy and confidentiality.
Scientists have developed a new tool to identify big events in human history by examining tiny genetic differences. This research, published in the journal Genetics, confirms a major decline in European populations 32,500-47,500 years ago and helps pinpoint gene mutations linked to diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
The American Society of Human Genetics hosted its fourth annual DNA Day essay contest to educate students and teachers about genetic science. The contest challenged high school students to write original essays on the genetic basis of various traits, including health and disease. ASHG received over 300 submissions from around the world.