Scientists classify all gene promoters into two distinct types differing in nucleosome stability, with one type found at highly expressed growth-related genes and the other at less frequently expressed genes. The study reveals the role of dynamic nucleosomes in increasing access to promoter DNA for transcription initiation.
Cell membranes deform when viruses detach and during cell division, thanks to the ESCRT-III protein complex forming a molecular spring. Researchers used high-speed atomic force microscopy to observe the complex's movements in real-time, validating their theoretical models.
Scientists have identified a human cell protein called PLEKHA7 as a key modulator of Staphylococcus aureus virulence. Mice lacking this protein showed improved healing from skin infections and pneumonia, paving the way for potential new therapies to combat antibiotic-resistant strains.
Researchers at the University of Geneva have confirmed that glutamate is an essential energy source for the brain, which cannot store glucose. In its absence, the brain sends signals to the liver to increase glucose production, leading to muscle loss and growth deficits.
Researchers from UNIGE and Trento University have deciphered the mechanism by which HIV infectivity is destroyed, revealing a new antiretroviral protein called SERINC5. SERINC5 enhances cell defense against HIV, rendering Nef's ability to neutralize it ineffective.
Researchers discovered a network of transporters involved in controlling hormone ABA transport to seed embryos, ensuring optimal germination timing. This knowledge can be integrated into breeding programs to prevent premature germination and reduce economic losses.
A new method reconciles observational proxy and model evidence, demonstrating that the Tampora and Samalas eruptions generated an average drop in temperature in the Northern Hemisphere fluctuating between 0.8 and 1.3°C during the summer of 1258 and 1816. This cooling did not last for more than three years at a hemispheric scale.
Scientists have created a tool that can identify thousands of chemosensory receptors stimulated by specific smells in various species, from mice to flies. This breakthrough could help unravel the logic of chemosensory code across animal species and has countless applications, including understanding behaviors triggered by odorants.
Researchers discovered that genetic variation impacts multiple, separated gene regulatory elements simultaneously, revealing a harmonized and synergistic behavior. This study sheds light on fundamental aspects of genome biology and its role in complex diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
Researchers developed a biosensor to measure Mitochondrial Pyruvate Carrier (MPC) activity in malignant cells, finding low MPC activity compared to healthy cells. Treating cancer cells with a new compound restored normal MPC activity, suggesting the carrier's dysfunction is responsible for its inactivity.
Researchers from Université de Genève found that activated neurons swell due to massive entry of water, providing a new insight into brain functioning. This discovery enables the detection of cellular mechanisms behind brain activity, allowing for more accurate localization and pathologies diagnosis.
A team of researchers discovered that the main clock of flies is controlled by mechanisms similar to those regulating human internal clocks. This study demonstrates how distant organisms can share similar biological clock gears despite displaying different circadian activities.
Researchers have developed a new tool to study TORC2, a protein critical for cell growth and cancer development. By understanding its structure and function, scientists can identify potential inhibitors of this complex, which could lead to the development of new anti-cancer agents.
A new study reveals that the panther chameleon, found only in Madagascar, is composed of 11 different species. Genetic analysis and colour patterns confirmed strong genetic structure among populations, with low interbreeding among lineages.
A team of researchers has discovered a hidden companion to Delta Cephei, a key variable star used for measuring cosmic distances. The companion, with a mass around 10 times lower than Delta Cephei's, was detected using high-precision Doppler spectroscopy and is likely to impact the accuracy of distance measurements.
Researchers at Université de Genève discover that chameleons change colors through the active tuning of a lattice of nanocrystals in iridophores. This unique system allows for rapid shifts between efficient camouflage and spectacular display, while also providing passive thermal protection.
Researchers at UNIGE reconcile two dominant endocytosis theories, proposing a balanced interplay between clathrin proteins and other adaptors. The study suggests that clathrins do not dominate the process, but rather contribute to a subtle energy-based deformation of the membrane.
Researchers identified a novel mechanism in mitochondrial RNA maturation, involving the protein FASTK. This discovery provides insights into mitochondrial genetic diseases and their treatment.
Researchers have discovered that Alu RNAs form complexes with specific proteins, regulating ribosome activity and contributing to cell immunity. This process helps cells adapt to stress and defend against viruses, such as HIV and hepatitis C.
A study by the University of Geneva reveals how mice avoid their sick peers through the detection of specific olfactory signals by the vomeronasal system. This neural mechanism allows rodents to recognize and avoid diseased individuals, providing a new understanding of social behavior and innate defense strategies.
Researchers found that a high-calorie diet before tumor onset can trigger ER stress, hindering tumor growth. The study identified a specific protein, FKBP10, as a potential therapeutic target, which could selectively inhibit cancer cell proliferation without damaging healthy tissues.
Geneticists identified double minutes in glioblastoma cells with specific oncogenes, which amplify malignancy and give cancer cells an adaptive edge. The presence of these mini-chromosomes is detected in most aggressive cancers.
Researchers sequenced RNA of 400 pairs of twins to understand genetic and environmental context on gene expression. They found that both genetic and environmental factors contribute significantly to the way a person's genetic composition is expressed and their risk of developing certain diseases.
Research shows that serotonin's early regulation is vital for brain circuit formation, particularly in inhibitory interneurons. Dysregulation of this system can lead to psychiatric problems, highlighting the importance of understanding its role in brain development.
A study by Denis Duboule's team found that the formation of digits and external genitals involves a similar group of genes, with small modifications controlling their development. The researchers used chromosome conformation capture to demonstrate that a single regulatory DNA sequence controls both processes.
A team of researchers from Université de Genève and Hungarian Academy of Sciences disproves Asher Peres's conjecture that the weakest form of quantum entanglement can never result in the strongest manifestation of nonlocality. They find a counter-example using numerical algorithms, showing bound entanglement can violate Bell's inequality.
A new EU-funded consortium aims to develop new economic models for antibiotic R&D and define responsible use of dwindling antibiotics. The DRIVE-AB project involves 11 European countries and partners across industries to address the global threat of antibiotic resistance.
Researchers at Université de Genève have successfully teleported the quantum state of a photon to a crystal over 25 kilometers of optical fibre, surpassing their previous record of 6 kilometers. This experiment demonstrates that quantum state can exist independently of material composition.
Neuroscientists found that sensory stimuli, even when neurons are silent, can generate long-term synaptic strengthening. This discovery challenges traditional models of synaptic plasticity and has implications for understanding learning and memory, as well as therapeutic possibilities.
Researchers found that administering EPO immediately after birth significantly reduces brain damage in premature babies. This study builds on previous research showing EPO's neuroprotective effects and holds promise for preventing long-term consequences of preterm birth.
Research identifies RAS oncogene involvement in DS-ALL cases, highlighting genetic insights into leukemia risk in children with Down syndrome. Geneticists sequenced exomes of affected individuals, shedding light on disease characteristics.
Researchers developed a new method to estimate magma volume and flow, enabling more accurate predictions of future volcanic eruptions. This technique uses zircon crystals to determine the age and injection rate of magma, providing insights into Earth's crust formation, mineral deposits, and natural resources.
A team of geneticists decodes the role of non-coding DNA in colorectal cancer, identifying two types of mutations that contribute to disease progression. The study reveals the importance of non-coding regions in regulating gene expression and suggests a new approach for understanding the genetics behind various cancers.
A team at Université de Genève identified a new cellular mechanism involving non-neuronal cells called astrocytes that stabilize neuron connections. This process protects synapses and allows learning to leave a mark on memory. The study sheds light on the importance of astrocytes in learning, memory, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Using genetic barcoding, researchers found large variations in foraminiferal species collected near salmon farms compared to remote sites. The study established a correlation between species richness and distance from the cages, indicating diminishing species diversity on sites affected by farming.
Researchers at UNIGE identified a mutation in the HHAT gene, which plays a key role in embryonic development and affects sexual development, growth, and skeletal development. The study provides new insights into Hedgehog signaling and has implications for genetic testing and treatment of patients with disorders of sex development.
Researchers studied identical twins with trisomy 21 to understand gene expression changes. The study found that extra chromosome 21 affects entire genome, leading to various pathologies and disrupting cellular function.
A team of researchers has discovered a cellular factor called Rif1 that regulates the timing of DNA replication, ensuring proper cell division and preventing tumor formation. The study suggests that Rif1 prevents 'DNA replication stress', a process causing genome instability.
Researchers at the University of Geneva have discovered a new class of molecules that target the heat shock protein 90 in Plasmodium falciparum, a key factor in malaria resistance. The study reveals five candidate molecules toxic to the parasite but not human red blood cells.
Researchers discovered similar 3D DNA organization in fish and mouse clusters, indicating the main mechanism for patterning tetrapod limbs was present in fish. The study suggests that digits evolved by modernizing an ancestral regulatory mechanism.
Researchers have discovered that tumour cells adopt the 'break-induced replication' (BIR) pathway to repair damaged replication forks, allowing for genome duplication. This pathway is common in cancer cells but rare in healthy cells, revealing a significant difference between these two types of cells.
A team at the University of Geneva has generated a transgenic plant that constantly detects and responds to UV-B rays, producing high levels of antioxidants and flavonoids. This plant is equipped with an UVR8 mutated receptor, which remains active even without UV exposure.
Nuclear pores serve as transcription factories for genes, regulating their production speed. The discovery reveals a new role for these microscopic structures in the cell nucleus.
A comprehensive map of functional genetic variation in humans has been published, revealing the genetic causes of differences between individuals. The study provides powerful clues for diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention of various diseases.
Scientists identified mechanisms necessary to live without insulin, a breakthrough that could lead to alternative treatments against diabetes. Researchers found leptin regulates glucose levels and reduces the risk of hypoglycemia, offering hope for patients.
Researchers found that odor representation changes after the first inhalation and an olfactory retentivity persists, comparable to vision and hearing. This phenomenon enables the identification of new odors in complex environments and participates in odor memorization.
Researchers from UNIGE have successfully entangled two optic fibers populated by 500 photons, surviving on a macroscopic level. The phenomenon demonstrates that larger elements can retain their quantum properties, despite interactions with the surrounding environment.
A team from UNIGE developed a biotechnology that enables the direct observation of 'clock genes' in mice for several months. This allows researchers to study molecular mechanisms that regulate internal clocks and their impact on various biological functions.
Researchers have identified two genomic variations on chromosome 21 that are associated with the risk of congenital heart disease in people with Down syndrome. The study highlights the complex genetic architecture underlying this common symptom, which is also linked to an increased risk of chronic myeloid leukemia.
Scientists demonstrate the existence of two distinct regulatory domains controlling arm and hand formation, revealing a complex genetic switch that enables wrist emergence. The study sheds light on the molecular processes governing limb development, highlighting the intricate dialogue between genes and regulatory elements.