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More traits associated with your Neandertal DNA

Neandertal DNA has been linked to various human characteristics, including skin tone, hair color, and sleep patterns. The study suggests that sun exposure plays a crucial role in shaping these traits, with Neandertal genes contributing to lighter or darker skin tones.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateOct 5, 2017

Gene variant activity is surprisingly variable between tissues

A comprehensive analysis of gene variants in 23 different tissues and developmental stages of mice reveals tissue-specific differences in gene variant activity. The study found that genetic and epigenetic differences contribute to these patterns, with some genes escaping X-chromosome inactivation and exhibiting high rates of activity.

Neanderthal DNA contributes to human gene expression

Researchers found that Neanderthal DNA sequences still influence human gene expression, contributing to traits such as height and susceptibility to schizophrenia or lupus. The study used the Genotype-Tissue Expression Project dataset and analyzed RNA sequences in 52 different tissues.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateFeb 23, 2017

Stepping up the hunt for genetic diseases

A new genomic technique has been devised to quickly and accurately detect imprinted genes expressed in each cell type, improving diagnosis of genetic diseases like Prader-Willi and Angelman syndrome. Researchers have identified novel imprinted genes and demonstrated their tissue-specific expression.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 16, 2017

'Dementia gene' may guard against decline associated with parasitic disease

Research suggests that the Apolipoprotein E4 allele, associated with high risk for Alzheimer's and cardiovascular diseases, may offer protection against cognitive decline caused by parasitic infections. In a remote population of Amazonian foragers, carriers of this allele maintained cognitive performance despite high parasite burdens.

Ancient DNA can both diminish and defend modern minds

A recent study published in The FASEB Journal found that the Apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4) allele, associated with increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline in industrialized societies, may actually improve cognitive function in individuals exposed to high levels of parasites in a traditional foraging environment. This su...

SourceArizona State University·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateDec 30, 2016

Jawing away: Bahama pupfish study identifies candidate genes driving food-niches

A recent study on Bahama pupfish has identified 12 million single DNA mutations associated with jaw size differences and specialized diets. The researchers found novel candidate genes linked to large jaws and small jaws, highlighting the complexity of ecological specialization in this species.

Some frogs are adapting to deadly pathogen

Researchers found that some frogs in Arizona are rapidly adapting to the fungal pathogen Batrachochrytrium dendrobatridis, which causes chytridiomycosis. The study identified a specific genetic variant, allele Q, that confers immunity to the disease, and showed that these variants were being rapidly inherited and evolving.

Brain region vulnerable to aging is larger in those with longevity gene variant

Researchers found that individuals carrying a single copy of the KLOTHO allele, associated with better cognition and longevity, have larger volumes in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. This brain region is vulnerable to atrophy as people age, impacting planning and decision-making abilities.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateJan 27, 2015

A key human gene modifies the immune response to flu vaccine

A study found that genetic variants in the IL-28B gene affect influenza vaccine responses. Individuals with at least one copy of the minor allele were more likely to achieve seroconversion after vaccination, particularly those on high doses of immune-suppressive drugs. Blocking the IL-28B receptor may boost the antibody response to flu...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 11, 2014

UTMB scientist finds marker that predicts cholesterol level changes as people grow older

Researchers found a link between the APOE e4 allele and increased risk of cardiovascular disease, as well as lower HDL cholesterol levels. Higher cholesterol in older adults may be associated with longevity, challenging current cholesterol-lowering medication practices.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateNov 19, 2014

JCI early table of contents for July 15, 2013

Research identifies a link between the FTO gene and increased hunger-stimulating hormone production in individuals prone to obesity. Additionally, studies show that adult brown fat levels increase with cold exposure, which may provide a new strategy for combating obesity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 15, 2013