Articles tagged with Alleles
Researchers found that a genetic variant in the dopamine receptor gene delayed maturation of a brain region involved in reward planning in boys, but not girls. In girls, the opposite effect was seen, with the same variant delaying cortical maturation while promoting healthy development in boys.
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.
New study highlights challenges in predicting evolutionary fate of new traits, citing factors such as environmental change, social life of alleles, and genetic interactions. This complexity can lead to the emergence of drug resistance and disease outbreaks, emphasizing the need for improved predictive models.
A new study from the University of Illinois explains why herbicide rotation doesn't work against herbicide-resistant weeds like waterhemp. The researchers found that even with long rotations, the frequency of resistance alleles does not decrease significantly.
Research reveals that stingless bee queens rearing high rates of diploid males are sacrificed in up to 20 days, threatening the colony's survival. The emergence of these male bees with both paternal and maternal genetic material leads to reduced reproductive chances for the colony.
A new study published in JAMA Neurology analyzed 27 research studies and found that female carriers of the apolipoprotein E ?4 allele have a greater risk of developing Alzheimer disease, particularly between ages 65-75. The authors suggest physiologic changes associated with menopause and estrogen loss may underlie these sex differences.
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.
A gene mutation called the Met allele may accelerate memory and thinking skills decline in people at risk for Alzheimer's disease, according to a study published in Neurology. Researchers found that individuals with the mutation lost cognitive skills more rapidly than those without it.
Researchers found that genetic modifications are unlikely to conquer Earth due to natural resistance. Gene drives, like CRISPR/Cas9, can spread quickly but will eventually be outcompeted by natural selection.
Researchers have discovered a unique gene responsible for metabolic atrazine resistance in waterhemp, which can evolve resistance to multiple herbicides. The gene is associated with GST enzymes and has been found to make plants more resistant to herbicides.
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.
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.
A University of Florida researcher led a global team to identify chemical combinations that improve tomato flavor. The team used classical genetics to replace bad alleles with good ones in modern tomato varieties.
A team of researchers has identified genetic mutations that enable microalgae from the Southern Ocean to adapt to extreme and variable climates. The study provides insights into how polar organisms cope with environmental changes induced by human activity.
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.
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...
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.
Researchers discovered the DNA sequence responsible for determining leaf shapes in upland cotton, leading to potential improvements in crop yields and farmer costs. The study found that plants with leaves having five deep lobes, like okra, are less susceptible to boll rot and offer better dispersal for pesticides.
A genetic variant in the CXCL16 gene determines whether stallions become long-term carriers of equine arteritis virus. The study found that a specific allele codes for a protein that acts as an entry receptor for the virus, leading to persistence in carrier state.
VA researchers found certain HLA gene alleles offer protection from Gulf War illness, while lacking them makes veterans vulnerable to symptoms. The studies used MEG brain scans to track differences and found that such protection is manifested in the brain.
The Phase 3 analyses of tramiprosate in patients with Mild to Moderate Alzheimer's disease show a gene-dose effect, with the largest clinical benefit seen in patients who are APOE4/4 homozygotes. These results suggest that tramiprosate could be an effective treatment for patients with this genetic risk factor.
Researchers have created low-cost and sensitive assays to analyze Fragile X-related disorders, enabling preclinical and clinical research on this genetic mutation. The new tests can detect even small changes in DNA methylation and may be suitable for initial patient screening.
Researchers discovered that ambling horses first appeared in Medieval England, where they were bred by Vikings and later distributed globally. The genetic study found a specific variant of the DMRT3 gene associated with gaitedness in ancient horse remains.
A study suggests that adding DNA sequencing to current newborn screenings can predict the risk of developing CF earlier and improve outcomes. The researchers found that babies with a 5T allele may develop CF later in life, highlighting the need for additional screening.
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.
A study found that a gene variation linked to obesity also affects food intake regulation by altering the expression of nearby genes. Reduced expression of these genes led to increased food intake and weight gain in mice.
Researchers have identified correlations between Neandertal-derived genes and disease states in modern humans, including depression, addiction, and metabolism. The study found that Neandertal alleles were significantly correlated with the risk for 12 traits, including myocardial infarction and blood disorders.
A study found a correlation between serotonin gene alleles and brain thinning in individuals at high familial risk of depression. Those with the 'S' allele had lower brain plasticity and were more likely to develop depression when exposed to stressors.
Researchers found that genetic variants in the beta-3 subunit of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors can alter nicotine behavior. People carrying the more common version are more likely to have problems with nicotine use.
Researchers identified a genetic variant in the endocannabinoid system that may protect individuals from marijuana dependence after experiencing childhood sexual abuse. The study found that a specific allele of the monoacylglycerol lipase gene, known as rs604300, was associated with an increased risk of cannabis dependence symptoms.
A study by NIH researchers found that a specific variation in the BDNF gene may contribute to obesity, particularly in African Americans and Hispanics. The study suggests that boosting BDNF protein levels could offer a therapeutic strategy for those with the genetic variation.
A genetic variant near the KLF14 gene regulates fat storage in women, affecting their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The variant influences hip circumference, with women carrying one allele tending to have larger hips than those with the other allele.
A genetic polymorphism in the EPAS1 gene has been associated with poor prognosis and enhanced expression in patients with non-small cell lung cancer. The study found that individuals with the A allele had a significantly shorter overall survival time compared to those with the G allele.
A new procedure called CAUSEL uses genetic fine mapping, epigenomic profiling, epigenomic editing, genome editing, and phenotypic analysis to pinpoint disease-causing variants in non-coding genomes. The approach has shown promise in identifying disease-associated variants in prostate cancer risk.
Researchers found that genetic and lifestyle factors contribute to AMD in a synergistic way, increasing risk for women with heavy smoking and poor diet. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can lower AMD risk.
Researchers at Kansas State University have identified a key genetic link that enhances heterosis in sorghum, leading to improved plant height and potential increases in crop yield. The findings offer new insights into the complex genetic phenomena of heterosis and its impact on economically important traits.
A team of researchers has sequenced nearly two-thirds of barley's genes, revealing new insights into the grain's DNA and its applications in wheat and other food sources. The advancements will aid in precision plant breeding by identifying specific markers for traits like malting quality and stem rust resistance.
A new study found that people with a certain genetic variant, short alleles of the gene 5-HTTLPR, displayed greater genuine smiling and laughing while watching cartoons or subtly amusing film clips. The research suggests that this genetic variant may be associated with positive emotional expressions.
Researchers have identified a genetic association between elevated triglyceride levels and decreased type 2 diabetes incidence. Triglyceride-increasing alleles were found to be associated with lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, suggesting that these genetic variants may play a role in protecting against the disease.
Researchers discovered that Oct4 gene alleles pair up at critical moment of embryonic stem cell differentiation, a process called tissue-specific cell development. This phenomenon supports the notion that allele pairing plays a role in regulating gene expression.
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.
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...
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.
A study found that childhood adversity negates the protective effects of a specific gene variant on heavy alcohol consumption and symptoms of problem drinking. The research used data from European-American men, highlighting the importance of considering both genetic and environmental factors in understanding alcohol use disorders.
Researchers found that women with children carrying high-risk HLA genes are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis. The study suggests a possible link between fetal microchimerism and the disease, which may be mediated by interactions between immune system proteins encoded by these genes.
Researchers found a small but significant effect of gene conversion bias on the persistence of heritable diseases in populations. The study suggests that this bias may contribute to the retention of disease-associated alleles, increasing the risk of recessive diseases across populations.
A recent genetic study suggests that insensitive genes, rather than complex interactions, may be responsible for the slow pace of plant domestication. This finding could help explain the lag in the archeological record and provide insights into the early stages of domestication.
Researchers discovered a widespread longevity mutation in fruit flies, found in 17 of 22 lines gathered from around the globe. The mutation, called Hoppel, was linked to increased life span and reproductive fitness in heterozygous flies.
A new study found that the presence of a gene variant APOE epsilon 4 is associated with accelerated brain atrophy rates in individuals with mild cognitive impairment. The study used MRI to measure brain atrophy over a 12- to 48-month period and found that epsilon 4 carriers exhibited greater atrophy rates than non-carriers.
A study by Ludwig Cancer Research uncovers a genomic phenomenon that explains why genetically identical animals are different in their biology and appearance. Single cell analysis reveals that one allele is expressed in between 12-24% of all pairs, with random switching throughout life.
Research reveals that five amino acid differences control allelic variations in the csd gene, determining femaleness in honeybees. The study found an evolutionary intermediate with only three amino acid differences between lethality and induced femaleness, supporting incomplete penetrance as a mechanism for gradual molecular evolution.
A new study reveals that the honey bee sex determiner gene has 87-145 alleles, a significant increase in genetic diversity compared to previous estimates of 20 alleles. This discovery is crucial for apiculture, as it helps minimize the risk of inbreeding and produces diploid drones.
A study published in the journal Emotion found that a specific gene variant, 5-HTTLPR, plays a crucial role in determining how much emotions affect relationships. Individuals with two short alleles of this gene tend to thrive in good relationships and suffer in bad ones.
Researchers from RIKEN Center for Life Science Technologies identified a genetic mutation associated with improved survival rates in lung cancer patients who do not smoke. The mutation affects the NRF2 gene, which protects cells from oxidative stress.
Researchers at Indiana University found that asexual lineages are more susceptible to extinction due to fast-paced gene conversion processes. This process exposes pre-existing deleterious recessive mutations, contributing to the decline of asexual populations.
Researchers at Whitehead Institute have developed a method to create conditional mutant mice using CRISPR/Cas, accelerating the process from years to weeks. This allows scientists to model diseases and study gene function with more efficiency.
A new mechanism, critical for maintaining the balance between active and reserve hematopoietic stem cells, is identified through genomic imprinting. This process prevents premature activation of the reserve pool, ensuring its long-term maintenance.
A study found that the 'obesity-risk' FTO allele alters hunger-stimulating hormone production, leading to increased food consumption and satiety impairment. The research also reveals a direct link between FTO and ghrelin mRNA demethylation, providing new insights into obesity development.
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.
Researchers found that Nanog is expressed similarly to other pluripotency markers, contradicting previous findings. This discovery could lead to reconsideration of the role of Nanog in differentiating embryonic stem cells.