Articles tagged with Alleles
Scientists have discovered that an enzyme called RNA-dependent RNA polymerase is needed for paramutation, a phenomenon where one version of a gene can order another to act differently. This finding has significant implications for breeding better crop plants and unraveling complex genetic diseases, including some human health conditions.
Research found that middle-aged adults with a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's develop lower levels of A42 protein in their spinal fluid. This could provide an early clue to the development of Alzheimer's, allowing for potential prevention and treatment strategies.
A study found that genetic variants in the COMT gene, Val158Met, are associated with different drinking patterns and comorbidity among Plains American Indians. The Met allele was protective against alcoholism, while the Val allele was a risk factor for smoking, particularly in women.
A study found that patients with multiple sclerosis were more likely to carry a specific variation of the gene EBF-1, which is involved in axonal damage. The researchers also discovered that one version of the microsatellite within the gene was more frequently found in MS patients than healthy controls.
Researchers found a significant association between the mitochondrial DNA variant and increased breast cancer risk in African-American women, while white women carry a much higher frequency of the allele without apparent implications for breast cancer risk.
Researchers found that a person's specific allele of a single bitter-taste-receptor gene determines their perceptual sensitivity to PTC and related compounds. This suggests that genetic variations play a dominant role in determining individual differences in bitter-taste perception.
A study found that individuals with the G variant of the OPRM1 gene have a greater likelihood of experiencing stronger subjective feelings from alcohol and a higher risk of developing alcohol-use disorders. This genetic difference affects how the brain responds to endogenous opiates, influencing motivation and reinforcement.
Researchers discovered that specific HLA-B alleles generate stronger immune responses against HIV, influencing viral load and immune system health. The findings have significant implications for vaccine development to combat the AIDS epidemic.
A genetic variant in PPAR-alpha has been linked to reduced heart pumping strength, with patients inheriting the polymorphism experiencing lower ejection fractions. The study's findings suggest that PPAR signaling may play a key role in the development of heart failure, and future research aims to develop therapies targeting this pathway.
Researchers isolated a honeybee gene called csd, revealing that female bees have two different versions of the gene that form an active protein triggering female development. This discovery explains how male and female bees develop from fertilized and unfertilized eggs, respectively.
Researchers found that a specific gene variant interacts with stressful events to predict depression risk, with individuals carrying a short allele more vulnerable to depression after stress. The study's findings suggest new potential treatments and diagnostic techniques for millions of people worldwide affected by depression.
A specific gene variation, CYP2A6del, may inhibit smokers from quitting and protect against pulmonary emphysema. The study found that this allele was more common in heavy smokers who consumed fewer cigarettes and had a lower risk of developing lung disease.
Researchers developed new compounds to optimize apoptosis-inducing ability of celecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor. They found that the structural features required for apoptosis induction differ from those required for COX-2 inhibition.
Researchers found a genetic link between a specific enzyme and increased risk of heart failure in alcoholics, with those having two copies of the D allele facing a 16 times greater risk. This discovery opens up possibilities for uncovering other genetic predispositions for various alcohol-related diseases.
A gene found in some people of African descent may increase the chance of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), which can be lethal in rare cases. Precautions such as taking alternative diuretics and staying hydrated during exercise may help reduce risk, say researchers.
Researchers have discovered a genetic environment behind nerve-tissue tumors that lead to cancer, specifically NF-1. The study found that tumors grow in a permissive environment but are nonexistent when the environment is restrictive, offering new hope for treatment approaches.
Researchers investigate subtle cognitive changes and brain asymmetry as potential precursors to Alzheimer's Disease, using neuropsychological tests to track changes in cognition over time. The studies aim to identify individuals at high risk of developing the disease, enabling earlier intervention and minimizing brain damage.
Research finds a genetic basis for behavior in infancy, linking attachment disorganization to dopamine D4 receptor gene polymorphisms. The study identifies specific variants that enhance the risk of disorganized attachment, supporting the role of DRD4 as a genetic susceptibility factor.
Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center discovered that single mismatches in DNA typing are well-tolerated by patients, increasing the chances of successful transplantation. This breakthrough enables patients to find suitable donors without a perfect match.
Research suggests a link between genetic variation in the ADH2 gene and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) prevalence. The study found that individuals with the ADH2*2 allele had a lower risk of FAS, suggesting potential protection against fetal alcohol exposure.
A study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that the ADH2*3 allele may be associated with a lowered risk for developing alcoholism in young African American adults. The allele, which is prevalent among people of African descent, has been linked to faster and more efficient alcohol metabolism.
Researchers investigate phenotypic variability in cystic fibrosis, revealing its impact on disease progression and treatment outcomes. The study highlights the importance of personalized medicine approaches to better manage CF patients.
Researchers found significant susceptibility for thyroid autoimmune disorders and Type 1 diabetes mellitus associated with DQ2 alleles, primarily transmitted from fathers to affected daughters. Hormonal factors may also regulate this interaction, as observed in the transmission of disease to pre- and postpubertal individuals.
A genome-wide study of 308 long-lived individuals revealed a significant correlation between allele sharing on chromosome 4 and longevity. This suggests that the region may contain genes influencing human lifespan, with potential applications in preventing age-associated diseases such as heart disease and Alzheimer's disease.
A German research team found that people who inherit two copies of the GNB3 825T allele gene have a high risk of obesity if they do not engage in regular physical activity. Exercising for two hours or more a week appears to block the genetic tendency, highlighting the importance of lifestyle in preventing obesity-related diseases.
Researchers found that a common mutation in the CYP17 gene is associated with higher testosterone levels and larger, stronger bones in men. The study measured hormone levels, stature, and bone mass in 333 Caucasian men aged 51-84 years.
A University of Pittsburgh-led study has found a specific gene, APOE-4, to be associated with an increased risk of hip and wrist fractures in women over 65. The researchers discovered that women carrying the APOE-4 allele were twice as likely to suffer these fractures compared to those without the allele.
Researchers identified preferential transmission of alleles at the Dopamine transporter gene (DAT1), Dopamine-b-hydroxylase (DBH), and Dopamine D5 receptor (DRD5) in affected children. The findings suggest a possible genetic contribution to the disorder, with stronger transmission of associated alleles in familial cases.
Researchers found that a specific gene variant, e4, is linked to higher risk of intracerebral hemorrhages (ICH), a severe form of stroke, in African Americans. The study also revealed that these strokes occur at an earlier age in African Americans compared to whites.
A population association study found a higher percentage of the 7 repeat allele and 7+ genotype in ADHD children compared to controls. The study also identified significant positive results from a family-based approach, providing additional evidence for an association between DRD4 gene and ADHD.
A study of 129 individuals found an association between the DRD2 A1 allele and schizoid/avoidant behaviors, with severity increasing with frequency of the DRD2 A1 allele. The findings suggest a genetic link between dopamine system variations and personality traits.
A study from Rockefeller University found that a specific altered gene, COMT, may increase the risk of OCD in men. The researchers discovered that this gene affects the production of dopamine and norepinephrine, leading to a biochemical imbalance that contributes to the development of OCD.