Articles tagged with Regulatory Genes
University of Oklahoma faculty members Vivek Bajpai, John R. Clegg, and Stefan Wilhelm have received NIH funding to study epigenetic mechanisms driving human pigmentation diversity and brain-resident immune cell phenotypes in brain damage associated with inflammatory disease.
A team of researchers has discovered that the worm C. elegans uses a unique system to regulate its development, with a quartet of molecules working in concert to control gene expression. This process shares similarities with human circadian clocks, and understanding how it operates could provide insights into developmental biology.
A study published in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity found that inflammation-related genes play a significant role in depression. The researchers discovered correlations between immune-related genes, DNA methylation patterns, and brain structure abnormalities in patients with major depressive disorder.
Sahmyook University researchers discovered a correlation between methamphetamine-induced behavior and the expression of specific genes in mice models lacking Period 2 gene. They identified 19 genes that were activated only in response to repeated doses of methamphetamine.
Salk researchers have identified a new set of molecules that fuel the growth of tumors in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common type of pancreatic cancer. The study found that activating a super-enhancer leads to an increase in protein production, enabling rapid cell growth.
A new study reveals that boys who smoke in their early teens may damage the genes of their future children, leading to increased risks of developing asthma, obesity, and low lung function. Researchers investigated epigenetic profiles of 875 people aged 7-50 and found changes associated with fathers' teenage smoking.
Researchers have discovered how plants pass along chemical markers that instruct cells on using DNA codes, a process known as epigenetic inheritance. The study reveals the role of protein DDM1 in making way for enzymes that add regulatory marks to new DNA strands, preserving genetic controls across generations.
A team of KAUST researchers has found a critical protein that regulates cell division and proliferation in breast cancer and leukemia. Their work clears the way for the development of targeted drugs by refuting recent challenges to their approach.
Scientists successfully transfer a longevity gene from naked mole rats to mice, resulting in improved health and a 4.4% increase in median lifespan. The gene enhances cellular repair and protection, reducing inflammation and cancer risk, paving the way for potential human longevity benefits.
Researchers found that genetically modified tobacco mutants, impaired in their defenses, outperformed wild-type plants in years with low herbivore pressure. The mutants' prioritization of growth and reproduction over defense allowed them to thrive in environments with limited insect damage.
Researchers have discovered a possible link between mitochondrial function and schizophrenia, highlighting impaired energy production as a key factor in its development. Mitochondrial dysregulation can cause psychiatric symptoms and disorders, and its effects are seen not only in the brain but also in other cells, such as kidney cells.
Researchers found that epigenetic silencing shuts off key genes required for sensory cell conversion. Enzyme TET can remove methyl groups to reverse gene silencing and restore hearing capability. Progenitor cells in deaf ears may already be primed to convert into sensory hearing cells.
A study published in Science has identified 135 previously unknown genes associated with pigmentation, shedding light on the regulation of melanin production in humans. The research could help protect lighter-skinned individuals from skin cancer and develop new treatments for vitiligo and other pigmentation diseases.
A new study has identified four genetic variants associated with the direction of human scalp hair whorls, revealing a polygenic inheritance pattern. The findings may help unravel biological processes related to abnormal neurological development.
A recent study discovered the complex circadian clock mechanisms in soil bacteria Bacillus subtilis, regulating multiple genes and behaviors. The findings have significant implications for industrial applications, human health, and plant science.
Researchers found that Period 1 gene becomes more active in memory-forming region of brain in daylight hours after learning, playing crucial role in consolidating memories. Mice exhibit improved daytime memory performance compared to nighttime.
Scientists at Max Delbrück Center discovered two lead compounds that inhibit activation of IKK/NF-κB pathway only when triggered by DNA double-strand breaks. These substances make cancer cells more sensitive to chemotherapy, potentially increasing the success rate of genotoxic cancer therapies.
A new study reveals that the cellular chaperone protein GRP78 migrates to the nucleus under stress and alters gene activities, allowing cancer cells to become more mobile and invasive. This discovery offers potential new approaches for cancer treatment, including down-regulating GRP78 activity or preventing it from binding to ID2.
Researchers at EMBL Heidelberg discovered that mutations in the RBM20 gene cause familial DCM by disrupting normal RNA splicing, leading to detrimental cytoplasmic granules. Targeted gene editing via CRISPR-Cas9 and restoring nuclear localisation of RBM20 could improve therapy options for patients.
Mutations in parkin gene break down contacts between lysosomes and mitochondria, disrupting essential metabolite supply to mitochondria. Restoring these contacts may represent a new therapeutic opportunity for Parkinson’s disease.
The study of ToxR's protein structure bound to DNA has revealed how it triggers cholera toxin production. The research provides insights into the molecular mechanism behind Vibrio cholerae's virulence, shedding light on potential treatments for this disease.
Fetuses use a copy of a gene inherited from their dad to force their mum to release as much nutrients possible during pregnancy. This 'remote-control' system is operated by genes that can be switched on or off depending on whether they are a 'dad's' or 'mum's' gene.
Research suggests that consuming THC during pregnancy can alter the placental and fetal epigenome, leading to changes in gene regulation and expression associated with neurobehavioral disorders. The study's findings highlight the need for better understanding of the potential long-term health impacts of prenatal cannabis exposure.
Researchers have identified two candidate genes, EPHA6 and MUC4, that may play a role in gut chronic inflammation leading to IBD. The study used genetically diverse mice to mirror human populations and found that increased expression of MUC4 in part of the colon may increase IBD risk in humans.
Researchers from IMBA identify a family of virus-like transposons called Mavericks that facilitate horizontal gene transfer (HGT) between reproductively isolated worm species. The study reveals the role of Mavericks in overcoming the species barrier, with potential applications in pathogen control and genomic innovation.
Researchers created the Cancer Atlas of Metabolic Profiles (CAMP) to analyze gene activity and metabolite levels in tumor samples. The atlas reveals two broad classes of gene-metabolite connections, pointing to mechanisms at work across cancer types.
A research group at Nagoya University used AI to determine that Piezo plays a crucial role in controlling the mating posture of male fruit flies. Inhibition of Piezo led to an ineffective mating posture, resulting in decreased reproductive performance.
Researchers discovered a TIR1/AFB-independent auxin signaling mechanism in Klebsormidium nitens, a primitive alga. They identified KnRAV as a key transcription factor that activates auxin-inducible genes and binds to promoter sequences.
A new study from the Van Andel Research Institute reveals that loss of two key 'protector' proteins, TET and RYBP, transforms healthy lung cells into cancerous ones through epigenetic changes. The research found that deficiency of these proteins leads to widespread aberrant methylation and malignant transformation.
The study found that drug-resistant Leishmania parasites have distinct protein production profiles compared to sensitive parasites, suggesting a global reprogramming of protein synthesis. This pre-emptive adaptation enables the parasite to quickly respond to the presence of the drug and survive when it is absent.
A preclinical study has uncovered the role of Y chromosome gene KDM5D in regulating anti-tumor immune responses and promoting metastasis in male patients with KRAS-mutated colorectal cancer. The study reveals that mutant KRAS drives upregulation of KDM5D, leading to reduced cell adhesion and immune recognition by the immune system.
Researchers developed Genome Architecture Mapping (GAM) to study DNA interactions, revealing novel three-dimensional configurations that were invisible to Hi-C. This technique provides a more comprehensive understanding of genome organization and its impact on health and disease.
Research identifies beneficial changes in immune system during pregnancy, which can lead to new treatment strategies for MS. Women with MS experience a 70% decrease in relapses during the last third of pregnancy, possibly due to epigenetic changes and hormone regulation.
A new study published in Aging-US has identified the p53-p16/RB-E2F-DREAM complex as a critical regulator of cellular senescence. The researchers found that this complex represses multiple target genes involved in cell cycle regulation, DNA repair, and chromatin structure, leading to the stability of the senescent arrest.
Scientists at University of Virginia Health System discovered a gene that acts as a master controller for immune tolerance, shedding light on how our immune systems are calibrated to prevent MS. The new understanding could lead to better, more targeted treatments.
LSU Health New Orleans researchers found that a combination therapy using Neuroprotectin D1 and Resolvin D1 boosted brain cell survival, growth, and stability. The therapy showed promising results in reducing lesion volume and improving neurological function in acute ischemic stroke models.
Researchers analyzed BORIS mutations and protein expression in breast cancer tissue samples, finding frequent mutations associated with breast carcinoma progression. The study suggests the BORIS gene as a potential biomarker for breast cancer.
A new study explores the genetic mechanisms underlying honey bee colony defense and aggression, revealing that gene regulation influences collective behavior and division of labor. Researchers found that brain gene regulatory networks differ between soldiers and foragers, particularly in more aggressive colonies.
Researchers identified mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs targeted by stress granule proteins, which accumulate AD-associated gene transcripts in these structures. SGs may play a key role in regulating AD development through the impairment of protein neurohomeostasis.
Researchers found that MALAT1 inhibition decreased BRAF RNA and protein levels, while increasing correlation with MAPK-associated genes. MALAT1-ASO treatment also reduced melanoma cell growth and tumor size in xenograft models.
Researchers found that genetic predisposition to lipids, Alzheimer's, and heart disease in the MLXIPL gene locus is shaped by exogenous exposures. Minor alleles of certain variants associated with high triglyceride levels and lower HDL-C levels, which may provide protective effects against Alzheimer's risk.
A research team has developed a method to identify genetic variations responsible for differences in plant traits. The study found thousands of variations associated with traits like yield and pest resistance in maize. These regions can be targeted for plant breeding, leading to improved crop varieties.
Researchers have identified two novel DOF family transcription factors that enhance wheat regeneration and genetic transformation. These findings provide new insights into the transcriptional regulatory network involved in boosting wheat regeneration, offering opportunities for improving crop improvement.
Researchers create high-resolution maps of the 3D genome, revealing interactions between enhancers and promoters that weren't previously seen. The findings suggest many genes interact with dozens of regulatory elements, opening possibilities for studying gene regulation and potentially understanding diseases.
Large structural changes in human ancestors' genomes may have sparked smaller changes that set human brains apart from other primates. Researchers found that many enhancers, which regulate brain development, are located near these regions, suggesting a link between DNA folding and brain evolution.
Researchers found a genetic variant of TNFAIP3, which regulates inflammation, can paradoxically protect the kidneys from damage in the short term. The study could lead to simple genetic tests for predicting kidney disease risk and personalized treatment approaches.
A study published in Circulation Research identifies the FHL5 gene as a key regulator of vascular disease, including heart attacks and aneurysms. The discovery advances our understanding of the underlying causes of vascular disease and provides new insights into genetic risk factors.
A recent study has identified 60 unique brain proteins that may influence body weight via their expression in the brain. Genetic factors are believed to contribute to up to 50-75% of BMI variation, with the brain playing a critical role in regulating energy homeostasis.
A UC Riverside study identifies how a Fragile X gene mutation contributes to premature ovarian failure, leading to early infertility. Researchers found that the mutation affects neurons regulating reproduction in the brain and ovaries, causing an increase in hormone production and faster secretion rates.
Scientists have identified an autoinflammatory disease called Lyn kinase-associated vasculopathy and liver fibrosis (LAVLI) linked to mutations in the LYN gene. The research suggests that Lyn kinase may be a potential therapeutic target for drugs treating non-syndromic small vessel vasculitis and inflammation-induced liver fibrosis.
Researchers have found that valosin-containing protein (VCP) is essential for KRAS-mutant pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cell growth and survival. Inhibiting VCP, combined with autophagy inhibition, enhances efficacy in preclinical studies.
Researchers identified over 1,000 genes with age-related methylation changes in human sperm. These changes are associated with increased offspring disease susceptibility for neurodevelopmental disorders. The study found no correlation between paternal BMI or semen quality and age-related methylation changes.
Children with Down syndrome are highly vulnerable to developing aggressive leukaemia due to a defect in the RUNX1 gene, which regulates blood cell formation. Researchers have identified a specific variant of the gene that promotes leukaemia development and discovered potential therapeutic approaches to correct this malfunction.
A study by Kumamoto University researchers reveals LSD1's role in regulating skeletal muscle response to environmental stress. The findings suggest that LSD1 moderates muscle adaptation to environmental conditions, with potential implications for maintaining muscle health and preventing diseases such as sarcopenia.
A new drug called CADD522 blocks a gene associated with driving bone cancer's spread, increasing survival rates by 50% in mice implanted with human bone cancer. The breakthrough treatment shows promise in all main bone cancer subtypes and has the potential to save lives and reduce disability.
A single gene controls a switch between two alternative cell fates in a species of sea anemone, enabling the transition from a piercing cell to a sticky cell. This finding suggests that the nematocyte cell may have evolved from a spirocyte thanks to the development of the NvSox2 gene.
A team of researchers from the University of Minnesota Medical School identified approximately 100 genes associated with fat deposition in women. One gene, SNX10, was found to be strongly associated with cholesterol and triglycerides, which has implications for cardiovascular health.
Researchers used AgRenSeq genomic discovery method to identify two genes protecting experimental wheat plants against wheat blast. The study highlights the power of heritage wheat varieties and wild grass relatives in providing disease-fighting diversity.
Researchers have discovered that cocaine addiction is associated with faster brain aging, with changes in DNA methylation in the prefrontal cortex contributing to this effect. The study, which analyzed cryo-preserved brains of deceased male donors, found that cells in this region appeared biologically older in individuals with CUD.
Researchers at The Hospital for Sick Children have discovered that dysregulation of energy production is an early sign of heart failure. They found that lysine demethylase 8 (Kdm8) helps maintain balanced energy use, but its suppression leads to changes in metabolism.