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Cocaine use disorder alters gene networks of neuroinflammation and neurotransmission in humans

Research found that cocaine use disorder causes significant gene expression changes in brain regions associated with reward and habit formation, contributing to persistent behavioral abnormalities. The study also identified overlapping molecular changes between cocaine and opioid use disorders, offering potential for targeted treatments.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

Yellow evolution: Unique genes led to new species of monkeyflower

A team of researchers at UConn has discovered the genetic basis for the emergence of a new species of monkeyflower, which lost its yellow pigment but gained pink and later red. The study reveals that unique genes are responsible for this phenomenon, contradicting previous theories on evolution.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScience·DateFeb 9, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Pusan National University researchers uncover novel gene that regulates leukemia development and progression

Pusan National University researchers have identified a novel gene, SURF4, that regulates cell death and differentiation in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The study found that suppressing SURF4 expression increases cell differentiation, cell death, and accumulation of ROS, leading to arrested tumor growth in mice.

SourcePusan National University·JournalCancer Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2023

Warmer climate may drive fungi to be more dangerous to our health

A new study finds that warmer temperatures cause a pathogenic fungus to experience adaptive responses, leading to increased disease-causing potential. The research, led by Asiya Gusa at Duke University, suggests that rising global temperatures may contribute to the evolution of more virulent fungal pathogens.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Mating causes ‘jet lag’ in female fruit flies, changing behavior

Researchers found that seminal fluid protein sex peptide alters the female fly's behavior by changing the expression of genes involved in metabolism and the circadian clock. Post-mating, sex peptide increases egg-laying, aggression, activity and feeding while reducing sleep and interest in mating.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

80-year-old medical mystery that caused baby deaths solved

Researchers have solved an 80-year-old medical mystery that causes kidney damage in children and can be fatal in babies. They discovered a gene mutation is the primary cause, but found that around 10% of patients without the mutation still experience symptoms.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2023

Bryophytes branch differently… also at the molecular level

Researchers discovered that non-vascular bryophytes like Marchantia polymorpha adapt their architecture in response to shade, using phytochromes to regulate branching. The study found a liverwort-specific microRNA and SPL gene controlling meristem function, differing from vascular plants.

SourceGregor Mendel Institute of Molecular Plant Biology·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2023

Ben-Gurion University researcher and international colleagues hot on the trail of a key component of aging

Researchers found that SIRT6 maintains mitochondrial function through transcription regulation of mitochondrial genes. Without SIRT6, mitochondrial gene expression is down-regulated, leading to increased ROS production and impaired ATP generation, similar to changes observed in aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalCell Death and Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

LJI scientists solve the mystery of why OGT enzyme is critical for cell survival

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered that OGT regulates mTOR, a key protein for mitochondrial powerhouses, keeping cells healthy. The study may lead to important medical advances in understanding cancers, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2023

Scientists make progress in decoding genetics of insomnia

Researchers have identified a new genetic pathway involved in regulating sleep from fruit flies to humans. The Pig-Q gene is associated with sleep regulation in both humans and animals, providing a novel insight into the genetics of insomnia.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 10, 2023

Weiss-Kruszka syndrome and the failure to establish neuronal identity

Researchers identified the molecular mechanism underlying Weiss-Kruszka syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by craniofacial anomalies and autistic features. The study reveals that the ZFP462 gene mutation leads to a failure to safeguard neural lineage specification during early embryonic development.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Decoding the secret language of photosynthesis

Scientists have decoded the signals plants send themselves to initiate photosynthesis, a process turning sunlight into sugars. The newly identified proteins control communication between plant cells and organelles, potentially leading to breakthroughs in cancer research and improving crop yields.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2022

Experts from 14 nations discuss global gene drive project registry

A global registry for gene-drive modified organisms could facilitate transparent communication, monitor ecological impacts, and inform local decision-making. Experts agree that a registry is necessary for the fair development, testing, and use of gene-drive technologies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 15, 2022

Cell quality control

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Eötvös Loránd University have found that gland cells in Drosophila melanogaster can remove defective secretory particles as early as the secretion process begins. This discovery sheds new light on crinophagy, a previously understudied process crucial for maintaining cellular quality and function.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalTraffic·DateDec 15, 2022

HKUMed scientists lead discovery of two master genes critical for hearing Provide a guide for diagnosis of deafness and balance problems

Researchers discovered the underlying cause of deafness caused by swelling in the inner ear chambers. The study identified two master genes, SOX9 and SOX10, controlling hearing function and providing a new resource for diagnosis and treatment of deafness and balance problems.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Immune system of modern Papuans shaped by DNA from ancient Denisovans

A recent study found that Denisovan DNA sequences near immune-related genes in modern Papuans regulate their activity, affecting how people respond to infections. The research suggests that Denisovan DNA contributed to the adaptation of early modern humans living in New Guinea and nearby islands.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateDec 8, 2022

Review of fluorescent probes for detecting G-Quadruplex DNA

G-Quadruplex DNA structures play a crucial role in regulating genes and cell processes, but their visualization is challenging due to the dynamic nature of double standard DNA. Fluorescence-active small molecule probes have emerged as a real-time visualization method, enabling researchers to detect G-quadruplexes with high selectivity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Organic Chemistry·DateDec 8, 2022

Researchers solve pre-harvest sprouting in rice and wheat

A recent study reveals that the SD6/ICE2 molecular module regulates seed dormancy in rice, controlling abscisic acid homeostasis. By editing this gene, researchers improved pre-harvest sprouting resistance in both rice and wheat, offering a promising strategy for improving crop yields.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2022
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Localizing BRCA gene mutations to better treat ovarian cancer

Researchers analyzed genetic data from 233 patients with ovarian cancer and found that precise localization of BRCA gene mutations is crucial for effective treatment. The study suggests that PARP inhibitors can be highly effective in patients with mutations in the DNA-binding domain, leading to improved overall survival rates.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAnnals of Oncology·TypeNews article·DateNov 28, 2022

DNA sequence enhances understanding origins of jaws

Researchers at Uppsala University have discovered a crucial DNA sequence in jawed vertebrates that plays a major role in shaping the joint surfaces during embryonic development. This finding has significant implications for understanding the evolution of vertebrate jaws, which is believed to have occurred around 423 million years ago.

SourceUppsala University·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2022

Human evolution wasn’t just the sheet music, but how it was played

A team of Duke researchers identified a group of human DNA sequences regulating genes that seem to have evolved rapidly after our family line split from that of the chimpanzees. These changes were fine-tuned over time and appear in brain development, digestion and immunity.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

‘Primordial super-enhancers’ provide early snapshot of the mechanisms that allowed for multicellularity

Researchers at the University of Chicago discovered that yeast cells use membrane-less compartments to drive high-level gene expression in response to environmental stress, mirroring a mechanism used by mammalian cells. This finding has implications for understanding human diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 22, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Oncotarget | Predictive molecular biomarkers for determining neoadjuvant chemosensitivity in muscle invasive bladder cancer

A study using mRNA and miRNA expression profiles identified molecular signatures that can differentiate muscle invasive bladder cancer patients who respond to neoadjuvant chemotherapy from those who do not. The research found distinct gene pathways and subtypes associated with response, which may lead to more effective treatment delivery.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 8, 2022

Rare human intestinal disorder is due to reduction in protein synthesis

Researchers discovered a link between reduced protein synthesis and Feingold syndrome type 1, a rare genetic disorder. The study suggests that a nutritional supplement may help reverse this decrease, potentially alleviating intestinal symptoms in patients with the condition.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2022

On the trail of missing genes and cancer clues

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered a direct link between TET protein loss of function and missing genes in embryonic stem cells, which can lead to cancer growth. The study found that TET proteins are crucial for maintaining genome stability, and their loss results in aneuploidies, a common feature of cancer cells.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

New Cornell research reveals how genes turn on and off

A team of Cornell scientists discovered that certain genes have their transcription regulatory factors already in place, but in a latent state. This 'poised' state allows these genes to rapidly respond to environmental changes, like the presence of bread sugars.

SourceCornell University·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 27, 2022

New gene editing strategy could lead to treatments for people born with inherited diseases of the immune system

Researchers have developed a pioneering gene editing strategy that can repair faulty genes in immune cells, offering new hope for patients with conditions like CTLA-4 insufficiency. The technique uses CRISPR/Cas9 to target and correct the faulty gene, preserving important regulatory mechanisms.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

Butterfly wing patterns emerge from ancient “junk” DNA

New research reveals how non-coding DNA accommodates a basic plan for butterfly wing patterns while allowing evolution of diverse patterns. Regulatory elements work like switches to turn up or down patterns, supporting an ancient color pattern ground plan.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateOct 21, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

TBX20 enhances reprogramming of heart fibroblasts into heart muscle cells

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have identified TBX20 as a vital regulator of direct human cardiac reprogramming. Adding TBX20 to existing cocktails improves contractility and mitochondrial function in reprogrammed heart muscle cells, suggesting a therapeutic potential for TBX20.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCirculation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 21, 2022

Study identifies new gene that drives colon cancer

Researchers at Mount Sinai's Tisch Cancer Institute have discovered a new gene, PDZK1IP1, essential to colon cancer growth. The study found that surrounding inflammation activates the super enhancer, promoting tumor cell survival and growth.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2022

Catnip and pea aphid came up with different ways to make the same molecule

Researchers discovered that catnip and pea aphid use different enzymes to produce nepetalactone, a complex sex pheromone. The biosynthetic pathways of these two organisms share identical intermediates, but employ distinct catalytic mechanisms.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2022

3D map reveals DNA organization within human retina cells

NIH scientists mapped the organization of human retinal cell chromatin, revealing insights into regulation of gene expression and retinal function. The study identified distinct patterns of interaction at retinal genes suggesting how chromatin's 3D organization plays a crucial role in tissue-specific gene regulation.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 7, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Less than a third of FDA regulatory actions backed by research or public assessments

A study by the BMJ found that less than a third of FDA regulatory actions are backed by published research findings or public assessments. The researchers analyzed drug safety signals from 2008 to 2019 and found that most regulatory actions were based on changes to drug labeling, with only about 30% corroborated by relevant studies.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateOct 5, 2022

Microbiologists improve taste of beer

Researchers have identified a single mutation in the MDS3 gene that improves yeast's tolerance to carbon dioxide pressure, resulting in full-flavored beer. This breakthrough could lead to improved quality beer production worldwide.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateOct 4, 2022

Machine learning creates opportunity for new personalized therapies

Researchers developed a computational platform to identify metabolic vulnerabilities in ovarian cancer genes, suggesting opportunities for targeted therapies. The study found that certain genetic alterations can create vulnerabilities in cancer cell metabolism, which can be exploited to selectively kill cancer cells.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2022

A new understanding of the neurobiology of impulsivity

A new genetically based score developed by McGill University researchers can identify children at high risk for impulsive behavior with a high degree of accuracy. The score was created by analyzing the co-expression of genes in key brain regions, providing a novel understanding of the neurobiology of impulsivity.

SourceMcGill University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 22, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Rare human gene variant in ADHD, autism exposes fundamental sex differences

A new study reveals key differences in dopamine disposal machinery between male and female mice with a rare human genetic variant found in boys with ADHD or ASD. Females exhibit unique behavioral changes, such as increased anxiety and novelty recognition issues, while males display reduced social behavior and perseverative traits.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

​​​​​​​Researchers gain insights into the genetic and molecular machinery that predisposes individuals to Alzheimer's disease

A team of researchers from The Mount Sinai Hospital has made a groundbreaking discovery into the genetic and molecular mechanisms that predispose individuals to Alzheimer's disease. They identified 21 candidate risk genes, including SPI1, which regulates microglia and AD risk.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 5, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

These baboons borrowed a third of their genes from their cousins

A study of wild baboons in southern Kenya found that most carry traces of hybridization in their DNA, with about a third of their genetic makeup coming from another species. However, new genetic evidence reveals that some borrowed genes came at a cost, affecting the hybrids' survival and reproduction.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 2022

Study identifies first cellular “chaperone” for zinc

The study reveals that ZNG1 is a protein that puts zinc into other 'client' proteins, playing a crucial role in regulating cellular zinc homeostasis. ZNG1's identification opens up a new area of biology for exploration and may be one of the most important regulatory strategies by which humans cope with severe zinc starvation.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

An ‘oracle’ for predicting the evolution of gene regulation

A new mathematical framework has been created to study fitness landscapes of regulatory DNA, enabling the prediction of gene expression changes. The framework uses a neural network model trained on millions of experimental measurements to decipher the evolutionary past and future of non-coding sequences.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology Department of Biology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2022

New tool reveals function of enigmatic gene sequences

Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new high-precision tool to identify the function of noncoding DNA sequences, which may eventually contribute to the development of targeted drugs. The study reveals that these noncoding parts of patients' DNA are linked to genetic changes in diseases.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 3, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Silencing tool quashes gene activity across generations

Scientists have developed a gene-silencing tool that can quash gene activity across generations using small noncoding RNA molecules. This technique, called piRNAi, has expanded the molecular toolkit for gene manipulations and allows for more detailed investigations in nematode worms.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Methods·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Division of labor among genetic switches

Researchers identify genetic circuit that senses cell development stage, triggering deactivation of X chromosome. The discovery reveals a division of labor among genetic switches, providing clues for future study on X chromosome inactivation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

How can a protein help us remember?

Researchers have discovered the Apterous protein's crucial role in retaining memories through its interaction with the Chi cofactor and regulation of neurotransmitters. In fruit flies, Ap plays a double role in long-term memory consolidation, highlighting potential new treatment approaches for memory-related disorders.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 11, 2021

Antibody-producing b cells may be "predestined" for their fates

A study by Weill Cornell Medicine identified Oct2 as the key determinant of B-cell humoral immune response, suggesting that the destiny of antibody-producing cells is predetermined. This discovery may lead to new insights into tissue development and cancer development.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Immunology·DateSep 23, 2021

New resource to advance genomics-driven precision medicine

Researchers have uncovered thousands of new regulatory regions that control disease-linked genes, providing a significant step forward for genomics-driven precision medicine. This new resource, available worldwide, could help identify markers revealing which patients will benefit most from specific treatments.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateSep 2, 2021