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By studying yellow warbler, researchers hope to better understand response to rapid climate change in wild species

A new research paper from Colorado State University finds that precipitation levels are the key environmental factor influencing genetic variation in the warbler's beak, which is crucial for heat retention. The study reveals that birds struggling to adapt to climate change experience higher stress levels and population declines.

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2025

Variations in telomere lengthening genes may predispose some people to papillary thyroid cancer

Researchers found a correlation between genetic variations in three telomere-related genes and an increased risk of developing papillary thyroid cancer. The study suggests that individuals with these variants may benefit from closer monitoring for secondary cancers, and highlights the role of long telomeres in cancer development.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 13, 2024

Singapore-led collaboration develops novel method to accurately measure key marker of biological ageing

Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School have devised a way to rapidly and precisely measure the length of a single telomere, opening doors to developing lifestyle interventions that slow ageing and prevent disease. The novel approach uses DNA sequences called 'telobaits' to latch onto the ends of telomeres in large pools of DNA fragments.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2023

Researchers create DNA 'nanocircles' to probe the mystery of aging in human cells

Scientists at Stanford University have created synthetic DNA nanocircles that can lengthen telomeres in test tube cells, a key factor in determining cell lifespan. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new methods for studying aging and cancer, as well as alternative approaches to transplantation medicine.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2002