Genetic Diversity
Articles tagged with Genetic Diversity
Historical climate and geography shaped the phylogeography of a rare mycoheterotrophic herb in subtropical China
A study on the phylogeography of Burmannia nepalensis, a rare mycoheterotrophic herb in subtropical China, found that historical climate fluctuations and geographic isolation shaped its evolutionary history. The research reveals limited gene flow due to mountain barriers and fragmented habitats.
Unraveling the genomic roots of Indigenous peoples
The study identified over a million genetic variants, revealing unique diversity and adaptations to environments. Ancient DNA and geographic data also provide insights into the movements and migrations of Native American populations.
Relatively simple habitat management can help protect the genetic diversity of animal populations, Ben-Gurion University research team determines
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University found that altering water source distribution in a desert ecosystem improved mating structure and increased genetic diversity in wild populations. By establishing more territories for reproducing males, changes in resource management boosted population's variance effective population size.
Female baboons exhibit vaginal responses after mating that may affect sperm survival, with the strongest responses toward genetically similar males
Researchers observed female baboons' vaginal tract altering sperm survival based on male genetic makeup, with strongest responses to genetically similar males. The study suggests post-copulatory mate selection via vaginal immune responses and pH in the baboon species.
Strong patient diversity in biobanks reveals new genetic links to disease risk, treatment response
Researchers analyzed genetic data from nearly 94,000 participants in UCLA's ATLAS Biobank, highlighting new connections between genes, disease risk and medicine response. The study found that genetics can predict how well patients respond to GLP-1 drugs for weight loss purposes, with varying response rates across ancestry groups.
Whole-genome study of koalas transforms how we understand genetic risk in endangered species
A recent study analyzing koala genomes found that populations previously considered most at risk are now showing signs of genetic regeneration. The research, published in Science, challenges long-held assumptions about genetic risk in endangered species.
Life and death in Late Bronze Age Central Europe
A new interdisciplinary study provides detailed insights into the lives of people living in Central Europe during the Late Bronze Age, revealing gradual changes in ancestry, dietary flexibility, and mortuary practices. The research suggests that communities participated in wider networks of interaction and incorporated change into exis...
The North American wild mountain sheep could face extinction unless we act to protect their habitat
The North American wild mountain sheep is losing its habitat to industrial mining, human activity, and climate change. The book highlights the risks faced by this species, which nearly collapsed in previous decades but now faces grave risks from disease and habitat loss.
A rapid evolutionary process provides Sudanese Copts with resistance to malaria
A study published in PNAS reveals that Sudanese Copts have acquired a genetic variant that protects them from contracting malaria after mixing with other Sudanese populations. The acquisition of this variant took place over 1,500 years and has led to an evolutionary adaptation to the disease.
Windows into the past: Genetic analysis of Deep Maniot Greeks reveals a unique genetic time capsule in the Balkans
A new study found that the people of Deep Mani represent one of the most genetically distinctive populations in Europe, with many lineages tracing back to the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Roman period. The research team discovered that present-day Deep Maniot men descend from a single male ancestor who lived in the 7th century CE.
Strategic sex: Alaska’s beluga whales swap mates for long-term survival
A new study reveals how beluga whales in Alaska's Bristol Bay survive through a surprising strategy: they mate with multiple partners over several years. This polygynandrous system helps maintain genetic diversity despite the population's small size and isolation.
Warblers borrow color-related genes from evolutionary neighbors, study finds
A new study found that wood warblers have borrowed color-related genes from neighboring species, leading to the evolution of diverse plumage colors. This gene exchange, known as introgression, occurred across multiple genera and is believed to have played a role in the group's rapid diversification.
Urban natives: Plants evolve to live in cities
Researchers found that a plant species adapted to urban conditions exhibited inheritable characteristics, such as changes in size and flowering periods, within 60 years of urbanization. Elevated ground temperatures and reduced soil acidity drove these differences.
Hornets in town: How top predators coexist
Research by Kobe University entomologist SAGA Tatsuya found that two hornet species divide their prey by specializing on different targets. The Japanese yellow hornet eats soft-bodied prey like crickets and moths, while the yellow-vented hornet consumes low-value prey such as beetles and wasps.
Natural Japanese and Taiwanese hinoki cypresses genetically differentiated 1 million years ago
Genetic analysis reveals clear differentiation between Japanese and Taiwanese hinoki cypress, with divergence occurring 1 million years ago. The study highlights the need for revised classification systems based on genetic regional characteristics to preserve local genetic integrity.
Genetic structure and predicted habitat expansion of Shorea macrophylla (dipterocarpaceae) in southeast Asia
A study analyzing S. macrophylla's natural populations in Kalimantan revealed distinct genetic structures among northeastern, central, and southwestern populations. The ancestral population shows highest genetic diversity and is recommended for conservation as a separate management unit.
FAU awarded US EPA grant to integrate genetics in Florida bay sponge restoration
Researchers will analyze genetic diversity and structure of four key sponge species to enhance resilience in restored populations. The project aims to build ecological resilience in vulnerable marine environments through a genetics-based approach.
Ancestry and genetic variants influence the risk of colorectal cancer
A large-scale study found that genetic variants and ancestry play a significant role in colorectal cancer risk in Brazil. The study identified nine genetic variants associated with disease risk, including four that contributed to the risk independently of other factors.
Back from the brink of extinction
A study found that the red-headed wood pigeon's unique genetic history, shaped by centuries of gradual inbreeding, enabled its population to survive and rebound dramatically. The team's analysis revealed lower levels of highly deleterious mutations in the endangered species compared to the more widespread Japanese wood pigeon.
Predicting genomic adaptation in teak, a valuable tropical tree species, to climate change
A study analyzing genome data from teak trees found correlations between temperature and DNA sites, indicating adaptability to rising temperatures. The population in southern India demonstrated high adaptability, essential for effective management of genetic resources and resilient planting strategies.
Cracking the case: new methods to solve complex wildlife crimes
A new study by Dr. Gila Kahila Bar-Gal presents an integrative approach to wildlife forensics, combining advanced genetic tools with local databases to solve complex environmental crimes involving multiple species. This method demonstrates the ability to identify species, trace their origins, and confirm criminal activity beyond reason...
Orange is the new aphrodisiac—for guppies
A new University of British Columbia study reveals that male guppies with more orange coloration are up to two times more sexually active and perform for females longer periods. The research identifies a genetic link between guppy color and behavior, suggesting healthier and fitter individuals may be more attractive to females.
New study reveals urgent conservation needs for Siberian flying squirrel
The Siberian flying squirrel's genetic diversity is lowest in Finland and highest in the Russian Far East, highlighting a need for taxonomic re-evaluation and conservation efforts. The species' western populations are facing population declines and habitat loss, compromising their capacity to adapt to environmental changes.
“It’s like they have a superpower”: Genetic analysis of all-women extreme divers finds changes linked to blood pressure, cold tolerance
A study of all-women extreme divers off the coast of Korea found two genetic changes that could aid their diving ability, lowering blood pressure and improving pain tolerance to cold. The researchers hope this discovery will advance care for health conditions like stroke related to high blood pressure.
New pests and diseases will cut UK tree growth
A new study predicts that new plant pests and diseases will severely damage UK trees and woodlands by 2050, potentially losing over half of their growth. The research highlights the need for increased tree diversity and resilience to biocontrol measures.
Genetic secrets of rice pave way for future farming and conservation
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) have discovered genes that can strengthen rice crops against environmental stresses such as heat, drought, and salinity. The study also identified a comprehensive framework for developing robust rice crops that can thrive in challenging environments.
Natural variations in ZmCCT2 regulate maize mesocotyl elongation and higher altitude adaptation
Researchers uncover pivotal role of ZmCCT2 in regulating maize mesocotyl length and adapting to high altitudes. Significant associations between genetic variations and mesocotyl lengths were found, highlighting the essential function of ZmCCT2 in promoting cell elongation.
Phoenician culture spread mainly through cultural exchange
The study reveals that Phoenician culture spread primarily through cultural transmission and assimilation, with little direct genetic contribution from Levantine ancestors. Punic sites showcased a highly heterogeneous genetic profile, with individuals having both Sicilian-Aegean and North African ancestry.
Amazon research tackles £50 million parasite devastating fish farmers around the world
A mysterious parasite is devastating fish farms globally, causing £50 million in losses annually. Researchers have discovered a new gene regulation process that could lead to the development of gene-based vaccines.
Curious isolation: New butterfly species discovered
The discovery of the Curiously Isolated Hairstreak, a new butterfly species, reveals striking genetic diversity and ecological uniqueness. The isolated population has been separated from its closest relatives for up to 40,000 years, resulting in low genetic diversity and reduced adaptability to changing climatic conditions.
‘Forever chemicals’ are everywhere. Most of their health effects are unknown
A group of long-lasting compounds called PFAS are ubiquitous in everyday products and the environment. Researchers hope to learn which ones are more toxic, and for whom, by using tiny worms to test their health effects.
Viral ‘backbone’ underlies variation in rotavirus vaccine effectiveness
Researchers found that full-genome differences between rotavirus strains influence vaccine effectiveness, highlighting the need for a broader approach to vaccine design. The study's results suggest that vaccines should be designed based on the whole genome of circulating strains, rather than just two surface proteins.
Century-old clues reveal hidden threat to Australian songbird
A study led by Australian National University researchers has found that the critically endangered regent honeyeater's population decline has not been mirrored by genetic diversity loss. Despite a 99% population decrease, the species has lost only 9% of its genetic diversity due to a time-lag in genetic erosion.
Corpse flowers are threatened by spotty recordkeeping
A study by Northwestern University scientists found that incomplete historical records have led to low genetic diversity and population decline among corpse flowers. The lack of standardized data makes it challenging for conservationists to make informed decisions about breeding, resulting in a high percentage of cloned plants.
Testing patients for just three genes could help prevent three quarters of avoidable side effects of certain medications
A study found that genetic variants in three genes (CYP2C19, CYP2D6, SLCO1B1) can lead to adverse reactions in up to 75% of cases. This could allow for personalized prescribing and reduce ADRs by three quarters.
Pacific oyster may colonize the Baltic Sea
Researchers from the University of Gothenburg have discovered that Pacific oysters can reproduce in less salty waters, potentially allowing them to colonize the western Baltic Sea. The study found that genetic diversity and breeding habitat play a crucial role in the oysters' ability to adapt.
Beneficial genetic changes observed in regular blood donors
Researchers found genetic changes in frequent blood donors that enable them to respond well to blood loss, promoting healthy stem cell growth. In contrast, preleukemic mutations associated with blood cancer were not favored by regular donation.
600 million years of stress
A research team from Göttingen University has compared algae and plants that span 600 million years of independent evolution, identifying a shared stress response network. This comprehensive dataset can be further explored for its physiological impact across plant diversity.
Team of computer engineers develops AI tool to make genetic research more comprehensive
A team of computer engineers developed PhyloFrame, a machine-learning tool that accounts for ancestral diversity in genetic data. This improves precision medicine outcomes by predicting differences between subtypes of diseases and suggesting personalized treatments regardless of patient ancestry.
Advanced genetic blueprint could unlock precision medicine
A comprehensive genetic representation for over 2.5 billion people has been created, capturing genetic diversity and variations found in diverse populations. This pangenome reference aims to enhance early diagnosis and personalized treatments for genetic diseases prevalent in the region.
Conservation focusing on birds of a feather may have mixed results, MSU-led study shows
A new MSU-led study found that translocation successfully bolstered population numbers, but failed to prevent genetic erosion and inbreeding in Florida Scrub-Jays. The researchers analyzed decades' worth of data and sequencing the entire genomes of 87 jays, identifying reproductive skew as a limiting factor.
Sydney koalas’ Catch-22
A recent study highlights the unique challenges facing Sydney's koala population, which is one of the last strongholds for New South Wales' koalas in NSW. The populations have low genetic diversity, making them highly susceptible to environmental threats and disease outbreaks.
New study reveals Neanderthals experienced population crash 110,000 years ago
A new study found that Neanderthals experienced a drastic loss of genetic variation approximately 110,000 years ago, leading to their eventual extinction. The research measured the morphological diversity in semicircular canals, which revealed lower diversity in classic Neanderthals compared to pre-Neanderthals and early Neanderthals.
New manzanita species discovered, already at risk
A new species of manzanita has been discovered on the central coast of California, but its survival is already at risk due to urban development. The species, Arctostaphylos nipumu, lacks a protective burl that allows some other manzanitas to resprout after wildfires.
Origin and diversity of Hun Empire populations
Researchers analyzed DNA of 370 individuals from 800 years, revealing genetic ties between Huns and Xiongnu Empire. The study found a small but distinct set of individuals carrying East Asian genetic signatures, suggesting some Hun-period individuals in Europe traced their lineage back to late Xiongnu burials.
Award-winning pharmaco-geneticist advances drug discovery and development for Africans
Professor Collen Masimirembwa receives Precision Medicine World Conference Pioneer Award for his groundbreaking work in pharmacogenomics, advancing personalised medicine and tailoring treatments to individual genetic profiles. His research has improved patient outcomes and saved lives by uncovering critical issues with HIV medications.
Scientists decode the DNA of one of America’s most iconic trees
Researchers describe the complex genome of the highly valued white oak (Quercus alba), providing insights into fundamental questions about plant evolution and tree breeding. The study sheds light on the evolutionary history of oaks, including the extent of genetic diversity and population differentiation.
The inner ear of Neanderthals reveals clues about their enigmatic origin
A study led by Alessandro Urciuoli and Mercedes Conde-Valverde found that the morphological diversity of Neanderthals' semicircular canals is lower than previously thought, suggesting a bottleneck event. This challenges the theory that Neanderthals originated after a significant genetic diversity loss.
NYU Abu Dhabi researchers identify key immune differences that make one West African ethnic group less susceptible to malaria
A study by NYU Abu Dhabi researchers found that children from the Fulani group have a distinct immune response to malaria, with key differences in immune cell activity offering greater protection. The study highlights the impact of genetics and lifestyle on immune responses.
New study unravels the history of the largest pastoral population in Africa
Researchers have uncovered the Fulani people's genetic diversity, tracing their history back to the Green Sahara period. The study found correlations between culture, geography, and genetics, highlighting the importance of Fulani subsistence strategies in shaping their genetic landscape.
Africa’s largest human microbiome study sheds light on gut diversity and health
The study discovered new microbial species and never-before-reported metagenomes from African sites, shedding light on the importance of geography in shaping microbiome differences. The research highlights the need for site- and region-specific approaches to gut health interventions.
Landmark genetic study: Fresh shoots of hope on the tree of life
A landmark global study has found that two-thirds of species are losing genetic diversity, but conservation efforts are helping to reverse this trend. The study, published in Nature, highlights the importance of initiatives such as habitat restoration, animal translocations, and population control.
Botanic Gardens must team up to save wild plants from extinction
Botanic gardens have reached peak capacity, hindering efforts to gather plant diversity for study and protection. Despite accelerated rates of extinction risk, institutions struggle to conserve threatened plants within collections globally.
Evolution without sex: How mites have survived for millions of years
Researchers discovered that independent evolution of chromosome copies in oribatid mites enables genetic diversity through mechanisms like the Meselson effect and horizontal gene transfer. This approach allows for rapid adaptation to environmental changes and supports long-term survival.
How human activity has shaped Brazil Nut forests’ past and future
A recent study by Max Planck Institute researchers analyzed Brazil Nut tree samples to understand genetic diversity and population dynamics. The findings show a drastic decline in genetic diversity over the last 20,000 years, but areas with Indigenous management exhibit more complex genetic backgrounds.
Streamlining genetic analysis for phylogenetic studies
A new computational tool, PsiPartition, simplifies genetic data analysis for evolutionary biology, allowing researchers to efficiently study species relationships. The novel method improves both computational efficiency and accuracy of phylogenetic trees.
Complete recombination map of the human-genome, a major step in genetics
A new study maps the complete human genome recombination, identifying areas that balance diversity with stability. The research reveals key differences between men and women in recombination patterns, offering insights into infertility, genetic diversity, and disease risk.
Final synthetic yeast chromosome unlocks new era in biotechnology
The final synthetic chromosome unlocks new possibilities in metabolic engineering and strain optimisation, enabling the generation of genetic diversity on demand. The achievement represents a major milestone in synthetic biology and has important implications for future genome engineering projects.
$14 million supports work to diversify human genome research
The Human Pangenome Reference Sequencing Project aims to accurately reflect human genetic diversity worldwide. With $14 million in NIH funding, the project will add genomes from an additional 200 individuals to its existing dataset of 550 diverse backgrounds.