Articles tagged with Genetic Diversity
The PLOS Biology special issue explores plant engineering to combat climate change, from ancient breeding techniques to genome engineering. The collection highlights strategies for enhancing climate-resilience in crops, including microbiome manipulation and synthetic biology.
A new UCLA Health study analyzed genetic data from 36,000 patients to identify disease risks and healthcare utilization among ancestrally diverse groups in the Los Angeles region. The research found substantial differences in diagnoses, hospital utilization, and genetic disease rates across clusters linked by shared genetic ancestry.
A team of researchers used genetic and isotopic analyses to study jaguar scat in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Preserve, revealing habitat needs and conservation insights. The study demonstrates a novel approach to surveying wildlife without direct interaction.
Researchers identified 756 patients with rare forms of spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA), revealing diverse disease manifestations and symptoms. The study highlights the importance of sequencing the genome to improve diagnosis and treatment for these previously underdiagnosed cases.
A new genomic analysis reveals a north-south divide in P. falciparum drug resistance markers and genetic structure in Mozambique. The findings suggest that artemisinin remains effective for treating malaria, while piperaquine can be used in combination therapies. However, the high frequency of quintuple mutants requires close monitorin...
A new study highlights the immense potential of living cell banks in contributing to global conservation priorities. By analyzing genetic samples from the Frozen Zoo, researchers identified opportunities to increase representation of threatened species and provide access to critical genetic diversity.
A new study highlights the potential of living cell banks to contribute to global conservation priorities. Cryo-banked samples provide crucial genetic diversity and reintroduction opportunities to increase adaptability and resilience in threatened species.
A new UK project, GEMALOR, monitors hatchery-reared lobsters to ensure wild populations remain genetically diverse. Researchers will assess genetic diversity in both captive and wild environments to improve broodstock management.
Researchers have identified a number of candidate genes that may drive the development of conditions like Type 2 Diabetes. The study found that proteins such as PCSK1, SUR1 and GLUT2 play a role in calcium ion dynamics and insulin secretion.
Researchers found that giraffes on either side of the rift have not interbred for over 1,000 years, with females showing no signs of migration. The study suggests that Masai giraffes are more endangered than previously thought, requiring separate but coordinated conservation efforts.
Scientists have identified a genetic locus associated with voice pitch, found in the ABCC9 gene, which influences voice characteristics in both men and women. The study also reveals links between voice pitch and cardiovascular health, highlighting the complex relationship between vocal traits and human biology.
A new study reveals a previously unknown way the immune system detects certain viruses, including SARS-Cov-2, using the inflammasome protein CARD8. Researchers found that CARD8 functions differently among various species and even varies between individuals in the human population.
The study reveals new insights into primate evolution, genetic diversity, and the uniqueness of humans. It also highlights the importance of preserving primate species due to high genetic diversity, which enables adaptation to changing environments.
A study published in Science reveals that six different African baboon species have more genetic similarity than expected, highlighting the fluid nature of their genomes. Researchers analyzed mobile elements in over 200,000 genetic samples from 225 individuals across 19 geographical sites.
Researchers, led by Elizabeth King, aim to develop a knowledge base on complex genetic traits using fruit fly models. The project seeks to address the scientific knowledge gap in this field by focusing on interconnectedness among multiple factors.
A new study reveals that the foxes' genetic diversity has decreased over time, potentially jeopardizing their survival and biodiversity on the islands. The findings highlight the importance of long-term monitoring to ensure the foxes' continued survival.
A global study maps marine habitat-forming species' genetic diversity, revealing key regions and threats to conservation. The study highlights the need to protect genetic diversity in marine protected areas, which currently fail to preserve this essential component of biodiversity.
A new study found that neurons in a key brain region have different functions based on their genetic identity, which could lead to better understanding of the brain's computational flexibility and memory capacity. The diversity of neurons in the CA1 region of the hippocampus was previously unknown and is crucial for memory development.
Recent studies reveal complex patterns of admixture in human populations, particularly in Africa and the Americas. In Africa, ancient introgression from Neanderthals and Denisovans contributed to increased genetic diversity, while in the Americas, modern admixture resulted in redistributed archaic ancestry.
A new UCLA study found that the accuracy of genetically-based disease predictions using polygenic scores (PGSs) varies significantly between individuals, even within traditionally considered homogeneous populations. PGS performance declines as genetic distance increases, and individual ancestry plays a crucial role in determining accur...
Researchers at York University found more pathogens and parasites in urban bee populations, leading to inbreeding and reduced genetic diversity. Conservation efforts focused on green spaces and habitat connectors can help mitigate these effects.
The Human Pangenome Reference Consortium expands and updates the human genome project with nearly full genomic data from 47 people of diverse ancestry. Researchers at UW Medicine made significant contributions to drafting the pangenome reference and studying variation within repetitive DNA, which could improve equity in human genome re...
The human pangenome reference combines genetic material from 47 individuals, enabling a deeper and more accurate understanding of worldwide genomic diversity. This improves the detection of variants in the human genome, particularly structural variants that can have important health implications.
The study reveals that mammals diversified before the K-Pg extinction, driven by continental drifting and stability following the mass extinction. This led to the rich diversity of mammal lineages, including carnivores, primates, and hoofed animals.
Researchers have analyzed DNA samples from over 50 institutions, including Balto at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, to shed light on extraordinary feats in mammals. The study has identified unchanged DNA across millions of years of evolution and pinpointed genetic variants associated with rare human diseases.
The study highlights 10% of human genome highly conserved across species, linked to embryonic development and environmental adaptation. It also pinpointed genetic variants associated with exceptional traits like brain size and hibernation, and at-risk species for extinction.
A new study finds that modern-day Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish people share a common genetic heritage with ancient Pictish populations, contradicting long-held assumptions of exotic origins. The research also reveals surprising genetic similarities between Picts and present-day groups in the UK.
A Cornell University-led project has reconstructed Balto's phenotype using ancient DNA extraction and analysis. The research reveals that Balto had a genetically healthier and less inbred lineage than modern breeds, with characteristics adapted to the extreme environment of 1920s Alaska.
The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) has published a statement addressing factors that contribute to bias in clinical genetic testing. The statement highlights three main areas: environmental, clinical, and technical biases, which affect health equity for individuals from historically marginalized populations.
Researchers found that individuals within two Xiongnu elite cemeteries exhibited extremely high genetic diversity, confirming the empire as a multiethnic entity. High status individuals showed lower genetic diversity, while those of lower status had higher heterogeneity, suggesting a diverse origin pool.
Researchers teamed with Ethiopian farmers to develop new wheat varieties using genomic analysis. Farmers' knowledge played a crucial role in predicting crop yields and selecting optimal traits. The project aims to preserve agrobiodiversity and promote cultural heritage.
A new study led by UCL researchers found evidence of ancient empires' impact on migration in Africa, revealing genetic traces from across the continent. The study used DNA data from over 1,300 individuals from 150 ethnic groups, identifying migrations linked to empires like Kanem-Bornu and Aksum.
Researchers found that a large genetic region responsible for immune responses showed rapid evolution and more Mesolithic hunter-gatherer ancestry, suggesting that genetic variants already present in Europe were passed down preferentially. This suggests that diversity in immune genes may be just as important as adaptation to lifestyle.
Researchers found that the Alba morph in female Colias butterflies evolved once near the last common ancestor over 1.2 million generations ago. The genetic basis of Alba was identified as a regulatory region in DNA, maintained through gene flow and balancing selection.
Research found that inbreeding is a major factor contributing to the decline of the endangered Southern Resident killer whale population. The study, published in Nature Ecology and Evolution, indicates that inbred individuals have lower survival rates and birth rates compared to those with lower levels of inbreeding.
A new study shows that reversing evolutionary changes in fish stocks like cod can be profitable and help conserve natural genetic diversity. With century-long planning horizons, evolutionary decline can be reversed without significantly reducing profits.
A recent genomic study identifies two genetically distinct Ashaninka subgroups, suggesting a complex history of interactions with neighboring populations. The research also hints at a possible migration from southeastern South America or the Southern Cone, shedding new light on the genetic origins of this Indigenous group.
A new study published in Genes, Brain and Behavior found that genetic variants in LINGO2, OAS1, and HECTD1 are associated with different mathematical abilities in Chinese children. The study refined genome-wide association studies of math skills and added population diversity to the literature.
The ENIGMA Initiative aims to bridge knowledge gaps on brain aging factors in developing countries, particularly in India. The study will collect comprehensive data on risk and protective factors through clinical interviews, bloodwork, and brain MRI to identify universal and population-specific predictors of dementia.
Researchers have created detailed genetic maps of green and leatherback sea turtle genomes, providing insights into their unique adaptations and evolutionary history. The study reveals that genetic differences between the two species are mainly found on microchromosomes, which may hold the key to each species' survival.
A genetic study reveals that the Eurasian lynx population in France is critically endangered, with a mere 38 healthy breeding individuals. The low genetic diversity poses a significant threat to the species' survival, and urgent action is needed to introduce new genetic material and protect the remaining population.
A recent NTU Singapore study reconstructed the history of The Sundaland using paleogeography and population genetics to show that rapid sea-level rise drove early settlers to migrate, increasing genetic diversity. This finding provides insight into how climate change can profoundly impact human populations.
A study published in Evolution found that polygamous birds have higher efficiency of natural selection, leading to fewer harmful mutations and increased genetic diversity in small subsets of species with polygamous females.
A study by the University of Tsukuba found that Siebold's beech populations on Okushiri Island have high genetic diversity, suggesting they may have persisted there since before the last glacial maximum. This challenges the assumption that island populations are less genetically diverse due to geographical isolation.
A recent study found that DNA from domesticated chickens has been introgressing into the genomes of wild red junglefowl, leading to a loss of genetic diversity. The researchers estimate that wild birds have inherited 20-50% of their genomes from domestic chickens, which could make them less resilient to environmental changes.
A new study published in Current Biology elucidates 230 years of Caribbean history, identifying eight major genetic lineages of breadfruit and their connections to Oceania. The research highlights the crop's potential as a sustainable and climate-resilient option for food security and sovereignty.
A recent study discovered a legume locus that stimulates promiscuous interaction with soil bacteria, forming nitrogen-fixing nodules with up to 30 different rhizobial strains. This finding opens the door for crop improvement by naturally promoting plant growth through symbiotic associations.
A study led by Northwestern University has connected Caribbean breadfruit to its history, tracing five major lineages to Capt. Bligh's introduction in the Caribbean Sea. The research also found that original breadfruit tree cultivars have survived for centuries and are thriving.
Researchers sequenced the genomes of two endangered sharks, finding low genetic diversity and signs of inbreeding in great hammerheads. In contrast, shortfin makos showed higher genetic diversity and limited inbreeding, offering a glimmer of hope for conservation efforts.
A new study by the University of Bath suggests that diving birds like penguins and puffins are more prone to extinction than non-diving birds. The research found that diving evolved independently 14 times and led to a loss of evolutionary diversity in these species.
Researchers found that genetic diversity is key to successful coral transplantation, and using clones of just 10 staghorn individuals led to better results. The team's findings suggest that diversifying coral outplants is safer than betting on one standout 'super coral' to succeed.
Forests with multiple tree species have been shown to be more productive, as different species fill distinct niches and compete less. Additionally, genetic diversity within each tree species also promotes forest productivity by increasing resource use efficiency and reducing damage from herbivores and fungi.
Research emphasizes the importance of ethnically diverse prostate cancer genomics data and accessible genetic testing. Variations in genomic landscape of prostate cancer were observed in Chinese men compared to Western cohorts, with lower mutation rates in driver genes such as TP53 and PTEN.
Researchers developed a pedigree for aquarium-bred corals, revealing relationships between individuals and identifying genetic differences. The study provides insights into maximizing genetic diversity and adaptability in corals bred for conservation, crucial for their resilience to threats like ocean warming and acidification.
A new study from the Indian Institute of Science sheds light on blackbucks' genetic diversity and survival strategies. Despite human activities restricting their habitats, male blackbucks disperse more than expected, contributing to geneflow, while females stay within native population ranges.
Researchers from OIST have sequenced the genome of pearl oysters, finding key differences between chromosome pairs that could impact immunity and pearl production. The study aims to identify resilient strains for aquaculture, addressing declining pearl production in Japan.
The Devils Hole pupfish has the lowest genetic diversity among known vertebrates, with 58% of its genomes identical. This lack of diversity may doom the species to extinction as climate change and human impacts increase.
A human genetic study suggests that Madagascar's loss of large vertebrates is linked to the first major human expansion on the island around 1,000 years ago. The study found that a small group of Bantu-speaking African people arrived on the island and led to the rapid growth of the human population.
A genetic variant associated with low levels of HDL 'good' cholesterol and high triglycerides has been identified in Polynesian people. This discovery provides new insights into the genetic causes of high cholesterol and may lead to the development of more effective treatment options.
The study found that genetic variants associated with height are concentrated in regions covering just over 20% of the genome. The variants identified explain 40% of the variation in height for people of European ancestry, and around 10-20% for those of non-European ancestry.