Articles tagged with Genetic Diversity
A new study using DNA metabarcoding reveals that responses to environmental stress can be detected below the species level, with higher intraspecific diversity found in resilient species. The research found significant differences in biodiversity between moderately stressed and heavily disturbed environments.
Scientists at University of Wisconsin-Madison found that a constantly changing environment enables some species to invade new areas and adapt to their new homes by maintaining genetic diversity. The researchers studied the copepod Eurytemora affinis, which invaded the Great Lakes and other freshwater lakes.
A recent genetic study involving 378 Arabian horses from 12 countries found a larger degree of genetic diversity than previously thought, contradicting popular notions about the breed's history. The research also revealed that the modern-day Thoroughbred does not contribute genetically to the Arabian horse, contrary to common belief.
Scientists have mapped thousands of teff varieties to fast-track efforts to save the crop from higher temperatures, which could reduce production by 80%. The study reveals unique characteristics and traits allowing teff to cope with different environmental conditions.
Researchers sequenced and compared the genomes of 100 different tomato varieties, identifying over 230,000 structural variants that underpin the vast diversity among tomatoes. These genomic variations affect flavor, yield, and other traits, providing breeders with new power to improve tomato properties.
A recent study found that climate change can increase the functional diversity of stream microbes, leading to more efficient decomposition and nutrient cycling. In Eurasia, this could result in a 30% growth in functional gene diversity and changes in composition by 2060-2080.
A new study provides valuable insights into the importance of reducing genetic load in conservation breeding programs, particularly for endangered species like the Pacific pocket mouse. The research suggests that introducing genes from healthier populations can increase fitness and prevent inbreeding.
Researchers found high gene flow among herds with shared translocation sources, and distinct population clusters aligning with current management units. Despite historical losses and translocations, bighorn sheep maintained a unique genetic structure in Wyoming.
A study found that great gray owl populations in California and Oregon have lower genetic diversity due to range discontinuity, leaving them susceptible to diseases and environmental stressors. The researchers propose that conservation efforts may be necessary to protect these vulnerable populations.
A new study maps genetic diversity in terrestrial mammals, revealing regions with high evolutionary history and stable climates as strongholds of genetic diversity. The research suggests that conservation efforts should prioritize the protection of these 'arks of biodiversity' due to climate change.
Researchers found that Paramecium, a single-celled organism, uses sex as a way to cope with stress and increase survival rates. The study suggests a mechanistic link between sex and the stress response, where increased expression of heat shock proteins during sexual reproduction provides protection from stressors.
The Gidget sea otter genome is now publicly available, revealing low genetic diversity and potentially harmful variation within genes. This provides valuable insights into the evolutionary history and conservation of this threatened species.
A study published in Proceedings B found that many plant collections fall short of ambitious targets for conserving genetic diversity of rare species. The researchers recommend optimizing use of limited garden space and collecting from the right plants to capture more genetic diversity.
A new study analyzing Vietnam's population reveals a rich genetic diversity with heterogeneous ancestry profiles in each language family. The research finds evidence of extensive contact between Vietnamese groups and other populations, challenging previous studies' suggestions of an indigenous origin.
Researchers propose a new 15-rank classification scheme to categorize coronaviruses like SARS-CoV-2 within the vast virosphere. The system groups RNA viruses and DNA viruses into distinct realms, enabling clear communication among virologists.
A new study found that human-induced environmental stressors reduce coral reef populations' genetic diversity, compromising reef resilience. The research identified an adaptive response by corals to watershed discharges containing sediment and pollutants, leading to closer genetic relationships between nearshore corals.
Researchers used dimensionality reduction analyses to identify fine-scale differences in the Japanese population, revealing greater population structure than previously thought. The study found eight sub-clusters within one of the populations, correlated with distinct islands in the Ryukyu region of Japan.
Researchers at University of Sydney have found a new way cancer cells can escape and become more aggressive, resisting chemotherapy. This discovery opens up new possibilities for developing targeted treatments against this previously unknown pathway.
Researchers developed guidelines for giraffe translocations to ensure long-term population viability, including ideal group composition and decision-making processes. A founding population of 30 females and 3 males is recommended for initial translocations, while larger groups can be used to maintain genetic diversity.
A comprehensive analysis of 929 human genomes provides unprecedented detail of our genetic history, highlighting the complexity of human evolution and its impact on disease susceptibility. The study identifies millions of previously unknown DNA variations that may influence susceptibility to different diseases.
A global distribution map of fish genetic diversity has been created, revealing uneven distribution across marine and freshwater species. Temperature plays a key role in shaping genetic diversity among marine fish, while habitat complexity and changes over time are crucial for freshwater species.
Research found that plantains, a small plant native to Europe, have become one of the world's most successfully distributed species by adapting in unconventional ways. The study revealed that multiple introductions into new environments led to high genetic diversity and adaptability, making invasive plants more successful.
A recent study by Dr. Mark Chapman optimizes protocols for identifying simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in genomic and transcriptomic data, increasing efficiency in microsatellite discovery. The research found that small assemblies of two million read pairs can generate sufficient markers for basic population genetic studies.
Researchers found that African lions' genetic diversity loss in the KAZA region was caused by their need to adapt to different habitats. This suggests that ecological factors, rather than human impacts, are responsible for this loss. The study's findings have important implications for wildlife conservation managers.
A new Texas A&M University study reveals the Cleveland Bay horse breed has the third-lowest genetic variation level among domestic horses. This low genetic diversity puts the breed at risk for various health conditions, making it critically endangered.
A recent study found that the effective population size and genetic diversity of the Sunda fruit bat have shrunk significantly due to urbanization and human-mediated changes. The research team analyzed DNA samples from 1931 and 2011, revealing a nearly 30-fold reduction in genetic diversity.
The study reveals that inbreeding is high among southern white rhinos due to their unique mating behavior, which includes female preference for individual males over others.
A global genetic comparison has discovered ten ancestral lineages in Asia, whereas northern Europe has a single ancestral lineage. The study provides a comprehensive genetic map for Asia, guiding scientists in studying diseases unique to Asians.
A DNA study reveals that ancient Egyptians did not domesticate Sacred Ibises for ritual use, contrary to previous theories. The research suggests that the birds were short-term tamed in natural habitats or farmed seasonally.
Patients with diverse HLA genes respond better to immune checkpoint inhibitors, surviving longer with improved treatment outcomes.
A global collaboration of scientists has examined the diversification of plant species, genes and genomes across 1 billion years. The study, published in Nature, involved 200 researchers from over 30 countries, including University of Tennessee faculty members C. Neal Stewart Jr. and Ed Schilling.
A genetic study on the critically endangered regent honeyeater found that while genetic diversity remains intact, habitat protection is key to saving the species from extinction. The researchers used DNA samples from museums and wild birds to compare genetic makeup before and after severe population decline.
A recent lupus study reveals significant epigenetic differences between black women and other populations, impacting disease progression and severity. Researchers found that increased risk of lupus can be linked to epigenetic changes, which could lead to new treatments and better understanding of the disease.
A new study reveals high levels of genetic diversity in US Deformed Wing Virus (DWV), a leading cause of honey bee colony losses. The diverse lineages of this virus equally harm bees and complicate the development of antiviral treatments, which could be used to create a vaccine.
Researchers at McGill University found that human activities are altering genetic variation in thousands of animal species, including birds, fish, insects, and mammals. The loss of genetic diversity may hinder species' ability to adapt to changing environments, potentially leading to extinctions.
Scientists have assembled a set of genetic sequences to improve the human reference genome, which better reflects global genetic diversity and provides more accurate interpretations of whole-genome sequencing data. The new resource benefits researchers studying diverse human populations and future sequencing studies.
Researchers in New Zealand have developed a comprehensive map of white clover heritage and genetic landscape, providing a valuable resource for breeders. The 'pedigree map' reveals the history of the species, including its origins and genetic makeup, enabling more informed breeding decisions.
Researchers found that genetic diversity makes a striking comeback in the host population after resistance evolution, thanks to an interplay between selection and population growth. The study's findings suggest that eco-evolutionary feedback plays a key role in shaping molecular evolution during species interactions.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati discovered that six out of eight extinct Galapagos finch populations had higher genetic diversity than their surviving counterparts. This finding suggests that genetic diversity may not be a reliable predictor of extinction risk for mobile species like finches.
Researchers discovered a gene variant, UPA2, in wild teosinte that can be used to increase maize yields under high-density planting. The introduction of this allele into modern maize resulted in significantly increased yield and upright plant growth.
A new study explores genetic roots of 26 populations from diverse regions and cultures of western South America and Mexico, revealing long-distance connections between speakers of the same language. Genetic analysis also found a distinct ancestry component in Amazonia present at high frequency in populations from Ecuador and Colombia.
A new paper outlines concrete guidelines for restoring coral populations by maximizing genetic diversity, allowing them to adapt to local conditions and thrive. The guidelines, developed by a consortium of experts, provide a definitive plan for collecting, raising, and replanting corals in locations similar to their original environment.
Researchers at Hokkaido University have discovered how a protein called Epe1 maintains a balance between tightly packed and variable DNA structures in yeast cells. This finding could lead to new strategies for suppressing the formation of tumor cells resistant to anti-cancer drugs.
A new breeding method increases genetic selection efficiency, conserving or improving population diversity. It considers variance in gametic diversity and relative predicted transmitting ability, resulting in gains of up to 16% compared to traditional methods.
A global data resource has been developed to showcase the genetic diversity of chickens, featuring 174 breeds. The Synbreed Chicken Diversity Panel (SCDP) includes information on SNPs and provides a comprehensive family tree, highlighting the importance of preserving genetic variation for breeding sustainability.
A team of life scientists at UCLA discovered that sea otters have low genetic diversity, which could endanger their health. The researchers found evidence of potentially harmful genetic variation and mating between closely related ancestors in the sea otter genome, similar to other endangered species with small population sizes.
A team of scientists collected non-invasive samples from lynx in Turkey, revealing unexpectedly high genetic diversity and low inbreeding rates. Females stay within their birth territories while males disperse after separation from mothers.
Researchers at HHU are developing tools for genomic selection in potatoes to breed disease-resistant, climate-adapted varieties with higher nutrition values. The PotatoTools project aims to create generally applicable methods and tools for genetic analysis, despite the absence of a reference genome sequence.
A comprehensive network of sites has been developed to conserve and utilize the genetic diversity of wild crop relatives, enabling plant breeders to create more resilient crops. The 150 identified 'hotspot' sites worldwide are crucial for tackling global food security challenges and preserving nature conservation.
Researchers found the alpine marmot to have low genetic diversity, lower than any other wild mammal studied. Climate-related adaptations during the last ice age led to reduced genetic mutation rates and longer generation times, making it difficult for the species to recover its diversity.
A recent study found that climate change can lead to a loss of genetic diversity in species like the alpine marmot. The animal's low genetic diversity makes it vulnerable to adapting to environmental changes.
The study provides a reference framework for breeding and improvement of the peanut crop, revealing the origin of peanut in South America and genetic mechanisms that generated diversity. The team mapped the entire peanut genome, identifying key traits like seed size and disease resistance.
Researchers sequenced the narwhal genome, finding low genetic diversity despite the species' abundance. The findings challenge the notion that high genetic diversity is necessary for survival.
Researchers found that the giant duckweed has extremely low genetic diversity and mutation rate, which may be due to its large population size. This study provides new insights into why genetic diversity differs among species.
A recent study from the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research resolves the relationships among major lineages in the Brassicaceae family. The study uses nuclear genes to infer the relationships of 79 species, representing 50 of the 52 currently recognized main lineages.
A seven-year study found that translocating bighorn sheep in Arizona increased genetic diversity without eroding ancestral lineage. The research suggests that targeted translocations can maintain or enhance genetic outcomes, contrary to previous studies indicating 'genetic bottlenecks'.
Research suggests that bees' dispersal ability influences their population genetic structure, which can impact their response to environmental changes. Larger-bodied bees with social behaviors exhibit lower genetic diversity than smaller-bodied solitary species.
A study by University of Toronto researchers found that four crops (soybeans, wheat, rice, and corn) now dominate globally, with only 152 out of 153 main crops being grown. This trend has implications for regional food sovereignty, ecological resilience, and pest/disease management.
A University of Oxford study reveals that genomic research has been limited by a lack of diversity, with most subjects from the UK, US, and Iceland. The study analyzed nearly 4,000 scientific studies between 2005 and 2018, finding that ancestral diversity has stalled and non-white groups are under-represented.
Historical genomes of eastern gorillas show significant decline in genetic diversity and increase in harmful mutations. This decline may make them less able to adapt to disease outbreaks and environmental changes.