Articles tagged with Population Genetic Models
Researchers warn of potential corporate uses of polygenic scores for risk assessment and business profits, highlighting the need for policy safeguards. Current laws and policies are inadequate to address ethical concerns surrounding the use of genetic data.
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London developed a novel analysis to explore the impact of parasite virulence and infection probability on species coexistence in a complex system. The study found that stochasticity plays a significant role in determining whether species coexist or go extinct.
The study charts the family history of Arabica through Earth's heating and cooling periods over the last millennia. The research found that Arabica developed over 600,000 years ago in Ethiopia via natural mating between two other coffee species.
Researchers investigated the phylogeographic history of Pterocarya hupehensis using cpDNA sequence variation analysis, RAD-seq reads, and ecological niche modeling. The study found two main haplotype lineages with genetic introgression in five populations, suggesting unidirectional gene flow.
MD Anderson researchers presented studies on combination therapies for AML and lung cancer, tumor microbiomes in immunity, and improved HPV screening. Genetic markers predict extended survival with KRAS inhibitors and may identify patients who benefit from novel combinations.
A study by Florida Atlantic University researchers found that severe hurricanes can increase the recovery of coral reef sponges by boosting the influx of juveniles and promoting gene flow. Genetic analyses revealed that populations of clonal marine species may benefit from increased frequency and magnitude of hurricanes to maintain gen...
Researchers developed chronological age prediction models by analyzing gene expression changes in the prefrontal cortex, identifying genes associated with aging and potential mechanisms. The models showed high correlation with age and demonstrated female and male-specific differences.
The study investigates how different genes related to autism spectrum disorders affect the brain's neural circuits, resulting in heightened sensitivity to sounds. The researchers aim to identify a potential biomarker for sensory hypersensitivity and develop treatments using optogenetics and minocycline.
A Cornell University study found that female lab mice behave differently from their male counterparts when placed in large outdoor enclosures. Unlike males, females often avoid each other and do not form hierarchical structures, instead interacting randomly with other females.
A study published in Oncotarget has identified specific mutational and therapeutic landscapes of pancreatic cancer in the Russian population. By applying machine learning models to full exome individual data, researchers received personalized recommendations for targeted treatment options for each clinical case.
A combination of two cancer drugs has shown promise in treating malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs), a type of cancer that is notoriously hard to treat. The study found that the combination therapy of SHP2 inhibitors and CDK4/6 inhibitors suppressed tumor growth and triggered cell death in mouse models.
Researchers used hyperspectral reflectance to differentiate Scots pine seedlings from lowland and upland ecotypes, achieving up to 83% accuracy. The study demonstrates the potential of non-destructive genetic evaluation and effective nursery practices in forestry and breeding programs.
A new computational model, IRMMa, predicts personalized prognosis for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients based on tumor genomics and treatments. The model improves on previous prognostic tools by taking into account individualized risk and distinct subtypes of the disease.
A recent study from Queen Mary University of London has found that sociocultural factors significantly influence the genetic diversity of modern societies. The research analyzed genetic data from hundreds of individuals across the Americas, revealing striking differences in mating patterns between Latin America and North America.
The NIH has awarded $9 million to create the first Indigenous-led Tribal Data Repository to address health disparities among Native communities. The project aims to secure and fund efforts to better understand the impact of COVID-19 and provide data for informed decisions.
Plant populations in Cologne show great variation in life cycle characteristics, such as flowering and germination regulation, allowing them to adapt to local conditions. Environmental filtering plays a key role in selecting suitable genetic variants for survival.
A study by the University of Washington and NOAA found that upgrading a culvert in Washington improved fish traffic for four species of interest: cutthroat trout, coho salmon, rainbow trout, and sockeye salmon. Meanwhile, a smaller culvert replacement had less impact on fish populations.
A new genomic study reveals that whaling in the 20th century destroyed 99% of the Eastern North Pacific fin whale breeding population, but genetic diversity remains high enough to support conservation efforts. The study's findings highlight the importance of enforcing the international whaling ban to aid fin whale recovery.
A new study provides a comprehensive genetic dataset of the black rhinoceros, shedding light on its evolutionary history and population structure. The research reveals six major historical populations and four subpopulations, highlighting the impact of tectonic rifts and human activity on the species' genetic diversity.
Researchers discovered that a small subpopulation of AIB1-expressing cells in breast cancer enables invasion and metastasis. The study suggests that these subpopulations play a crucial role in tumor growth and spreading to distant sites.
Researchers investigated SARS-CoV-2 responses in 222 donors from Central Africa, Europe and East Asia. They found disparities in immune responses due to blood cell composition, latent cytomegalovirus infection and human genetic factors. These population differences may help improve patient management in future epidemics.
A computational genetic model has been developed to predict individual genetic risk of developing breast cancer based on a woman's genetic profile. The model uses data from a large-scale international study and identifies women at high risk, who may benefit from earlier and more frequent screening.
A recent study reveals that past climate changes and vegetation shifts played a key role in determining when and where early human species interbred. The research suggests that the overlap of habitats led to increased encounters and interactions among groups, increasing the chance of interbreeding.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center discovered a non-ectodermal and mesodermal origin for large numbers of enteric neurons born after birth. This finding overturns decades of scientific dogma and offers hope for disease-modifying cures to aging patients.
Researchers analyzed full-body X-ray images and genomic data from 30,000 UK Biobank participants to understand the genetic architecture of the human skeletal form. They identified 145 independent genetic loci associated with skeletal proportions, linking them to musculoskeletal disease and evolution.
Researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have developed an algorithm to help predict Alzheimer's disease risk based on genetic information in patients with various ethnic backgrounds. The tool, called genomic informed risk assessment (GIRA), was tested in different ethnic populations and performed better than existing methods.
Researchers developed MemTrax, a continuous recognition test for advanced cognitive impairment screening. The test quickly and accurately quantifies memory processing, storage, and retrieval, providing precise assessments of severity and rate of change over time.
Researchers have identified two candidate genes, EPHA6 and MUC4, that may play a role in gut chronic inflammation leading to IBD. The study used genetically diverse mice to mirror human populations and found that increased expression of MUC4 in part of the colon may increase IBD risk in humans.
Scientists at UCSF and NIBSC have developed two new oral polio vaccines with genetically engineered weakened poliovirus to reduce reversion to dangerous forms. These vaccines aim to boost the World Health Organization's efforts to eradicate polio, which has persisted despite successful international vaccination campaigns.
Researchers developed a CRISPR/Cas9-based gene drive system targeting the Drosophila suzukii doublesex gene, resulting in female sterility and high transmission rates. Mathematical modeling predicts efficient population suppression with low release ratios.
A new evolutionary model suggests that Homo sapiens originated in Africa with at least two divergent branches that continued to mix. This 'weakly structured stem' contributed to the formation of an ancestral African human group, which then branched off into populations living within and outside Africa.
A recent study published in Nature challenges traditional views on human origins in Africa, proposing that modern humans emerged from the interaction of multiple populations across the continent. By analyzing genomic data from diverse African groups, researchers found evidence of gene flow and mixing over hundreds of thousands of years.
Researchers found that solriamfetol, armodafinil–modafinil, and pitolisant reduce excessive daytime sleepiness in patients with obstructive sleep apnea already using conventional therapy. However, patients may be more likely to discontinue the use of these medications due to adverse events including headache, anxiety, and insomnia.
A new study reveals that analyzing DNA can help predict which animals are most at risk of extinction. By examining the genomes of 240 mammal species, scientists found that those with smaller historical populations carry higher burdens of damaging mutations and are more likely to face extinction.
The Norwegian University of Science and Technology has been awarded a €2.5 million grant from the European Research Council to investigate how species can survive in a changing environment. The project aims to develop rules for preventing species extinction and studying adaptation to environmental changes.
A recent study published in Nature Climate Change has discovered that hybridization between species can help vulnerable populations adapt to climate change. Hybrid populations have been found to contain more genetic diversity, making them less susceptible to extinction due to environmental changes.
The FinnGen study has identified over 2,500 genomic regions linked to at least one disease, including previously unknown risk factors for common and rare diseases. The research highlights the power of Finland's unique genetic landscape and population history in driving novel discoveries.
A study published in Science found that more than one-tenth of the world's terrestrial genetic diversity may already be lost due to climate change and habitat destruction. This could have serious implications for species' ability to adapt to climate change, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts.
A new study found nearly half of Florida panther mutations originated from Texas and Central American pumas, bringing both good and bad genetic material. Researchers emphasize the need to monitor genetic health due to potential risks, especially with small population sizes. Genetic screening for future introductions may be necessary.
Researchers have discovered a selfish genetic element, known as Segregation Distorter (SD), that skews genetic inheritance. SD has caused dramatic changes in chromosome organization and genetic diversity, leading to the accumulation of deleterious mutations.
A new study examines mathematical models designed to draw inferences about how evolution operates at the level of populations of organisms. The researchers conclude that such models must be constructed with care, avoiding unwarranted initial assumptions and weighing existing knowledge.
The first farmers emerged from a population admixed between hunter-gatherers from Europe and the Near East, with a mixing process starting around 14,000 years ago. Genetic data from prehistoric skeletons were analyzed using novel demographic modeling techniques to reveal complex population dynamics.
A new study suggests that the world's first farmers did not originate from a single group but from the mixing of two groups of hunter-gatherers. The research team used deep sequencing to analyze ancient DNA and found evidence of population divergence, expansions, and admixture dates, providing a more detailed understanding of the demog...
A recent study found that boosting the pink pigeon's numbers is not sufficient to prevent its extinction in the future. The species has a high genetic load of bad mutations, which puts it at risk of collapse if conservation efforts do not continue.
A University of Otago study analyzed ancient DNA from the eastern moa, finding that the species altered its distribution as the climate warmed and cooled. The research highlights how past climate change impacted different species in unique ways, challenging a 'one size fits all' model.
Human activity on Hainan Island is causing changes in the body shapes and diets of tropical birds, resulting in biotic homogenisation. Despite efforts to protect biodiversity, the island's unique ecosystem is being affected by large-scale economic and land-use changes.
A new study used a virtual population to simulate a clinical trial examining kidney damage in Black Americans. The model predicted kidney damage and showed that adding drug therapy and reducing salt intake could stop the damage, improving heart sizes as well.
A new MRI probe can monitor individual populations of neurons and reveal how they interact with each other. The technique uses genetically targeted probes to detect neural activity and provide a more precise picture of brain function.
Researchers use handheld devices resembling ray guns to record how plant leaves reflect different wavelengths of light, revealing genetic variation within species. This new method is faster and cheaper than genetic testing, increasing efficiency in mapping and monitoring biodiversity.
Recent studies suggest that aging is a malleable process influenced by physiological, genetic, dietary, and pharmaceutical interventions. The relationship between cellular senescence and immunosenescence has been largely explored, with the goal of developing improved therapeutics to conserve vitality as we age.
New study finds that modern Japanese populations have a tripartite genetic origin, with contributions from Jomon hunter-gatherers, Yayoi farmers, and Kofun peoples. The analysis reveals a complex history of population dynamics, including assimilation rather than replacement during the agricultural transition.
A Stanford University study reveals that traits like skin pigmentation reveal little about genetic ancestry over time, regardless of mating scenarios. The researchers used a mathematical model to understand the decoupling of ancestry and traits, with implications for understanding social meaning of physical traits.
A recent study confirmed that a genetic modeling technique accurately predicts the extinction of an isolated bobcat population. The research found that the Cumberland Island bobcats have lost about 15% of their genetic diversity over the past 30 years, with low levels of inbreeding.
Researchers have shown that new ecological variants can evolve within thoroughly mixed yeast populations, diverging into distinct phenotypes and genetic classes. The emergence of these differences is attributed to newly acquired mutations in 50:50 mixtures, rather than the selection of existing variants.
A new study by the University of Exeter and the University of East Anglia demonstrates that Common Carp would evolve resistance to KHV, rendering it ineffective. The research highlights the need for alternative control methods to mitigate ecological damage caused by invasive carp.
European wildcats are at risk of genetic replacement by domestic cats due to hybridization, which can lead to the loss of distinct gene pools and ultimately extinction. A new study predicts that this process could occur within 200-300 years, even with conservation efforts.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new method to speed up breeding for Miscanthus hybrids, which could improve renewable energy crops. The study uses genomic selection to predict phenotypic outcomes and optimize winter hardiness, biomass, disease tolerance, and flowering time in Miscanthus.
A new study analyzed ancient genomes from across China to fill gaps in East Asia's genetic history. Analysis revealed a complex history of human movements and one major episode of admixture during the Neolithic period.
Researchers developed a programming tool to analyze genome data and build accurate models of demographic history for plants, animals, and people. The software predicts population history with high likelihood, including mass extinctions, migrations, and growth periods.
Two isolated mountain lion populations in southern California are threatened by low genetic diversity and mortality, which can be addressed through conservation strategies focused on connectivity and coexistence. Research suggests that connecting these populations could help prevent extinction within the next 50 years.