Articles tagged with Chromosomes
A team of biologists has discovered a key aspect of chromosome inheritance that helps ensure the faithful passage of short chromosomes during reproduction. They found that vast regions near the ends of both long and short chromosomes are primed for high-density genetic exchanges, known as EARs.
Researchers have identified the world's first semi-identical twins during pregnancy using genetic testing. The Brisbane twins share only a proportion of their father's DNA, making them a unique case of sesquizygotic twins.
Researchers at KAUST created a library of fluorescently marked, GPR-1-overexpressing strains to interrogate gene function and study transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. This tool allows scientists to generate worms with recoded genomes for synthetic biology applications.
A new study has identified areas of chromosomes associated with higher rates of asthma in those of African ancestry. The research used advanced technology to identify loci on chromosome 17q12-21, which may contribute to the increased risk of asthma in this population.
A new biosensor has been developed to detect fetal Down syndrome DNA in pregnant women's blood, offering a fast, sensitive, and cost-effective alternative to traditional tests. The sensor can detect DNA concentrations as low as 0.1 fM/L, making it more sensitive than other reported field-effect transistor DNA sensors.
A new study led by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that high-risk leukemia patients did not experience improved long-term survival with bone marrow transplantation. Treatment guided by measuring minimal residual disease was associated with better outcomes, with 58% of patients becoming long-term survivors.
Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have confirmed a surprising structure of chromosome DNA using cryo-electron microscopy. The study shows that chromatin forms multilaminar plates in mitotic chromosomes, providing insight into the compact and protected structure of genomic DNA during cell division.
Researchers have discovered that inactivating the RECQ4 gene can treble recombination frequency, leading to increased chromosome shuffling and greater genetic diversity. This discovery is expected to improve crop breeding operations by allowing breeders to combine more genes in a single generation.
A team of scientists at McGill University Health Centre identified three genes responsible for recurrent molar pregnancies, a rare complication that occurs when a non-viable pregnancy with no embryo implants in the uterus. They discovered MEI1, TOP6BL/C11orf80, and REC114 mutations linked to genetic causes of fetal loss and miscarriages.
University of Kent researchers have created chromosome-level assemblies for three falcon species, providing insights into their biology and ecology. The study's findings reveal a unique pattern of genome organization not typical in birds.
Researchers at RCSI have discovered that chromosomal instability can predict which patients will benefit from the colorectal cancer drug Avastin. Patients with intermediate-to-high levels of chromosomal instability responded better to Avastin treatment, while those with low levels of chromosomal instability benefited less.
Researchers developed a model explaining how the plane of cell division is specified in bacteria Myxococcus xanthus. The critical component PomZ proteins bind to DNA and recruit a cluster, then detach and diffuse, tethering it to the nucleoid. This system ensures accurate division by balancing forces and thermal fluctuations.
A new technique called TSA-Seq measures distance of every gene from specific nuclear landmarks, building a 3D picture of the genome’s organization. Genes closer to nuclear speckles tend to be more active than those near the nuclear lamina.
A DNA probing technique clarifies the mechanism behind clonal reproduction of female dojo loach fish, revealing how they double their chromosomes twice to ensure clonal reproduction. The study also provides insight into the ancestral origin of this population and suggests a method for developing clone fish with desirable characteristics.
A new technique detects mutations that affect large chunks of chromosomes in people with clonal hematopoiesis, a condition associated with substantially increased blood cancer risk. The study identified specific events that drive this increase in risk and suggests promising directions for future work.
Researchers at IRB Barcelona identify p38 as a protective mechanism for tumor cells against excessive DNA accumulation, which would cause cell death. Combining p38 inhibitors with chemotherapy shows promise in shrinking tumors and killing cancer cells.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE has confirmed the association of a chromosomal genetic variant with increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib) in Latinos. Latino individuals carrying the rs10033464 SNP at chromosome 4q25 are found to be at a 2.3-fold increased risk for developing AFib.
Kansas State University researchers found that pigweeds develop resistance to glyphosate by carrying hundreds of copies of the target gene in circular DNA structures. The team's discovery has implications for sustainable agriculture and strategies to negate resistance.
Researchers from Delft University and EMBL Heidelberg witness the formation of DNA loops by a single protein complex called condensin, resolving a heated debate. The process involves condensin reeling in DNA to form loops, which are then extruded to compact the genome.
Researchers develop MARIO, a fluorescent probe that measures magnesium ion concentration, showing its critical role in chromosome condensation. The study provides a new mechanism for chromosome organization and may help understand diseases like cancer.
The passenger pigeon's massive population of five billion individuals was dwindling even before the arrival of Europeans, who contributed to its eventual collapse. Genetic analysis using PSMC method found that the species' genetic variation patterns were unusual, making it unsuitable for this technique.
A new butterfly species, Polyommatus australorossicus, has been discovered in southern Russia with a unique 46-chromosome genome organization. The discovery was made possible through a 20-year study of Russian butterflies using various research techniques.
A team of scientists has sequenced the genome of an asexual tiny worm, Diploscapter pachys, which originated 18 million years ago. The study reveals how it maintains genetic variation and overcomes the disadvantages of asexual reproduction by skipping recombination.
A study by NIH and other institutions has extended noninvasive prenatal screening to all 24 human chromosomes, detecting rare genetic disorders that may explain miscarriage and pregnancy abnormalities. The research identified risk for serious complications in pregnancies with high levels of abnormal cells in the placenta.
Researchers at Nagoya University identified Dmt as a fruit fly protein related to sororin that is crucial for sister chromatid cohesion. The study shows that Dmt localizes to the joining point of chromatin and requires interactions with cohesin.
The Chromos EP captures microscopic elegance of gene organisation using moving soundscapes, revealing how genes interact and influence each other. Researchers from the Babraham Institute's nuclear dynamics research are changing our understanding of biology with their findings.
Researchers at University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre discovered a defect in eggs of older mice, causing errors in chromosome segregation. This may also be found in human eggs, contributing to age-related infertility and increased risk of miscarriage.
A new study reveals that there are over 79 rare genetic forms of obesity associated with various clinical features, far outnumbering previous estimates. The research highlights the need for national and international collaborations to identify the genes responsible for these syndromes.
The Tianjin University team, led by Professor Ying-Jin Yuan, has successfully redesigned yeast chromosomes synV and synX with the goal of creating a designer genome. The team used innovative educational tools, such as the Build-A-Genome (BAG) course, to train students in DNA synthesis and experimental skills.
Kanako, a 24-year-old chimp, has been diagnosed with trisomy 22, a chromosomal defect similar to human Down syndrome. She experiences stunted growth, congenital heart disease, blindness, and vision problems, highlighting the need for care and research into this condition in apes.
Researchers from the University of Granada have discovered 62 satellite DNA families in the migratory locust, a species with no previously known satellite DNA. This discovery expands the genetic information available to date about the species, revealing new insights into its genome and potential applications for chromosome identification.
Researchers created a three-dimensional map of chromosomes, revealing their complex 3D structure. The 'neighbor maps' method uses proximity pairs to infer chromosome organization and geometry.
Researchers at Rice University used computer simulations to study DNA's twisted-ladder form, finding that chromosomes can emerge with either right- or left-handed superhelices. The discovery could help explain how cells regulate gene expression and cell differentiation.
Researchers identified four genes XPO1, BCL11A, REL, and USP34 as responsible for a rare chromosomal deletion disorder. The study found that loss of these genes leads to intellectual disability, microcephaly, and other symptoms.
Researchers identified genetic pathways exacerbating severe canine compulsive disorder in Doberman pinschers, sharing behavioral hallmarks with human OCD. The discovery could lead to better therapies for obsessive compulsive disorder in people, as serotonin receptor genes and stress tolerance loci were found to be strongly correlated.
Researchers have successfully mapped the genome of the common bed bug, identifying 805 possible instances of genes transferred from bacteria. The findings suggest that these genes, such as a patatin-like gene, could become effective targets for pest control.
Researchers demonstrate Meselson effect for first time in any organism at genome-wide level, studying a parasite called T.b. gambiense. The study reveals that the parasite's inability to recombine with each other prevents genes from being exchanged between strains.
Nancy Kleckner has made significant contributions to understanding chromosomes and mechanisms of inheritance. Her work has transformed methodology, combining traditional genetic approaches with molecular biology and microscopy.
A research team has generated comprehensive 3D maps of the mouse genome's spatial organization, showing how genes are regulated and interact. The findings could help track down genes involved in hereditary diseases, such as cancer and congenital disorders.
Researchers at Imperial College London have genetically modified Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes to be infertile, using a gene drive technology that can spread the trait rapidly. The goal is to reduce the spread of malaria parasites, which infect over 200 million people annually and cause 430,000 deaths.
Researchers have discovered a 'supergene' underlying genetic differences in sexual behaviour among male ruffs, with Satellite and Faeder males carrying a chromosomal inversion that has been maintained for about 4 million years. The study found an association between the 'supergene', testosterone levels, and altered behaviour.
Researchers have identified three agronomically important genes in a wild wheat relative that can help breeders develop resistant varieties of wheat. The study provides a breakthrough in exploring wheat wild relatives for future crop improvement.
UAB researchers discovered a triple mechanism that stops chromosome separation in response to DNA injuries, preventing cancerous transformation. The three control pathways, mediated by genes Wee1, Pds1/securina and Rad53/Chk2, must be eliminated simultaneously for damaged chromosomes to be segregated.
Researchers visualize the atomic view of microtubules, revealing the crucial role of end-binding proteins in regulating their dynamic instability. This understanding could lead to improved potency and selectivity of anticancer drugs targeting microtubule dynamics.
A new checkpoint enzyme, Plk1, has been discovered to play a crucial role in monitoring chromosome segregation during cell division. This finding may provide important clues for the development of new cancer treatments.
Researchers at RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology found that as egg cells mature in older women, paired chromosomes separate prematurely, leading to early division and incorrect segregation. This results in age-related chromosomal errors, such as Down syndrome and miscarriages.
Scientists demonstrate how chromothripsis, a massive DNA rearrangement, occurs in single cancer cells. Chromothripsis is caused by a glitch in cell division that leads to the formation of micronuclei.
Researchers discovered that damaged DNA with expanded CAG repeats relocate to the periphery of the cell nucleus for repair. This shift is crucial in preventing repeat instability and genetic disease.
A study at Columbia University Medical Center found significant DNA anomalies in 31% of children with CKD, linked to neurocognitive disorders. Routine genetic screening could lead to personalized care and earlier detection of complications like diabetes and seizures.
Researchers reprogrammed mature blood cells from patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to study the genetic origins of MDS. The study found a critical region on chromosome 7 associated with the disease, identifying candidate genes that may cause MDS.
Researchers found that glyphosate-resistant kochia has duplicated several EPSPS copies on a single chromosome, enabling it to survive higher doses of the herbicide. This increase in gene copies has created a nonsustainable way of controlling kochia with glyphosate-only programs.
Researchers found a gene called R2d2 that breaks Gregor Mendel's century-old 'law of segregation', leading to unequal inheritance of genes in mammals. This discovery has wide-ranging implications for fields like evolutionary genetics, biomedical science, and infectious diseases.
Researchers at the University of Kent have identified karyomapping as a viable and cost-effective method for detecting genetic diseases in IVF embryos. This technique simultaneously detects chromosomal disorders with monogenic disorders, potentially reducing the need for individualized tests.
A recent study published in Nature Communications sheds light on chromosome segregation and its impact on cancer development. Researchers discovered that mutations in the BubR1 protein can cause cancer by disrupting correct chromosomal passage.
A new study identifies a specific mutation in the MCM8 gene as a cause of premature ovarian failure. The mutation leads to chromosomal instability and DNA repair problems, affecting women's reproductive health. Researchers found that siblings without the mutation did not experience similar symptoms.
Researchers from Frankfurt and Moscow develop kinase inhibitor PF-114 effective against Philadelphia chromosome-positive leukemia, including resistant cases. The new substance offers a more favorable profile than existing Ponatinib, paving the way for further clinical trials.
A Dartmouth study reveals a new protein linkage pathway that may help explain the molecular mechanisms behind birth defects in older women. The research shows that immature egg cells create replacement linkages after DNA replication, essential for maintaining meiotic cohesion over time.
Researchers discovered that a single-celled organism, Oxytricha trifallax, can break its DNA into nearly quarter-million pieces and reassemble them in 60 hours for mating. This ability highlights the complexity of life on Earth, with intricate mechanisms to reconstruct chromosomes.
A study review by María José Martínez-Patiño and others highlights the need for refined policies to protect female athletes from media attention and sex tests. The International Olympic Committee's hyperandrogenism policy is being called into question, with experts advocating for greater equity and inclusivity in sports.
African malaria mosquito expert Bradley White receives $1.8M NIH grant to create fine-scale recombination rate maps for Anopheles gambiae. The project aims to model and predict efficacy of novel vector control strategies.