Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Smithsonian scientists resolve the Hawaiian honeycreeper family tree

Researchers have identified genetic relationships among all known Hawaiian honeycreeper species, providing insights into biodiversity loss and conservation priorities. The study reveals that most species originated during a rapid diversification event around 2.5-3.5 million years ago.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateAug 3, 2026

A study by IRB Barcelona and the BSC rethinks the origin of our cells as a story of microbial alliances

A study by IRB Barcelona and BSC suggests that the origin of complex cells was a longer, more gradual process than previously thought. The researchers identified signals from bacterial groups and giant viruses that may have facilitated gene exchange, contributing to the complexity of eukaryotic cells.

Genetic insights into schizophrenia from ancestrally diverse populations

A landmark study has identified over 100 ancestry-independent regions of the genome that influence schizophrenia risk in African Americans and other ancestrally diverse populations. The findings address a long-standing gap in psychiatric genetics and offer a more inclusive view of the disease’s biological underpinnings.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 23, 2026

Mammal’s lifespans linked to brain size and immune system function, says new study

A new study found that mammals with bigger brains and more complex immune systems tend to live longer. The research suggests that the immune system plays a major role in driving the evolution of longer lifespans across mammals, removing aging and damaged cells, controlling infections, and preventing tumor formation.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 8, 2025

Beyond the double helix: Alternative DNA conformations in ape genomes

A team of researchers has comprehensively predicted the location of non-B DNA structures in great apes using newly available telomere-to-telomere genomes. The study suggests that non-B DNA is enriched in these segments and may play a role in genetic diseases and cancer, with potential new functions discovered.

SourcePenn State·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2025

How bats evolved to avoid cancer

A new study has found that bats' extraordinary ability to host and survive infections may be linked to their low cancer rates. Researchers sequenced the genomes of two bat species and compared them to other mammals, discovering genetic adaptations that allow bats to tolerate viral infections.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 20, 2023

Extinct warbler’s genome sequenced from museum specimens

Researchers confirm Bachman's warbler as a distinct species by sequencing its genome from museum specimens. The study reveals a new candidate gene involved in feather pigmentation in the group. Comparing the genomes of the extinct warbler with living sister species highlights the crucial role of museum collections in science.

SourcePenn State·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2023

Genes & Cancer | Systems biology network reveals the correlation between COX-2 expression and Ch 7q copy number alterations in Ch 11q-deleted pediatric neuroblastoma tumors

Researchers analyzed COX-2 levels and segmental chromosome aberrations in pediatric neuroblastoma tumor samples. Positive correlations between pre-CT Ch 7q gain and COX-2 expression were found, as well as negative correlations between Ch 7q gain and Ch 11q deletion.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalGenes & Cancer·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 16, 2022

How electric fish were able to evolve electric organs

Researchers discovered how electric fish evolved electric organs by modifying a sodium channel gene. The finding highlights the potential for this genetic mechanism to contribute to human diseases. By studying electric fish, scientists can gain a better understanding of evolutionary processes and their applications in human health.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2022

Rodents could be asymptomatic carriers of SARS-like coronaviruses, study suggests

A study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that rodents have a greater diversity and accelerated rate of evolution in the ACE2 receptors used by SARS viruses. This suggests that some rodent species may be asymptomatic carriers of SARS-like coronaviruses, potentially leading to new pathogen transmission to humans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2021

Getting to the core of a more nutritious apple

A new analysis platform developed by Ohio State University scientists combines genetics and phytochemical data to improve the health benefits of apples. The platform has potential to reduce breeding time and enable data-driven assessments of how to boost apple nutrition.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 2, 2021