Articles tagged with Developmental Genetics
Researchers have developed mini eyes, or organoids, from stem cells donated by patients with Usher syndrome. These mini eyes allow scientists to study light-sensing cells and understand the development of blindness in the disease.
Researchers from Aarhus University identified seven genetic variants common to both autism and ADHD, as well as five specific to only one diagnosis. The study suggests a significant overlap in underlying genetic causes and may lead to more precise diagnoses and earlier interventions.
A genome-wide study has identified two genetic variants and structural changes in chromosomes associated with posterior urethral valves, a condition that affects 1 in 4,000 males. The study highlights the importance of including diverse populations in genetic studies to identify genetic contributors to rare conditions.
A new study suggests that low-dose ketamine is generally safe and effective in treating clinical symptoms of children diagnosed with ADNP syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder. The treatment resulted in improvements in social behavior, attention deficit, and hyperactivity, as well as reduced aggression.
Researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia used advanced mapping techniques to identify causal genes and target pairings in the pancreas linked to type 2 diabetes. The study revealed alpha and acinar cells play a greater role in disease development than previously thought.
Researchers have developed a novel DNA-based method to identify people at greater genetic risk of developing Alzheimer's disease before symptoms appear. The method uses data on common DNA variants from over 7.1 million individuals and predicts a person's risk of Alzheimer's, depending on which DNA variants they have.
Researchers discovered an evolutionarily-conserved genomic region that regulates Wingless protein expression during wing formation and regeneration. This region also ensures proper wing development, but chronic activation leads to tumour growth.
Researchers have mapped multi-gene activity hotspots in developing mouse embryos, providing a detailed resource for assessing how key genes control tissue differentiation. The study reveals 'hot spots' where many genes are turned on together, guiding development and previously invisible signalling centres.
A new study of over 150,000 participants has identified more than 70 genes strongly associated with autism and over 250 with strong links to the condition. The analysis provides insights into the molecular roots of brain development and neurodiversity.
A team of researchers from The Mount Sinai Hospital has made a groundbreaking discovery into the genetic and molecular mechanisms that predispose individuals to Alzheimer's disease. They identified 21 candidate risk genes, including SPI1, which regulates microglia and AD risk.
A new study demonstrates that glyphosate successfully crosses the blood-brain barrier and enhances TNF-α levels in mice. The herbicide is linked to increased production of soluble beta amyloid and reduced neuron viability, suggesting potential hazards to neurological health.
Researchers used C. elegans to investigate inter-individual variation in metabolism and found genetic variants that affect metabolic differences between individuals. They discovered unique metabolites in different strains of the worm, which could help tailor biomedical recommendations to individual metabolism.
Researchers analyzed germline variants in breast cancer patients to identify their role in metastasis development. The study found that host genetic makeup contributes to metastasis through dysregulation of gene expression, promoting the dispersion of metastatic seeds and establishing a conducive environment for their growth.
A preliminary study published in eLife suggests that sperm screening can identify potentially harmful new genetic mutations and help prevent them from being passed on to offspring. The study found that 55 mutations were detected in the men's sperm, including 15 passed on to an embryo.
Researchers discovered three gene mutations that, when combined, allow rice plants to retain more seeds, increasing crop yield. The study sheds light on the emergence of cultivated rice from wild rice plants and its potential applications in improving rice cultivation.
A KAUST-developed nanotechnology platform uses tiny iron wires that bend in response to magnetic fields to accelerate bone cell formation. Bone-forming stem cells grown on the moving substrate transform into mature bone much faster than usual, potentially paving the way for more efficient regeneration of bone.
A new study published in PLOS Biology found that IVF embryos often undergo genetic and metabolic changes that inhibit development. The researchers discovered that certain embryos enter a senescent-like state, but treating them with resveratrol can help overcome this arrest and promote further development.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University developed a biomarker that combines genetic features and brain MRI data to predict the future conversion to Alzheimer's disease. This combination improves the performance in predicting dementia progression, especially for patients with mild cognitive impairment.
Researchers discovered that the TCF-1 protein enables plasticity in cells across neighborhoods during T cell development, weakening insulation and increasing interactions between adjacent neighborhoods. This finding sheds new light on immunotherapy approaches and could lead to more efficient cancer treatments.
Researchers from the University of Bath have made significant breakthroughs in understanding how a type of gene regulates essential nerve cells. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a crucial role in controlling brain development and function, particularly during embryonic development and early life.
Researchers identify genetic determinants of immune phenotypes in type 1 diabetes, highlighting 11 genes as potential candidates for new treatments. Genetic variants affecting T-cell composition and cytokine production were found to be significantly involved in the disease.
A new study has discovered that rare pieces of genetic code can serve as another layer of control in the genome, essential for fertility and evolutionary innovation. Researchers found that certain tissues are more tolerant of diverse codons, particularly the testes, which may play a critical role in fertility.
A CNIC team has created a dynamic 3D atlas of the formation of the heart during embryonic and fetal development, allowing for the identification of the first appearance of left–right asymmetry in the heart. This study provides important information on the development of congenital heart malformations.
Researchers at Princeton University demonstrate how specialized genetic sequences coordinate gene expression during early fly embryonic development. Tethering elements bring distant genes together in three-dimensional space, facilitating their co-expression.
Scientists have constructed a detailed map of lung development after birth, providing insights into the genetic and epigenetic factors that affect lung health. The study used next-generation single-cell sequencing technologies to analyze over 80,000 human and mouse lung cells, revealing clues on how cell types communicate and develop.
A study published in Ophthalmology identified the genetic spectrum behind foveal hypoplasia, a rare condition affecting vision development. The research combined data from over 900 cases across the globe and revealed relationships between genetic defects and the degree of arrested foveal development.
The ACMG Foundation presented four Next Generation Fellowship Awards to outstanding individuals in medical genetics and genomics. Ibrahim Elsharkawi and Jessica Priestley received the awards for their dedication to biochemical genetics, with support from Bionano Genomics, Spark Therapeutics, Takeda, Sanofi-Genzyme, and Pfizer.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) announced its newly elected class of Fellows of the AACR Academy, recognizing distinguished scientists who have propelled innovation and progress against cancer. The 2022 class consists of 33 luminaries from various scientific disciplines.
Researchers at Clemson University have identified a genetic variation associated with congenital idiopathic megaesophagus (CIM) in German shepherd dogs, which is often fatal if left untreated. A genetic test using melanin-concentrating hormone receptor 2 and dog's sex can predict the risk of CIM with 75% accuracy.
Researchers from Skoltech identified four genetic markers that can predict tocopherol composition in sunflower lines, which is crucial for producing high-quality dressing and cooking oils. This breakthrough discovery will help facilitate faster breeding of new varieties.
A team of scientists has identified hundreds of new genomic loci associated with brain structure, shedding light on how the human brain is shaped. The study used genetically informed brain atlases to uncover the largest number of genetic variants linked to cortex size and thickness.
A Texas A&M study found that prenatal exposure to alcohol in males can lead to increased frequency of fetal development issues, including placental inefficiency and growth restriction. The research suggests that male behavior and environmental factors play a role in shaping fetal development beyond just genetics.
Breakthrough research reveals Tuberous Sclerosis Complex arises from human-specific progenitor cells, explaining its pathology. Human-derived cerebral organoid models shed light on complex brain development and potential mechanisms for other diseases.
The use of polygenic risk scores in pre-implantation genetic testing is unproven and can lead to discrimination and stigmatization. ESHG argues that there is no evidence PRSs can predict disease likelihood in unborn children, making their application premature.
Researchers from Monash University have developed a method to determine which genes are responsible for congenital heart disease (CHD). The technique identified 35 new genes not previously suspected in the disease, opening the way for more accurate pre-natal genetic testing.
Researchers from UNIGE found that a single missing genetic switch can lead to clubfoot and other malformations by disrupting cellular activation. The study highlights the crucial role of genetic switches in developmental disorders, suggesting that flaws in these mechanisms may be responsible for numerous malformations.
Jpx RNA regulates CTCF anchor site selection and formation of chromosome loops, determining gene expression. This discovery may lead to new treatments for diseases influenced by chromatin looping.
Researchers genetically mapped the cell types of the mouse iris, revealing four new cell types and mapping genetic changes that occur when the iris dilates. This research may help connect genetic similarities between mice and humans, offering clues for developing new diagnostic tests and treatments for eye diseases.
Researchers used CRISPR gene-editing tools to show that a gene controlling bone growth in fish fins plays the same role in forming fingers and toes in four-legged creatures. The study suggests that the last common ancestor between ray- and lobe-finned fish already had the genetic toolkit to shape their appendages.
A study by EPFL researchers reveals that CTCF sites within the HoxD cluster contribute to organizing genes into topologically associated domains, helping to organize developmental complexity. The dual function of CTCF binding sites varies depending on tissue type.
Researchers at UC San Diego will document brain development from birth through early childhood, focusing on environmental factors and mental disorders. The HBCD study aims to optimize brain imaging technologies and predict future behavioral problems.
A new study published in Current Biology found that active genes do not form clusters and share resources during early fruit fly development. The researchers used high-resolution microscopy to visualize the physical position of active genes within the nucleus, observing that each gene has its own pool of transcriptional machinery.
A team of researchers has identified a cellular mechanism that enables embryonic stem cells to maintain their state as stem cells. The study, published in Cell Reports, reveals the genetic ingredients required for ESCs to decide whether to divide or differentiate.
Researchers have identified a series of genetic switches, called enhancers, that ensure the correct amount and distribution of Gremlin1 protein during embryonic development. This discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of human limb development and highlights the importance of robust gene networks in shaping our body's form.
Scientists identified a rare genetic condition affecting prenatal development, leading to lifelong disabilities in children. They discovered a potential method to prevent the condition by administering a drug during pregnancy, which boosted Wnt signaling and restored normal growth in mouse embryos.
A new study found that genome-wide association studies (GWAS) results from people with European ancestry can still be applied to predict breast and prostate cancer risk in diverse groups. However, the findings emphasize the need for more diverse participants in GWAS analyses to realize the full potential of polygenic risk scores.
The Center for Research on Programmable Plant Systems (CROPPS) aims to integrate plant sciences, engineering, and computer science to improve crop efficiency and sustainability. Researchers will engineer plants that can detect environmental changes and respond to digital signals, leading to more efficient water and nutrient delivery.
A study published in International Journal of Environment and Public Health Research reveals that oral bacteria, specifically P. gingivalis and Lactobacillaceae families, are associated with periodontitis. Genetic differences among hosts contribute to susceptibility to pathogens, but the oral microbiome plays a more significant role in...
Researchers have created brain organoids from people with 16p11.2 genomic variations, which exhibit differences in brain size seen in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The study revealed new information about molecular mechanisms that malfunction when this region is disrupted, providing opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
A USC-led study has mapped the developmental blueprint of human kidneys, shedding light on how cells interact to form filtering units. The research provides a foundation for creating synthetic mini kidneys and could lead to new treatments for kidney diseases.
A team of scientists led by Assistant Professor Lae-Hyeon Cho identified a single mutation in the gene that codes for cytidine triphosphate synthase (CTPS), an enzyme crucial for early endosperm development. The study showed that overexpressing CTPS in genetically modified rice plants results in a larger endosperm, opening up opportuni...
A new study led by UCL researchers confirms that genetic inheritance has a significant impact on educational outcomes. However, the study also reveals that parent genes that aren't directly inherited can shape parents' education levels and subsequently influence their children's learning environment, affecting their academic success.
Flipon genetics proposes that evolution happens on a faster time scale than Darwin imagined, with rapid adaptations occurring in real-time within individuals. This is achieved through the simple sequence repeats of DNA, which can adopt alternative shapes and transmit adaptations to offspring.
Researchers from the University of Washington identified a strong link between fine particulate air pollution and an increased risk of dementia. A 1 microgram per cubic meter difference in PM2.5 pollution was associated with a 16% greater incidence of dementia, highlighting the potential neurodegenerative effects of air pollution.
Researchers identified a novel lncRNA, Teshl, which plays a crucial role in the development of Y-bearing sperm and regulates sex chromosome gene expression. The study provides new insights into sex ratio variations and suggests that genetics may be a key factor in human male infertility.
Researchers at CU Denver developed Summix to adjust population structure in genetic summary data, increasing utility and equity. The method estimates ancestry proportions with high accuracy, reducing bias in genetic information.
Researchers from The Pennsylvania State University have discovered a previously unreported structure called the 'cantil' in wild-type Arabidopsis thaliana. Cantils are rare structures that develop under specific conditions and provide important clues for understanding plant growth and development.
The Children's Tumor Foundation has announced revised diagnostic criteria for neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), which aim to improve the accuracy and earlier diagnosis of the condition. The updated criteria also cover Legius syndrome and mosaic NF, with further updates expected for NF2 and schwannomatosis.
A Yale University study found that genetic factors control developmental abnormalities, including pregnancy loss and autism. Researchers examined placental data from nearly 50 sets of twins and discovered similar frequencies of abnormal cell growths in identical twins, suggesting genetics play a key role.
Researchers from Kobe University and Chiba University developed a flexible method to create genetic switches for yeast, allowing for the control of gene expression. They successfully produced yeast that biosynthesized orange pigment under AND-gated control, paving the way for sophisticated, artificially regulated cells.