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Phenotypic and epigenetic clocks for aging and mortality

This systematic review analyzes 33 biological clocks used for aging and mortality quantification, categorizing them into epigenetic and phenotypic clocks. Epigenetic clocks demonstrate precision in estimating chronological age through DNA methylation, while phenotypic clocks predict mortality using easily measurable clinical variables.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 20, 2024

New method reveals DNA methylation in ancient tissues, unlocking secrets of human evolution

A novel method has been developed to infer DNA methylation patterns in non-skeletal tissues from ancient specimens, providing new insights into human evolution. The study found over 1,850 sites of differential methylation specifically in prefrontal cortex neurons, linked to genes crucial for brain development.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 20, 2024

How plants evolved multiple ways to override genetic instructions

Researchers found that plants have multiple enzymes for adding methyl groups to DNA, allowing them to override genetic instructions. The study reveals the evolutionary history of these enzymes and their unique structures, providing insights into plant resilience to environmental changes.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 6, 2024
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Effects of exposure to alcohol in early pregnancy can be detected in the placenta

A new study found that the effects of alcohol exposure on an embryo prior to implantation can be detected in the late-gestation placenta. The research revealed significant molecular changes in the placenta, including DNA methylation alterations that could serve as a molecular signature for detecting alcohol exposure.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalEnvironment International·DateOct 9, 2024

How cells recognize and repair DNA damage

A new mechanism of DNA damage response has been identified, involving an RNA transcript that regulates genome stability. The study found that NEAT1, a long non-coding RNA transcript, plays a crucial role in recognizing and repairing DNA double-strand breaks.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalGenes & Development·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2024

Described the epigenetic hallmarks that define cancer

Researchers have identified six epigenetic hallmarks that characterize transformed cells, including DNA methylation, viral reactivation, and histone protein modifications. These properties enable cancer cells to evolve and resist therapy, making them a key target for improving diagnosis and treatment.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalCancer Discovery·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 1, 2024

Researchers discovered mechanism driving immune perturbations after severe infections

After analyzing human immune cells and TB patients, researchers found that TCA metabolism plays a crucial role in DNA methylation. Adding an inhibitor of TCA activation reduced detrimental marks, suggesting epigenetic healing is possible. This discovery may lead to new treatment strategies for infectious diseases.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024
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First genome-wide comparison of vapers and smokers finds similar DNA changes linked to disease risk

Researchers compared epigenetic changes across the genome in young adults who vaped, smoked or did not use nicotine products, finding a tumor-suppressor gene among the key findings. The study found substantial overlap in DNA methylation patterns between people who vaped versus those who smoked.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2024

Epigenetic changes reprogram astrocytes into brain stem cells

Scientists have discovered that epigenetic changes can reprogram astrocytes into brain stem cells, which can potentially be used to replace damaged nerve cells in regenerative medicine. This breakthrough is made possible by the methylation of genetic material, allowing these special astrocytes to acquire stem cell properties.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature·DateSep 4, 2024
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Epigenetics blood markers can help understand dementia risk

Researchers have made progress in understanding how genetics and lifestyle factors influence dementia risk through epigenetics. DNA methylation signatures in blood can mirror protein biomarker levels in spinal fluid samples, used for diagnosing dementia.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeObservational study·DateAug 28, 2024

Second genetic sensor for DNA methylation discovered

Researchers at Rockefeller University identified CDCA7 as a new genetic sensor for DNA methylation, resolving the molecular function of a gene associated with a rare genetic disorder. The discovery explains how CDCA7 ensures accurate inheritance of DNA methylation and fills a major gap in epigenetics.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 27, 2024

How physical fitness and lifestyle impact biological aging

Researchers found associations between cardiorespiratory fitness and DNA methylation-based aging clocks in older men, suggesting that active lifestyles may delay biological aging. The study aims to establish fitness reference values to help prevent the onset of diseases associated with aging.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 20, 2024
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Genetic ‘episignatures’ guide researchers in identifying causes of unsolved epileptic neurological disorders

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered DNA methylation patterns that help identify the root cause of developmental and epileptic encephalopathies, a condition affecting 1 in 590 children. The findings provide a new tool for diagnosing children with DEE and could lead to more effective treatments.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 2024

World first discoveries allow researchers to accurately diagnose prenatal exposure syndromes and birth disorders

Researchers at Lawson Health Research Institute have made a world-first discovery using advanced technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to accurately diagnose rare diseases and prenatal exposure-related birth abnormalities. They used EpiSign technology, which measures a patient's epigenome, to identify patients affected by recurre...

SourceLawson Health Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 31, 2024

Array pinpoints imprinted genes with potential links to disease

A new DNA methylation array can assess methylation levels of genes in imprint control regions, which regulate the expression of imprinted genes. The array has 22,000 probes and can identify potential links between environmental exposures and epigenetic dysregulation in diseases.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEpigenetics Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2024
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Variants in the genome affect DNA methylation

Scientists at deCODE Genetics found that genome variants drive the correlation between DNA methylation and gene expression. The research uses new nanopore sequencing technology to analyze DNA sequences in real-time, revealing a link between noncoding sequence variants and diseases.

SourcedeCODE genetics·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 24, 2024

Big boost for new epigenetics paradigm: CoRSIVs, first discovered in humans, now found in cattle

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discover that cattle have CoRSIVs, regions on the DNA that regulate gene expression and can predict desirable traits such as milk production and disease resistance. The study opens new possibilities for improving production efficiency in the cattle industry.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenome Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 14, 2024

The on-and-off affair in DNA

Researchers discovered that H3K9 methylation is not a simple 'off switch' but rather a 'dimmer switch' that fine-tunes DNA transcription in thale cresses. The study found that two other proteins, LDL2 and ASHH3, play a crucial role in this process.

SourceSchool of Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 26, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Unlocking the world of bacteria

Scientists have introduced a novel approach to recreate bacterial methylation patterns, enhancing DNA transformation. This enables the genetic modification of pathogenic bacteria and probiotics, leading to potential new antibiotics and cell-based therapies.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

We may soon be able to detect cancer with AI

Researchers have trained an AI model to identify DNA methylation patterns indicative of different cancer types, achieving 98.2% accuracy. This breakthrough could enable early detection and screening of cancers, leading to improved patient outcomes.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalBiology Methods and Protocols·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Heart healthy behaviors may help reverse rapid cell aging

A new study found that higher lifestyle scores associated with better heart health can lead to a younger biological age and lower risk of heart disease and stroke. The study used DNA methylation levels as a biomarker to estimate biological age.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMay 29, 2024

Study explores role of epigenetics, environment in differing Alzheimer’s risk between Black and white communities

A study from North Carolina State University found that environmentally caused alterations in the genome may contribute to Alzheimer's disease risk, particularly in Black people. The research identified stable epigenetic features that distinguish Alzheimer's brains from those without the disease.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalClinical Epigenetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2024

How aging clocks tick

Scientists have discovered that aging clocks measure stochastic changes in cells, rather than damage accumulation. This finding suggests that aging can be predicted using the variation in cellular processes.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Aging·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 9, 2024

Association between neighborhood deprivation and DNA methylation in an autopsy cohort

Researchers found a significant association between neighborhood deprivation and DNA methylation in brain tissue, which may be linked to immune response. The study identified one CpG site (cg26514961, PLXNC1 gene) significantly associated with neighborhood deprivation after controlling for covariates.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 9, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Discrimination may accelerate aging

A new study links interpersonal discrimination to changes at the molecular level, revealing a potential root cause of disparities in aging-related illness and death. Discrimination is consistently associated with accelerated biological aging, with everyday and major forms being linked to faster aging.

SourceNew York University·JournalBrain Behavior & Immunity - Health·DateMay 9, 2024

Characterization of mutational “coldspots” in the cancer genome

Researchers at IRB Barcelona have identified 'coldspots' in the cancer genome with lower mutation rates, linked to low DNA methylation. This discovery could facilitate targeted therapies and diagnostic tools to monitor specific genomic regions and prevent cancer development.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateApr 10, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

When inequality is more than “skin-deep”: Social status leaves traces in the epigenome of spotted hyenas in Tanzania

Researchers found that social status is reflected in epigenetic signatures, including DNA methylation patterns, in juvenile and adult free-ranging spotted hyenas. These patterns are linked to important physiological processes such as energy conversion and immune response.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 28, 2024

Similar DNA changes found in cells of both smokers and e-cigarette users

A new study finds that e-cigarette users with a limited smoking history experience similar DNA changes to specific cheek cells as smokers. The researchers also found that some smoking-related epigenetic changes remain more stable after giving up smoking, suggesting that e-cigarettes may not be completely safe.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCancer Research·TypeObservational study·DateMar 19, 2024

Novel discovery may benefit severe immune conditions

Researchers discovered a DNA shift in innate immune memory cells that contributes to severe immune conditions like sepsis. By blocking this change, therapeutic interventions can restore normal monocyte activity, offering new hope for treating such conditions.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 14, 2024

Tissue samples show the deep genetic and cellular impacts of smoking

A new study from the University of Chicago analyzed DNA methylation in tissue samples from former smokers, finding evidence of the body's attempts to defend itself from tobacco smoke. The research team identified new regions associated with smoking and found that DNA methylation varies dramatically across cell types and tissue types.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 14, 2024
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Early life adversity leaves long-term signatures in baboon DNA

Research by Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology and Duke University found that early life adversity, such as drought and poor habitat quality, can leave lasting signatures in baboon DNA. Multiple exposures to early adversity appear to have compounding effects on DNA methylation.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 6, 2024

Large-scale study explores link between smoking and DNA changes across six racial and ethnic groups

A large-scale study has found a significant link between smoking and DNA methylation, with two new epigenetic markers identified that differ by race or ethnicity. The research could lead to better ways to predict smoking-related disease risk and improve early detection and treatment.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateMar 1, 2024

Smoking has long-term effects on the immune system

A recent study published in Nature found that smoking has a lasting effect on the immune system, with certain defense mechanisms persisting for up to 10-15 years after quitting. The research used a large cohort of healthy volunteers and identified three key factors: smoking, latent cytomegalovirus infection, and body mass index.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

Epigenetic drift underlies epigenetic clock signals, but…

Researchers develop epigenetic clocks based on regional disorder of DNA methylation patterns, identifying common responses and critical differences from canonical clocks. These findings suggest a fundamental decoupling of epigenetic aging processes.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 6, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

New DNA methylation-based method for precise assessment of pancreas cell composition

A new DNA methylation-based method enables accurate assessment of pancreas cell composition, identifying specific cell types and providing insights into beta-cell dysfunction. The study offers direct clinical implications for understanding diabetes development and guiding tailored treatment strategies.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalDiabetes·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2024

Epigenetic status determines metastasis

Research in mice reveals that epigenetic status controls cancer cells' behavior at metastasis sites, with some cells entering dormancy while others grow into tumors. The study identifies DNA methylation as a key factor in this decision.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature Cancer·DateFeb 2, 2024

New technology makes cancer easier for immune system to find and destroy

A new CRISPR-based technology, TRED-I, has been developed to increase visibility of cancer cells to the immune system by augmenting MHC class I molecules. This technology has shown promising results in animal cancer models, reducing tumor sizes and enhancing treatment efficacy when used with existing immunotherapy.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Salk teams assemble first full epigenomic cell atlas of the mouse brain

Researchers at Salk Institute assembled the most complete atlas of the mouse brain by analyzing over 2 million brain cells. The detailed atlas reveals thousands of cell types, their connections, genes, and regulatory programs active in each cell, providing new insights into human disease vulnerabilities.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateDec 13, 2023

Formaldehyde, a carcinogen, is also used by the body to regulate our genes

Researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Oxford found that formaldehyde inhibits DNA methylation, turning genes on or off. The study suggests that high levels of formaldehyde may suppress the body's attempts to prevent cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Unlocking the genetic mysteries: DNA methylation of gene silencers sheds light on disease variation

Researchers uncover intricate interplay between enhancers and silencers influenced by DNA methylation, providing crucial insights into dynamic gene control. High-resolution mapping reveals how genes are controlled and modified, paving the way for precision medicine tailored to individual patients.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalGenome Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 27, 2023

Alcohol consumption and epigenetic age acceleration across human adulthood

Researchers found that higher alcohol consumption is associated with biological age acceleration and hypertension in middle-aged and older adults, but not in young adults. The study suggests that alcohol consumption may mediate the association between alcohol intake and quantitative traits like hypertension.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateNov 14, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Estimating gastric cancer risk using DNA methylation and lifestyle data

A study by Chiba University researchers reveals that DNA methylation and lifestyle data can improve gastric cancer risk assessment. High levels of DNA methylation in the stomach mucosa years before gastric cancer onset are associated with higher risk, while tobacco and alcohol consumption amplify pro-carcinogenic alterations.

SourceChiba University·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2023
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Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.