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What keeps plant roots growing toward gravity? Study identifies four genes

Researchers have identified four genes in corn and Arabidopsis that regulate root growth in response to gravity, a trait essential for drought tolerance and efficient water use. The study's approach, leveraging genomic comparisons between distantly related species, has the potential to be applied to other traits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 26, 2022

Genetic study provides new insights into Anglo-Saxon migrations

A recent genetic study has found that three-quarters of the Early Medieval population in Eastern England was comprised of migrants originating from Continental regions bordering the North Sea. These migrants intermarried with local populations, but integration varied greatly from region to region.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

The Southern Arc and its lively genetic history

The study investigated the homeland of Indo-European languages and found that their ancestors originated in West Asia. The genetic results suggest a web of pan-regional contacts between early farming communities, providing new evidence for the complex process of Neolithic transition.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience·DateAug 25, 2022

​​​​​​​Researchers gain insights into the genetic and molecular machinery that predisposes individuals to Alzheimer's disease

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.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 5, 2022
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.

Genes involved in heart disease are similar across all populations, VA study finds

A VA study found nearly identical genetic variations contributing to coronary heart disease risk across major racial and ethnic backgrounds. The findings suggest that other factors like access to healthcare contribute to higher heart disease rates in certain populations.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 3, 2022

Largest genetic atlas for zebrafish ‘breakthrough’ for biomedical research

Researchers have created the largest genetic atlas for zebrafish, which provides a comprehensive understanding of gene expression and developmental dynamics. The atlas, developed by the DANIO-CODE consortium, offers a broad picture of candidate DNA regions for transgenic breeding and genetic research into development and diseases.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 4, 2022

New genetic research on remote Pacific islands yields surprising findings on world’s earliest seafarers

Genetic analysis of ancient individuals from remote Pacific islands yields findings on family structure, social customs, and ancestral populations. The study suggests that matrilocal population structures were the rule among the world's earliest seafarers, with women often remaining in their communities after marriage.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 30, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Novel supramolecular CRISPR–Cas9 carrier enables more efficient genome editing

A team of researchers from Kumamoto University has developed a transformable polyrotaxane carrier that can facilitate genome editing using Cas9RNP with high efficiency. The carrier, called amino-PRX, is multi-step transformable and has low cytotoxicity, making it an enormously promising candidate for safe and efficient delivery.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalApplied Materials Today·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2022

Towards a better understanding of the biology of schizophrenia

A large-scale genetic study has identified 287 genomic regions associated with schizophrenia and 120 specific genes linked to the disorder. These findings provide new insights into the biological processes underlying schizophrenia, offering potential avenues for novel therapies.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2022

Some hard-to-crack genome areas carry genes that make us distinctly humans

The completed human genome assembly has revealed new insights into human evolution and diseases. Researchers found that highly repetitive regions, including segmental duplications, contain genes critical for brain development and function. These findings shed light on the genetic factors that make humans distinct from other primates.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

Hybrid neuroscience connects the dots for a big picture of the brain

Researchers are combining optogenetics and fMRI to study the links between brain activity and behavior. This hybrid approach allows for targeted manipulation and monitoring of brain function in awake and behaving rodents, providing valuable insights into neural mechanisms.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateMar 29, 2022

Gender-affirming hormone therapy can influence gene activity

A new study found that gender-affirming hormone therapy can affect certain regions of DNA, influencing immune function and susceptibility to autoimmune disease. The research has important implications for counseling transgender children and adolescents about the effects of hormone therapies.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalClinical Epigenetics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Study probes how DNA folding might affect gene activity

Researchers have clarified the mechanism behind activating genes in drosophila fly sex cells, which may hold clues to understanding diseases. The study's findings suggest that DNA packaging plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression, with abnormal packaging potentially leading to misregulation and disease.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

The abyssal world: the last terra incognita of the Earth surface

A massive DNA sequencing project has mapped the deep-sea biodiversity, revealing a vast and unknown ecosystem that plays a crucial role in ocean food-webs and carbon sequestration. The study sheds light on the connection between surface and deep-water ecosystems, with implications for understanding climate change.

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 4, 2022

Protective gene variant against COVID-19 identified

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified a specific gene variant that protects against severe COVID-19 infection, found in individuals of African ancestry. The study analyzed 2,787 hospitalized patients and 130,997 people from six cohort studies, revealing an 80% prevalence of the protective variant among Africans.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 13, 2022

Beating the odds in mutation’s game of chance

Researchers found that plants have evolved a way to protect their most important genes from mutation, which has significant implications for understanding crop domestication and cancer. The study discovered non-random patterns in DNA mutations, with essential genes overrepresented in regions where mutations are rare.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2022
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Modular super-enhancer controls retinal development

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified a 'modular' super-enhancer that controls gene expression during retina formation, revealing four distinct regions with different functions. This discovery provides a way to study gene expression during development and offers a blueprint for studying brain development.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 11, 2022

Fingerprint patterns are linked to limb development genes

Researchers found fingerprints influenced by genes responsible for limb development, shedding light on phenotypical traits in humans. The study identifies 43 genome regions associated with fingerprint patterns and suggests a link between dermatoglyphic patterns and congenital genetic disorders.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateJan 6, 2022

Division of labor among genetic switches

Researchers identify genetic circuit that senses cell development stage, triggering deactivation of X chromosome. The discovery reveals a division of labor among genetic switches, providing clues for future study on X chromosome inactivation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Long-range four-stranded DNA structures found to play a role in rare ageing disease

A special form of four-stranded DNA has been found to interact with the gene that causes Cockayne Syndrome when faulty. G-quadruplexes, which form knot-like structures in DNA, specifically bind to a protein called CSB, affecting its function and potentially leading to premature ageing.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2021

Largest genetic study of suicide attempts confirms genetic underpinnings that are not driven by underlying psychiatric disorders

A large-scale genome-wide association study has identified a region on chromosome 7 containing DNA variations that increase the risk of attempting suicide. The study found overlap between the genetic basis of suicide attempts and related psychiatric disorders, as well as non-psychiatric risk factors such as smoking and sleep disturbances.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Large study compares the brains of left-handers and right-handers

A large study comparing the brains of left-handers and right-handers found significant differences in brain asymmetry across ten regions. The research also discovered a link between genetic influences on handedness and brain asymmetries in language-related regions.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2021

Ancient DNA analysis sheds light on dark event in medieval Spain

A medieval Spanish individual, known as the 'Segorbe Giant,' has been analyzed using ancient DNA. The research found that he had a mix of North African and local Spanish ancestry, suggesting a complex history of migration and intermixing. This study sheds light on a dark event in medieval Spain's past.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalScientific Reports·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 23, 2021

Ancient marsupial 'junk DNA' might be useful after all, scientists say

Researchers found that viral fossils in Australian marsupials are used to make non-coding RNAs that protect against outside infection. The study suggests that these viral fossils may be helping to immunize animals, potentially providing a mechanism similar to vaccination.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalVirus Evolution·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 8, 2021
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Exploring the genetic ma(i)ze: Functional genomics can help molecular breeding of maize

Researchers used functional genomics to identify key genes involved in inducing callus from immature maize embryos, overcoming a major roadblock in plant breeding. The study found that nearly 30% of predicted A188 genes were structurally different from other maize lines, accounting for high protein divergence and phenotypic variations.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalThe Crop Journal·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2021
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.

Where are the Foreigners of the First International Age?

A new study investigates human mobility at Alalakh during the Bronze Age, finding most people were born and raised in the region. Genetic data shows ancestry from neighboring regions, with only one individual showing Central Asian origins but local upbringing.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 30, 2021

UCLA study reveals how immune cells can be trained to fight infections

Researchers have discovered a key molecular mechanism underlying immune cell training, which determines whether cells respond aggressively to threats. By understanding this process, doctors may be able to 'hack' the immune system to strengthen it and prevent autoimmunity.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 2021

New findings unveil a missing piece of human prehistory

A joint research team led by Prof. FU Qiaomei has sequenced the ancient genomes of 31 individuals from southern East Asia, unveiling a missing piece of human prehistory. The study reveals three genetically distinct ancestries in southern East Asia and Southeast Asia: Fujian ancestry, Hòabìnhian ancestry, and Guangxi ancestry.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·DateJun 24, 2021

Researchers speed identification of DNA regions that regulate gene expression

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital scientists have developed an integrated system to better understand and possibly manipulate gene expression for treatment of disorders like sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia. The new method identified dozens of DNA regulatory elements that orchestrate fetal-to-adult hemoglobin switch, offeri...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 6, 2021

DNA damage 'hot spots' discovered within neurons

Scientists have identified specific regions within the DNA of neurons that accumulate a certain type of damage, which appears to be unique to neurons. This discovery challenges current knowledge about the cause of DNA damage and its potential implications in neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature·DateMar 25, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Researchers identify DNA elements that affect MECP2 expression

Two regions of DNA required for proper MECP2 expression have been identified in mice and humans, which could lead to new treatments for Rett Syndrome and MECP2 Duplication Syndrome. These discoveries provide hope for future treatments targeting these DNA regions.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenes & Development·DateMar 18, 2021

HSE researchers use neural networks to study DNA

Researchers have proposed a new approach using neural networks and omics data to predict Z-DNA regions in the human genome. DeepZ, a recurrent neural network, achieved higher accuracy than existing algorithms, allowing for the mapping of potential Z-DNA sites across the entire genome.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 17, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

New compact model for gene regulation in higher organisms

Researchers propose minimal extension to classic equilibrium model, capturing high specificity and noise in eukaryotic gene expression. The new model suggests a trade-off between specificity and noise, with high specificity leading to increased noise.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 3, 2020

How genetic variation gives rise to differences in mathematical ability

A study published in PLOS Biology found that genetic variants of the ROBO1 gene in young children are associated with grey matter volume in the right parietal cortex, predicting mathematical test scores. The research suggests that genetic variability may shape mathematical ability by influencing early brain development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 22, 2020

Evolutionary and heritable axes shape our brain

Scientists have deciphered two axes of brain organization, mainly determined by genetic factors, which reflect functional hierarchies from basic capabilities to complex skills. These findings provide insight into the evolution of brain structure and its relationship with genetic and environmental factors.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 28, 2020

Lost frogs rediscovered with environmental DNA

Scientists have detected signs of a frog listed as extinct using environmental DNA in two regions of Brazil. The frog, Megaelosia bocainensis, was among seven total species detected, including four declining species and two that had disappeared locally for many years.

SourceCornell University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateSep 8, 2020
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Human mobility and Western Asia's early state-level societies

Archaeogenomic analysis reveals two influential genetic events and evidence of long-distance individual movement in Anatolia, Northern Levant, and the Southern Caucasus. Genetic mixing and individual mobility were key factors in the development of regional genetic melting pots and early state-level societies.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalCell·DateMay 28, 2020

Breaking up is hard to do (especially for sex chromosomes)

Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have figured out how X and Y chromosomes pair up properly during meiosis. They discovered that a repeated sequence of DNA in the pseudoautosomal region (PAR) attracts double-strand break-related proteins, leading to frequent DNA breaks in this region.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNature·DateMay 28, 2020

Ancient Andes, analyzed

An international team analyzed genome-wide data from 89 ancient individuals in the central Andes, revealing early genetic distinctions between groups, population mixing, and surprising genetic continuity. The study provides a comprehensive portrait of pre-Columbian Andean civilizations.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateMay 7, 2020
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.

Ancient DNA paints genetic portrait of Andes civilizations

Researchers analyzed DNA of 89 ancient humans in the central Andes, finding early genetic differences between regions and surprising continuity. Genetic analysis revealed a north-south substructure of the Highlands developing by 5,800 BP, with minimal changes to the genetic structure of the central Andean region between 2,000 and 500 BP.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalCell·DateMay 7, 2020

'Jumping genes' help stabilize DNA folding patterns

Researchers found that jumping genes, also known as transposable elements, play a crucial role in stabilizing the 3D folding patterns of DNA molecules. This discovery contradicts the long-held assumption that the precise order of letters in the DNA sequence dictates the broader structure of the DNA molecule.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalGenome Biology·DateJan 24, 2020

Genomic cut and paste using a Class 1 CRISPR system

Japanese researchers have developed a Class 1 CRISPR gene editing system that enables efficient DNA repairs in human cells with minimal off-target effects. The Cas3 protein-based approach achieves superior genome editing efficiency compared to traditional Class 2 systems, opening doors for new therapeutic applications.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 9, 2019

DNA repeats -- the genome's dark matter

A new method has been developed to analyze pathogenic DNA repeats in the human genome, revealing their role in genetic diseases such as Fragile X syndrome. The technique combines nanopore sequencing, stem cell culture, and CRISPR-Cas technologies to provide detailed insights into these previously inaccessible regions.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateNov 22, 2019
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

The genetic imprint of Palaeolithic has been detected in North African populations

Researchers have identified a small genetic imprint of Palaeolithic inhabitants in North African populations, contradicting the theory that recent migrations erased their genetic traces. The study, published in Current Biology, reveals unique genetic imprints and patterns of continuity versus replacement.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 6, 2019

Online tool speeds response to elephant poaching by tracing ivory to source

A new online tool uses an interactive database of genetic information to help authorities quickly identify the origin of confiscated ivory from African elephants. The Loxodonta Localizer matches genetic sequences from poached ivory to those stored in the database, providing a faster and cheaper analysis than current approaches.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Heredity·DateNov 1, 2019

Research improves understanding of mechanism of atrial fibrillation

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have discovered a functional link between noncoding DNA regions called Pitx2 enhancers and the expression of the Pitx2 gene in relation to atrial fibrillation. This interaction prevents predisposition to the condition by looping and folding distant Pitx2 enhancers to make contact with the gene.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Scientists discover 'electron equivalents' in colloidal systems

Researchers have created a material that challenges traditional crystal definitions by having variable components, which can maintain structure with different proportions. The study used DNA to tether smaller particles to larger ones, revealing 'electron equivalents' that enable delocalization and new technologies.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 27, 2019