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Cell memory mechanism discovered

A team of scientists has identified a potential mechanism for cellular memory, which allows cells to recall the order of transcription factor binding. This discovery sheds light on how cells maintain gene regulation and may have implications for understanding diseases such as cancer.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell·DateAug 15, 2013

No need to prepare

Researchers sequenced DNA molecules directly without library preparation, using less than one nanogram of DNA. The technique has potential for fast and efficient identification of organisms in hospitals and healthcare settings.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalBioTechniques·DateDec 11, 2012

More code cracking

Recent studies from Northwestern University's Physical Sciences-Oncology Center report significant methodological advances in gene expression regulation. The breakthroughs enable better comprehension of gene transcription in both normal cells and cancer cells.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateAug 1, 2012

New 'genetic bar code' technique establishes ability to derive DNA information from RNA

Researchers developed a method to derive DNA information from RNA, allowing for identification of individuals in massive research repositories. This technique raises questions about DNA and RNA data bank privacy issues, and may enable tracking of individual characteristics like age, sex, and disease risks.

Improved method for detecting mutant DNAs

A new DNA testing method, MEMO, has been developed to detect trace mutant DNA sequences with improved sensitivity. The technique uses 3′-modified oligonucleotides to block normal gene extension while allowing mutated gene extension, increasing detection sensitivity.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateOct 11, 2011

Are genes our destiny?

Researchers at Salk Institute discover a "hidden" code linked to DNA that allows plants to develop and pass down new biological traits rapidly. The epigenetic code is found to evolve more quickly than the genetic code and strongly influence biological traits.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateSep 16, 2011

Technology to screen for synbio abuses lags

A new study argues that synthetic life sciences require a global regulator to detect pathogenic agents and ensure approved purposes for DNA sequences. However, current technology is insufficient to create an effective clearinghouse, highlighting the need for improved screening software and procedures.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalBulletin of the Atomic Scientists·DateSep 16, 2010

Just a little squeeze lets proteins assess DNA

A team of researchers from the University of Arizona has discovered a new method for protein-DNA interaction, where proteins can identify specific sequences on DNA using indirect readout. This breakthrough has implications for the development of designer drugs and could lead to a better understanding of diseases.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalStructure·DateDec 16, 2008

Plants display 'molecular amnesia'

Researchers at McGill University have discovered that plants can forget epigenetic silencing, a process crucial for breeding enhanced crops. This 'molecular amnesia' varies depending on genome position, offering new avenues for understanding gene regulation and developing cancer treatments.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateDec 2, 2008

'Early bird' project really gets the worm

The Early Bird Project, a five-year study funded by the National Science Foundation, has collected DNA sequence data from 169 bird species. The research revealed that birds adapted to diverse environments multiple times and that distinctive lifestyles evolved independently. The study's findings will be published in Science on June 27.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2008