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Genetic link confirmed between Polynesians and indigenous Taiwanese

A new study in PLoS Biology confirms the genetic link between Polynesians and indigenous Taiwanese populations, revealing three unique mitochondrial DNA mutations. The findings suggest that Taiwanese aboriginal populations have been genetically isolated from mainland Chinese for 10,000 to 20,000 years.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 4, 2005

Major advance made on DNA structure

Researchers at Oregon State University have used X-ray crystallography to determine the three-dimensional structures of nearly all possible sequences of a macromolecule, creating a map of DNA structure. This breakthrough should fundamentally improve our understanding of genetic function and biological processes.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 2, 2005

Busy sequencing technique saves money and time

A computer scientist at Washington University in St. Louis has developed a novel technique to extract more DNA from a single sequence reaction, reducing both cost and time of the sequencing process. The approach uses software that sorts through genetic information and finds predicted sequences, with 59% of predicted genes verified as e...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalGenome Research·DateMay 10, 2004

A new hypothesis on the origin of 'junk' DNA

A new hypothesis on the origin of 'junk' DNA proposes that smaller population sizes in eukaryotes lead to a weakening of natural selection's potency, allowing extraneous genetic sequences to accumulate. This theory suggests that genetic drift is responsible for preserving junk DNA and other extraneous genetic sequences in organisms.

SourceIndiana University·JournalScience·DateNov 20, 2003

DNA separation by entropic force offers better resolution

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a DNA separation method using entropic force, which offers better resolution than traditional methods. The new technique uses a nanofabricated device to separate DNA strands of different lengths, with the potential to improve genetic analysis and gene expression studies.

SourceCornell University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 23, 2002

Researchers find synthetic molecules that may literally be the key to 'locking away' unwanted DNA

Scientists at the University of Warwick have created a large synthetic molecule that binds to the major groove of DNA, causing it to coil up and resembling how chromosomes package DNA. This breakthrough could enable precise control over gene expression and improve treatments for diseases by delivering drugs directly to specific cells.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2002

Study of flamingo genes reveals surprising family tree

A comprehensive study of flamingo genes reveals a shocking family tree, with the elegant flamingo's closest relative being the squat grebe. The study's findings suggest that physical features like long legs and webbed feet evolved repeatedly in aquatic bird species, contradicting traditional classification systems.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society of London·DateJul 11, 2001

Natural selection for lactose tolerance

A study by Dr. Dallas Swallow and colleagues found that the lactase gene was shaped by two evolutionary periods: one before and one after fresh milk became available. The researchers discovered that genetic diversity in non-African populations is lower than in Africans, suggesting a loss of genetic variation due to random fluctuations ...

SourceThe American Journal of Human Genetics·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateDec 14, 2000

DNA research reveals new bird species in Colorado

Researchers at U.S. Geological Survey and University of Denver have identified a new bird species, the Gunnison sage-grouse, through DNA analysis and genetic research. The study confirms the species' distinctiveness from the Greater sage-grouse and highlights concerns about its low genetic diversity and population decline.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalThe Wilson Bulletin·DateDec 6, 2000

Italian wolves haven't gone to the dogs--yet

A new study has revealed that Italian wolves have maintained a pure population despite facing threats such as competition for food and space. The researchers analyzed mitochondrial DNA samples from over 100 Italian wolves, finding unique sequences that indicate the species has remained genetically distinct from feral dogs.

SourceSociety for Conservation Biology·JournalConservation Biology·DateApr 12, 2000

Suppression Of Natural Fires Harms Squirrels

Researchers found that suppressing natural fires harms Northern Idaho ground squirrels, isolating them into shrinking groups where non-native plants overtake fire-resistant seed-laden grasses. The biologists propose two solutions: restoring habitat and reintroducing controlled fires to restore native vegetational structure.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateMay 3, 1999