Dna
Articles tagged with Dna
‘Mobile’ DNA elements may have expanded gene regulatory networks in brain development
DNA matches identify four more sailors from Franklin expedition
Researchers from the University of Waterloo have identified four more members of Sir John Franklin's 1845 expedition using DNA samples extracted from skeletal remains. The new discoveries bring the total number of identified sailors to six, providing previously unavailable details about the circumstances and locations of their deaths.
How river DNA can track fish, frogs, fungi and human feces — all at once
Researchers have developed a technique to analyze DNA from water samples to track species, detect pollution, and monitor ecosystem health. The technology identifies DNA from various organisms, including fish, amphibians, mammals, and even leatherback sea turtles.
With large DNA fragment assembly, scientists can design microbes that produce countless complex products
Researchers can now build and combine large DNA pieces, redesigning microbes as efficient cell factories for producing complex products like medicines and chemicals. This technology enables sustainable manufacturing, agriculture, and industrial biotechnology, and accelerates microbial cell factory development.
Giant squid among rare and elusive marine life detected off Western Australia’s coast
Scientists used environmental DNA to document species in deep underwater canyons, including the giant squid and other rare species. The study reveals a vast amount of deep-sea biodiversity in Western Australian waters, with dozens of new species detected.
MIT researchers show how chromatin movement helps control gene expression
Researchers at MIT have found that chromatin can exist in two different categories: constrained and free, which affects its interaction with genes and DNA regulatory sequences. This study provides insight into gene regulation and DNA repair processes.
A simple filter swap could advance marine eDNA biomonitoring
Researchers discover that using filters with larger pore sizes significantly improves the recovery of eukaryotic DNA in seawater samples, allowing for more accurate detection of marine life. This breakthrough could enhance the application of environmental DNA analysis in biomonitoring and conservation efforts.
MIT study: Gene circuits reshape DNA folding and affect how genes are expressed
Researchers at MIT discovered that gene circuits can reshape DNA folding and affect gene expression in human cells. The study found that rearranging genes along a DNA strand, or 'gene syntax,' can amplify or suppress the expression of neighboring genes.
Research Alert: Water molecules found to actively drive gene transcription process
Researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to visualize individual water molecules and metal ions within RNA polymerase II, revealing their active role in DNA transcription. The study provides a new understanding of how genetic information is read and expressed, challenging the traditional 'protein-centered' view.
Treatment of rare childhood epilepsy could begin before birth
Researchers suggest treatment could start during pregnancy to prevent brain damage and reduce neurological harm. A new RNA-based therapy reduces abnormal electrical currents in patient-derived excitatory neurons.
Durham University researchers create DNA “nano-rings” to control viral cell proteins
Researchers have developed a nanoscale tool that can capture and precisely position membrane proteins, essential for life and target of many modern medicines. The DNA Origami-Constrained Nanodiscs (DOC-NDs) approach combines two advanced techniques to create tiny structures that hold individual proteins with remarkable accuracy.
Scientists discover a new way to make drug-resistant cancer treatable again
Researchers discovered a small molecule, UNI418, that destabilizes key DNA repair proteins, making drug-resistant cancer cells vulnerable to PARP inhibitor therapy. This approach restores tumor sensitivity and improves treatment outcomes.
New technology enables ‘rewriting a chapter’ of the genome
A new technology allows for the efficient insertion of large DNA segments, enabling a 'chapter rewrite' in the genome. This method avoids double-strand breaks and can correct hundreds of mutations simultaneously.
AI discovery reveals DNA isn’t locked away in cells after all
Researchers used a new AI-powered computational method to discover that most nucleosomes contain sections of DNA that are partially accessible to the cell. The study found that more than 85% of nucleosomes showed some degree of distortion, with 14 distinct structural states associated with different levels of gene activity.
Environmental DNA in NYC’s East River reveals clues about nearby human and animal residents
Researchers used eDNA to monitor human diets and track local wildlife in NYC's East River, revealing the presence of domesticated animals and seasonal fish populations. The study found correlations between wastewater eDNA levels and human dietary patterns, providing a valuable tool for urban estuary management.
High-resolution imaging shines light on nanoscale nuclear organization
Scientists have developed an advanced microscopy technique to visualize critical components of the cell's transcription machinery and proteins that provide structural support to the nucleus. The new technique allows for the visualization of up to 12 biomolecules simultaneously, providing detailed maps of nuclear organization.
Enhancer provides a potential target for ‘undruggable’ MYC in pediatric medulloblastoma
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified a key regulatory enhancer, ecMYC E1, that drives MYC expression in pediatric medulloblastoma, a type of brain cancer with poor outcomes. Silencing this enhancer reduces MYC transcription and can be targeted to treat the disease.
Mars rover detects never-before-seen organic compounds in new experiment
NASA's Curiosity Mars rover has discovered diverse organic molecules on Mars, including chemicals that could be signs of ancient life. The findings suggest the Martian surface can preserve molecules that could serve as building blocks for life.
Stone age population collapse revealed by DNA study in France
A genetic analysis of 132 individuals buried in a megalithic tomb near Paris found a sharp reduction in the local population followed by the arrival of new groups from southern France and the Iberian Peninsula. The study detected ancient pathogens, including the plague bacterium Yersinia pestis.
‘Fingerprints’ of childhood cancer treatment provide clues that may help mitigate second cancers
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified therapy-specific mutations that could guide safer treatments among childhood cancer survivors. The study analyzed genetic mutations in subsequent neoplasms of 160 survivors who developed breast, thyroid malignancies and meningiomas after treatment.
Anabaena learns a new trick
Researchers at ISTA report that Anabaena develops a cytoskeleton to control cell shape, transforming an ancient DNA segregation system. This evolutionary shift enables the bacteria to sculpt their cells without relying on traditional spindle-like structures.
New technique maps cancer drug uptake inside living cells
A new analytical method allows scientists to track exactly where a cancer drug accumulates inside a living cell, enabling more precise treatment design. This breakthrough uses subcellular capillary sampling and laser ablation – Inductively coupled plasma – Mass spectrometry to detect trace amounts of metal in individual cells.
Exclusive breastfeeding linked to long-term changes in marks on DNA, found in blood
Babies exclusively breastfed for at least three months have distinct epigenetic marks in their blood related to immunity and development. These findings come from the largest study on this topic, conducted across an international consortium.
Alzheimer’s-linked protein tau play a role in cell division
A new study by POSTECH researchers found that the protein tau interacts with DNA during cell division, forming condensates that capture microtubules. This interaction affects chromosome alignment and can lead to cellular abnormalities even in healthy cells.
University of Minnesota researchers develop new method providing clearer view of how genome functions in cancer
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have developed a new method called PARTAGE that provides a clearer picture of how the genome is regulated and disrupted in diseases like cancer. The method allows for the measurement of three key features from the same sample: DNA duplication, genomic alterations, and gene activ...
How does mitochondrial DNA affect your health?
Salk Institute researchers have developed a new biological platform for studying mitochondrial DNA in human physiology, adaptation, and therapeutic development. The platform allows scientists to investigate mitochondrial DNA variation in health and disease, enabling therapeutic innovation for mitochondrial disorders.
Computational model measures key aging metric from routine biopsies
Researchers developed a computational tool that infers telomere length from structural changes in cells and tissues captured in medical biopsies. The TLPath model accurately predicts telomere length, providing new opportunities for studying human aging.
First-of-its-kind analysis reveals the structural variant landscape driving pediatric cancer development
Researchers identified structural variants as a key driver of childhood cancer, with RAG-mediated recombination found in nearly all subtypes of acute lymphoblastic leukemias. The analysis highlights the importance of structural variants in pediatric blood cancers and provides new insights into the mechanisms driving these diseases.
Researchers develop new way to safely insert gene-sized DNA into the genome
A new approach, called INSTALL, enables non-toxic DNA integration in multiple human cell types and successfully inserts large genetic payloads in mice, offering a promising solution for genetic therapies. The study's findings have the potential to broaden the applicability of genome editing therapies.
Detecting Alzheimer's with DNA aptamers—new tool for an easy blood test
Researchers develop world's first DNA aptamer that binds to neurofilament light chain, a protein released into the blood with neurodegeneration. The aptamer, MN711, shows high affinity and specificity comparable to commercially available antibodies.
Flipped chromosomal segments drive natural selection
New research finds that chromosomal inversions help Atlantic silversides maintain genetic differences suited to cold and warm waters, influencing growth rates and vertebrae numbers. This discovery suggests a fundamental role for chromosomal inversions in local adaptation and may shape population responses to ocean warming.
With Evo 2, AI can model and design the genetic code for all domains of life
The AI model can accurately identify disease-causing mutations in human genes and is capable of designing new genomes that are as long as the genomes of simple bacteria. Evo 2 has been trained on over 100,000 species across the entire tree of life and can process genetic sequences of up to 1 million nucleotides at once.
Team led by UC San Diego researchers selected for prestigious global cancer prize
A global team led by UC San Diego's Ludmil Alexandrov is receiving a $25 million Cancer Grand Challenges award to decipher the molecular origins of cancer. The team aims to identify unique patterns of DNA damage and their sources, which could lead to new prevention and treatment strategies.
Protein regulator of sugars and fats may work with an unexpected partner — itself
Researchers characterized the structure and function of a protein that regulates sugar and fat levels, finding it can work with an unexpected partner - itself. This partnership may drive the expression of different genes than its usual partner, offering new therapeutic targets for diseases like liver cancer and diabetes.
Scientists form complex DNA structures without hydrogen bonds
Researchers at NYU's Department of Chemistry have discovered a way to assemble complex DNA structures without sticky ends, using shape alone to guide assembly. This breakthrough enables the creation of varied 3D structures made entirely out of DNA, with potential applications in optical, electronic, and biomedical technologies.
Reducing disease through gene manipulation
Dr. Gregory Reeves' team has developed a method to measure the amount of Dorsal protein in the nucleus, revealing its interaction with DNA and providing a predictive model for therapeutic purposes. The study aims to control cellular processes and prevent diseases like cancer.
Rice stink bug genetic mapping offers clues to curb a costly crop pest
Researchers have discovered that native rice stink bugs have more genetic diversity than invasive species, which could help monitor the spread of insecticide resistance. This study provides valuable insights into pest management for Arkansas rice growers, who face significant costs due to the bug's impact on their crops.
Engineers sharpen gene-editing tools to target cystic fibrosis
Engineers have refined a technology to edit individual genetic base pairs, reducing unintended edits and increasing safety for potential treatments. The new base editors could lead to better outcomes for some cystic fibrosis patients and more accurate models for drug testing.
Big data and human height: ISTA scientists develop algorithm to boost biobank data retrieval & analysis
Researchers from ISTA developed an algorithm that can extract and analyze information from the world’s most extensive biobank with unprecedented accuracy and speed. The method, dubbed gVAMP, enhances the framework's ability to extract complex information from the dataset at hand, providing a detailed overview of the effects on a trait ...
Development of a new technology for controlled interstrand linking of DNA
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a new technology that uses thioguanosine to achieve highly efficient and controllable interstrand crosslinking of DNA. This breakthrough enables reversible DNA modification with high stability and reversibility, opening opportunities for next-generation bionanomaterials.
New study reveals cyanobacteria may help spread antibiotic resistance in estuarine ecosystems
A new study reveals cyanobacteria as major carriers of antibiotic resistance genes in estuarine ecosystems. The researchers found strong connections between microbial carbon and nitrogen cycling and the presence of resistance genes.
New vaccine platform promotes rare protective B cells
Researchers at MIT and Scripps Research Institute have developed a vaccine that generates a significant population of rare precursor B cells capable of evolving to produce broadly neutralizing antibodies against HIV. The DNA-VLP approach shows potential for inducing broadly neutralizing antibody responses against influenza as well.
From cytoplasm to nucleus: A new workflow to improve gene therapy odds
Researchers at the University of California - San Diego have developed a new method to improve gene therapy by increasing the efficacy of gene delivery while minimizing harmful side effects. The new workflow allows for increased control of nuclear DNA delivery, with greater than tenfold increase in nuclear DNA delivery observed.
New data-driven 3D chromosome model reveals structural and dynamic features of DNA
FI-Chrom uses Hi-C maps to create 3D models of chromosomes, revealing structural and dynamic features such as chromatin loops forming transiently. The open-access program provides insight into chromosome structure in various organisms.
Mighty microscopic fibers key to cell division and life itself
Researchers at UC San Francisco found that spindle fibers can repair themselves as they pull on DNA, ensuring accurate chromosome division. This self-repair mechanism replaces weak links with stronger ones, preventing errors that could lead to cancer or birth defects.
Rice bioengineers explore new gene delivery systems with Keck Foundation support
Researchers at Rice University are exploring biological systems-inspired delivery vehicles to target specific tissues in living organisms, aiming to improve the efficiency of gene-based therapies. The project focuses on optimizing combinations of surface molecules to enable precise and efficient delivery of large DNA payloads.
Novel liquid biopsy technology lowers barriers for more efficient cancer diagnostics
A new liquid biopsy technology, Bridge Capture, has been developed to overcome the challenges of sensitive and cost-efficient cancer diagnostics. It detects rare variant allele frequencies with superior sensitivity compared to existing methods.
Collaborative study uncovers unknown causes of blindness
Researchers have discovered new genetic causes of inherited blindness, identifying changes in RNA genes as a key factor. This breakthrough provides clarity for dozens of families globally and opens new possibilities for diagnostics and counseling in hereditary conditions, offering hope for affected individuals and their loved ones.
4D Nucleome Consortium produces detailed models of the 3D genome over time in cells
The study created a critical framework for understanding the architecture of the genome and its association with gene function in cells. The 4DN Consortium integrated data from over a dozen techniques to compile an extensive catalogue of looping interactions between genes and regulatory elements.
Study shows your genes determine how fast your DNA mutates with age
Researchers identified dozens of genes that regulate DNA repeat expansion, which accelerates as people age. The study found common genetic variants can speed up or slow this process by up to fourfold, linking it to serious diseases like kidney failure and liver disease.
New clues to preventing stillbirth
Flinders University researchers discovered a biological process that could explain some stillbirths and pave the way for early detection. The study found that molecules called circular RNAs build up in the placenta too quickly during pregnancy, compromising its ability to nourish the baby.
DNA nanostructures get a major upgrade
Researchers have developed a new method to assemble DNA nanostructures in ionic liquids, resulting in improved stability and enhanced targeting capabilities. The new approach has shown promising results in targeting cancer cells and delivering potent inhibition.
Polar bears may be adapting to survive warmer climates, says study
A new study found that rising temperatures are driving changes in polar bear DNA, which may help them adapt to increasingly challenging environments. The researchers discovered that genes related to heat-stress, aging, and metabolism are behaving differently in polar bears living in southeastern Greenland.
Scientists uncover key driver of treatment-resistant cancer
Researchers have identified the enzyme N4BP2 as the key driver of chromothripsis, a process in which cancer cells rapidly evolve and become resistant to treatment. The study reveals that tumors with high N4BP2 expression exhibit significantly more chromothripsis and structural rearrangements.
From dots to lines: new database catalogs human gene types using ’ACTG’ rules
Researchers have developed the Joint Open Genome and Omics Platform 1.0 (JoGo 1.0), which organizes human gene types into four levels based on global frequency. The database catalogs 19,194 human genes with a novel naming system, enabling secure integration of sensitive datasets and linking each gene type to public resources.
Scientists capture first detailed look inside droplet-like structures of compacted DNA
Researchers have captured the most detailed images yet of molecules inside synthetic chromatin condensates, allowing them to understand how these droplet-like structures form and function. The team found that linker DNA length affects structure arrangement, which in turn dictates interactions between chromatin fibers.
Ancient genetics and modern pollutants could provide a clue to endometriosis risk
A new study suggests that genetic differences passed down from ancient human ancestors and exposure to common chemicals could explain why some women are more likely to develop endometriosis. Researchers identified six genetic variants linked to the condition, which also occur in genes sensitive to modern pollutants.
Counting salmon is a breeze with airborne eDNA
Researchers at the University of Washington successfully tracked salmon populations using airborne eDNA, finding that the airborne DNA concentration fluctuated with visual counts reported by the hatchery. The technique links air, water, and fish, providing a valuable tool for population health monitoring and management.
Genetic study links impulsive decision making to a wide range of health and psychiatric risks
A genetic study of 135,000 participants revealed 11 genetic regions tied to delayed gratification, showing overlap with risks for conditions like obesity and diabetes. The study found that delay discounting is deeply intertwined with genetic pathways involved in brain development, cognition, and physical health.