Articles tagged with Dna
MIT researchers developed a new technique to produce lipid nanoparticles with precise control over size and shape, accelerating the development of RNA and DNA therapeutics. The automated system can produce particles of varying sizes and shapes, enabling targeted delivery to specific organs and tissues.
Salk Institute researchers have discovered a novel pathway that links chronic interferon II exposure to mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to immunosuppression and enhanced tumor growth. By blocking prostaglandin E2, they found a viable target to restore immune system function and combat immunotherapy resistance.
An international team reconstructed a 1,000-year timeline documenting human impact on the ecosystem surrounding Crawford Lake. The analysis of sedimentary ancient DNA samples revealed changes in plant, animal, and microbial communities over the centuries.
Researchers captured two DNA strands zipping together for the first time, revealing a unique mechanism involving tiny molecular bridges and divalent ions. This discovery confirms a 20-year-old theory known as the 'DNA zipper' model and has implications for genetic recombination, gene silencing, and cancer research.
Researchers have created the first comprehensive atlas of DNA's physical properties, revealing how its sequence influences genome regulation and evolution. The study analyzed 2,080 unique DNA fragments and found that certain sequences can preserve physical properties necessary for DNA function, potentially influencing genome evolution.
Researchers have developed the AlphaGenome Atlas, a comprehensive map of more than 9 billion possible single-letter DNA changes. The one-petabyte dataset provides artificial intelligence-generated predictions for the molecular effects of these changes, accelerating understanding of the human genome.
UCSB professor Max Wilson's team aims to develop a system that can synthesize DNA or RNA without chemical input, enabling faster and more efficient protein design. The project involves engineering a strain of yeast to produce light-activated polymerase enzymes responsive to specific wavelengths of light.
A new atlas of the brain’s striatum has identified 31 subgroups of neurons, including those involved in addiction, depression, and schizophrenia. The atlas may help scientists develop new drugs to combat these conditions, particularly by targeting specific cell populations affected by Huntington’s disease.
Researchers at the University of Maine discovered that planktonic baby lobsters preferentially feed on Calanus finmarchicus, a tiny, calorie-rich zooplankton species, during one of the most vulnerable stages of their lives. This finding is crucial to understanding fluctuations in the abundance of lobster larvae and future adult lobsters.
A new precision oncology paper critiques the methodology used in a 2025 study on mRNA vaccine residual DNA, arguing that it systematically underestimates DNA impurities. The analysis highlights key methodological flaws, including primer design, sample preparation, and analytical platform limitations.
Researchers discovered that unique satellite DNA patterns on each pair of chromosomes, like barcodes, help matching chromosomes find each other. These patterns ensure correct distribution of chromosomes during meiosis, preventing errors in fertilization.
Researchers investigate DNA's physical properties, including shape, flexibility, and interactions with proteins, to understand gene expression and cell activity. The study found that evolution favors the preservation of mechanical stability in DNA molecules.
Researchers used eDNA metabarcoding to study fish biodiversity in heavily damaged mountainous cascade dammed rivers. The study found 97 fish species, including 14 IUCN threatened taxa, with seasonal differences in species detection rates and community composition.
Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo and Kyoto University created hierarchical DNA networks using DNA polymerase and kinesin nanomachines. The study demonstrates the importance of active molecular motion in network formation, a step toward materials that assemble and organize themselves like living systems.
Scientists discovered a previously missed DNA mutation pattern in colorectal cancer, found in 3 independent datasets of 2616 tumors, suggesting a new mechanism of DNA damage accumulation. The pattern appears relatively late in tumor development and is associated with small insertions and deletions in DNA.
A study from Institute of Science Tokyo reveals how histone variants direct DNA methylation to jumping genes, preventing accidental gene silencing in plants. This molecular framework enables plant cells to distinguish transposons from genes, ensuring precise epigenetic regulation across the genome.
A team of researchers at Brown University identified new genetic mutations in malaria parasites that make them less susceptible to current treatments. The findings, published in Nature Medicine, highlight the rapid spread of these variants and the need for improved surveillance and new therapies.
Researchers at Salk Institute develop novel 'dye-cycling' strategy to measure RNA polymerase movement along DNA with unprecedented lengths of time. This breakthrough provides critical mechanical insights into how genes are transcribed in cells, shedding light on the fundamental processes of life.
Researchers have successfully engineered plants to produce myoglobin, an important component of animal muscle, using a gene gun to insert the genes into chloroplasts. The yield was approximately three times higher than when inserted into the nuclear genome, paving the way for plant-grown meat production.
Researchers found that ESCRT-III proteins form a protective coating around exposed DNA bridges, preventing damage and ensuring genome stability. This discovery provides insight into how cells protect themselves from DNA damage events linked to cancer development.
Liquid biopsy targeting viral ctDNA holds promise as a diagnostic and surveillance tool for head and neck cancer. The study aims to monitor treatment response and assess minimal residual disease (MRD) to adapt treatment via precision oncology.
Northwestern University chemists have developed a new approach that replaces traditional trial-and-error methods with intentional design using flexible DNA strands. The strategy enables precise control over protein connections, creating soft, flexible crystals with high structural order. This breakthrough simplifies one of structural b...
Researchers used AI and single-cell technology to study the 3D genome in brain cells from individuals with Alzheimer's disease. They found increased compartment mingling, reduced gene activity, and altered brain cell organization. The study identifies 3D genome organization as a key layer of Alzheimer's biology.
Researchers created the most detailed map of gene regulation in human heart failure, revealing how genes are controlled in specific cell types. The study identified key shifts in cell composition, gene expression, and regulatory networks, pointing to new precision medicine therapies.
Researchers used advanced 3D genome mapping technology to study prostate cancer cells and discovered a new feature of gene control networks that could help fight cancer. The study found that enhancers work cooperatively in 3D networks, with some acting as central hubs that control many genes.
Researchers developed a novel DNA delivery platform to deliver bispecific T cell engagers (BTEs), improving how T cells recognize and attack cancer. The approach uses an antibody 'knob' that accurately fits with an 'hole', delivering BTEs directly within the body, reducing manufacturing costs and treatment burden.
Evo 2 analyzes and generates DNA sequences across various forms of life, marking a major step toward unified AI for biology. The model can predict harmful genetic variants and generate biologically realistic DNA.
A novel AI model called BINND has been developed to predict which DNA molecules bind to each other. The model achieved an accuracy of 83.5% in predicting DNA pairs that would bind, surpassing the state-of-the-art model by at least 10%. This improvement has significant utility for biomedical diagnostic tools and DNA computing applications.
A study by researchers from the University of Ottawa found that Calling and Non-calling western toads are genetically distinct, behaviourally different, and have ecological variations. This discovery has important implications for conservation and wildlife management in Canada.
Researchers at Texas A&M University develop a laser technique called TRIP to directly measure quantum forces shaping proteins, enabling accurate prediction of how pharmaceutical drugs interact with them. This breakthrough could lead to the design of medicines tailored to specific diseases, revolutionizing precision medicine.
A genome editing technique called base editing has been used to study the role of a master gene in human embryonic cells, revealing its crucial function in early development. The technique allows scientists to alter a single gene in human embryos, enabling them to better understand how human embryos develop.
Researchers have found evidence of ancient human DNA on cave walls, even where bones or artifacts are absent. The discovery opens up new possibilities for studying prehistoric human behavior without disturbing archaeological deposits.
A global analysis of fish biodiversity in rivers reveals that warmer climates and larger catchment sizes are associated with increased biodiversity. However, human activity weakens this relationship, particularly in smaller river catchments. The study demonstrates the potential of environmental DNA as a tool for rapid, large-scale biod...
A psychologist warns of the profound psychological implications of gifting or taking a DNA test, including identity disruption, acceptance challenges, and data security worries. The decision requires careful consideration to ensure recipients can cope with unexpected outcomes.
A new study reveals that ancient bacterial genomes from teeth of human remains found at four hunter-gatherer cemeteries in East Siberia reconstructed the earliest forms of plague. The findings suggest that these early strains were highly lethal and carried a unique superantigen, increasing the severity of infection.
A new review suggests that ageing results from overlapping changes occurring simultaneously at many levels of biological organization. This approach is reflected in the concept of the 'hallmarks of ageing', which are interconnected biological characteristics and processes consistently associated with aging.
Researchers developed DNA tetrahedrons with Vitamin E-derived molecules for targeted cancer treatment, enhancing cellular uptake and improving anticancer efficacy. The modification triggered oxidative stress in cancer cells, leading to programmed cell death.
A new computational tool predicts and avoids unwanted interactions in DNA origami, improving reliability for biomedical and technological applications. The tool optimizes DNA sequence choice to minimize off-target interactions, leading to more successful folding of nano-scale devices.
Researchers identified a promising new strategy for reversing autism-related brain deficits by targeting a specific glycine transporter. The therapy restored NMDA receptor function in mouse models and human brain organoids, improving behavioral abnormalities such as social interaction and repetitive behaviors.
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University have identified a key immune pathway that appears to drive damaging inflammation in Huntington disease. Blocking this pathway reduced brain inflammation, protected neurons, and improved movement in a humanized mouse model of the disease.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine discovered an unexpected chromosome interaction between telomeres and centromeres in some aggressive cancers. This interaction creates a genetic signature that could help identify ALT-positive tumors, which are often challenging to treat due to genomic instability.
A population-based screening trial evaluating a cell-free DNA multicancer early detection test found modest increases in diagnostic delay rates for head and neck, lung, and upper gastrointestinal cancers. These findings suggest that future trials may need to consider system-level spillover effects on healthcare resources.
Researchers discovered that DNA uses multiple ultrafast relaxation pathways involving moving electrons and protons to dissipate energy within femtoseconds, making it remarkably photostable. This complex network of competing processes enhances DNA's ability to safely drain away harmful UV energy before damage can spread.
A new study analyzing ancient DNA alongside archaeological data suggests that population movement along Peru's Pacific coast began at least 800 years ago, centuries before the rise of the Inca Empire. Genetic evidence reveals mixed ancestry between people from different coastal regions over subsequent generations.
Researchers used DNA metabarcoding to analyze benthic macroinvertebrates across 18 Ontario streams, detecting far greater biodiversity than traditional methods. The study found that DNA-based biomonitoring can reveal ecological patterns and changes linked to agriculture, water quality, and land use.
The new study provides a comprehensive blueprint for establishing robust DNA barcoding networks worldwide. The research highlights the need for harmonizing methodologies, securing sustainable funding, and engaging stakeholders to ensure the long-term success of national nodes.
Researchers at the University of Guelph developed a faster way to identify potential drug targets against Candida albicans using CRISPR interference. The new system reduced the time from laboratory discoveries to clinical applications by years, focusing on hundreds or thousands of genes simultaneously.
A large-scale eDNA survey revealed five biogeographic boundaries along the Japanese coast, where fish composition changes significantly due to ocean currents. The study detected 1,220 coastal fish species, providing new insights into how climate change and human activities impact regional ecosystems.
A study found that transposable elements, once considered non-functional DNA, contribute to the evolution and expansion of gene regulation during neural development. The findings suggest a two-phase model of TE acquisition during evolution, involving both ancient and more recent expansions that shaped modern gene regulatory networks.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.