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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 ...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A new type of DNA damage, glutathionylated DNA adducts, accumulates at high levels in mitochondrial DNA, affecting energy production and stress response. The discovery sheds light on how cells sense and respond to stress, with potential implications for diseases like cancer and diabetes.
Scientists have discovered a protein called SCEP3 that ensures even chromosome segregation in plants, preventing infertility and genetic diseases. This finding has implications for plant breeding and understanding human fertility, with the equivalent gene SIX6OS1 potentially playing a role in promoting correct chromosome segregation.
A study by The Hospital for Sick Children reveals a previously overlooked layer of genetic variation in short tandem repeats (STRs) that can influence gene regulation and shape disease risk. This discovery may inform future research and precision therapeutic development in support of Precision Child Health.
A study led by SickKids scientists discovered a previously overlooked layer of genetic variation that could help explain individual differences in disease risk and treatment response. The researchers found that subtle changes in short tandem repeats can impact gene function, revealing new insights into neurodevelopmental conditions.
Researchers have created a method for simultaneous imaging of DNA and RNA in living cells using harmless infrared light, allowing for high-precision detection of all stages of cell death. This breakthrough enables the early detection of cellular damage that leads to aging or death.
Researchers developed a new DNA analysis technique to study old genetic samples, shedding light on disease evolution and changes in biology over time. The approach has potential for unlocking the root causes underlying shifting landscapes of modern diseases.
Researchers at Tohoku University shared key findings from their 10-year genome cohort study, highlighting effective techniques for analyzing and managing genomic data. The study's unique approaches to whole-genome sequencing, including qMiSeq and iDeal protocols, have been widely adopted by institutions worldwide.
A review highlights transposable elements' influence on gene expression, genome stability, and disease development. TEs are recognized as regulators of gene regulation and disease, offering new avenues for diagnosis and therapy.
Researchers at OIST develop a new method harnessing 'jumping genes' to recreate the termite tree of life, providing a template for solving ancient evolutionary mysteries. The study achieves similar accuracy to trees built from thousands of protein marker sequence alignments.
A new method enables scientists to read the genomes of individual cells and viral particles in the environment more quickly and efficiently. The approach, known as environmental microcompartment genomics, increases throughput by an order of magnitude and provides unique insights into the diverse world of marine viruses.
Scientists have created a micro-algal platform that allows for automated and fast testing of chloroplast genetic modifications, opening up plant chloroplasts to high-throughput applications. This platform enables researchers to fine-tune genetic circuits and identify which modifications have real potential.
Researchers have uncovered a novel mechanism linking lactate metabolism to muscle Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) release during mitochondrial stress, providing a potential therapeutic target for mitochondrial myopathy. Elevated lactate production and histone lactylation activate GDF15 gene expression.
Researchers developed a computational tool to identify genetic vulnerabilities in memory-making brain cells linked to Alzheimer's. The 'seismic' algorithm integrates genetic data with single-cell RNA sequencing, revealing a detailed picture of affected cell types and their genetic programs.