Articles tagged with Evolutionary Genetics
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new study uses transgenic organisms and biochemistry to test an evolutionary hypothesis on fruit flies' ability to metabolize alcohol. The research found that the amino acid changes in the ADH protein do not improve the fruit flies' tolerance for alcohol, challenging a previous hypothesis.
Researchers created genetically modified fruit flies containing reconstructed ancient genes to study the evolutionary effects of genetic changes. They found that the accepted wisdom about the molecular causes of the flies' evolution is incorrect, challenging a classic example of adaptation.
A study found that chimpanzees are more likely to reproduce with mates whose genetic makeup differs from their own, suggesting a unique mating strategy. This preference may help reduce inbreeding depression and increase infant survival rates among chimps.
Researchers have created a genetically induced obesity model in fruit flies, shedding light on the brain's 'fullness' signal. The model highlights a hormone called unpaired 1, which plays a crucial role in regulating eating behavior and weight gain.
A new study reveals that no single model or common molecular toolkit exists behind the diverse array of mollusk shells. Instead, each species has evolved its own 'shell secretome' through a combination of co-opting existing genes and rapid evolution of novel genes.
The study provides a detailed genome sequence of the gulf pipefish, which can be used as a reference for other labs to follow. The genome reveals genetic changes responsible for the evolution of unique features in the species, including its ability to gestate embryos.
Researchers are sequencing the genome of an ancient apple tree that inspired Isaac Newton's discovery of gravity. The study aims to understand how technological advancements have affected the evolution of apples over the past 350 years.
The study identifies a new nickel transporter crucial for the pathogen's ability to colonize the stomach and survive its acidic environment. The discovery sheds light on the genetic modifications that enabled H. pylori to adapt to this hostile environment, highlighting the importance of metals in bacterial pathogenesis.
A study by Wildlife Conservation Society and American Museum of Natural History found two dolphin species in the Bay of Bengal are genetically distinct from those in other regions. The research suggests that the Bay's unique oceanic habitat is driving evolutionary changes, potentially leading to new species emergence.
A international research collaboration sequenced the entire seahorse genome, revealing gene losses and duplications that enabled specialized traits such as male pregnancy and armored body. The study provides insights into evolutionary mechanisms driving biodiversity.
Concordia researchers create a Yule tree graph to chart evolution and predict extinction rates based on phenotypes. The model suggests that the length of time a species lives until extinction depends on its phenotype.
A new study reveals that overfishing can lead to evolutionary changes in fish populations, adapting them to mature earlier and at smaller sizes. The researchers found a combination of density dependence and life-history evolution likely responsible for observed changes in fish size.
Scientists have discovered a new mutation in the PKD1L1 gene associated with laterality defects and complex congenital heart disease. The study provides hope for affected families by offering prenatal or pre-implantation genetic diagnosis to prevent the condition from being passed on.
Atlantic killifish have evolved remarkable resilience to toxic industrial pollutants, with genetic diversity playing a key role in their adaptation. The study's findings could help explain how genetic differences among humans contribute to varying sensitivity to environmental chemicals.
Scientists have traced back 200 million years of eye evolution in turtles and crocodiles, discovering that their adaptations led to the loss of color vision. Turtles developed reduced color vision for freshwater habitats, while crocodiles adapted for dim light.
A genetic difference in the FADS1 gene affects levels of LDL- and HDL-cholesterol, as well as the risk for allergies, inflammatory diseases, and certain types of cancer. This imbalance is thought to have evolved over time due to changes in human diet.
Researchers have discovered 75 groups of 'critical paralog' genes essential for cellular communication and signalling pathways. These findings will aid in guiding drug targets and identifying biomarkers for diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Scientists have uncovered the genetic and metabolic mechanisms that allow certain plants to conserve water and thrive in semi-arid climates. By studying the unique metabolic processes of CAM plants, researchers aim to transfer these traits into bioenergy and food crops.
Researchers used CRISPR gene editing to tweak genes in popular tomato varieties, allowing them to flower and produce ripe fruit weeks earlier. This rapid method enables more plantings per growing season and adapts crops to cooler climates.
Researchers have identified the cluster of genes responsible for reproductive traits in Primula flowers, which Charles Darwin first noted as important over 150 years ago. The study reveals that these genes, controlled by a supergene known as the S locus, are specific to one form of flower and date back 51.7 million years.
A study published in Avian Research has confirmed the Hen Harrier and Northern Harrier as two distinct species using genomics and molecular phylogenetics. The classification will aid national conservation efforts, particularly for the European Hen Harrier under threat from grouse hunts.
A study found that people with genes for high educational achievement tend to marry and have children with similar DNA. This assortative mating increases genetic and social inequality in future generations. The researchers argue that this could lead to a cycle of increasing inequality.
Researchers have discovered that a common species of Asian tree frog (Hyla japonica) may be two separate species, with distinct evolutionary relationships between East and West Japan. The study's findings could lead to reassignment of the species' scientific name and shed light on the historical mystery surrounding its discovery.
Researchers assembled a comprehensive tree of prokaryotic life, exploring grand patterns of evolutionary change. The findings suggest that diversity is not limited by existing diversity or environmental changes, but rather results from random lineage splitting.
Scientists have discovered a new dominant ant species in Ethiopia displaying signs of supercolony formation, expanding rapidly into disturbed habitats and potentially posing a global threat. The species, Lepisiota canescens, exhibits characteristics reminiscent of invasive species, including high densities and ecological dominance.
Elizabeth King, a Mizzou biologist, has received a $1.6m NIH grant to study the impact of genes on diet-induced health problems like obesity and diabetes. She will use fruit flies to investigate how nutritional resources affect life history and reproduction.
A team of geneticists found that mammary glands emerged due to the recycling of Hox genes, which are responsible for organizing organ formation during embryonic development. This discovery explains how placental mammals and marsupials developed mammary glands, but not in platypuses.
Researchers at the University of Oxford have found that dietary composition affects DNA sequences in parasites, revealing a previously hidden relationship between cellular metabolism and evolution. The study also shows that it is possible to predict diets based on genetic analysis.
Researchers found that bacteria that become dependent on their environment for essential nutrients outperform those that can produce them independently. The study's results suggest that this loss of autonomy may be an evolutionary advantage driving adaptation in bacterial populations.
A recent study on two echolocating bat species found a contraction of smell receptors and loss of vision-related genes, indicating evolutionary trade-offs. The research also revealed genetic adaptations associated with high altitudes in the great leaf-nosed bats.
The leaf-mining pygmy moths and white eyecap moths have a rich evolutionary history that dates back to the early Cretaceous period, around 100 million years ago. A new classification system has been established based on DNA analysis, revealing three new genera in South and Central America.
A new whole-genome analysis reveals that chimpanzees and bonobos had a historical genetic flow, which sheds light on processes that may have played a recurring role in great ape evolution. The study found evidence of gene flow between the two species between 200-550 thousand years ago.
Research from the University of East Anglia found that some fish species, like the Winter Skate, are adapting to warmer oceans through epigenetic changes rather than genetic evolution. This allows them to cope with changing environmental conditions and may be vital for their survival in the face of climate change.
Researchers found that different species can evolve the same beneficial trait through unique genetic mutations, challenging the predictability of evolutionary changes. High-altitude bird species developed red blood cells with hemoglobin proteins that bind oxygen more efficiently.
Researchers found a genetic mutation responsible for the loss of limb formation instructions in snakes, which are unable to form limbs. By restoring the missing DNA sequence in mice, scientists demonstrated that snakes' inability to form limbs is due to a critical stretch of DNA involved in limb growth.
New research reveals that human transport has a significant impact on the genetics of marine species, disrupting natural patterns and leading to unexpected consequences. The study found a mosaic of genetic patterns in a native invertebrate species, suggesting that anthropogenic activities are altering genetic composition in native ranges.
Scientists have reclassified the Caesalpinia group, including Brazil's national tree Pau-brasil, into a unique genus called Paubrasilia. The study reveals that Pau-brasil represents a distinct evolutionary lineage, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.
Ferns are inaccurately depicted as extreme inbreeders in most biology textbooks, but research suggests this is not the case. New study co-authored by KU researcher Christopher Haufler reveals that ferns use outbreeding to produce genetic variation, contrary to long-held assumptions.
A recent study found a measurable bias toward European ancestry data in top genomic databases, with African ancestry data underrepresented. This bias can lead to inaccurate medical genetic diagnoses and higher costs, highlighting the need for greater diversity in genomic databases.
Researchers have discovered that a yeast gene called XRN1 rapidly evolves to recognize and destroy attacking viruses. This finding suggests that non-immunity proteins can play a role in viral defense. The study's results provide new insights into the genetic arms race between hosts and viruses.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have discovered a unique genetic basis for autism that may enable earlier diagnosis. The study found distinct genomic characteristics and evolutionary forces shaping autism genes, which could help identify new candidate genes.
A new study examining the genetic history of eczema finds that a key genetic variant strongly associated with the disorder has no apparent adaptive value. The research suggests that the variant may have simply endured due to chance rather than providing any survival or reproductive benefits.
Researchers studied rates of mutation in a range of organisms and found that males contribute more genetic mutations than females. This male mutation bias may arise from errors in DNA replication and is critical for understanding disease-associated mutations.
A Stanford University School of Medicine study suggests that prion proteins can help yeast survive hard times and pass advantageous traits down to their offspring. The researchers found that protein-based inheritance is more widespread than previously believed and could play a role in evolution.
Scientists have recovered ancient DNA from a West Indian mammal known as the 'Island Murderer,' tracing its evolution back to 70 million years ago. The study sheds light on the impact of humans on recent extinctions in the Caribbean.
Researchers found that mismatch repair machinery preferentially protects genetic integrity in open chromatin regions, increasing mutation rates in heterochromatic areas. This study provides direct evidence for the role of epigenetic systems in maintaining genetic fidelity.
New research on slobber shows that adaptation isn't just about creating new tools for survival. The study found repeated instructions in the MUC7 gene helped primates enhance important traits like saliva's lubricity and ability to bind microbes, suggesting evolution favors expansion of tried-and-true genetic tools.
New research reveals that blue-winged and golden-winged warblers are almost identical genetically, with only six regions showing strong differences. The study suggests that conservation efforts should focus on preserving habitat for both species rather than worrying about hybridization.
Researchers discovered two distinct populations of Acropora tenuis coral in the Nansei Archipelago, contradicting previous assumptions about its dispersal. This finding highlights the importance of local currents and specific habitat characteristics in shaping coral populations.
Researchers from 23 institutions confirm formation of the Isthmus of Panama at 2.8 million years ago, based on geological, oceanographic, genetic and ecological data. This timing has significant implications for evolutionary change, global ocean models, and the origin of modern-day animals and plants in the Americas.
Researchers at the University of Washington support global restrictions on trade and collection of the chambered nautilus and its relatives, citing declining populations and unregulated fishing as major issues. The convention on international trade in endangered species will decide which species should be subject to new restrictions.
Scientists have discovered a new species of colorful songbird in the Galápagos Islands, but it's extinct. The San Cristóbal Island Vermilion Flycatcher was elevated to full species status due to genetic differences, with research suggesting two invasive threats likely contributed to its extinction.
Researchers at LMU Munich have sequenced mitochondrial DNA from museum specimens of rare deer species, refining the evolutionary history of cervids. The study identifies novel relationships among species, including confirmation of a second muntjac species in Borneo and polyphyletic genera in New World deer.
Scientists have successfully decoded the DNA of Okinawa mozuku, a valuable seaweed species with unique properties. The study provides a platform for future research on its cultivation, growth, and health benefits, aiming to restore production levels and promote sustainable farming practices.
Researchers found that Miconia affinis maintains high genetic diversity and facilitates gene flow between forest fragments. The study suggests that this species' colonization capacity promotes ecosystem recovery despite human-altered landscapes.
Researchers found that Namibian desert elephants share the same DNA as African savanna elephants due to their high learning capacity and long-distance migrations. They possess unique survival skills, including sand-wetting and water conservation techniques.
Reef fish are adapting to higher CO2 levels by changing their circadian rhythms, a key finding from genomic research. The study found that fish can adjust their internal clocks to compensate for elevated night-time CO2, allowing them to survive in altered environments.
A DNA study of New Zealand's acanthisittid wrens has provided evidence that the country was not completely submerged under the ocean around 21 to 25 million years ago. The research found divergences among the species, suggesting they have been resident in New Zealand for over 25 million years.
Researchers found that eastern and red wolves are not evolutionarily distinct species but a hybrid of gray wolf and coyote ancestry. The study concludes that the ESA should protect hybrid species due to common interbreeding in the wild, which may not be harmful.
A new study reveals that genetic factors play a crucial role in shaping the brain's cortical pattern, with close relationships between genetic variants across different regions. The findings suggest potential functional relationships among cortical brain regions, shedding light on the complex mechanisms underlying brain development.