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.
Duke University researchers have found shape-shifting DNA base pairs that can trick the copying machine, leading to random genetic changes. These 'quantum jitters' appear at a frequency similar to DNA copying errors, which might underlie evolution and cancer.
A recent study found that MRSA can persist in households for years, spreading from person to person and evolving genetically. The bacteria can be transmitted through household members, especially those with skin infections, and can even acquire extraneous DNA over time.
A new study found that a vole's aerobic exercise metabolism increased by 48% and basal metabolic rate rose after 13 rounds of selection for enhanced oxygen consumption. Gene expression changes in the heart and liver were identified as the primary adaptive response.
Researchers identified 18 genetic variants associated with maritime pine tree survival under climate stress, improving forecasts of forest growth and reforestation efforts. These findings demonstrate the importance of genetic data in managing biodiversity and commercial forestry amid a changing climate.
A massive study reveals life has been expanding at a constant rate, with new species emerging every 2 million years on average. The 'Time Tree of Life' challenges the traditional notion that adaptation drives speciation, instead highlighting the importance of random genetic events and geographic isolation.
The study identified nearly 3,000 genetic markers that will help researchers investigate the genetic variation within and between different species. The new data will enable scientists to uncover why certain legume crops succeed where others fail.
A new open-source database, Fossil Calibration Database, has been launched to help researchers accurately estimate the origins of all species. The database synthesizes data from the fossil record with molecular evidence, enabling 'molecular dating' studies.
Genetic analysis reveals penguins have lost three basic tastes over evolutionary time, leaving them with only salty and sour flavors. Their unique tongue structure and behavior of swallowing food whole may be adaptations to their environment.
Researchers discovered a fern that is the offspring of two distantly-related plant groups that haven't interbred in 60 million years. The finding challenges traditional views on reproductive incompatibility among species.
Two 160 million-year-old fossils of Agilodocodon scansorius and Docofossor brachydactylus provide evidence of early mammalian ecological diversity. These ancient mammals had adaptations for arboreal and subterranean lifestyles, suggesting genetic mechanisms operated long before modern mammals.
Researchers found a gene called R2d2 that breaks Gregor Mendel's century-old 'law of segregation', leading to unequal inheritance of genes in mammals. This discovery has wide-ranging implications for fields like evolutionary genetics, biomedical science, and infectious diseases.
Researchers identified a gene influencing beak shape in Galápagos finches, which varied among individuals within species. This finding highlights the genetic basis for evolution and natural selection, shedding new light on how species diverge over time.
A team of scientists has sequenced 120 birds to study the evolutionary history of Darwin's finches and identified a gene associated with beak shape variation. The research reveals that hybridization between species played a critical role in shaping the genetic diversity of these iconic birds.
A new methodology called Lasso has been developed to find an evolutionary tree even when some comparisons are missing. The NCYC team evaluated Lasso on their datasets and found it outperformed alternative approaches.
A new study by the University of Sheffield found that genetic differences between humans continue to fuel evolution, despite artificial influences like easy access to contraception and medical advances. The research showed that genetic influence on timing of reproduction and family size tends to be higher in recent times.
Researchers at the University of Maryland have discovered a new mechanism of inheritance in roundworms that could revolutionize our understanding of evolution and disease treatment. The team found that genes can be silenced through a process called RNA interference, and this silencing can persist for multiple generations.
The Centre for Evolutionary Genomics will train PhD researchers in a field that uses latest DNA science to study evolutionary history. The University has received £1 million from the Leverhulme Trust to fund five years of research.
Scientists studied the fly species Scaptomyza flava to understand its transition from a non-plant diet to herbivory. They found that genetic and neurological processes underlying behaviors were drastically remodeled, enabling the flies to seek out healthy plants and lay eggs on them.
A study discovered that genetic variations associated with psoriasis and Crohn's disease are extremely old, predating the evolution of Neanderthals. The research suggests that these genetic features may have played a role in the health and survival of our ancient ancestors.
Researchers discovered that blind predatory water beetles express opsin genes, which are usually found in species with eyes. This finding supports non-adaptive evolutionary theory and suggests that these beetles may have evolved through neutral mutations.
Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered a novel mechanism driving the evolution of green-to-red photoconvertible phenotype in green fluorescent proteins. The study reveals that hinge migration, driven by long-range dynamic motions, can lead to the acquisition of red fluorescence.
A team at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München shows that temperature gradients in pore systems promote cyclical replication and emergence of nucleic acids. The researchers demonstrate a setting where pore systems on the seafloor, heated by volcanic activity, can serve as reaction chambers for RNA synthesis.
Scientists have identified several genetic mutations in the Ebola virus that could render sequence-based treatments ineffective. The study found 10 new mutations that may interfere with monoclonal antibody, siRNA, and PMO drugs, highlighting the need to consider genetic drift when developing potential therapeutics.
Researchers found that endogenous retroviruses, constituting around 5% of human DNA, regulate gene expression and have an important regulatory role in the brain. The study suggests that viruses take a firm hold on cellular machinery over evolution, leading to complex brain functions.
A study of rock sponges found that morphology-based taxonomies do not accurately reflect their genealogical relationships. Molecular genetic investigation combined with fossil analysis reveals that traditional classifications are often incorrect.
The study provides comprehensive tracking of maize origin in the Southwest, showing it entered via highland route around 4,100 years ago and later via coastal route about 2,000 years ago. Researchers also identified genes responsible for adaptation to drought and changes in starch composition.
Plant scientists have discovered a new self-incompatibility system in petunias that recognizes and rejects its own pollen, preventing genetic defects. The system involves 18 male proteins recognizing 40 female proteins, which are toxic to the plant's own pollen.
A large-scale survey of venom variation in two snake species reveals no local co-adaptations in eastern coral snakes, challenging traditional views on venom evolution. The consistent venom mix across Florida will aid antivenom development and inform conservation efforts for the declining eastern diamondback rattlesnake.
Researchers found that fragmented chloroplast DNA sequences, known as cpSSRs, are still widely used to study plant genetics. The number of studies using cpSSRs has doubled in the past decade.
Researchers found snakes' vertebral bones have the same number of regions and patterns as limbed lizards, contradicting the idea that snakes evolved from a simplified body form. The study suggests that Hox genes are functioning in snakes to control subtle changes in shape.
Scientists created a new modeling framework to study the relationships between different stages of a plant's life cycle. The study found that changes in environmental factors can affect the duration of subsequent stages. This research has the potential to improve crop yields and conservation efforts amid climate change.
A research team has sequenced the genomes of 16 Anopheles mosquitoes, revealing new insights into how they adapt to humans as primary hosts of malaria. The findings suggest an underlying genetic/genomic plasticity that enables variation in key traits determining transmission capacity within the genus.
Researchers have completed a detailed picture of human color vision evolution, tracing 7 genetic mutations and 5,040 pathways from UV to blue-light vision. The study clarifies molecular pathways at the chemical, genetic, and functional levels.
Researchers detected three instances of cross-species mating that influenced the evolutionary paths of old world mice, suggesting hybridization may not be an evolutionary dead end. The study found shared genetic code between two species of mice from Europe and Africa, with implications for human genetics and health.
A recent study published in the journal genesis reveals an intact Hox cluster in the Crown of Thorns starfish, which is a surprising result given the relatively disorganized clusters found in sea urchins. This finding has implications for understanding evolutionary-developmental biology and may suggest new methods for mitigating damage...
Computer analysis of genetic data and supercomputing capabilities have enabled researchers to recreate the bird tree of life, revealing a burst of evolutionary growth after 15 million years. The study also uncovered new findings on birdsongs, feathers, biodiversity, and bird evolution.
A four-year project studied the genome sequence of 48 bird species, shedding light on how they evolved and adapted. The research revealed new candidate gene associations with vocal learning, skeletal development, and plumage for mating display.
A genetic study of 48 bird species reveals most modern birds diversified after dinosaurs became extinct, with some lineages emerging around 100 million years ago and others in a window of less than 10 million years afterwards.
A UT Arlington team developed a new model for snake venom evolution, suggesting that venom genes evolved independently in distinct lineages of reptiles. The study found similar expression levels of venom gene families in python oral glands and brain tissue, challenging the traditional view of a core venom system developing first.
The study characterizes genetic diversity across Sub-Saharan Africa, providing valuable resources for medical researchers. It identifies 30 million genetic variants, including those associated with high blood pressure and infectious diseases like malaria and Lassa fever.
Researchers studied molecular tools to understand the influence of the Isthmus of Panama on freshwater shrimps. The results showed that sister species remained genetically isolated despite potential crossing through a channel.
Marnie Halpern has made significant contributions to understanding the patterning of the nervous system using novel genetic approaches. Her research focuses on regional specializations within the neural tube, with a particular emphasis on brain asymmetry.
A Tel Aviv University study reveals that idiosyncratic acts are key to the survival of traditional rituals and practices. By adding a personal touch to culture, individuals can ensure simplicity, flexibility, and creative license in these long-practiced customs.
A team of scientists has reconstructed a detailed 'tree of life' for turtles, revealing their closest relatives across the animal kingdom. The study uses next-generation sequencing technologies to refute long-held debates about turtle evolution and places turtles in a new group called 'Archelosauria'.
A study by Denis Duboule's team found that the formation of digits and external genitals involves a similar group of genes, with small modifications controlling their development. The researchers used chromosome conformation capture to demonstrate that a single regulatory DNA sequence controls both processes.
Researchers at San Francisco State University have discovered that Hox genes are employed in the development of a range of vertebrate features beyond fins and limbs. The study reveals that this ancient genetic program is utilized in patterns such as barbels, vents, and claspers, expanding our view of its role in morphological diversity.
A recent study by Brandeis University professor Nelson Lau reveals that the PIWI pathway, which protects against genetic parasites, has limitations. The pathway's effectiveness is crucial for human fertility and development, yet transposons continue to make up a significant portion of the genome.
Rice University researchers have developed PhyloNet, an open-source software package that models more detailed evolutionary networks from genetic data. The software uses a maximum likelihood method to infer network models that better describe the evolution of certain groups of species than traditional tree models.
Research at Rockefeller University resolves the long-standing debate on Rap1's role at telomeres, revealing that human Rap1 plays a minor role in protecting telomeres. The study contradicts previous findings and sheds light on the protein's potential unrelated function.
A landmark study published by an international team of over 100 researchers reconstructs the insect tree of life, answering longstanding questions about their origins and evolution. The study reveals that insects originated at the same time as early terrestrial plants and developed wings 400 million years ago.
Researchers found that knocking out a single enzyme is responsible for changing blue penstemon flowers to red. The study reveals a predictable genetic change behind the evolution from blue to red, with reverse changes unlikely.
A Concordia University study reveals that hybrid fish become genetically robust like their purely wild counterparts within a few generations, providing hope for conservation efforts. This finding has implications beyond fish, with similar conclusions drawn about wolf species previously exposed to hybridization.
Researchers find genetically similar bioluminescent organs in two squid species, suggesting predictable evolution of complex traits. The study's novel bioinformatic approaches indicate that convergent phenotypes are associated with the convergent expression of thousands of genes.
An analysis of statements from 51 recognized civilian heroes found that most describe their acts as intuitive, rather than deliberate. This suggests that high-stakes extreme altruism may be largely driven by automatic, instinctual processes.
Researchers used test tube experiments to measure growth rates and DNA mutations of 8 different Pseudomonas bacteria species. They found that populations within the same strain evolved in parallel despite genetic differences.
Researchers used zebrafish to study a rare genetic disorder affecting a boy and his uncles, identifying a mutation in the RPL10 gene as the likely cause of their symptoms. The findings provide crucial first steps towards further research into the molecular details of the disease.
A comprehensive new evolutionary 'tree of life' for the tropical cotinga family has been generated, providing insight into the evolution of over 60 species. The study reveals that sexual selection appears to have played a role in the evolution of non-plumage gender differences in some cotinga species.
Cichlids' egg-spots developed through insertion of a mobile genetic element influencing pigmentation gene expression. This discovery provides insight into the evolution of novel traits and their regulatory mechanisms.
Researchers discovered that lung cancers can exist undetected for many years due to unique genetic faults in separate areas of the tumor. The study highlights the need for better early detection methods to improve treatment outcomes, as two-thirds of patients are diagnosed with advanced disease when treatments are less effective.
ASU researchers are developing artificial genetic polymers composed of threose nucleic acid (TNA) to address emerging health and defense threats. The team plans to search large combinatorial pools for TNA molecules with desired functional properties.