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.
Biologists at the University of South Carolina have discovered a rare shark species, Sphyrna gilberti, which has a distinct genetic signature and is found only in the Santee and Pee Dee river systems. The discovery highlights the fragility of shark diversity and underscores the importance of studying evolutionary history.
A new study reveals that the honey bee sex determiner gene has 87-145 alleles, a significant increase in genetic diversity compared to previous estimates of 20 alleles. This discovery is crucial for apiculture, as it helps minimize the risk of inbreeding and produces diploid drones.
Scientists have found that only a few genetic changes are necessary to spur the evolution of new species, even in populations still in contact and exchanging genes. The study reveals key genetic areas affected by natural selection and differing in just 12 small regions of the genome.
A CU-Boulder study finds that poorly camouflaged insects can affect their broader ecological community when the appearance of the bug is mismatched with the plant it's living on. This can lead to a cascade of ecological impacts, including increased predation by birds and a subsequent decrease in arthropod populations.
Researchers studied bird's eye primrose populations in alvar grasslands on Öland Island to investigate how grazing and pollinators impact plant characteristics. Grazing pressure and pollination intensity determine the reproductive success of short vs. tall morphs, leading to changes in genetic composition over time.
Researchers have uncovered tiny changes in plants' physiology that enable advanced photosynthesis, allowing for increased growth rate and water efficiency. This knowledge could be used to breed faster-growing, drought-resistant crops like rice.
A recent molecular biology study suggests a significant reduction in population sizes of common ancestors of humans and chimpanzees, from 1.2 million to 30,000, coinciding with a great ape ancestral migration event from Eurasia to Africa.
Researchers at CNIO have sequenced the exome of 17 patients with non-infiltrating bladder cancer, revealing new genetic pathways and genes involved in the disease. These findings provide a first step towards understanding the biology of bladder cancer and improving patient management.
A recent study reconstructed the first detailed genetic history of modern-day Europeans using ancient DNA from 364 prehistoric skeletons. The research found dramatic population changes with waves of migration from Western and Eastern Europe, contradicting previous assumptions about the Near East's role in shaping European genetics.
Scientists used state-of-the-art genome sequencing and bioinformatics to resolve the long-standing question of ants' evolutionary relationships. The study found that ants are more closely related to bees than to most wasps, with ants forming a sister group to the Apoidea family within Hymenoptera.
Researchers from five institutions will investigate biological mechanisms driving biodiversity in American Limenitidini butterflies. The project aims to reveal if diversification can be explained by biotic interactions, accelerating adaptation and species evolution.
Researchers from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona found that over half of the European population exhibits heteroplasmy, a condition where multiple types of mitochondrial DNA coexist. The study sheds light on mutation patterns and selection forces acting on mitochondrial DNA in mammals.
A genetic and demographic analysis of river herring populations along the U.S. east coast has identified distinct genetic stocks, providing crucial guidance for efforts to manage their declining populations. The most severe declines have occurred in the Southern New England stocks and the Mid-Atlantic stocks, highlighting the need for ...
Researchers found that as European songbirds colonized islands, their songs became less structured. The study suggests a genetic component to the loss of syntax, and may be due to the effects of small population sizes on cultural transmission.
Researchers found that Audubon's warblers share mitochondrial DNA with myrtle warblers, a different species that migrates annually. The study suggests that the songbird may have co-opted the myrtle's mitochondria to better power its travels.
Researchers developed a high-throughput assay to track cell growth at low nutrient concentrations, revealing metabolic differences among cells of the same strain in the same environment. The study also found significant genetic variation in Sherpa populations' mitochondrial genomes, suggesting an adaptation for low oxygen environments.
A study resolves Darwin's dilemma by explaining the Cambrian explosion as a result of 5x faster evolutionary rates. This suggests that natural selection can produce rapid changes in animal body plans and habits.
Researchers measured evolution rates during the Cambrian explosion, resolving 'Darwin's dilemma' and explaining the sudden appearance of modern animal groups. The study found that moderately accelerated evolution was sufficient to explain the emergence of arthropods.
Researchers found that positive selection often act on residues adjacent to critical active sites, allowing for the acquisition of new functions without disrupting native folding structure. This mechanism may be a general pathway for functional diversification of enzyme families.
A multidisciplinary team will investigate production of social behavior in the brain using honey bees, mice, and stickleback fish. The study aims to identify shared gene actions guiding social behavior across species.
Researchers found nearly 200 genomic regions with similar genes in bats and dolphins, indicating convergent evolution of echolocation. The study used a massive genome-wide survey to identify genetic signatures consistent with convergence in 'hearing genes',
A University of Michigan biologist and colleague challenge the notion that genetic reproductive barriers are a driving force behind speciation. Their study found no evidence that genetic barriers to reproduction predict the rate at which new species form in nature.
A new study from Case Western Reserve University reveals the SRY gene master switch is vulnerable to change, allowing for variability in male development. This could explain why human males develop near the edge of sexual ambiguity, making them more prone to dramatic changes in fetal development.
A study published in Botany reveals that the genetic diversity of the Branched Bartonia plant in Ontario is greater than initially thought. The research found that the Muskoka population is genetically distinct from a core population in New York State, highlighting the importance of considering genetic novelty in conservation policies.
Researchers at UC Riverside have discovered a transposon that benefits its host organisms by enhancing the immunity of plants against a pathogenic microorganism. The COPIA-R7 transposon interferes with the epigenetic code of the RPP7 gene, promoting activity and adjusting the plant's immune response.
A team of researchers studied anomodonts, ancient relatives of mammals, to understand their response to the largest mass extinction in Earth history. Despite ecological opportunities arising from species loss, anomodonts remained anatomically conservative and did not evolve new features.
A study of gene expression in five closely related mouse species reveals the first steps of evolution in gene regulation. The research found that transcription-factor binding variation is an important indicator of gene-regulation activity.
Researchers found that selfish behavior is punished by evolution, contradicting a popular theory from 2012. Game theory simulations revealed that zero-determinant strategies, which offer advantages against non-selfish opponents, cannot be the product of evolution.
A study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics found new genetic variants that protect against human African trypanosomiasis, or sleeping sickness, also increase the risk of developing chronic kidney disease. These variants were most common in Fulani pastoralist groups living in western and central Africa.
Researchers found a genetic process among rodents that challenges assumptions about sex determination and the pace of evolution. A novel protein domain added to the Sry gene acts as a genetic capacitor, providing protection against mutations but also allowing for rapid evolutionary change.
Researchers at Princeton University discovered that evolution is driven by a group of beneficial mutations, including genetic hitchhikers. About five to seven specific mutations are needed for an organism to succeed, rather than just one mutation.
A team of Harvard scientists has identified genetic areas in the genome that may help protect against cholera by regulating immune system functions and fluid loss. The study's findings suggest a new approach to understanding host immunity and developing vaccines and therapies for this deadly disease.
Researchers are studying the evolution and biology of human pregnancy, genetic factors contributing to preterm birth, and racial disparities in preterm birth rates. The study aims to identify potential targets for further research and address environmental factors such as drinking or smoking.
Seven graduate students and one undergraduate received prestigious poster awards for their research on Caenorhabditis elegans, a model organism used to study human biology and disease. The winners will receive cash prizes, certificates, and a complimentary one-year extension to their GSA membership.
A newly discovered threadworm, Pristionchus maxplancki, has been named after physicist Max Planck in recognition of his contributions to the fields of evolution, genetics, and ecology. The worm was discovered on a stag beetle in Japan and is now being studied by researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology.
A comprehensive catalog of great ape genetic diversity has been created, elucidating the evolution and population histories of six great ape species. The resource will aid in current and future conservation efforts by preserving natural genetic diversity.
Researchers found regions of genome associated with cholera susceptibility, including pathways regulating water loss and innate immune system responses. The findings suggest a potential fingerprint for cholera's genetic impact, such as the relative rarity of blood type O, which may confer increased risk of severe symptoms.
Researchers discovered two key mutations that sparked a hormonal revolution 500 million years ago, leading to modern human reproduction, development, immunity, and cancer. These findings show how evolutionary analysis of proteins' histories can advance drug design and predict disease effects.
A new study reveals that females tend to prefer traits linked to fitness, influencing mate choice and population divergence. This finding settles a long debate about magic traits and predicts their commonality in nature.
Researchers at Michigan State University developed comprehensive evolutionary case studies to improve student understanding of evolution. Students who grasped integrated scenarios performed better on tests about evolution in general, suggesting that this approach enhances overall knowledge.
A recent study by Jay Storz and colleagues at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln found that the effects of individual mutations depend on the context in which they occur. The researchers used protein engineering to synthesize hemoglobin proteins with each naturally occurring mutation in all possible multi-site combinations, revealing t...
Researchers mapped a young gene's journey to becoming essential in fruit flies, challenging the paradigm that only ancient genes are important. The study found that young and rapidly evolving genes can be indispensable too.
Researchers from CNIO describe how a genetic duplication 500 million years ago led to the evolution of the ASF1b gene, essential for proper cell division and related to breast cancer. The study's findings highlight the importance of studying molecular history to understand gene adaptation in cancer.
Researchers found that Drosophila subobscura flies acquired genetic variants tolerant to heatwaves, leading to high reproductive success for resistant genotypes. The study provides evidence of genome adaptation to temperature changes and highlights the resilience of certain organisms to environmental disturbances.
Researchers found that giant viruses share genes with tiny virophages and transposable elements, suggesting they evolved from each other on multiple occasions. The study's complex network of evolutionary relationships challenges previous understanding of viral evolution.
Researchers analyze over 1,000 genes from 23 yeast species to identify reasons for conflicting phylogenetic trees and propose new methods to improve accuracy. They find that genetic data is less reliable during periods of rapid radiation and that the value of DNA data may have a similar limit.
A team of scientists has sequenced the genome of the sacred lotus, revealing its powerful genetic system that repairs genetic defects and may hold secrets about aging. The research could lead to a better understanding of anti-aging mechanisms and potential applications for human health.
Harmit Malik, an evolutionary geneticist at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, has been selected as a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator to study genetic conflict and its role in driving evolutionary change. His research focuses on understanding the competition between genes and proteins with opposing functions.
A new study published in PLOS Biology found that Europeans are closely related, sharing nearly the same set of ancestors within a thousand years. The researchers used DNA data from over 2,000 individuals to detect subtle local trends and historic migrations, revealing patterns of demographic shifts and cultural influences.
Fibromyalgia can be diagnosed by relying on the art of medicine, as physical findings or laboratory tests are often absent. Primary care physicians are best positioned to manage this condition due to its prevalence rate, with a combination of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic therapies being the most appropriate management strategy.
A team of researchers developed a 3D simulation to study the evolution of complex organs, revealing that not all aspects of form are fine-tuned by evolution. The study highlights the complexity of genetic interactions and how natural selection influences body form.
A study by University of Maryland biologist Daphne Soares reveals that guppies jump up to eight times their body length at speeds of over four feet per second. The biologists hypothesize that this behavior allows guppies to disperse and reach all available habitat, minimizing competition and maintaining genetic variability.
Researchers reconstructed modern Europe's genetic history using ancient DNA from skeletons in central Germany, revealing dramatic migrations and a mysterious genetic turnover around 4000-5000 years ago. The study provides a high-resolution record of human DNA evolution over 4000 years, shedding light on the demographic history of Europe.
A research team at Cornell University developed an algorithm that enables virtual creatures to evolve and learn to walk. The creatures' squishy, muscle-like features adapt through generations of evolution, creating counterintuitive designs that surpass human-engineered robots.
Researchers discovered three unique genetic variations that influence body size and obesity in men and women of African ancestry. These gene variants, studied in a large-scale analysis of over 30,000 individuals, suggest a greater role for genes in causing increased BMI in African-Americans compared to Caucasians.
A new 'tree of life' for fishes has been recharted with the help of genetic and physical information, revealing significant changes to existing ideas on fish relationships. The research improves scientists' ability to predict how closely related species might react to environmental factors like climate change.
A new study reveals that microRNAs regulate the size of bald patches on fruit fly legs, driving natural variation in morphology. The findings suggest a novel mechanism for evolutionary adaptation involving small RNA molecules.
The coelacanth genome provides valuable clues for biologists studying the evolution of vertebrates, with key genes involved in immunity, nitrogen excretion, and limb development implicated in evolutionary transitions. The study offers a comprehensive look at the coelacanth's place in our evolutionary history.
The study reveals that varying genetic information copies affect cell tolerance to cancer medication and antibiotics. This discovery may help explain differences in organism responses to environmental changes and certain medications' side effects on sperm and eggs.
Researchers discovered that different wasp genotypes influence aphid behavior, including whether they die on the plant or elsewhere. The study sheds light on how genetic variation can manipulate host species.