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.
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.
A University of Leeds-led study found significant genetic changes in soil mites after just 15 generations, leading to doubling of age at adulthood and large population size changes. This research demonstrates the interconnectedness of ecology and evolution, with major implications for conservation and fisheries management.
Research in African malaria mosquitoes reveals a more complex range of forms due to frequent inter-mating, leading to implications for controlling the disease. The resulting hybrids may have effects on insecticide resistance and malaria parasite infectivity.
This April issue of the Genetics Society of America's journal features research on genotyping-by-sequencing, a novel gene silencing system in fungi, and the role of protein chaperone HSP90 in facilitating gene duplicate divergence. Additionally, studies explore genome integrity and RNA editing in mice.
A study published in Frontiers in Zoology found that female great tits' appearance signals healthy attributes in their offspring, with black stripe correlating to chick weight at two weeks and white cheek patches to immune strength. The research suggests a balance between genetic and environmental factors in determining offspring health.
Researchers have found that nine separate mutations within a single gene in deer mice result in changes to their camouflage, illustrating the power of small genetic changes. The study suggests that natural selection acts on many small genetic changes to produce rapid and dramatic adaptations.
A new genetic study has overturned previous ideas about the evolutionary history of polar bears and brown bears. The research found that a population of brown bears on Alaskan islands had a remarkable history of hybridization with polar bears, resulting in striking genetic similarities between the two species.
A 505-million-year-old fossil, Spartobranchus tenuis, provides a crucial missing link in the evolutionary history of hemichordates. The finding pushes back the fossil record of enteropneusts by 200 million years.
Evolutionary biologists combine traditional methods with genetic techniques to identify new species, revealing cryptic species that show little visible difference. The study uses scale insects as a model organism, analyzing over 400 samples to discover four new species.
Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered the genetic mechanism that led to the development of wings in fruit flies, a key to their survival. By analyzing 20 cells present in the larval stage, they found that a specific gene, Dpp, triggers the growth of wings by activating another gene, vn.
A recent genetic study of house dust mites demonstrates reversible evolution, contradicting Dollo's law. The research found that these tiny creatures evolved from parasites, but then returned to a free-living lifestyle, speciating in various habitats, including human habitations.
The March 2013 issue of Genetics journal highlights several key findings, including a study on oocyte-expressed genes that support early cloned embryo development and the role of cytoskeletal proteins in controlling clone quality. Additionally, research on self-incompatibility genes in Arabidopsis thaliana reveals the structural and fu...
Researchers discover that defective viruses, once thought useless, increase the spread of disease by 'hitchhiking' with functional viruses. The presence of a defective DENV-1 virus may have led to large increases in dengue fever cases in Myanmar in 2001 and 2002.
Påebo is being honored with the prestigious award for his groundbreaking work on extracting DNA from ancient human remains and sequencing Neandertal's nuclear DNA. The prize recognizes his discovery that Neandertals contributed up to 4% of modern humans' genetic material.
Anthropologist Robert W. Sussman explores the dangers of eugenics and the importance of cultural understanding in addressing human behavior. He argues that most individual variances result from social, environmental, and cultural exposure rather than genetics.
Research by Brown University professor Rose McDermott suggests a significant genetic component in shaping political preferences, particularly along the conservative-liberal spectrum. This finding could have implications for policy decisions and targeted interventions.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute used next-generation gene-sequencing technology to chart changes in CLL tissue samples from 149 patients. The study provides a strobe-like look at the genetic past, present, and future of CLL tumors, shedding light on why CLL often recurs after treatment.
Research suggests that major life events can alter gene expression, leading to trans-generational effects on children's brain functions. This discovery has significant implications for understanding the causes of mood disorders and addiction.
Researchers discovered that one wasp species uses a novel third ingredient in its sex pheromone, which is recognized by females only when combined with two original scents. This adaptation allows females to distinguish their own species from others, preventing costly interbreeding.
Scientists review research on dog cranium development to identify genetic variations that may inform human skull development. The study suggests a connection between canine and human craniofacial development, potentially leading to new insights into craniofacial deformities such as Apert, Crouzon, and Pfeiffer syndromes.
Researchers investigated genetic changes responsible for species divergence, developed new approaches to Drosophila genome manipulation, and found minimal effect of gene clustering on expression in bacteria. These findings shed light on mechanisms driving speciation and gene regulation.
Researchers developed an automated device called morbidostat to track the evolution of antibiotic resistance at the genetic level. The team identified key genes involved in creating drug-resistant states and documented real-time changes in genes that gave bacteria an advantage in evolving to outwit antibiotics.
Researchers decode genetic blueprint of rock pigeon, unlocking secrets about Middle East origins, feral pigeons' kinship with racing birds, and how mutations give pigeons fancy feather hairdos. The study also reveals a single mutation in the EphB2 gene causes head crests to grow upward instead of downward.
This special issue of Evolutionary Applications delves into the evolutionary principles underlying cancer, including natural selection, mutation, and genetic drift. Key findings highlight the diversity of cancer types and how environmental factors, such as tobacco availability, contribute to our vulnerability.
A study of ancient DNA from a 40,000-year-old human from Tianyuan Cave near Beijing found that the individual shared a common origin with present-day Asians and Native Americans. The genetic profile also revealed that this early modern human diverged genetically from present-day Europeans and did not carry a larger proportion of Neande...
Researchers found divergent mtDNA lineages in Bantu-speaking groups from Zambia, which were incorporated into their genepool through intermarriage with indigenous Khoisan women. These relic lineages demonstrate that Khoisan peoples survived until the present day despite the extinction of their source populations.
Researchers at U of T discovered a major source of evolutionary differences among species by analyzing hundreds of thousands of genetic messages in equivalent organs across 10 different vertebrate species. Alternative splicing has dramatically changed the structure and complexity of genetic messages during vertebrate evolution.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers found that mice with elevated urate levels showed significantly less neurodegeneration and improved movement abnormalities compared to those with low urate levels. The results support the possibility that increasing urate levels may slow progression of Parkinson's disease.
A team of researchers led by Drs. Marie Kmita and James Sharpe discovered the Turing-like mechanism responsible for generating human fingers and toes through genetic studies and mathematical modeling. The study reveals that Hox genes play a crucial role in modulating this mechanism, which is essential for proper limb development.
Researchers at UCL have identified over 200 gene locations linked to Crohn's Disease, a complex condition with a significant genetic component. The study uses a new method to analyze the human genome and provides evidence that specific clinical sub-groups may carry different risk genes.
Researchers used big data statistical tools to trace directionality in gene migration, finding a westward migration of genes from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic. This method can also be applied to estimate information flow in complex networks.
Research identified genetic changes that enable Ethiopians to thrive in thin air, differing from those found in Tibetan populations. This discovery sheds light on how high-altitude populations worldwide have evolved differently from their low-altitude ancestors.
Research reveals distinct genetic mechanisms behind similar adaptations to low oxygen levels in Tibetan and Ethiopian populations, shedding light on convergent evolution. The study finds no long-term adaptation among the Oromo group, highlighting variations in biological responses to high-altitude environments.
Researchers discover at least four different modules in the brain dedicated to self-location, each with its own internal GPS-like mapping system. The discovery challenges previous understanding of how the brain organizes abstract functions and opens up new possibilities for memory formation.
A new study published in Genetics reveals that assessing skin cancer risk can be improved by accounting for genetic factors, such as family history and ethnicity. The researchers developed a more precise model for assessing risk using phenotypic and genetic information from over 5,000 participants.
The December issue of Genetics Society of America's journal features research on genetic variation in yeast, gene functional trade-offs, and serotonin signaling in C. elegans. These studies explore how genetic variations affect function and provide insights into the evolution of pleiotropy and the mechanism of signaling by serotonin.
A study published in Genetics Society of America's journal found that Native Americans and Northern Europeans are more closely related than previously thought. The research used statistical tools to show that Neanderthals mixed with modern humans also revealed a common ancestor between Native Americans and Northern Europeans.
A study of over 1 million DNA variations reveals most harmful protein-coding mutations emerged during the past 5,000 to 10,000 years. This finding highlights the profound impact of recent human evolutionary history on contemporary genetic disorders.
A recent study found that nearly three-quarters of gene mutations occurred within the past 5,000 to 10,000 years, indicating a significant impact on human evolution.
Scientists have discovered that microscopic protozoa stole genes from algae to produce energy, leading to the evolution of a new species. This process, called endosymbiosis, reveals a key moment in the history of life on Earth and may have implications for algae biofuel production.
A research team has identified genetic markers for the Bornean elephant using cutting-edge DNA sequencing methodology. The discovery opens new avenues for conserving other endangered species with limited genetic diversity. The study, published in PLOS ONE, marks a significant breakthrough in conservation efforts.
A new gene called miR-941 has been found to play a crucial role in human brain development and may have contributed to the evolution of language and tool use. This unique gene emerged between six and one million years ago, making it a significant discovery in understanding what makes humans different from apes.
A new study by Brown University researchers found that men with more consistently made sperm have better swimming abilities. The research suggests that variability in sperm length may be a sign of trouble with the production process, potentially affecting fertility.
Researchers have identified 71 genetic regions associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), increasing the total number discovered to date to 163. The study reveals that IBD may result from an over-active immune response, which can lead to inflammation and damage in the intestinal tract.
A recent study using computer modelling shed light on the origin of sight in animals, including humans. The researchers found that the ability to detect light developed over a span of 11 million years from a 'blind' opsin ancestor.
A recent study published in Science suggests that evolution can be predictable by understanding a species' genes and how external conditions affect proteins. By analyzing DNA sequences from 29 insect species, researchers found that certain traits evolve similarly due to environmental pressures.
CWRU's Maxwell J. Mehlman examines the emerging issues in genetic engineering, balancing innovation with caution. The book discusses the potential for evolutionary engineering, which allows parents to form the next generation by altering reproductive cells to remove disease risks.
A new UCLA study reveals that women in stable but not-so-sexy relationships become more distant and critical during periods of high fertility, according to researchers. Despite this, the negative feelings appear fleeting and do not impact long-term commitment to their romantic relationship.
Researchers at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna used fruit flies to study adaptation to changing temperatures, finding temporally heterogeneous trajectories of selected alleles. Genetic changes were widespread and rapid, with some genes adapting quickly while others showed little change.
A study found that a gene variant producing efficient arsenic metabolism is common among Atacameño Indian villagers in Argentina, reducing health risks associated with high levels of arsenic. The research suggests human evolutionary adaptation to environmental toxins may vary among populations.
A genetic study has found that Sumatran orangutans have undergone a substantial recent population decline due to deforestation. However, the research also identified critical corridors for dispersal migrations that can help maintain genetic diversity and aid in the species' conservation if protected.
A study published in European Journal of Wildlife Research has confirmed the genetic uniqueness of captive lions at Addis Ababa Zoo in Ethiopia. The research team recommends establishing a captive breeding program to preserve this vulnerable lion population and conserve its genetic heritage.
Research on harvestman spiders found that single male parents of eggs suffer no long-term decrease in fitness compared to females or non-caring males. The study suggests that reduced mortality risk and genetic advantages of improving offspring survival may have favored the evolution of paternal care in insects.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified a curious genetic trait in African mosquito species that transmits malaria, suggesting that this species is genetically linked to an older lineage. This discovery could lead to better understanding of the mosquito's capacity to transmit malaria and inform malaria control efforts.
Researchers tracked tumor evolution in a patient with maxillary sinus carcinoma, identifying genetic changes that contribute to drug resistance. The study provides a roadmap for treating this rare and aggressive cancer.
A new study has identified genetic origins of aortic valve disease affecting 10% of cases, shedding light on hereditary component and progression of the disease. The research found rare genetic variants linked to severe health effects and disease processes, with many affected patients carrying multiple variants.
Researchers used DNA analysis to separate hundreds of coral symbionts into distinct species, revealing unique ecological distributions. This breakthrough should improve research into reef-building corals and their complex biology, potentially aiding in the survival of corals under global warming.
This September 2012 issue of the Genetics Society of America's journal features studies on weak selection in molecular evolution, a new method for mapping quantitative trait loci onto phylogenetic trees, and the role of DNA replication defects in causing chromosome rearrangements. Additionally, researchers investigate ultraconserved el...
Researchers identified 33 genes associated with GAA/TTC repeat instability and expansions in yeast. These findings may have implications for human disease due to the conservation of genetic machinery across species.
Researchers have identified a conserved class of genes responsible for the development of double flowers in plants like Thalictrum thalictroides. This discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of flowering plants and their ability to coevolve with pollinators.