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.
Scientists have made progress in understanding the role of p63 in eliminating damaged egg cells before they mature. A study found that a specific form of p63, TAp63a, is activated by DNA damage and triggers cell death.
A study found that a population of Hudson River fish evolved rapidly in response to PCB pollution, with a single gene responsible for their ability to withstand the toxic chemicals. The study's findings suggest that this genetic adaptation allowed the fish to survive lethal heart defects triggered by PCBs.
Research at the University of Michigan suggests that rising carbon dioxide levels associated with global warming may affect interactions between plants and insects, altering the course of plant evolution. The study found that plant families responded differently to elevated carbon dioxide in their production of chemical and physical de...
Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered the first evidence of a human DNA fragment in a bacterial genome, specifically Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This finding offers insight into the bacterium's ability to adapt to its human host and could lead to new strains of the disease.
A new gene-spreading system has been proposed to control mosquito populations without pesticides. The system involves spreading disease-resisting genes in mosquito populations, rendering them infertile or killing females that mate with transgenic males.
A Purdue University scientist discovered genetic evidence of how some plants adapt to live in unfavorable conditions. He found that the Arabidopsis thaliana plants with high sodium levels had a weak form of the gene HTK1, which regulates sodium intake distribution to leaves.
A new study reveals that a subspecies of grey wolf, previously thought to be a golden jackal, is actually a distinct species found in Africa. Genetic evidence confirms that the Egyptian jackal belongs to the grey wolf species complex.
Researchers found that coral larvae with redder fluorescence are less likely to settle into polyps, while greener larvae tend to disperse. This discovery could help monitor corals' adaptation to global warming.
Researchers Joanna Masel and Etienne Rajon found that tiny populations evolve global solutions to prevent errors, while large populations rely on local solutions to tolerate mistakes. This discovery reveals the importance of 'cryptic variation' in natural selection, allowing organisms to adapt to new challenges.
UB's Pop! World uses cloud computing to make evolutionary biology visually appealing, allowing college students to understand complex mathematical concepts. The tool is scalable and adaptable, making it suitable for both undergraduate and secondary school students.
Researchers found that leukemia cells composed of multiple families of genetically distinct cells exist, leading to a re-evaluation of cancer progression and treatment strategies. The study's findings have positive implications for tailoring therapies to individual patients.
Researchers found that men with masculine facial features are more attractive to women during their fertile phase, but this doesn't necessarily translate to increased attraction as life partners. The study, published in Evolution and Human Behavior, suggests that a man's intelligence has no effect on the extent to which fertile female ...
A recent study published in PNAS has confirmed that elephant fish, a shark cousin, share a common genetic process with mammals to form skeletal gill covers. The precise timing of gene expression during embryonic development produces dramatic anatomical differences between the two species.
Wildflowers with distinct colors prevent hybrid offspring from reproducing, ensuring the species remains pure. Researchers have identified a genetic change linked to flower color, demonstrating reinforcement in plants.
A University of Florida study using lice DNA sequencing found that modern humans started wearing clothes around 70,000 years before migrating into colder climates. The research suggests that clothing played a crucial role in human evolution and survival.
Researchers discovered that heat shock protein 90 affects a large portion of the yeast genome, revealing multiple traits simultaneously and instantly. This allows for rapid evolution of interdependent traits, leading to a better adaptation to stressful environments.
A recent study has discovered evidence of a distinct group of 'archaic' humans existing outside Africa over 30,000 years ago. The Denisovans, as they are known, interbred with the ancestors of some modern humans and contributed 4-6% of their genetic material to present-day New Guineans.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation has found that a brain gene called SOX3 can be activated to trigger male development in mice without a Y chromosome. This discovery has implications for understanding disorders of sexual development and may lead to new treatments.
A team of scientists identified a set of brain proteins that accounts for over 130 brain diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The study provides a new way to study the evolution of the brain and behavior, and opens paths toward tackling these diseases.
A recent study found that nearly 30% of new genes in fruit flies were lethal when silenced, suggesting that new genes are equally important to older genes. The discovery challenges long-held beliefs about the importance of ancient genes and may have implications for human health.
Genetic analysis suggests a single common ancestor triggered the emergence of flowers from pine cone-like structures, with water lilies as potential 'genetic fossils'. This discovery challenges expectations of distinct genetic instructions for each floral organ in early angiosperms.
Genetic comparison reveals Egyptian vulture population in Canary Islands was established around 2500 years ago, matching human colonization date. Human activity led to divergent evolution and demographic expansion of vultures, assisted in their adaptation to new environment.
Researchers challenge traditional views of individuality, proposing an evolutionary perspective that considers the fitness interests of component parts. Meanwhile, a surge in play research reveals its diverse causal mechanisms and evolutionary histories across animal species.
Despite its large genome, powdery mildew has lost many essential genes, limiting its ability to fix nitrogen, harness energy, or produce metabolic products.
Researchers found that marmots' social behavior has a genetic component, with aggression tolerance and friendly interactions heritable traits. The study, led by UCLA biologists, used social network statistics to analyze the behavior of yellow-bellied marmots over six years.
A new study from Tel Aviv University found that symbiotic bacteria inside a fruit fly greatly influence its choice of mates. The researchers isolated the bacterial species responsible for reproductive isolation in flies with diet-related mating preferences.
Researchers discovered that when a person's personality matches the prevalent personalities of others in a culture, it enhances positive effects on self-esteem and well-being. Additionally, social threats induce bodily freeze-like behavior in humans, while cultural differences in spatial representations affect time perception.
A new statistical model reevaluates the timeline of human evolution, suggesting divergence from chimpanzees occurred around 8 million years ago. The revised estimate improves upon previous findings by accounting for gaps in the fossil record and incorporating DNA evidence.
Scientists at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics identified a genetic variant influencing left-right hand preference in individuals with dyslexia. The study found a strong link between PCSK6 gene variants and relative hand skill, suggesting a novel genetic basis for handedness.
A new study shows that even when a trait becomes sex-specific, knock-on effects can still disadvantage the other sex. Researchers found that in broad-horned flour beetles, larger mandibles in males were linked to increased mating success but also reduced female reproductive ability.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have discovered that female boa constrictors can reproduce asexually, producing all-female babies with rare genetic traits. The study found that these WW-chromosome females retained their mother's color mutation and lacked any male influence.
A new study reveals that social and genetic effects are both crucial for female dolphins' reproductive success. Female dolphins who have help from their friends and relatives tend to be more successful mothers than those without such support.
A international study published in Nature has cataloged the human DNA mutation repertoire from five populations, including Europe, East Asia, South Asia, West Africa, and the Americas. The study found that approximately 15 million mutations were identified, with only about 50 arising from one generation to the next.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology has published new guidelines for Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD). The guidelines cover the organization of PGD centers, laboratory methods, clinical protocols, and follow-up recommendations. PGS is also included in the guidelines.
Recent advances in neurogenetics research have shed light on the genetic basis of human brain disorders, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Genetic discoveries have transformed clinical practice and provided new hope for patients and families affected by these devastating disorders.
Researchers at the University of Leeds discovered a 100-million-year-old gene mutation that led to differences in how plants produce male and female parts. The study found that the mutation, which occurred around 20 million years ago, creates a new role for one of the duplicate genes, enabling it to make both male and female parts.
Researchers have found genetic evidence that baleen whales lost their teeth 25 million years ago, a finding that matches the fossil record. The study used genetic analysis to show that a transposable genetic element was inserted into the enamel production gene in the common ancestor of baleen whales.
A study published by a CU-led team reveals that three genes in jawless vertebrates may have been key to the development of jaws in higher vertebrates. The findings suggest that creating a jaw in a jawless ancestor was a relatively simple matter of altering when and where these few genes are used.
A genetic variant reducing disease susceptibility is more prevalent in urban populations, suggesting exposure to TB led to its evolution. The study analyzed DNA samples from 17 populations across Europe, Asia, and Africa, revealing a link between city history and genetic resistance.
Researchers at Michigan State University used digital evolution techniques to study altruism in species, finding that genes are more likely to help those physically similar to them. This challenges traditional kin selection theory and raises the possibility of life on other planets based on shared genes rather than familial units.
Researchers at the University of Maryland have discovered how Mexican blind cavefish evolved adaptations to compensate for their loss of vision, including an enhanced vibration attraction behavior to detect food sources. This study provides new insights into the link between behavior, genetics, and evolution in these unique organisms.
The genetic study confirms Antillean manatees in Belize as a separate subspecies from Florida manatees. However, the Belizean population has extremely low genetic diversity, posing a long-term viability threat.
A recent study by Professor Sir Alec Jeffreys and his team at the University of Leicester has identified a key gene, PRDM9, that plays a significant role in shaping human diversity. The research reveals that people with different versions of PRDM9 exhibit distinct recombination behaviors, contributing to genetic disorders.
Researchers used RAD tagging to analyze the genetic structure of Wyeomyia smithii, a pitcher plant-dwelling mosquito. The study found that post-glacial populations originated from a southern Appalachian Mountain refugium and expanded sequentially into previously glaciated areas.
Researchers found that gene variants associated with type-1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis confer previously unknown benefits to their human carriers. This suggests that the human race may be evolving towards greater susceptibility to complex diseases.
Scientists found that epigenetic variation can significantly influence the adaptive potential of individual species in marsh orchids, affecting evolutionary potential at a quicker rate. This discovery brings new hope to plant conservation and highlights the importance of environmental factors in altering inherited traits.
A UT professor has made a groundbreaking discovery on how viruses jump from host to host. The study found that cross-species transmission may be driven more by host similarity than virus mutation and contact rates.
Researchers found that genetic variation, known as gene expression noise, can lead to increased vigour in species hybrids. This study provides a new explanation for hybrid vigor, covering both natural and domesticated varieties.
Researchers identify genes causing sterility in yeast hybrids, shedding light on reproductive isolation mechanisms. A genetic mismatch between nucleus and mitochondria is found to be a common cause of sterility in yeasts.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that a fungal disease has decimated amphibian abundance and species diversity in Central America's highlands. The researchers used DNA barcoding to estimate the impact of the epidemic, discovering five new species were also lost.
Researchers document a novel form of adaptation through natural selection in bacteria-infected flies, which use co-opted genetic material to develop a defense against nematodes. The study reveals the rapid spread of beneficial bacteria across North America, increasing frequency from 10% to 80% in just two decades.
Rutgers researchers have discovered the genetic basis for a hard kernel in quality protein maize (QPM) corn, which is essential for economical and nutritious food crops. The findings could lead to better hybrids and increase the supply of this nutritional staple in developing countries.
A study on killer whales and pilot whales reveals a common link with humans in the evolution of menopause. Females in these species become genetically related to those they live with as they get older, leading to a 'grandmother' role that helps ensure group survival.
Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology have discovered a control mechanism behind the development of Pristionchus' mouthparts. The organism's mouth dimorphism is triggered by environmental factors such as food scarcity and high population density, resulting in the development of strong teeth-like denticles.
Researchers found that p53 is activated during the formation of spermatozoa and ova, controlling the creation of gametes to prevent mutations. This discovery suggests a new role for the tumour suppressor gene in evolution, potentially leading to new approaches in cancer research.
A recent study reveals that the Neo-Tuberosum potato germplasm has its roots in Chile, challenging the long-held notion of its origins in the Andes. The Chilean potato's adaptation to long-day conditions made it a pre-adapted species for growth in other regions.
Researchers found that gene activity and protein levels in young paper wasp larvae predispose them to one caste or the other. Queens have high levels of proteins enabling survival and reproduction, while workers are shorter-lived and biased toward the worker role.
Yeast's ability to convert sugar to alcohol is attributed to duplicated genes at the chromosome margins, allowing for optimal sugar processing. This process likely evolved in beer and wine yeasts around the Cretaceous era, enabling them to digest various sugars.
A Brandeis biochemist confirms Darwin's theory of universal common ancestry using a large-scale, quantitative test. The study finds that all life forms share a genetic heritage from single-celled microorganisms to humans, supporting UCA millions of times over alternative theories.
A new study by University of Notre Dame biologist Jeffrey Feder challenges the prevailing assumption about genomic speciation. The research found that speciation in the classic apple maggot fly system involves genome-wide differentiation driven by natural selection.