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 study by Purdue University researchers has identified unusual genetic traits in voles that challenge current scientific understanding. The vole's unique genetic makeup, including its ability to insert DNA into the nucleus, could have important implications for human genetics and gene therapy.
Biologists have discovered that genes can change their locations in a genome, triggering the origin of species. The 'jumping gene' theory, long disputed, has been confirmed by researchers at the University of Rochester using fruit fly species Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila simulans.
A study of Old World fruit flies found increased frequency of low-latitude inversions in their chromosomes, suggesting protection against warmer temperatures. This rapid genetic shift is detectable even for samples separated by fewer than two decades, highlighting the potential for species adaptation to climate change.
Researchers report first case of total suppression of male killing in a butterfly, revealing genetic conflict between elements promoting life and death. Breeding experiments show that counteracting elements can spread quickly through the population, potentially leading to widespread disappearance of male-killing bacteria.
New research reveals that the UCP1 gene was inactivated 20 million years ago in pigs, causing them to lose the ability to use brown fat for body heat. As a result, piglets shudder to maintain their body temperature.
A survey found that one-third of Americans reject evolution, a higher figure than in European countries. Fundamentalist religions and politics play a significant role in this disparity.
Scientists at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh found that a category of genes known as pseudogenes serve no function, bolstering the theory of evolution. The study contradicts previous claims made by Intelligent Design proponents and suggests that pseudogenes are evolutionary relics with no function.
Researchers found that genetic instructions for constructing and positioning human limbs originated from ancient fish ancestors around 100 million years ago. They isolated genes from the spotted catshark and discovered a shared developmental mechanism between median fin development and limb formation.
Scientists found that genetic diversity in foundation species, like the cottonwood tree, drives the structure of entire ecosystems. This knowledge has far-reaching implications for conservation efforts and understanding the impact of genetically modified organisms on landscapes.
A study by UC Riverside researchers found that the California wild radish is a hybrid of cultivated radish and jointed charlock, having completely replaced its ancestors in less than 100 years. The researchers attribute this rapid spread to unique traits such as unswollen roots and early flowering.
Researchers at LSUHSC discovered unique RNAs in centrosomes that govern cell division and genetic stability. The findings have broad implications for understanding eukaryotic evolution and potentially developing new cancer treatments.
The study found that environmental quality increases the heritability of birth weight, but selection strength weakens in better environments. This suggests that biologically realistic models are crucial for predicting evolution in wild populations.
Researchers have discovered electric fish in Africa with the same DNA but different electric signals and appearances, sparking hope that they are on the verge of forming two separate species. The findings provide a rare example of sympatric speciation, where animals from the same geographic location diverge into distinct groups.
Male guppies with rare color patterns have a highly significant survival advantage in the wild, surviving at 84% rate compared to 69% for common-patterned males. This phenomenon is linked to frequency-dependent survival, where rarity confers an advantage over common variants.
Researchers have identified the genes CO and FT responsible for tree flowering and reproduction, which could lead to faster breeding programs and strategies. This breakthrough may also help predict how trees will respond to climate change.
Scientists discover that higher temperatures near the equator speed up metabolism, fueling genetic changes and leading to speciation. This finding helps explain why more living species exist near the equator.
Researchers found that gene expression levels become more variable with age in both humans and rats, supporting the notion of stochastic aging. The observed increases in expression variation are surprisingly small, leaving room for further explanations regarding the relationship between aging-related changes and molecular mechanisms.
Scientists used fossil and developmental data to pinpoint the genetic changes that led to whales losing their hind limbs. The gradual shrinkage of hind limbs was caused by slowly accumulated genetic changes, while the actual loss occurred when a drastic change inactivated the Sonic hedgehog gene.
Researchers found that ancient whales' hind limbs regressed over millions of years via small genetic changes, not a single dramatic event. This discovery highlights the complex process of evolution and developmental biology.
A study on side-blotched lizards found that cooperating males pass on their genes through a trait known as the 'greenbeard,' despite personal costs. The researchers identified three throat colors and behaviors that follow 'rock-paper-scissors' cycles, showcasing how cooperation can be beneficial in evolutionary terms.
A new study finds that blue-throated male lizards exhibit true altruism through cooperative partnerships to protect territories. Genetic analysis reveals the complex interaction of multiple genes controlling this behavior, offering insights into the evolution of altruistic cooperation.
Researchers used ancient and modern DNA to study the decline of Ctenomys sociabilis, a colonial tuco-tuco species. The analysis suggests that population bottlenecks and environmental changes led to the loss of genetic diversity, but also hints at the evolution of social behavior.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison reveal how evolution occurs at a fine level of detail, explaining molecular mechanisms behind animal adaptations. They show how fruit fly wing spots, which are driven by female preferences, can be gained and lost independently in different species.,
Researchers discovered that fruitfly wing spots evolved through mutations in cis-regulatory elements controlling the yellow gene, demonstrating how evolution uses existing genetic material to create new traits. The study also highlights the importance of pleiotropic genes in evolution.
A team of scientists has discovered a new hantavirus in an African wood mouse, which is related to viruses causing severe disease in humans in Central and Eastern Europe. The virus was found to have similarities with other hantaviruses, including the Dobrava virus, and can infect humans, according to preliminary evidence.
A 10-year study of wild finches reveals that female birds choose mates based on genetic diversity, not flashy traits. This helps explain why elaborate ornaments evolve despite potential inbreeding risks.
A team of researchers, including biological anthropologists and physicians, studied the relationship between the brain and skull in infants with craniosynostosis using CT scans and MRIs. They found a strong correlation between neural structures located near the top of the brain and bony features at the base of the skull.
Researchers found that humans and chimps harbor different kinds of mutations that influence PTC taste sensitivity. Humans carry two functional forms of the gene, while chimps have a broken form that likely emerged due to changes in their diet and environment.
Researchers at Oregon State University confirmed the existence of a 'dark state' in DNA molecules that makes them vulnerable to UV-induced damage. The study suggests that water played a crucial role in stabilizing these early DNA bases and allowing life to emerge from a hostile primordial soup.
Scientists at the University of Oregon discovered that complexity evolved piecemeal through Molecular Exploitation. They found that old genes were recruited to participate in new interactions and functions, consistent with Darwinian evolution.
Scientists propose a new theory on genetic conflict that drives evolutionary changes in ZW species. Maternal-effect genes are found to be a key area of conflict, leading to an evolutionary arms race.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute demonstrate that RNA enzymes can be evolved into DNA enzymes with the same catalytic function, challenging existing understanding of life's origins. The study offers fresh insights into the evolutionary conversion process and its potential implications for our understanding of life.
Scientists find gene regulation plays a key role in human-chimp differences, with rapid changes occurring in transcription factors over 5 million years. These changes may be linked to dietary shifts and cooking habits, enabling humans to thrive in new environments.
Scientists found that changes in transcription factor genes, which control expression of other genes, played a key role in human evolution. The study suggests that rapid adaptations to changing environments, such as the use of cooked food, drove these changes.
Ricardo Azevedo's study using a computational model suggests that sexual reproduction can lead to the evolution of negative epistasis, which confers an evolutionary advantage on sexually reproducing organisms. This finding implies that sex may be self-reinforcing, leading to increased robustness in populations.
The Tree of Life Project, a massive collaboration among scientists worldwide, is growing its database of life on Earth. With the help of Katja Schulz's new system, researchers and non-scientists alike can now easily upload data, allowing for new connections and insights into biological patterns.
Recent genetic epidemiology studies have empirically supported Mayr's ideas on genetic interaction and its impact on evolutionary change. These studies show that genes interact extensively, leading to a strong interaction between natural selection and genetic drift, resulting in 'genetic revolution.'
Research using Daphnia pulex reveals that sexual reproduction efficiently removes deleterious gene mutations, suggesting it is a key mechanism for maintaining population health. Asexual species, in contrast, accumulate bad mutations at an increased rate, supporting the idea that sex plays a crucial role in purifying genomes.
Researchers at Emory University Health Sciences Center have engineered a more efficient variant of the RuBisCO enzyme, which could lead to faster plant growth and more effective carbon dioxide conversion. The new enzyme produces up to 500% more enzyme than existing variants, paving the way for potential solutions to global warming.
Researchers found a novel gene critical for regulating Hh signaling in mammals, revealing the first clear difference in conserved signaling pathway function between species. The discovery suggests that multi-component pathways evolve by inserting new proteins into existing pathways.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have successfully forced a benign virus to evolve into a more effective delivery vehicle for genes in gene therapy. By accelerating the process of viral evolution, they were able to bypass the immune system's defenses and increase the virus's ability to deliver genes to target cells.
Scientists Jun-Yi Leu and Andrew Murray evolved yeast populations in the lab to study early stages of speciation. After 36 generations, the evolving population became five times more likely to mate with other evolved cells, suggesting genetic mutations altered mating timing and promoted reproductive isolation.
Duke University biologists evolved a complex polyphenic trait in tobacco hornworms by applying temperature shocks to create two distinct strains with different color responses. The researchers discovered that the level of juvenile hormone regulated the color change, and their experiments demonstrated genetic accommodation.
A recent study has found that human and chimp molecular evolution rates are surprisingly similar, indicating that certain human-specific traits such as generation time may have evolved only one million years ago. This slowdown in the molecular clock correlates with a longer generation time, which is also characteristic of humans.
A recent study by UC Riverside graduate student Matthew Walsh found that harvesting large individuals from a fish population introduces genetic changes that harm the overall fish population. The remaining fish become progressively smaller, have fewer and smaller eggs with lower survival rates, and lower foraging and feeding capabilities.
Researchers discovered a genetic mechanism in plants that prevents the regrowth of a trait once it's lost, contradicting earlier studies. The findings highlight the importance of considering genetic data when reconstructing evolutionary history.
Studies on evolution at the genetic level revealed new insights into the human species' evolutionary history and potential for personalized medicine. Other research advances included planetary discovery, plant molecular biology, and a deeper understanding of neutron stars and climate change.
David Kingsley's work on stickleback populations shows major morphological changes are controlled by simple mechanisms. The study highlights the importance of evolutionary biology in understanding animal adaptation and aiding human health.
A new study suggests that the animal family tree looks fuzzy because early evolution occurred in clusters, making it difficult to reconstruct relationships. Scientists used DNA data to try to generate a clear picture of the tree, but instead found a bush with many branches sprouting close together.
Researchers found genetic markers for albinism in two cave-dwelling fish populations appeared in the same location, suggesting a common mutation. The Oca2 gene was identified as responsible for pigmentation and the deletion of a specific exon produced albinism.
Researchers analyzed genes and developed new statistical technique to estimate divergence time. They found that humans and chimpanzees likely shared a common ancestor between 5-7 million years ago, with a maximum limit of approximately 7 million years ago.
Researchers discovered a distinctive variant of the prodynorphin gene in humans, which increases production of neuropeptide prodynorphin. This variant is linked to increased brain size, memory, perception, and sensitivity to pain, as well as potential risks for drug addiction, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorders.
Researchers have identified a specific microRNA - miR 196 - playing a protective role in hindlimb development, but not forelimb development, suggesting a fail-safe mechanism to regulate gene expression. This finding may be useful in understanding birth defects and has implications for the regulation of protein expression in limbs.
A new study published in Science demonstrates that microRNAs affect the expression or evolution of the majority of human genes. The researchers found that nearly all genes contain short sequences matching microRNA target sites, which are evolutionarily conserved across species.
A Stanford study reveals that the sea squirt Botryllus schlosseri uses a gene similar to the human immune system to distinguish between self and non-self. This finding may lead to new ways to control natural killer cells and treat diseases like leukemia and multiple sclerosis.
A comprehensive genetic analysis of snakes, lizards, and other scaly reptiles has revealed surprising relationships among the animals. The study places primitive-looking iguanian lizards at the top of the tree, near advanced lineages like snakes and monitor lizards.
Researchers analyzed the history of metabolic genes acquired by E.coli bacteria over 100 million years, finding that approximately 25 genes were added through horizontal gene transfer. This mechanism allows bacteria to evolve new functions and adapt to changing environments, rather than improving existing performance.
Researchers have found that two genetic conditions, sickle cell trait and a mild version of thalassemia, offer natural protection against malaria but can be rendered ineffective when occurring together. This study of Kenyan children highlights the complexity of genetic interactions in naturally acquired immunity.
A 'Perception' gene tracked by scientists suggests regulation of this gene played a crucial role in the evolution of modern humans' mental capacity. The gene, prodynorphin, is implicated in pain perception, social attachment, learning and memory.
Researchers mapped how genes are shared between bacteria through lateral genetic transfer, a process where genes are transferred between unrelated organisms. The study reveals that this phenomenon is widespread and can occur even between distantly related organisms, contributing to the rapid spread of disease-causing bacteria.