Research on how genes and species change over time. Covers ancient DNA, longevity in bats, plant lineages, and insect evolution.
A genomic analysis overturned the leading hypothesis on firefly light origin, revealing that lucibufagins, a toxic compound, evolved after bioluminescence development. Fireflies' ancestors diversified during a period of rising atmospheric oxygen levels, suggesting a similar path to glowing millipedes.
A new family tree of Solanum plants clarifies the evolution of diverse fruits, showing that size and color are linked and not driven by fruit-eating animals. The study provides insight into breeding agriculturally important plants with desirable traits.
Researchers have discovered that frogs possess an unexpected range of nonvisual opsins, which play a crucial role in regulating their day-night cycles. This finding provides new insights into the evolution and adaptation of sensory systems in different animals.
Researchers developed new lager yeasts by hybridizing brewer's yeast with Patagonian wild strains, which resulted in enhanced fermentation capacity and unique aroma profiles. The study provides a way to expand the range of currently available beer styles through wild yeast exploration.
A new study presents an evolutionary-biophysical model that sheds light on the evolution of collaborative non-self recognition self-incompatibility in plants. The model introduces promiscuous molecular interactions, enhancing our understanding of genetic diversity and evolution in hermaphroditic plants.
The introduction of Nile perch to Lake Victoria led to severe population loss and genetic bottlenecks in local cichlid species. The study reveals that four species experienced a 'bottleneck event' resulting in reduced genetic diversity, highlighting the devastating impact of exotic species invasion.
Researchers at the University of Bath found that shorebird species with polyandrous mating systems exhibit faster evolution rates than monogamous species. Genetic changes in the sex chromosomes revealed that Z chromosome mutations are more influential due to genetic drift.
A new study by a global consortium provides insight into how tumors evolve, shedding light on the intricate processes underlying cancer evolution. The findings define optimal algorithms to analyze tumor evolution, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.
A team of researchers has developed a novel genetic clock to determine the age of a large marine plant clone for the first time. The oldest identified seagrass clone is 1402 years old and was found in the Baltic Sea, making it older than other long-lived species.
A genetic study found that early summer fishing in the Baltic Sea targets larger salmon, leading to smaller fish and reduced population diversity. The study suggests that intensive fishing in the early season can cause evolutionary changes, affecting the age and size of Atlantic salmon before maturity.
Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University sequenced and characterized the paradise fish genome, revealing a compact genetic material ideal for targeted genome editing experiments. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for studying evolutionary development and complex behaviors.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin discovered that over 10,000 species have been described in just 83 big genera since 2000, with roughly one in four flowering plant species belonging to these groups. Understanding the success of these large genera may help predict their response to climate change and inform conservation efforts.
The study reveals remarkable variation between primate Y chromosomes, showing rapid evolution and previously unstudied regions. The researchers found that over 90% of ape X chromosome sequences aligned to the human X chromosome, while only 14-27% of ape Y chromosome sequences aligned to the human Y chromosome.
Researchers investigate gene preservation after loss of male traits in stick insects and find that genes involved in multiple biological processes are more likely to be maintained. This suggests that the molecular ground plan for the lost male reproductive process may persist due to pleiotropic effects on other traits.
Researchers have generated complete 'end-to-end' reference genomes for the sex chromosomes of five great ape species, highlighting enormous variation on the Y chromosome. The findings inform understanding of diseases related to genes on these chromosomes in both apes and humans.
Researchers at Harvard University have successfully sequenced the genome of the extinct little bush moa, providing new genetic evidence about its sensory biology. The study sheds light on how and why some birds evolved to become flightless, offering clues for future de-extinction efforts.
A study led by Andrea Migliano from the University of Zurich has discovered previously unknown links between culture, language, and genes among different hunter-gatherer populations in Central Africa. The team found that musical instruments were exchanged long before agricultural populations arrived in the region, suggesting extensive ...
A new Research Training Group will investigate the evolution of nuclear genomes in organisms using different forms of reproduction, including asexual and sexual reproduction. The group aims to better understand the dominance of sexual reproduction in nature through empirical analysis of changing and evolving genomes.
Researchers have solved the mock viper's evolutionary history by analyzing DNA sequences and micro-computed tomographic scans. The discovery of a new family-level lineage within Elapoidea superfamily highlights the importance of snake venom fang origin and evolution, with long branches indicating high evolutionary distinctiveness.
Researchers found that anglerfish's unique sexual parasitism helped them adapt to the deep sea during a time of global warming. This trait allowed for successful reproduction and diversification in the 'midnight' zone.
Researchers sequenced ancient genomes to understand the genetic composition of western plateau populations over 3,500 years. They found complex interactions between southern and western plateau populations, with Central Asian components introduced around 2,300 years ago.
Research reveals cell-in-cell phenomena are common in non-cancer cells, playing roles in development, homeostasis and stress response. The study argues against targeting cell-in-cell events for cancer therapy, opening new avenues for research in evolutionary biology, oncology and regenerative medicine.
A new study reveals sex-specific effects of germline regulation on longevity and somatic repair in vertebrates. Removing the germline extends male lifespan and improves stress resistance in females.
Researchers have discovered a radically different molecular switch that determines sex in African butterflies, relying on recognition of sequence differences within the Masculinizer gene. This alternative mechanism leads to hypervariability of the Masculinizer gene and drives the production of more females than expected.
Climate change threatens freshwater habitats, disrupting microbial communities essential for nutrient cycling and water quality maintenance. Many abundant freshwater bacteria with small genomes experience extended periods of adaptive standstill, limiting their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Researchers have generated complete genome data for four filamentous 'star algae' species, revealing overabundances of signalling genes and environmental response factors that underpin molecular mechanisms shaping plant bodies. The findings provide insights into the origins of land plants and their ability to adapt to environments.
A recent study found that malaria endemicity is negatively associated with leukocyte telomere length in sub-Saharan African populations. Genetic factors explain roughly half of the variation, but environmental factors like malaria may also play a role.
An international research team has generated the first genomic sequence of four strains of Zygnema algae, closest living relatives of land plants. The study sheds light on how these organisms adapted to terrestrial environments and provides a rich basis for future research.
A study of leaf-nosed bats in the Solomon Islands revealed surprising genetic diversity among nearly indistinguishable species on different islands. The research team found that the large and extra-large bat species were not closely related, but rather evolved from smaller species multiple times across different islands.
Becker will investigate evolutionary and conservation genomics in insular Peromyscus populations, uncovering general patterns in isolated wild mammal populations. By sequencing genome-wide loci over 120 years, she aims to extend the utility of islands as natural laboratories for testing genetic monitoring techniques.
Researchers at Lund University found that a specific cell type plays a key role in the joint evolution of these traits in the Mediterranean region. The study used field work and DNA analysis to investigate large, green, aggressive wall lizards and discovered genes responsible for their unique appearance.
The study reveals the RNA microarray gene expression profiles of two critical superbugs, Klebsiella pneumonia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It identifies shared significant genes and drug resistance genes, highlighting their divergent evolution and potential association with resistance mechanisms.
Female cuckoos have two color variants: gray and rufous, linked to ancient mutations that emerged during the evolutionary arms race between host and cuckoo. The rarer color morph has an evolutionary advantage due to its rarity, causing genetic variation to be maintained for a long time.
Researchers analyzed genomes of 363 bird species and found significant variations in cryptochrome 4 gene, indicating adaptation to environmental conditions. This specialization could be related to magnetoreception in migratory birds.
A study found that agastric fish lack specific genes required for gastric functions, such as slc26a9, kcne2, cldn18a, and vsig1. These findings suggest a genotypic convergence where gene losses correlate with stomach loss in various fish lineages.
A recent study by the Smithsonian has pushed back the earliest dated origin of bioluminescence in animals by nearly 300 million years, dating it to around 540 million years ago in marine invertebrates called octocorals. The ability to produce light is involved in various behaviors such as camouflage, courtship, and hunting.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine developed a new technology called tARC-seq to study SARS-CoV-2's genetic mechanism fueling its ability to generate variants. The study found that the mutation rate was higher than expected and identified hotspots in the virus's RNA where mutations occur more frequently.
Researchers at Harvard University discover that hybrids between Amazon butterfly species can produce new, genetically distinct species with unique traits. This study challenges the long-held assumption that hybridization inhibits speciation, instead suggesting it can drive the evolution of new lineages.
A team of scientists has identified a new butterfly species created by the interbreeding of two Amazonian species over 200,000 years ago. Genetic and ecological evidence shows that the three species - Heliconius melpomene, Heliconius pardalinus, and Heliconius elevatus - co-exist in the Amazon rainforest.
A research team unravels the genetic secrets of Rhododendron flower color diversity, shedding light on gene duplications, losses, and regulatory networks. The study provides a foundation for future breeding endeavors aimed at developing novel cultivars with specific floral characteristics.
Researchers found that first-generation, wild-born descendants of hatchery-origin Chinook salmon produced more adult offspring than hatchery-origin salmon, improving reproductive success. This study offers hope for recovering endangered populations using hatchery-origin salmon.
A study reveals that gene duplication events hundreds of millions years ago led to the emergence of complex traits such as insect flight and octopus camouflage. These 'copy paste' errors allowed for the specialization of ancestral genes, which were then repurposed for specific tissues and organs.
Researchers found that macroalgae acquired new genes for cell adhesion, differentiation, communication, and transport from viruses, which played a critical role in their evolution to multicellularity. The study provides valuable genomic resources for further studies on the biology of macroalgae.
A new analysis of the sunflower family tree shows that flower symmetry evolved multiple times independently among its members. The research, led by Penn State biologist Hong Ma, used low-coverage genome sequences to increase the number of species available for comparison and resolved more of the finer branches of the family tree.
A genomic study has revealed the unimaginable diversity of human and nonhuman primate centromeres, highlighting their speed of evolutionary change. Centromeres differ vastly in size, structure, and epigenetic makeup, with unique sequences and organization emerging from different evolutionary forces.
Researchers analyzed DNA markers to discover potential new scrub mint species and found evidence of cryptic diversity. The study highlights the unique evolutionary history of these plants, which thrived in harsh conditions but lost adaptability.
A frozen chunk of a bird's genome has rewritten the understanding of the bird family tree, revealing that most birds were misclassified due to suppressed recombination. Scientists discovered that one section of the genome behaved unusually, leading to incorrect groupings and a more complex tree.
Researchers sequenced RNA transcripts from 18 primate brains to map every expressed gene, revealing remarkable variation in humans and chimps compared to other primates. The study identifies specific genes for further research and sheds light on human neurodegenerative disorders.
Researchers have recovered ancient microbiomes from 4,000-year-old teeth in Ireland, revealing major changes in oral microenvironments. The study identified bacteria linked to gum disease and provided the first high-quality ancient genome of Streptococcus mutans, a major culprit behind tooth decay.
New research reveals that naked mole-rats have genetic adaptations allowing them to survive in low-oxygen environments and avoid heart damage. Their distinct cardiometabolic profile helps prevent cardiovascular events.
Two well-known killer whale ecotypes in the North Pacific Ocean have been identified as separate species through genetic and behavioral evidence. The resident and Bigg's killer whales have distinct physical characteristics, diets, and cultural habits, justifying their recognition as distinct species.
A study from USC Keck School of Medicine reveals a genetic variant on the IKZF1 gene contributing to increased risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia among Hispanic/Latino children. The variant increases ALL risk by around 1.4 times and may be linked to Indigenous American ancestry, according to researchers.
Researchers found that humans transfer viruses to domestic and wild animals at a rate twice that of animal-to-human transmission, highlighting the importance of monitoring viral exchange between species. This study's findings have significant implications for understanding zoonotic diseases and conservation efforts.
Researchers identified a key factor limiting the shapes of fungal hyphae, which are crucial for growth and survival. The study's findings provide insights into the evolution of complex traits and have significant implications for understanding ecological systems and developing new antimicrobials.
A team of scientists has identified a key gene that influences visual preferences in tropical butterflies, specifically the Heliconius species. The researchers found that males prefer partners with similar color patterns, and genomic analysis revealed the connection to a genetic region shared by two red species.
A team of researchers decoded the origins and spread of the bottle gourd, a staple in ancient civilizations for over 10,000 years. The study mapped the genetic blueprint of 197 varieties, revealing its domestication in Southern Africa around 12,000 years ago.
A study led by Leopold Eckhart found that the genetic programme controlling keratinized claws originated in a common ancestor of humans and frogs. The research team used the tropical clawed frog as an experimental model and discovered that important hair components, including keratins, share similarities with human hair.
A Washington State University-led research team discovered a set of genes in wild bacteria that allow them to survive exposure to nickel, enabling them to thrive in toxic soils. The genetic discovery could inform future bioremediation efforts to return plants to polluted soils.
Female Diadem butterflies have evolved colours and patterns that closely match those of toxic African Queens, making them appear toxic to predators. This convergent evolution allows the Diadems to avoid being eaten by birds and other predators.
A new study on nematode mating behaviors offers insights into the genetic mechanisms of attraction. Hermaphroditic nematodes, which can self-fertilize, only mate when their sperm supply runs dry, suggesting a strategic approach to maximize gene passage.