Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Novel method for increasing antibiotic yields

Researchers have identified a system for targeted amplification of gene clusters in bacteria, which can significantly increase the production of antibiotics. This discovery has the potential to revolutionize the commercial production of antibiotics and may also uncover new, undiscovered antibiotics.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 5, 2011

Arrowing in on Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have expanded on existing knowledge of Alzheimer's disease by identifying a novel location within the MS4A gene cluster associated with the condition. The study suggests that the immune system plays a key role in its progression, with several genes implicated in allergies and autoimmune diseases.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateMay 30, 2011

Reining in nicotine use

Research by Dr. Inés Ibañez-Tallon and her team at MDC Berlin-Buch reveals that the midbrain habenula region plays a key role in nicotine dependence. The study found that only a balanced activity of two genes can rein in nicotine use.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNeuron·DateMay 12, 2011

Discovery of jumping gene cluster tangles tree of life

A team of researchers at Vanderbilt University has discovered a large cluster of genes that appeared to jump directly from one fungus species to another, significantly strengthening the argument for a mosaic theory of evolution. The finding was made possible by comparing the genomes of nearly 100 species of fungi.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 4, 2011

Brown chemist finds gray mold's killer gene

Researchers have identified a set of genes responsible for producing the deadly toxin botrydial in gray mold, and found that shutting off this gene can stop toxin production. The discovery offers hope for finding natural ways to eliminate gray mold without using expensive fungicides.

SourceBrown University·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateDec 1, 2008

Mining for gems in the fungal genome

A new method has been developed to identify secondary metabolites in fungi, which are compounds that can have medicinal properties. The technique, known as genomic mining, allows researchers to pinpoint the genes responsible for producing these compounds, offering a promising tool for finding new medicines.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalChemistry & Biology·DateJan 23, 2006

Asthma gene clusters identified

Researchers have identified two distinct gene expression profiles in children with acute asthma, which could lead to customized treatments. The study's findings may enable targeted therapies for acute asthma attacks and help predict impending attacks by analyzing a patient's unique genetic profile.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateFeb 7, 2005

Weizmann Institute scientists develop a novel system for analyzing genetic data that mimics the human capacity for unsupervised learning

The team designed a unique mathematical system for analyzing genetic data based on a computer algorithm that clusters information into relevant categories. The algorithm mimics unassisted learning, categorizing tissue samples into separate clusters according to their gene expression profiles.

SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2000