Why do tomatoes smell 'grassy'?
Researchers from Kobe University identified enzymes that convert 3-hexenal into 2-hexenal, reducing the grassy odor in tomatoes. This breakthrough can be used to produce sweet tomatoes with less unpleasant fragrance.
Gene Identification
Articles tagged with Gene Identification
Technique rapidly reveals individual gene function
A team of researchers developed a CRISPR-based technique to rapidly identify gene variants, improving efforts to map genes and determine their function. The method induces mitotic recombination, allowing for detailed mapping of trait variants, as demonstrated by identifying a genetic mutation affecting yeast sensitivity to manganese.
Gene cascade specifies 2 distinct neuron sets expressing Nplp1
Researchers identified two distinct neuronal cell lineages expressing Nplp1, driven by different spatiotemporal cues and converging on a common terminal selector cascade. The study provides new insights into neuronal cell fate specification and the role of feed-forward loops in regulating gene expression during development.
Study suggests bipolar disorder has genetic links to autism
A new study suggests a genetic overlap between bipolar disorder and autism, adding to the growing understanding that many psychiatric diseases share common roots. The research identified 84 rare genetic variations linked to bipolar disorder that were also associated with schizophrenia and autism.
Fructose alters hundreds of brain genes, which can lead to a wide range of diseases
A study by UCLA life scientists found that fructose damages brain genes, leading to diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, a diet rich in DHA reversed the harmful effects of fructose, suggesting a potential treatment for these conditions.
Researchers identify new mechanism to target 'undruggable' cancer gene
A new study identifies a small molecule that simultaneously inhibits signaling pathways activated by mutated RAS oncogenes, representing a new paradigm for targeting this elusive cancer gene. The discovery has significant implications for the treatment of RAS-driven cancers.
Study identifies memory suppressor gene, may hold key to new Alzheimer's treatments
Scientists have identified a unique memory suppressor gene in Drosophila that could hold the key to developing new Alzheimer's treatments. The gene, known as DmSLC22A, is involved in filtering information and storing important parts when the brain prioritizes memories.
Gluten-free noodle revolution: The quest for chewier, non-allergenic buckwheat
Scientists at Kyoto University have sequenced the buckwheat genome, identifying genes that could improve cultivation and taste. The team found genes related to 'mochi-ness', which give foods a soft, chewy texture, and those that synthesize proanthocyanidins, making buckwheat darker in color.
Sleep tight -- gene responsible for sleep deprivation and metabolic disorders identified
A study at Florida Atlantic University identifies a gene, translin, that regulates sleep and metabolism, linking it to sleep deprivation and metabolic disorders like diabetes and obesity. The researchers used fruit flies to test the gene's role in sleep regulation, finding that it is essential for modulating sleep in response to metabo...
A quartet of genes controls growth of blood stem cells
A study by Lund University researchers has identified four key genes that govern the growth and multiplication of blood stem cells. The discovery sheds light on how to expand these cells for transplant and potentially develop new cancer treatments.
A new recessive disease identified
Researchers at the University of Geneva identified a new recessive disease caused by the failure of a single gene, PIGG, which affects protein production and leads to intellectual disability, epilepsy and hypotonia. The discovery provides hope for early detection and prevention through personalized genetic diagnosis.
First gene for grey hair found
Researchers identify IRF4 as the first gene associated with greying hair, revealing a genetic link to human aging. The study analyzed 6,000 people from diverse ancestry, uncovering additional genes influencing hair shape, curliness, and density.
Sweeping review of human genome IDs stroke risk genes
The study confirmed the role of known genes, ruled out others and identified a new gene associated with strokes caused by large artery atherosclerosis. The research found that each identified gene is associated with a specific stroke subtype, suggesting a need for subtype-specific risk factor investigation.
Link between stress fracture injuries and genes found
A study by University of Liverpool researchers found that specific gene variations are associated with stress fracture injuries in healthy, exercising individuals. This discovery may lead to the development of preventative measures and tailored treatments for athletes and military personnel at risk of developing this common sports injury.
Researchers discover 10 new lupus genes in Asian population study
A recent study published in Nature Genetics has identified 10 new genes linked to lupus, an autoimmune disease affecting millions worldwide. The research analyzed over 17,000 DNA samples from Asian populations and found that these genes play a significant role in the development of lupus.
Researchers uncover core set of genes for plant-fungal symbiosis
A new study has identified 138 genes essential for plant-fungal symbiosis, which could lead to the development of crop varieties that thrive without fertilizers. This discovery was made possible by comparing genome sequences of plants with and without this symbiotic relationship.
Snappy Sleep Stager system identifies gene related to shorter sleep
Researchers at RIKEN QBiC have developed a new method for monitoring mouse sleep cycles using the Snappy Sleep Stager, a non-invasive and automated system. The system has identified a new short-sleeper gene, Nr3a, which is associated with schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and depression, all of which are linked to sleep disturbances.
Using genes to understand the brain's building blocks
Researchers at the Allen Institute for Brain Science have developed a taxonomy of cells in the mouse visual cortex based on single-cell gene expression, identifying 42 neuronal and 7 non-neuronal cell types. This study provides a basic understanding of brain function by categorizing cellular building blocks.
Study finds genetic convergence between cognition and neurodevelopmental disorders
A recent study found a significant network of genes influencing cognitive abilities in both healthy individuals and those with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism and schizophrenia. The discovery provides an alternate starting point for developing therapies targeting these disorders.
A gene for new species is discovered
A University of Utah-led study identified a long-sought 'hybrid inviability gene' responsible for dead or infertile offspring when two fruit fly species mate. The discovery sheds light on the genetic and molecular process leading to formation of new species, and may provide clues to how cancer develops.
Genes for age-related cognitive decline found in adult worm neurons
A team of researchers from Princeton University has discovered new genes that regulate memory and neuron repair in adult worms, which could have implications for human cognitive decline and traumatic brain injury. The study provides a more complete picture of how insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway controls gene expression in neurons.
Genetics of the African cheetah continues to surprise and excite researchers
The African cheetah's genome sequence has revealed a lack of genetic variation and unique adaptations that contribute to its incredible speed. The study has shed light on the cheetah's past and its struggles with reproductive impairments, providing valuable lessons for conservation efforts.
Two genes linked to intellectual disability and circular skin creases on limbs
Clinical geneticists have identified two genes, MAPRE2 and TUBB, linked to circumferential skin creases Kunze type and associated intellectual disability. The syndrome is extremely rare, affecting less than a dozen cases worldwide.
Scientists isolate genes that delay Alzheimer's
Researchers have identified a network of nine genes that play a key role in the onset of Alzheimer's Disease. The study found that some genes delay the disease by up to 17 years, while others accelerate its progress.
Novel insights into genetic cause of autoimmune diseases
Researchers have developed a new technique that maps genomic contact points to shed light on the parts of the genome involved in autoimmune diseases. This approach identified novel candidate genes relating to the risk of developing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes.
TGen and Barrow identify genes linked to stress-triggered heart disease
TGen and Barrow researchers identified rare genetic changes associated with stress-triggered heart disease, a condition previously referred to as 'broken heart syndrome.' The study's findings may help guide care and treatment before and after patients experience a life-threatening stressor.
Researchers identify genes connecting endocrine disruption to genital malformations
Researchers at the University of Florida have identified genes that are disrupted by abnormal hormone signaling, leading to male genital birth defects. The study found a narrow window of development when genetic malformations can occur, and pinpointed 22 genes expressed in embryonic genitalia.
Living in thin air
A collaborative team of researchers identified over 100 genes crucial for high-altitude adaptation in fruit flies, including more than 40 human equivalents. These genes prioritize respiratory system development and metabolic rewiring, enabling organisms to thrive in low-oxygen environments.
Scientists discover genetic mechanism essential to ovary development
Researchers identified a novel pathway in the normal development and maintenance of the ovary, discovering a mutation in the Nucleoporin 107 gene linked to ovarian dysgenesis. This finding has significant implications for diagnosing infertility and lack of puberty in women.
Earliest embryonic lethality gene identified
Researchers have identified a single gene, TLE6, responsible for human embryonic lethality at an earlier stage of development than previously documented. The mutation impairs the binding of components of the sub-cortical maternal complex, leading to arrest in early embryonic development.
New gene a key to fighting sepsis
Researchers at Australian National University and Genentech have identified a gene, Gasdermin-D, that triggers the inflammatory condition leading to sepsis. The discovery could lead to new treatments for this deadly disease, which kills an estimated one million people in the US each year.
Scientists identify genes associated with peripheral artery disease
Researchers identified three genetic factors associated with peripheral artery disease, including variations on chromosome 13 that affect protein expression and blood vessel constriction. The study provides insight into the condition's causes and potential therapeutic targets.
Mutations driving leukemia identified
A team of scientists analyzed high-throughput sequencing data from 538 CLL patients and identified 44 genes that are frequently mutated in the disease. These mutations, known as driver mutations, affect RNA processing, MYC activity, and MAPK signaling.
Gene suppression helps form memories
A new study has identified specific genes that are repressed after memory formation, providing insights into how long-term memories are formed. The researchers found that estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) and Nrsn1 genes play a crucial role in modulating gene-regulatory networks after learning.
Modeling tool IDs genes that control stress response in plants
A new modeling algorithm helps plant biologists target individual genes controlling stress responses in plants. The tool narrows the field from thousands of genes to fewer than 10, making it easier to understand how to develop drought-resistant crops.
Bond gene in fruit flies controls fertility of rival males
A single gene in fruit flies, named 'bond', controls male pheromone production and affects fertility. It also influences the fertility of rival males, suggesting that males need a sense of competition to ensure reproductive success.
Gene associated with sudden cardiac death identified by ICD monitoring
A gene associated with sudden cardiac death has been identified using implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) monitoring. The GNAS gene polymorphism predicted ventricular tachyarrhythmias and sudden cardiac death in patients from the DISCOVERY trial and Oregon-SUDS study.
New strategy improves detection of genetic mutations in hereditary colorectal cancer
A new testing method developed to accurately detect PMS2 gene mutations has been shown to improve diagnosis and support genetic counseling and medical management for individuals with Lynch syndrome. The approach combines targeted capture next-generation sequencing, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification, and long-range PCR fo...
Algorithm helps identify elusive genes that express like clockwork
A new statistical approach, called Oscope, identifies oscillating genes in single-cell RNA-sequencing experiments by examining cells from an unsynchronized population. The technique captures one base cycle of each group of cyclic genes, offering a practical way to profile distinct groups of genes that play a cyclical role.
Why offspring cope better with climate change -- it's all in the genes!
A recent study has identified 53 key genes involved in fish's ability to adapt to warmer temperatures over multiple generations. The research found that metabolic and immune genes play a crucial role in enabling fish to cope with higher temperatures, improving their chances of survival in a changing climate.
International team revealed the mystery of major depressive disorder
An international team of researchers has identified two robust genetic variants associated with major depressive disorder (MDD). The study, published in Nature, found that these variants are located on chromosome 10 and may be linked to mitochondrial function.
Cancer and vampires: An evolutionary approach
Researchers have developed a new tool that uses phylogenetic profiling to identify genes associated with genetic diseases and cancer. This approach can be used to analyze genes within the same network as known disease-related genes, such as BRCA1, and predict their biological functions.
Researchers identify gene that controls soybean seed permeability, calcium content
Purdue University researchers have identified a key gene that controls soybean seed coat permeability, which could lead to improved crop varieties for southern and tropical regions. The discovery also offers potential applications for enhancing the nutritional value of soybeans by modifying their calcium content.
A new role for zebrafish: Larger scale gene function studies
Researchers at NHGRI create high-throughput gene editing system in zebrafish, allowing for simultaneous targeting and mutation of multiple genes. This method accelerates discovery of gene function and identification of disease genes in humans.
'Pain sensing' gene discovery could help in development of new methods of pain relief
Researchers identified the PRDM12 gene essential for pain-sensing neurons in humans, which could lead to the development of new pain treatments. The study found that genetic variants of PRDM12 block the production of pain-sensing neurons, leading to conditions like congenital insensitivity to pain.
Geneticists clock genetic differences between 'larks' and 'owls'
A new study by geneticists from the University of Leicester has identified nearly 80 genes associated with 'morningness' and 'eveningness' in fruit flies. This discovery could lead to better diagnostics and personalized medicine, where individuals receive tailored therapies based on their unique genetic profiles.
Genetic changes to basic developmental processes evolve more frequently than thought
Scientists from the University of Chicago identified a newly-evolved gene, panish, which determines head-to-tail polarity in midge fly embryos. This discovery suggests that genetic changes to fundamental biological processes occur more often than previously thought, and opens new research avenues.
Genetic markers for fetal overgrowth syndrome discovered
Genetic markers have been identified for large offspring syndrome (LOS) in cattle, a condition that can cause physical abnormalities and fatalities in newborn calves. This discovery may lead to safer assisted reproduction procedures by allowing breeders to avoid genetically predisposed embryos.
DNA study could shed light on how genetic faults trigger disease
A new technique identifies how genes are controlled and pinpoints source of disease-causing mutations in enhancers. Researchers found that genes are regulated by multiple enhancers, allowing precise control during development and maintaining normal brain function.
Novel neurodegenerative disease and gene identified with the help of man's best friend
A breakthrough study discovered a novel neurodegenerative disease in Lagotto Romagnolo dogs caused by an ATG4D gene mutation. The research sheds light on the function of neurons and may aid in developing treatments for neurodegenerative disorders, as similar mutations have been linked to human diseases.
Paternal sperm may hold clues to autism
A small study found distinct patterns of regulatory tags in DNA from fathers' sperm linked to children's early signs of autism. The presence or absence of these tags was statistically related to Autism Observation Scale for Infants scores, suggesting a potential contribution to the condition.
The CNIO identifies a new gene involved in hereditary neuroendocrine tumors
Researchers at CNIO have discovered a new gene, MDH2, linked to rare neuroendocrine tumors with high hereditary risk. The finding confirms the relationship between metabolism and tumour development, providing a boost to genetic diagnosis and potential metastasis prevention.
Pitt team identifies mutations associated with development of congenital heart disease
A study published in Nature has identified 61 genes associated with congenital heart disease mutations, highlighting the crucial role of cilia in heart development. The research used fetal ultrasound exams to scan over 87,000 mice and sequenced their genes to find these genetic links.
New targets for rabies prevention and treatment
Scientists have discovered 63 genes linked to rabies sensitivity, with potential applications in prevention and treatment. The study's novel screening method can be used to uncover host-based genes involved in various infections and responses to drugs.
Motor neurone disease -- researchers identify new group of gene suspects
A recent study has identified a group of gene variants that may contribute to sporadic motor neurone disease, a devastating condition affecting thousands of Australians. Researchers sequenced the protein-coding genes of 44 MND-affected individuals and their parents, finding rare genetic changes in two-fifths of cases.
Dartmouth-led team identifies circadian clock gene that strengthens crop plant
A Dartmouth-led team has identified the GIGANTEA gene as a key factor in enhancing crop plant resilience to harsh conditions. This breakthrough could lead to the development of hardier crops with improved yield, addressing global food security challenges.
Gene discovery sheds light on causes of rare type of dwarfism
A gene linked to primordial dwarfism has been identified, revealing errors in the XRCC4 gene cause profound growth defects before birth. The discovery helps provide better diagnoses for families affected and advises children with mutations to minimize X-ray exposure and regular immunological checks.
Transcriptomics identifies genes and signaling pathways that may regulate neurodegeneration
A recent study published in Experimental Biology and Medicine identified over 4,000 genes with altered expression in dying neurons, including those involved in cell death, survival regulation, and oxidative phosphorylation. This breakthrough opens doors to future research on novel players regulating neuronal survival and death.
Researchers find gene that confirms existence of psoriatic arthritis
A recent study has identified a gene that increases the risk of developing psoriatic arthritis, a condition where patients often experience both skin psoriasis and joint pain. The researchers found genetic changes that distinguish PsA from its counterpart psoriasis.
There is not a single type of schizophrenia, as thought, but 8 different genetic diseases
Researchers have identified eight genetically distinct types of schizophrenia, each with its own set of symptoms. The study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, found that genes function as an orchestra, interacting with each other to contribute to the disease.