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Mechanism behind orchid beauty revealed

Researchers at Tohoku University have identified the retrotransposon insertion in a floral homeotic gene responsible for greenish orchid mutations. This discovery paves the way for genetic modification of orchids to produce more flowers.

SourceTohoku University·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateAug 19, 2018

The secret behind cell revival revealed

Researchers have identified 85 genes essential for fission yeast cells to maintain their ability to divide after being starved of nitrogen. The study sheds light on the genetic network required for resting cells like cancer stem cells to reactivate and has potential applications in developing new therapies to treat cancer. This discove...

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American University researchers have identified the first gene of the germline-restricted chromosome (GRC) in the zebra finch, a crucial step in understanding sex determination in birds. The discovery of GRC α-SNAP, a SNAP family gene crucial to membrane fusion, suggests potential functions and directions for follow-up experiments.

SourceAmerican University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 3, 2018

When every fish counts

A study published in Conservation Genetics found that about a third of fish samples were misidentified as native delta smelt when using visual identification. Genetic analysis revealed 27% of the fish thought to be native delta smelt were actually non-native wakasagi.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalConservation Genetics·DateFeb 22, 2018

Fifteen new genes identified that shape our face

Researchers have identified 15 new genes that play a crucial role in shaping our facial features. The discovery was made using a novel approach that analyzed DNA data from large databases of faces. The findings could lead to breakthroughs in forensic analysis and reconstructive surgery, enabling doctors to use DNA to recreate lost faces.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 19, 2018

Genes critical for hearing identified

A recent study published in Nature Communications has identified 52 previously unknown genes that play a crucial role in human hearing. The research used 'knock-out' mice to assess their hearing thresholds and found that these genes can lead to mild to severe hearing loss or difficulties at specific frequencies.

SourceMedical Research Council·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 12, 2017

Liverwort genes and land plant evolution

The liverwort's genome has provided insight into the transition from algae to land plants, identifying genes critical for plant growth and development. The study also found that early plants developed strategies for water retention and distribution, which are still employed by modern plants.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalCell·DateOct 5, 2017

How a bacterium can live on methanol

A team of scientists has identified all the genes required for Methylobacterium extorquens to live on methanol. The bacterium can use either larger carbon molecules or methanol from plants as a nutrient, depending on availability.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 22, 2017

A taste cell encyclopedia

A new study from the Monell Center enables researchers to pinpoint the unique molecular components needed for each type of taste cell to function. This breakthrough provides a treasure trove of information on how taste cells respond to different compounds and can help devise ways to promote healthy eating.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

Evolution of fan worm eyes

Fan worms have developed unusual compound eyes on their tentacles to detect motion and predators, alerting them to danger. The eyes' unique genetic makeup reveals an independent evolutionary history from other visual systems.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 1, 2017

Discovery of why emus are grounded takes flight

A team of researchers from Monash University has identified the Nkx2.5 gene as a key regulator of wing development in emus. This discovery sheds light on the genetic basis of limb reduction and may have implications for human limb development, particularly in individuals born with limb abnormalities.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 25, 2017