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.
Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have identified an enzyme, GPAT1, as a promising target for increasing biofuel production from red algae. The study found that TAG productivity could be increased by more than 56 times in a strain overexpressing GPAT1 without negative effects on algal growth.
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...
Researchers have discovered new genes that may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease, a complex condition characterized by neurodegeneration and memory decline. The study identified rare variations in genes associated with an inflammatory response and changes in protein production.
A new computational approach has identified genes that may enable microbes to colonize the human gut and survive in its harsh environment. The researchers found thousands of genes across different species that are prevalent in the gut, including those specific to this environment.
Researchers developed a novel approach to identify microbial genes specifically present in the gut, accounting for ancestral relationships between bacteria. The analysis uncovered thousands of genes associated with bacteria prevalent in the gut and those linked to Crohn's disease.
Researchers discovered that gene CD36 is unusually active in older cells, causing them to stop dividing. This effect can spread to nearby cells, leading to senescence. The study highlights the importance of understanding cellular aging and its implications for age-related diseases and cancer.
Researchers have identified novel genes associated with childhood-onset schizophrenia, a rare form of the disorder. The discovery is expected to aid in diagnosis and the development of treatments for this severe condition.
Researchers used fruit flies to test the effects of TBX2 genetic variants in patients with congenital heart defects and skeletal abnormalities. The study found that the variants moderately affected eye development, retinal function, and lifespan in flies, suggesting their pathogenic potential.
Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have identified the cell types underlying schizophrenia, providing a roadmap for developing new therapies. The findings suggest that certain cell types contribute to the disorder and may require separate treatments.
Scientists deciphered the biosynthetic gene cluster for furanosteroid demethoxyviridin, a nanomolar-potency inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). The research group identified key enzymes involved in the biosynthesis pathway.
The researchers have identified a gene called Ankrd16 that prevents the production of harmful protein aggregates in neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Elevating levels of Ankrd16 protects specific neurons from dying, while removing it leads to widespread buildup of abnormal proteins.
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.
A new bioinformatics tool, CRISPRdisco, has been developed to identify and classify CRISPR-Cas systems in genome assemblies. The software detects CRISPR repeats and accurately assigns class, type, and subtypes, enabling researchers to distinguish between complete and incomplete CRISPR systems.
A Yale research team identified a gene that can spur regeneration of axons in nerve cells severed by spinal cord injury when eliminated. The study found over 580 genes potentially involved in regeneration, with one gene, Rab27, leading to successful axon regeneration in mice.
Researchers from Uppsala University identified over 1,000 genes involved in rebuilding Stentor cells after damage, with the mouth part requiring roughly ten times as many genes to regenerate as the tail.
A new study identifies alterations in functional connectivity across the whole brain in carriers of the Huntington's disease gene mutation, associated with motor and cognitive function. The study also shows significant associations between the extent of the degree of gene mutation and measures of brain connectivity.
A recent study using CRISPR-Cas9 technology identified new genes that may hasten neuron death in ALS and FTD patients. The researchers found that genes controlling cell movement and protein assembly were potential partners in DPR toxicity, suggesting novel therapies for ALS.
Researchers have identified over 250 genes involved in brain aging, including Dbx2, which can prematurely age stem cells. The study found that increasing the activity of Dbx2 in young brain stem cells slows their growth, causing them to behave more like older cells.
Scientists have discovered genes linked to individual differences in brain anatomy in autistic children, with variation in cortex thickness and gene activity involved. The study provides the first evidence linking differences in the autistic brain to specific genes with atypical gene activity.
Researchers identified genetic variants associated with blood vessel inflammation and metabolism that increase risk of severe dengue. These findings provide insights into the pathophysiology of the disease and may lead to new therapeutic approaches.
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.
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.
Researchers at Hokkaido University identified a single gene that causes hybrid sterility in rice, a major reproductive barrier between species. The discovery could help improve crop yields and address food shortages.
Researchers identified otopetrin family genes encoding proton-conducting ion channels involved in maintaining balance. These channels also play a role in sensing acidic substances, contributing to sour taste perception.
Scientists at the University of Birmingham and other institutions have identified 902 genes related to blood feeding and 478 genes linked to non-blood feeding in the mosquito Wyeomyia smithii. The goal is to isolate universal non-biting genes that could be manipulated to control vector-borne diseases.
Researchers identified six novel chromosomal regions associated with type 1 diabetes, enabling the discovery of more genes that cause the disease. The study also found different genetic markers for early detection of autoantibodies in patients at risk.
The HLF gene plays a crucial role in maintaining blood stem cells in a resting state, protecting them from exhaustion and external damage. This study provides new insights into the regulation of blood stem cell activity and its potential applications in bone marrow transplants.
Researchers have identified several genes responsible for Alzheimer's disease, including those affecting brain structure and function. These findings provide insight into the biological mechanisms leading to AD, particularly in the pre-symptom stages, and may lead to new treatments.
Researchers have isolated the first rust pathogen gene that wheat plants detect to 'switch on' resistance, allowing for faster DNA testing and prioritizing resistance genes. The breakthrough could save crops from being destroyed by devastating diseases, threatening food security globally.
A functional genomics database has been developed to study the plant microbiome, revealing key genes involved in bacterial adaptation to plants. The database combines 3837 genomes from various organisms, including plants and human gut bacteria, allowing researchers to identify genes that aid in bacterial colonization.
Researchers isolated 1,380 genes related to biting and non-biting in the pitcher plant mosquito, identifying 902 biting and 478 non-biting genes. The study provides a starting point for discovering genetic pathways that can be manipulated to reduce transmission of vector-borne diseases.
Researchers discovered a genetic link between sulfur compounds and chronic bad breath in humans and genetically modified mice. The study found that people with the condition had mutations in the SELENBP1 gene and high levels of odor-causing chemicals in their blood, mirroring findings in mice with the same mutation.
Scientists have identified 126 genetic differences among 80 genes associated with sleep duration in fruit fly populations. These findings may lead to better treatments for insomnia and narcolepsy, with little physiological consequence for extreme long or short sleepers.
A new web-based application called NeuroExpresso provides a comprehensive catalogue of brain cell type data, helping to better define their functions and properties. The tool uses marker genes to estimate cellular composition of mouse and human tissue.
Researchers at UC Davis identified a gene that enables resistance to Ug99, a devastating strain of stem rust threatening global food security. Breeders can use molecular markers to select for the genes and develop varieties with multiple resistance levels.
Researchers identified a reversible 'master switch' that regulates developmental genes in fruit flies, providing a conceptually simple explanation for how different cell types are formed. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of cancer mutations and the development of new therapeutic strategies.
Researchers have identified genetic markers for greenbug and Hessian fly resistance in wheat, providing a new tool for breeders to combat these pests. The discovery enables the efficient transfer of resistant genes into new wheat lines using marker-assisted selection.
Researchers discovered that mild mitochondrial stress signals can prevent protein-folding quality control failure and suppress damaged proteins associated with degenerative diseases. This approach doubles the lifespan of C. elegans and may offer a strategy for increasing cellular health and delaying disease risk in humans.
New research has identified genes controlling vitamin E content in maize grain, a finding that could lead to improving the nutritional profile of this staple crop. Six genes were discovered to encode proteins contributing to antioxidant compounds called tocochromanols, also known as vitamin E.
Researchers analyzed gene expression changes in tendon tissue of male and female subjects aged 20-24 and 54-70. The study found opposite effects on genes expressed in males and females with age, highlighting the importance of considering gender differences in treating tendon disease.
Researchers at Michigan State University have identified key genes that helped domesticated potatoes adapt over thousands of years. By studying the ancestors of modern North American cultivated potatoes, scientists uncovered common genes and important pathways that enabled spuds to thrive in diverse environments.
Researchers at MIT developed a new way to screen for genes that protect against specific diseases by adapting the CRISPR genome-editing system. The new technology identified genes that protect yeast cells from a protein associated with Parkinson's disease, which may also provide protective effects in human neurons.
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.
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.
Researchers discovered the GREB1L gene associated with renal agenesis, a hereditary condition causing one or no kidneys. The finding enables early detection of the disorder, providing relief to families.
Researchers at King's College London have identified a gene, DLG4, associated with brain damage caused by pre-term birth. The study found that DLG4 is involved in controlling the inflammatory process and may open doors for effective treatments of diseases such as cerebral palsy and autism.
Researchers have discovered ultra-rare gene mutations associated with eating disorders, targeting a pathway involved in appetite regulation and inflammation. The findings suggest potential new treatments for these conditions, particularly for bulimia nervosa.
Researchers have identified a set of genes that help control early drought response in Brassica rapa, a popular global crop. The study sheds light on how plants respond to water stress throughout the day-night cycle, revealing potential mechanisms for improving drought resistance and fertilization efficiency.
Researchers identified gene signatures associated with a stronger flu vaccine response in younger adults but not in older adults, highlighting age-related differences in immune response.
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.
Researchers have identified a gene, H2-Ob, that enables mice to resist persistent viral infections by producing specific antibodies. This gene is part of the MHC locus and acts as a negative regulator of the immune response, keeping chronic infections in check.
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered four genes that help Varroa mites survive and two that affect their reproduction. The team used RNA interference to identify the key genes, which could lead to reduced or eliminated mite populations. This breakthrough may also have applications beyond bee conservation.
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.
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.
The lab, led by Zhe Han, Ph.D., aims to identify key histone-modifying genes involved in heart development and create personalized fly models for individual patients. By understanding the role of these genes, researchers hope to predict CHD risk and potentially cure the condition using gene-editing approaches.
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.
Researchers have discovered new genes associated with the development of pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas, which are rare neuroendocrine tumors with a strong hereditary component. The study identifies alterations in enzymes involved in cell respiration as a key factor in tumor growth.
Researchers have identified a new mechanism for silencing imprinted genes in cells, which could shed light on developmental disorders such as Angelman syndrome. The discovery also raises questions about the difficulty of cloning mammals, with potential implications for treating developmental failures.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have identified a mechanism that regulates the imprinting of multiple genes, including those critical to placental growth during early embryonic development in mice. The study reveals that histone modification is necessary for imprinting certain genes, while DNA methylation plays no role.