Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Hybrid protein deregulates complement in dense deposit disease

Researchers identified a chromosomal deletion in the CFHR gene cluster, resulting in production of a hybrid CFHR2/CFRH5 that stabilized C3 convertase. Treatment with soluble C1 restored C3 convertase decay and may be a promising treatment option for patients with refractory dense deposit disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 16, 2013

Do intellectual property rights on existing technologies hinder subsequent innovation?

A recent study published in the Journal of Political Economy suggests that intellectual property rights on existing technologies can discourage subsequent scientific research. Researchers found a persistent 20-30% reduction in subsequent scientific research and product development for genes held by Celera's intellectual property.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Political Economy·DateMar 27, 2013

Elsevier introduces Genome Viewer

Elsevier's Genome Viewer provides interactive gene sequence information from NCBI's databases, allowing readers to hover over genes for specific details and download complete lists of genes and genomes. The tool enhances the reading experience for both authors and readers, enriching article content and improving presentation.

Profiling malaria-causing parasites

Researchers have developed a method to profile malaria-causing parasite P. falciparum, identifying genes associated with severe infection in pregnant women and children. The study aims to provide new understanding of childhood malaria severity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 7, 2011

Genes associated with aggressive breast cancer

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have identified 12 genes linked to aggressive breast cancer, which could lead to more reliable prognoses and better treatment strategies. The study found that these genes are associated with an increased risk of tumor progression, cell growth, motility, and development.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateAug 16, 2010

Form or function? Evolution takes different paths

A new study by University of Michigan scientists suggests that evolutionary genetic mechanisms underlying changes in form and function are distinct. Researchers found that genes affecting morphology (form) evolved faster than those affecting physiology (function), supporting the idea that morphological changes result from gene expressi...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2010

New cell division mechanism discovered

Researchers at Uppsala University have identified a novel cell division mechanism in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, which may provide insights into human cell biology and evolutionary history. The discovery of three genes that form a sharp band between chromosomes suggests a unique process for cell separation.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 2008

Formula discovered for longer plant life

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute found that certain microRNAs regulate growth and aging processes in plants by inhibiting TCP transcription factors. This results in slower aging and increased lifespan, with potential applications for cultivating longer-lived and faster-growing plants.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 23, 2008

Gene 'knockout' floors tobacco carcinogen

Researchers at NC State University have developed a method to silence a gene that turns nicotine into a carcinogen, resulting in a six-fold decrease in N-nitrosonornicotine and a 50% overall reduction in TSNAs. This breakthrough could lead to tobacco products with reduced amounts of cancer-causing agents.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateMar 18, 2008

Unravelling new complexity in the genome

A University of Toronto-led study found that alternative splicing is more highly regulated in nervous system tissues, allowing for specific functions in memory and learning. This new understanding of gene regulation has significant implications for human diseases such as cancers.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 13, 2007

Super-fermenting fungus genome sequenced

The Pichia stipitis fungus has been harnessed for improved biofuels production through the characterization of its genetic blueprint. The research identified key genes responsible for xylose fermentation and analysis of metabolic pathways. This knowledge can be applied to improve cellulosic ethanol production.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 4, 2007

Rutgers researchers find fat gene

Researchers at Rutgers University discovered that the human protein lipin is a critical enzyme in regulating body fat. The study found that lipin plays a crucial role in fat metabolism, and its activity may be an important target for treating obesity and related conditions.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 20, 2006

New tumor-suppressor gene discovered

A new tumor-suppressor gene called mats has been discovered by researchers at Penn State, which works with another tumor suppressor to control tissue growth. The study found that the mats gene can shrink tumors in flies and may regulate cell number and tissue growth by restricting cell proliferation.

SourcePenn State·JournalCell·DateMar 10, 2005

Annotation marathon validates 21,037 human genes

A large international consortium has successfully annotated over 21,037 human genes using publicly available resources. The study provides a reliable systematic network of human-curated relationships between genes and their biological functions, setting the standard for analysis of gene expression and human diseases worldwide.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 20, 2004

New method is first to mimic subtle genetic changes

Researchers developed a new method to alter gene expression levels without disrupting essential control elements. This technique uses the 3' untranslated region (UTR) to influence protein production, allowing for predictable and controlled changes in gene expression.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 12, 2004