Gene Transcription
Articles tagged with Gene Transcription
New AI tool developed by Stowers Institute and Helmholtz Munich scientists predicts how cells choose their future — helping uncover hidden drivers of development
Researchers developed RegVelo, an AI framework that models cellular dynamics and gene regulation to predict cellular fate decisions. The model traces developmental trajectories and simulates regulatory interactions, providing insights into hidden drivers of development and potential therapeutic targets.
Two proteins, one goal: New findings on stem cell differentiation
Kumamoto University Professor Emeritus Eiichi Araki awarded Medal of Honor with Purple Ribbon for landmark discoveries in diabetes research
Professor Eiichi Araki's pioneering research on insulin signaling has led to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms of diabetes. His discoveries remain foundational for researchers striving to overcome insulin resistance and improve treatment options.
Researchers find potential one-two punch against triple-negative breast cancer
A study published in Cell Reports Medicine found that inhibiting RNase H2 can cause significant damage to DNA and activate the innate immune system to produce signals that attract T cells to attack the tumor. This approach could lead to improved patient outcomes for patients with triple-negative breast cancer.
Research Alert: Water molecules found to actively drive gene transcription process
Researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to visualize individual water molecules and metal ions within RNA polymerase II, revealing their active role in DNA transcription. The study provides a new understanding of how genetic information is read and expressed, challenging the traditional 'protein-centered' view.
Researchers identify how enzyme affects infertility and cancer progression
A specific region of Dicer must be activated to achieve proper cell division and reproduction, a discovery that sheds light on the regulation of this enzyme's critical role in both cancer biology and fertility. This finding opens new avenues for studying how small epigenetic changes contribute to disease.
Imaging tool reveals novel insights into DNA replication stress response
Researchers developed RF-SIRF, a quantitative method to detect and map reversed DNA replication forks with single-cell resolution. The study identified unique epigenetic codes for DNA replication stress that can be further examined to understand genomic stability, aging, and treatment response.
High-resolution imaging shines light on nanoscale nuclear organization
Scientists have developed an advanced microscopy technique to visualize critical components of the cell's transcription machinery and proteins that provide structural support to the nucleus. The new technique allows for the visualization of up to 12 biomolecules simultaneously, providing detailed maps of nuclear organization.
Researchers find new target to sensitize pancreatic tumors to immunotherapy
A study published in Cancer Research has identified DPY30 as an epigenetic target that can sensitize pancreatic tumors to immunotherapy. By modulating DNA replication stress, DPY30 promotes the addition of activation signals at stressed replication forks, supporting cancer cell survival and proliferation.
An “electrical” circadian clock balances growth between shoots and roots
Researchers discovered that a plant's internal daily timekeeper coordinates growth by controlling an electrochemical 'language' between different tissues. A key clock component, CCA1, boosts stem elongation while restricting root growth by controlling hormone signaling and proton pump activity.
Kumamoto University Professor Kazuya Yamagata receives 2025 Erwin von Bälz Prize (Second Prize)
Professor Kazuya Yamagata received the 2025 Erwin von Bâlz Prize Second Prize for his groundbreaking research on pancreatic Ò-cell transcription factors and their role in monogenic diabetes. His work significantly deepens our understanding of β-cell function and diabetes pathophysiology.
UMass Chan scientists annotate largest map yet of human genome’s regulatory switches
Researchers have created a comprehensive map of the DNA sequences that control gene expression in human cells, identifying 2.37 million potential regulatory elements. This registry reveals previously unrecognized classes of elements and illuminates how noncoding genetic variation contributes to cell type-specific traits.
Brain resilience science reshapes psychiatry from treating illness to building strength
Dr. Eric J. Nestler's research has fundamentally reshaped global understanding of addiction and depression by focusing on resilience rather than pathology. His laboratory identified distinct molecular, cellular, and circuit changes in resilient brains that maintain normal behavioral function despite exposure to drugs or stress.
DNA transcription is a tightly choreographed event. A new study reveals how it is choreographed
Researchers used a single-molecule platform to watch individual mammalian transcription complexes, revealing the molecular engine's acceleration, pauses, and gear shifts. The study found key regulatory proteins govern Pol II movement, with P-TEFb as a master switch and PAF1C as the main accelerator.
DNA shape and rigidity regulate key players of gene expression
Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center discovered that inflexible DNA within nucleosomes regulates the positioning of INO80, a chromatin remodeling complex. This unique mechanism allows INO80 to position itself on the surface of nucleosomes at the right location.
Kinase atlas uncovers hidden layers of cell signaling regulation
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified 117 kinases that can phosphorylate multiple locations within the RNA polymerase II protein tail, greatly expanding upon previous knowledge. This discovery links enzyme activity to multiple diseases, including cancer, and reveals a more integrated role for cell signaling.
Discovering genes essential for stress-induced death in insects
Researchers identified Phaedra1 as a gene essential for stress-induced cell death in Drosophila melanogaster. The mTOR-Zeste-Phae1 pathway controls lethal stress-dependent individual death. Suppressing this pathway increases survival rates after exposure to lethal stress.
Davor Solter and Azim Surani awarded the Paul Ehrlich and Ludwig Darmstaedter Prize 2026
Genomic imprinting discovered by Davor Solter and Azim Surani reveals maternal chromosomes contribute essential information missing in paternal chromosomes. This phenomenon, coined genomic imprinting, involves tiny methyl groups attached to DNA's four bases regulating fetal growth and development.
New method calculates rate of gene expression to understand cell fate
A new method called spVelo calculates RNA velocity to understand how cells become specialized. By incorporating spatial information and processing multiple batches at once, the method overcomes previous challenges.
Zooming in reveals a world of detail: breakthrough method unveils the inner workings of our cells
Scientists have developed a new approach to analyze proteins in individual cells during blood cell formation, bypassing mRNA intermediates. This study reveals the correlation between mRNA levels and protein expression, shedding light on the role of essential proteins in maintaining stem cell populations.
Recapitulating egg and sperm development in the dish
Researchers at Wyss Institute develop in vitro method to induce meiosis in human cells, enabling replication of critical step in egg and sperm cell development. The breakthrough could lead to modeling defects and creating healthy gametes for individuals with infertility.
Muscle’s master regulator moonlights as gene silencer
Scientists have discovered that MYOD protein can act as a gene silencer, clearing out old 'furniture' to reset the cell's identity. This finding challenges dogma and opens up new avenues for understanding cellular reprogramming and regenerative medicine therapies.
Cutting to the core of how 3D structure shapes gene activity
A new approach for understanding chromatin's 3D structure and its influence on gene regulation has been developed by scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys. The method measures a genomic region's proximity to the isolated center of a chromatin clump, revealing that surface regions are more active than core regions.
Study reveals mechanisms behind common mutation and prostate cancer
Researchers discovered two distinct ways mutation of the FOXA1 gene alters tumor formation and therapy resistance in prostate cancer in mouse models. The findings provide insight into how different classes of FOXA1 mutations operate, shedding light on the complex mechanisms driving prostate cancer progression.
Tracking microbial rhythms reveals new target for treating metabolic diseases
Researchers used time-restricted feeding to restore microbial rhythms in mice fed a high-fat diet, identifying bile salt hydrolase as a key enzyme protecting metabolic health. Engineered gut bacteria showed improved glucose control and reduced body fat in mice, suggesting potential targeted therapies for obesity and diabetes.
Autophagy and lysosomal pathways orchestrate unconventional secretion of Parkinson’s disease protein
Autophagy and lysosomal pathways orchestrate the unconventional secretion of PARK7, a PD-associated protein, in response to cellular stress. The study reveals a unique mechanism involving coordinated actions of macroautophagy and chaperone-mediated autophagy.
New insights into migraine-related light sensitivity
Scientists have identified a brain molecule called NEAT1 that appears to play a central role in triggering light sensitivity (photophobia) during migraines. By disrupting the normal balance of nerve signaling and pain regulation, NEAT1 makes nerves more sensitive to light.
Revealing new clues to curb DNA damage
Researchers at University of Seville have discovered patulin and xestoquinol as inhibitors of DNA topoisomerase 1, a key enzyme in DNA metabolism. These natural compounds may provide a new class of anticancer drugs by preventing DNA cuts from being ligated.
City of Hope study demonstrates proof of concept for targeted new approach to treat pancreatic cancer
Scientists at City of Hope have identified a new molecular target for treating pancreatic cancer, using an experimental drug to slow tumor growth and damage tumor cells. The approach showed promise in clinical trials with two patients, resulting in up to a 49% shrinkage in liver metastases.
Sulfur bacteria team up to break down organic substances in the seabed
Researchers discovered that sulfur bacteria from the Desulfobacteraceae family work together like a team to break down diverse organic compounds. By analyzing six strains, they found similar molecular strategies and a highly energy-efficient central metabolism pathway, enabling them to thrive in oxygen-free environments.
Uncovering novel transcriptional enhancers in neuronal development and neuropsychiatric disorders
Researchers discovered 47,350 active putative enhancers associated with Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and other neurological disorders. These enhancers were found to regulate gene expression during neuronal differentiation.
Close encounters between distant DNA regions cause bursts of gene activity
Gene expression in cells occurs in short, unpredictable bursts due to transcriptional bursting. Researchers found that the folding and movement of DNA, as well as protein accumulation, changes depending on gene activity, with enhancers playing a crucial role in amplifying gene activity.
Climate change can cause stress in herring larvae
Exposure to multiple environmental stressors simultaneously impairs the ability of herring larvae to react at a molecular level, reducing their capacity for acclimatization. This can lead to increased protein damage and cell injury, potentially affecting growth and survival.
Scientists describe how bacteria evade the effects of antibiotics
Researchers at IOCB Prague have discovered the HelD protein's role in protecting bacterial RNA polymerase from antibiotic effects. The protein not only frees the enzyme but also ensures its recycling, allowing bacteria to multiply again.
FOXG1: a SISSA study reveals the dual role of key neurodevelopmental gene
A new study finds that the FOXG1 gene has a dual function in regulating RNA transcription and translation, essential for proper brain development. The discovery raises questions about the evolution of this complex mechanism and its potential role in neuroplasticity.
Researchers offer alternative to hydroxyurea in study of DNA replication process
Researchers at Colorado State University have identified an alternate method to study changes during the DNA replication process in lab settings using genetically modified yeast. This new approach provides a less toxic and quickly reversible alternative to hydroxyurea, allowing for better insight into cell cycle arrest mechanisms.
Single housing extends adult lifespan in African turquoise killifish
Researchers found that single-housed adult fish exhibited a longer egg-laying period and slower aging process compared to group-housed counterparts. The study suggests that early-life social environment may influence life-long attributes beyond the typical relationship between growth rate and lifespan.
New brain-mapping tool may be the “START” of next-generation therapeutics
A new brain-mapping neurotechnology called Single Transcriptome Assisted Rabies Tracing (START) has been developed to map the brain's intricate neuronal connections. The technique combines two advanced technologies to resolve cortical connectivity at the resolution of transcriptomic cell types, enabling the identification of distinct p...
Engineered DNA 'warhead' targets a common cancer mutation
A team of researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University has engineered a short sequence of artificial DNA to target the mutant protein p53-R175H, linked to lung, colorectal, and breast cancers. The new molecule, dp53m, inhibits cancer cell growth and increases sensitivity to chemotherapy agent cisplatin.
Oikopleura who? Species identity crisis in the genome community
Researchers analyzed genome of Oikopleura dioica, finding it has wildly different languages despite identical physical characteristics. The 'scrambling' phenomenon suggests genes are regulated differently, challenging assumptions about species identity.
Promising new treatment strategy for deadly flu-related brain disorders
Researchers from Osaka University found that influenza-associated brain disorders may be caused by the virus entering the brain and producing proteins. Antivirals blocking protein production are unlikely to be effective, but those targeting transcription and translation may offer hope for treatment.
New insights on the transcriptional regulation of seed germination
Researchers at CRAG have made groundbreaking discoveries on seed germination, identifying key regulatory features and non-coding RNAs that drive the process. The study reveals that transcription restarts much earlier than previously thought, opening up new avenues for investigation into the role of the non-coding genome.
Different roles of two H3K36 methyltransferasesin transcriptional regulation and association with facultativeheterochromatin
Researchers identified two H3K36 methyltransferases, Ash1 and Set2, that regulate transcriptional activity and facultative heterochromatin formation in the rice blast fungus. The study reveals distinct roles for Ash1 and Set2 in promoting repressed and activated transcription, respectively.
Histone acetylation and transcription factor dynamics lay the groundwork for gene expression in brain development
Neuronal activity stimulates gene expression in human brain cells by influencing transcription factors and chromatin modifiers, particularly CREB and CBP. The interaction between CREB and DNA requires prior acetylation mediated by CBP to activate gene expression.
Repairing nerve cells after injury and in chronic disease
Researchers at Salk Institute uncover a mechanism for repairing damaged nerves during peripheral neuropathy, with protein Mitf playing a key role. The findings have the potential to inspire novel therapeutics that bolster repair function and heal peripheral neuropathy.
DREAM tool for gene therapies uses ‘locally sourced’ components
Researchers created a new CRISPR-based gene therapy tool using locally sourced, human-derived proteins that can activate silent or insufficiently expressed genes. The DREAM tool mimics the natural ability of human cells to turn on specific genes in response to mechanical cues.
Decoding the microglial aging process, contributions to brain dysfunction
Microglial cells age differently in male and female mice, with female microglia displaying a 'middle-aged' phenotype and male microglia switching suddenly to an aged phenotype. The researchers identified key genes and mechanisms contributing to this aging process, including the role of aged-like microglia in cognitive decline.
Potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer identified
A team of Chinese and UK researchers has identified superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) as a potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer. By using nanoparticles to deliver siRNA that reduces SOD1 levels, the study showed reduced growth and decreased resistance to cisplatin in female mice.
Weaker transcription factors are better when they work together
Researchers developed a method to design weaker transcription factors that work together to activate genes without activating naturally occurring genes. This approach, called cooperative assembly, strengthens the factors as a group but weakens them individually, ensuring targeted gene activation and long-term circuit stability.
CiDRE renders alveolar macrophages susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 invasion
Researchers found that expression of CiDRE in alveolar macrophages makes patients more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 invasion and promotes cytokine storm. The genetic quirk is associated with severe COVID-19 symptoms, suggesting potential treatments targeting IL-10R and CiDRE.
Deconstructing the role of MALAT1 in MAPK-Signaling in melanoma
Researchers found that MALAT1 inhibition decreased BRAF RNA and protein levels, while increasing correlation with MAPK-associated genes. MALAT1-ASO treatment also reduced melanoma cell growth and tumor size in xenograft models.
Researchers reveal drug resistance mechanism of pathogen
A research team led by Prof. SUN Baolin revealed the mechanism of transcriptional regulation via S-nitrosylation for vancomycin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus. The study found that nitric oxide generated by NOS mediates the S-nitrosylation of transcription regulator MgrA, promoting vancomycin resistance.
Timing is everything: New insights into floral development unveil nature's perfect clock
A study reveals a unique epigenetic biotimer mechanism controlling floral meristem termination and stamen development in Arabidopsis thaliana. The team discovered that AGAMOUS serves as a master conductor orchestrating gene expression through cell cycle-coupled H3K27me3 dilution.
Sea anemone’s sweet efforts help reef ecosystems flourish
Researchers discovered how sea anemones distribute sugar from symbionts to recycle nitrogen waste, enabling them to build massive reef ecosystems. The study reveals that sea anemones play a major role in recycling scarce nitrogen, challenging the belief that algae are the sole actors.
Cellular “cruise control” system safeguards RNA levels in Rett syndrome nerve cells
In people with Rett syndrome, nerve cells have a mechanism called transcriptional buffering to partially compensate for genetic changes. This process helps maintain healthy RNA levels and acts as a defence against genetic variations, suggesting a potential new molecular mechanism in human cells.
Metformin & leucine prevent cellular senescence & proteostasis disruption
Researchers found that metformin + leucine (MET+LEU) treatment prevents myotube atrophy by reversing cellular senescence and improving proteostasis. The study used C2C12 myoblasts, aged mouse single myofibers, and human primary myotubes to demonstrate MET+LEU's skeletal muscle cell-autonomous properties.
Cause of leukemia in trisomy 21
Children with Down syndrome are highly vulnerable to developing aggressive leukaemia due to a defect in the RUNX1 gene, which regulates blood cell formation. Researchers have identified a specific variant of the gene that promotes leukaemia development and discovered potential therapeutic approaches to correct this malfunction.
Pioneering approach advances study of CTCF protein in transcription biology
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital used a next-generation protein degradation technology to study CTCF, revealing its functional insights into transcription regulation. The AID2 system overcame limitations of previous approaches, identifying specific zinc finger domains responsible for CTCF-dependent transcription.
Effect of an autism-associated mutation on protein movements
A germline mutation of topoisomerase II B affects the movement of proteins in the nuclei of cells with this mutation. The study reveals that the mutation impacts nuclear dynamics and provides a platform to understand the biological relevance of such mutations.