Genetic Analysis
Articles tagged with Genetic Analysis
How river DNA can track fish, frogs, fungi and human feces — all at once
Researchers have developed a technique to analyze DNA from water samples to track species, detect pollution, and monitor ecosystem health. The technology identifies DNA from various organisms, including fish, amphibians, mammals, and even leatherback sea turtles.
New tool tracks how microbes spread — even when they look almost identical
Researchers developed a new tool called TRAnsmision Clustering of Strains (TRACS) to track the spread of disease-causing microbes using genomics. The tool distinguishes between closely related bacterial strains and can identify transmission networks and rule out events in ongoing public health applications.
A study in 1. 4 million women expands knowledge on endometriosis and its biological complexity
Researchers analyzed genetic data from 1.4 million women, identifying 80 genome regions linked to endometriosis. The study provides a comprehensive view of the disease's pathophysiology, highlighting its complexity and multiple contributing biological processes.
South American camelids: Potential carriers of the zoonotic pathogen Campylobacter
Researchers identified thermotolerant Campylobacter spp. in South American camelids (SACs) with a prevalence of 3.2%, revealing species-specific differences in bacterial colonization. Elevated antimicrobial resistance was detected, posing public health concerns.
Largest study of pregnancy sickness uncovers six new genetic links
A massive genetic study has uncovered six new genes linked to pregnancy sickness, hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), in over 10,000 women. The findings point to biological mechanisms behind HG and potential new treatment pathways, with several medications identified as potential targets.
How gossiping mushroom networks share your public urination secrets
Research at Tohoku University reveals that mushrooms adjust their communication levels in response to urine application, with increased flow when water is applied and decreased flow when urine is applied. The findings suggest that forest mushrooms can flexibly change their electrical information flow in response to various disturbances.
International researchers develop practical recommendations to strengthen cancer microbiome research
International researchers have developed a checklist of best practices for cancer microbiome research, emphasizing the importance of preventing contamination and validating findings. The guidelines aim to improve reproducibility and confidence in the field, supporting future discoveries about microbes and cancer.
Genes tied to impulse control play a major role in addiction risk
Researchers analyzed genetic data from over 2.2 million individuals to understand how genes shape vulnerability to alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, and opioid use disorders. They found that genetic risk operates along two main pathways: one related to brain wiring and the other specific to each substance.
New alliance clinical trial aims to improve outcomes in brain tumors
A new clinical trial will investigate whether adding the oral medication vorasidenib to standard chemotherapy improves progression-free survival for people with newly-diagnosed, grade 3 IDH-mutant astrocytoma. The study aims to recruit 400 individuals with this type of brain cancer and evaluate the safety and side-effect profile of the...
Study finds shared genetic roots of MS across diverse ancestries
A new study reveals that people of South Asian, African, and European ancestry share common genetic risk factors for multiple sclerosis, despite historic lack of representation in research. The study highlights the importance of diverse representation in research to improve understanding of the disease and develop effective treatments.
Study identifies medical conditions that could predict future Alzheimer’s disease
Researchers identified over 70 medical conditions associated with Alzheimer's disease development, including endocrine/metabolic conditions like Type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that addressing these conditions in midlife may reduce Alzheimer's disease risk, and could lead to earlier interventions and improved patient outcomes.
Family relationships identified in Stone Age graves on Gotland
In a new study, researchers at Uppsala University clarified family relationships in four graves from a 5,500-year-old hunter-gatherer culture at Ajvide on Gotland. DNA analyses suggest that the people were well aware of family lineages and that relationships beyond the immediate family played an important role. The analysis showed that...
False alarm in newborn screening: how zebrafish can prevent unnecessary SMA therapies
A zebrafish model was used to test the functional significance of rare SMN1 variants in children with false positive SMA diagnoses. The research found that both variants were functional and did not cause the disease. This breakthrough could prevent unnecessary SMA therapies and provide families with security.
Eleven genetic variants affect gut microbiome
Researchers identified 11 genetic regions influencing gut bacteria and roles they play, including connections to gluten intolerance, haemorrhoids, and cardiovascular diseases. The study analyzed genetic data from over 28,000 individuals, providing insights into the complex relationship between genes and gut microbiome.
Exposure to burn injuries played key role in shaping human evolution, study suggests
A new study published in BioEssays suggests that humans' increased exposure to high temperature burn injuries may have driven notable genetic adaptations, including faster inflammation and wound closure. These traits helped humans survive small to moderate burns but became harmful for large burns.
Largest genetic study of schizophrenia and African ancestry reveals shared biology across global populations
A recent study published in Nature identified over 100 new genetic regions linked to schizophrenia that had not been previously discovered. These findings show that while specific genetic variants may differ across populations, the core biological mechanisms underlying schizophrenia are shared worldwide.
New study links lipid-related metabolites to depression risk and protection
A landmark study identifies 11 lipid-related metabolites that are causally associated with major depressive disorder (MDD), including 8 protective effects. The research reveals shared genetic signals between lipid metabolites and MDD, clustering in key genomic regions involved in fatty acid metabolism.
Collaborative study uncovers unknown causes of blindness
Researchers have discovered new genetic causes of inherited blindness, identifying changes in RNA genes as a key factor. This breakthrough provides clarity for dozens of families globally and opens new possibilities for diagnostics and counseling in hereditary conditions, offering hope for affected individuals and their loved ones.
Schizophrenia and osteoporosis share 195 genetic loci, highlighting unexpected biological bridges between brain and bone
A comprehensive genetic investigation by Dr. Feng Liu and collaborators identifies shared genetic loci between schizophrenia and osteoporosis, suggesting overlapping biological pathways. The study found that psychiatric patients face elevated fracture risks due to these molecular connections.
In echo of Jurassic Park, mosquitoes capture entire ecosystems in their blood meals
A study by University of Florida researchers found that mosquitoes fed on 86 different species of animals, capturing nearly all the vertebrate biodiversity in a small area in central Florida. This innovative method uses mosquitoes to monitor other animals and conserve them.
Is aging an act of genetic sabotage for the greater good? Scientists find a gene that turns off food detection after reproduction
Researchers identified a gene that actively causes a decline in food-seeking behavior after reproduction, potentially benefiting the population by reducing competition for resources. This discovery challenges traditional views on aging and offers new insights into programmed mechanisms driving age-related decline.
ECOG-ACRIN and Caris Life Sciences unveil first findings from a multi-year collaboration to advance AI-powered multimodal tools for breast cancer recurrence risk stratification
Researchers developed multimodal models integrating imaging, clinical, and molecular data from TAILORx tissue biorepository for early-stage breast cancer. The models demonstrated enhanced prognostic performance compared to existing methods, highlighting their potential for personalized treatment decision-making.
New statistical tools sharpen the search for causal DNA changes in livestock
Researchers developed a new suite of statistical methods to pinpoint DNA changes responsible for important traits in livestock. The work addresses challenges in fine-mapping, especially in populations with closely related animals, and introduces tools that incorporate 'relatedness-adjusted' genomic correlations.
Study provides comprehensive insights into DNA language models
A study compares five DNA foundation language models across 57 diverse datasets to identify their strengths and weaknesses in predicting gene expression, identifying genomic components, and detecting harmful mutations. The findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate models based on specific genomic tasks.
New tech can unlock mysteries of genome’s hidden half
Researchers have found that a new DNA sequencing technology can study how transposons move within and bind to the genome, playing critical roles in immune response, neurological function, and genetic evolution. The discovery has significant implications for agricultural advancements and understanding disease development and treatment.
New DNA analysis approach could transform understanding of disease evolution
Researchers developed a new DNA analysis technique to study old genetic samples, shedding light on disease evolution and changes in biology over time. The approach has potential for unlocking the root causes underlying shifting landscapes of modern diseases.
Aquaporin gene duplication followed by mutation in European eels restores broad solute permeability
Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo found that European eels have restored aquaporin proteins with broad solute permeability through a recent gene duplication event. The study revealed that the genes Aqp10.2b2 and b3 acquired functional diversification, enabling them to transport urea and boric acid similar to Aqp10.1.
What we learned from a decade-long genome cohort study of 100,000 Japanese individuals
Researchers at Tohoku University shared key findings from their 10-year genome cohort study, highlighting effective techniques for analyzing and managing genomic data. The study's unique approaches to whole-genome sequencing, including qMiSeq and iDeal protocols, have been widely adopted by institutions worldwide.
Security flaws in portable genetic sequencers risk leaking private DNA data
Researchers from the University of Florida discovered critical security vulnerabilities in portable genetic sequencers, exposing them to potential attacks and data breaches. The devices' reliance on insecure connections to laptops or unsecured networks amplifies these risks.
Researchers create better tools to read the hidden instructions in our DNA
Case Western Reserve University researchers created advanced computer analysis tools to study DNA's 3D structure, allowing for more accurate understanding of gene interactions. The new software can help scientists analyze lower-quality data and discover potential treatment strategies for genetic diseases.
Study links genetic variants to higher 'bad' cholesterol and heart attack risk
A new resource identifies genetic variants associated with elevated 'bad' cholesterol, a major contributor to heart disease. Clinicians can now predict patient risk for heart attacks and strokes, allowing for prevention and early treatment.
Sustainable manure management boosts soil health and slashes greenhouse gas emissions
Researchers found that combining organic manure with synthetic fertilizer increases soil organic carbon and total nitrogen, leading to better fertility and improved crop performance. The integrated approach also produced lower nitrous oxide emissions by stimulating microbes that can break down N2O.
Increased risk of developing alcohol addiction linked to gene mutation
A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that mutations in the CHRNA3 gene are associated with lowered sensitivity to alcohol and delayed avoidance behavior. This suggests that normal function of the chrna3 gene helps control alcohol exposure, leading to individual differences in alcohol sensitivity.
Genetic discovery offers hope for personalized prevention of cardiovascular disease
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a system to classify individuals into different risk groups for atherosclerosis based on genetic data. The study identified four distinct risk groups, with one specific gene variant linked to increased cardiovascular risk in those with high predicted risk.
Global platform for pandemic preparedness to be established at DTU National Food Institute
The Global Pathogen Analysis Platform (GPAP) will enable low- and middle-income countries to conduct research and surveillance of infectious diseases independently. The platform aims to prevent disease outbreaks from developing into pandemics by detecting genetic sequences of potential pathogens.
The world’s snow leopards are very similar genetically. That doesn’t bode well for their future
A new study found that snow leopards have very low genetic diversity, making them vulnerable to extinction. The research suggests that the snow leopard's low genetic diversity is due to its persistently small population size over time.
Map of bacterial gene interactions reveals potential drug targets
Researchers have developed a new technique called Dual transposon sequencing to rapidly identify genetic interactions in bacteria. This method reveals vulnerabilities that could be targeted by future antibiotics.
Study reveals genetic and developmental differences in people with earlier versus later autism diagnosis
Researchers found distinct genetic profiles for early- and late-diagnosed autism, with earlier diagnosed groups showing more social interaction difficulties in infancy and behavioral problems in adolescence. Later diagnosed individuals experienced increased social and behavioral difficulties during adolescence and higher rates of menta...
Gene linked to rheumatic disease controls cell movement
A recent study from Karolinska Institutet reveals how a gene associated with several rheumatic diseases affects cell movement. The researchers discovered that the DIORA1 gene regulates cell movement by interacting with MRCK kinases, which are important for the cell's skeleton and ability to move.
Snapdragon secrets
Researchers collect snapdragon flowers and leaves to study their genetic diversity, revealing how color genes keep two varieties distinct. In hybrid zones, magenta and yellow snapdragons blend, but bees prefer one over the other, reducing fitness and offspring.
King’s College London researcher advances psychiatric genomics through pioneering polygenic scoring innovations
Dr Oliver Pain develops GenoPred platform advancing personalized mental healthcare worldwide through accessible genetic tools, democratizing access to cutting-edge genomic methodologies. His work aims to reduce global health inequities by developing inclusive polygenic scoring methods that perform accurately across all ancestry groups.
Compact genetic light switches transform disease control
Researchers developed photo-inducible binary interaction tools (PhoBITs) to precisely control gene expression, cell signaling, and immune responses. PhoBITs enable targeted treatment with minimal side effects, opening new avenues for cancer therapy, immunotherapy, and regenerative medicine.
New study uncovers how DNA damage can lead to Motor Neurone Disease
Researchers found that mutations in the CFAP410 gene change its interaction with another protein, making motor neuron cells more vulnerable to DNA damage and cell death. This discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying Motor Neurone Disease and highlights potential targets for new therapies.
New test could help preserve endangered gibbon populations
A genetic test developed by Dr Lauren Lansdowne can reliably determine the species of individual gibbons, helping to preserve vulnerable populations. The test uses DNA sequencing and has been validated using large-scale samples from over 200 gibbons in European zoos.
Charting the teen brain: Study reveals how key cognitive hubs mature and specialize
Researchers analyzed neuroimaging data from over 650 individuals aged 8 to 21, discovering a key organizational shift in the dorsal prefrontal cortex. The study found that this refinement of brain architecture is driven by specific changes in the medial part of the prefrontal cortex.
Genetic key to why immune responses differ between men and women
A new study identifies a critical gene that regulates immune responses in female T cells but not in males. This discovery may lead to more effective treatments tailored to biological sex for diseases such as severe asthma and infections affecting millions of people worldwide.
Timing is everything: Finding treatment windows in genetic brain disease
A Yale research team has created a computer tool called chronODE that can pinpoint when genes turn on and off during brain development. The tool may offer applications in disease modeling and basic genomic research, and could lead to future therapeutic uses.
Genetic cause of feline atherosclerosis identified – potential also for human therapies
Researchers have identified the genetic cause of feline atherosclerosis, an arterial disease in cats. The discovery may help prevent the incidence of the disease in cats and possibly open new courses for human therapies.
Genomic techniques can streamline breeding for grain quality
Researchers developed a strategy to predict multiple traits at once based on the whole genome, increasing predictive ability by 2-10 times. This method, called multi-trait genomic selection (MT-GS), combines genetic markers with known trait links for more accurate predictions, making it a promising tool for efficient and cost-effective...
Genetic risk for depression impacts neural responses to rewards and setbacks
Young adults with higher genetic risk for depression show reduced brain activity in response to rewards and punishments, while sex-dependent neural responses were also observed. This study highlights potential early indicators for depression before symptoms fully manifest.
Study identifies genes that can predict response to immunotherapy in melanoma patients
A recent study identified four genes associated with treatment resistance to immunotherapy in melanoma patients. The genes, CD24, NFIL3, FN1, and KLRK1, were found to be linked to mechanisms of immune evasion and suppression of the inflammatory response. Patients with high expression of these genes had significantly lower overall survi...
New research: Specific genetics linked to risk of childhood maltreatment
A large Danish study shows that children with a high genetic risk for ADHD are more likely to experience severe neglect and childhood maltreatment. This risk is also influenced by parental mental illness, with girls generally exposed to more maltreatment than boys.
Historical and current population DNA reveals that there are at least 12 species of rocket frogs, three of which are already extinct
Researchers have identified a new genus of frog, Dryadobates, comprising at least 12 species, with three already declared extinct. The study utilized historical DNA analysis to clarify the taxonomic classification of previously single-species frogs, revealing hidden diversity and extinctions in the Atlantic Forest.
How your DNA reveals your true age with astonishing accuracy
Researchers at Hebrew University developed a precise method to estimate chronological age from DNA using deep learning networks analyzing DNA methylation patterns. The method achieves age predictions with a median error of 1.36 years in individuals under 50, unaffected by smoking, BMI, and sex.
Following the tracks of an extremely adaptive bacterium
The study identified two new families of natural compounds, syrilipamides and secimides, produced by the bacterium. These molecules show remarkable toxicity against competing microorganisms, particularly fungi and amoebae. The discovery also highlights the importance of the SecA enzyme in expanding the chemical repertoire of Pseudomona...
What can tiny molecules in ants and naked mole-rats tell us about societal roles?
Researchers have discovered two signaling molecules that can reprogram ant duties, mirroring gene-expression patterns found in eusocial naked mole-rats. These findings suggest a convergent molecular mechanism dating back hundreds of millions of years, hinting at the evolutionary depth of social behavior.
Scientists build first genetic "toggle switch" for plants, paving the way for smarter farming
Researchers at Colorado State University have created a programmable plant circuit that can turn genes on and off, allowing farmers to time harvests and adapt to drought. The breakthrough could lead to automated genetic circuit design through machine learning, revolutionizing agriculture.
Renowned psychiatrist illuminates biological roots of mental illness through pioneering research
Professor Benedetti's research explores the intersection of genetics, environmental factors, and treatment response in mood disorders. His work has led to breakthroughs in chronotherapeutics and immuno-psychiatry, revealing crucial insights into immune-inflammatory mechanisms and gene variants influencing brain function.
DNA floating in the air tracks wildlife, viruses — even drugs
Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a method to analyze airborne DNA, tracking species and pathogens in the air. This technology has vast potential applications for studying wildlife, human health, and environmental monitoring.