Getting out of hot water -- does mobile DNA help?
A study analyzed the DNA of a heat-loving microbe that uses ammonia for energy production and found highly mobile genetic elements and frequent DNA exchange with other organisms.
Genetic Analysis
Articles tagged with Genetic Analysis
Historical migrations left genetic footprints on the Irish genome
A study of Irish genomes reveals 23 distinct clusters separated by geography, with British ancestry influencing western populations. The research also detects genetic input from Europe and estimates the timing of historical migrations, including those of the Norse-Vikings and Anglo-Normans.
Lifestyle changes prevent cognitive decline even in genetically susceptible individuals
A two-year FINGER trial found that enhanced lifestyle counselling prevented cognitive decline despite the presence of the APOE4 gene. The intervention model is now being adapted and tested globally for global dementia prevention strategies.
Epigenetics study helps focus search for autism risk factors
A recent study has identified over 2,000 regulatory regions involved in learning that are strongly associated with autism. The research team found a genetic mutation linked to increased risk of developing autism in one of these regions, offering a promising new approach to diagnosis and treatment.
HKBU scholars develop new technology to decode gene transcription
A research team from HKBU has developed a new technology to accurately establish a gene regulatory route for analyzing genetic function and understanding complex biological events. The 'LogicTRN' algorithm can help locate key regulatory routes for complicated diseases, facilitating targeted therapy drug development.
New Carnegie Mellon dynamic statistical model follows gene expressions over time
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a new dynamic statistical model to visualize changing patterns in networks, including gene expression during developmental periods of the brain. The model, Persistent Communities by Eigenvector Smoothing (PisCES), combines information across multiple networks over time to identif...
SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018
Hereditary facial features could be strongly influenced by a single gene variant
A single gene variant can have a significant impact on human facial features, according to a new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The research found three genetic variants tied to specific facial characteristics, including those related to steroid biosynthesis and mucolipidosis type IV.
A botanical mystery solved by phylogenetic testing
Researchers at the Missouri Botanical Garden used phylogenetic analysis to confirm the existence of Dracaena umbraculifera, a species thought to be extinct. The study found that the species is more closely related to Dracaena reflexa from Madagascar than to Mauritian Dracaena.
Testing the accuracy of FDA-approved and lab-developed cancer genetics tests
A new study published in JAMA Oncology analyzed data from almost 7,000 tests and found that both FDA-approved companion diagnostics and laboratory-developed tests demonstrated excellent performance on proficiency testing, exceeding 97% accuracy combined across three cancer genes. Most laboratories purchasing in vitro diagnostics for FD...
Searching for the CRISPR swiss-army knife
Researchers have visualized the atomic structures of Cpf1 and Cas9 proteins to analyze their properties and identify ideal tools for different applications in gene modification. The study suggests that Cpf1 is more suitable for inserting DNA fragments due to its ability to produce staggered complementary ends.
SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateDec 12, 2017
Searching for the CRISPR Swiss Army knife
Scientists are exploring multi-functional gene-editing technology by analyzing molecular features of Cpf1 and Cas9 proteins. The study reveals the high-resolution structure of these molecular scissors to better understand their working mechanism, including target DNA recognition and cleavage.
SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateDec 11, 2017
Genetics and brain development in preterm infants
A machine learning analysis found an association between genetic variability in the PPARG gene and altered cerebral connectivity in preterm infants. This study suggests that the PPARG signaling pathway may influence neurocognitive problems after preterm birth.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2017
A risk factor for drug-induced skin disease identified
A type of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene, HLA-DQB1*03:01, is associated with an increased risk of developing bullous pemphigoid (BP) in diabetic patients taking DPP-4 inhibitory drugs. The gene was found to be present in 86% of non-inflammatory BP patients administered with DPP-4i, compared to 18% in the general population.
Blood test could help predict skin cancer's return
Researchers found that a blood test for tumour DNA can predict the likelihood of aggressive skin cancer returning, with 33% of patients who tested positive being alive after five years compared to 65% of those who didn't. The study also revealed that patients with faults in genes BRAF and NRAS are more likely to experience a return wit...
New test provides accurate measure of DNA damage from chemical compounds
A new biomarker test developed by researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center can predict, with up to 90 percent certainty, which chemical compounds can cause DNA damage that could lead to cancer. The test, called TGx-DDI, is based on genes that are actively transcribed in a cell and can identify stress due to DNA damage.
SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2017
Trisomy 21: Research breaks new ground
The study found that trisomy 21 affects proteins on all chromosomes, leading to an overdose of proteins and dysregulated cellular functions. This deregulation disrupts the cell's ability to regulate protein production, resulting in symptoms such as intellectual impairment and congenital heart disease.
Barley is flavor of the month as new study settles centuries-old brewing debate
A new study reveals that specific barley varieties contribute to beer flavor beyond the malting process, with genetics and environment playing a significant role. The research found that breeding for malting quality does not necessarily result in brewing for flavor, providing insights for future barley breeding programs.
Metabolites altered in chronic kidney disease
A new study reveals that chronic kidney disease patients have abnormal metabolites in their cells' energy centers, supporting the view of CKD as a state of mitochondrial dysfunction. Researchers hope to identify novel therapeutic targets for CKD using metabolomics.
Socioeconomic status, genetic background, and cognitive ability
Researchers analyzed birth and school records to examine environmental moderation of genetic influence on cognitive ability. They found no evidence supporting increased genetic influence in socioeconomically advantaged children.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2017
Metagenomic analysis software reveals new causes of superbug emergence
Researchers developed an algorithm capable of analyzing the spread of antibiotic resistance genes in gut microbiota, revealing new evidence of gene transfer between bacterial species. This method can contribute to effective therapy schemes and curb superbug emergence.
Could a saliva test be next for lupus?
Pioneering UH researcher Chandra Mohan proposes a simpler salivary test to diagnose lupus, potentially replacing invasive blood tests. Saliva samples from people with SLE harbor antibodies and proteins that could be used as biomarkers for the disease.
Asymptomatic infection helps norovirus to spread in Indonesia
Researchers found norovirus in healthy Indonesian volunteers with no symptoms, suggesting they are a source of outbreaks. The virus was also detected in recombinant variations, indicating high infection rates among asymptomatic individuals.
How convincing is a Y-chromosome profile match between suspect and crime scene?
Researchers have developed new software to improve the interpretation of Y-chromosome DNA evidence in court. The tool estimates the number of matching males and their possible relatives, helping courts determine the likelihood of the suspect being identified.
New toolkit reveals novel cancer genes
Researchers have identified 27 novel tumour suppressor genes that may prevent cancer formation, using a powerful statistical model on over 2000 tumours across 12 human cancer types. This discovery could pave the way for targeted cancer therapies and deepen our understanding of cancer genomics.
The Lancet: Afternoon heart surgery syncs with body's circadian clock and is linked to better outcomes for patients
A study published in The Lancet found that moving heart surgery to the afternoon can reduce the risk of heart damage and major cardiac events. Afternoon surgery was associated with a 50% lower risk of major cardiac events compared to morning surgery, suggesting that synchronization with the body's circadian clock may improve outcomes.
Teens' views vary on pediatric genetic testing for adult-onset conditions
Adolescents display nuanced views on pediatric genetic testing for adult-onset conditions, with approximately half agreeing to defer testing. Students' opinions were influenced by the preventability of the condition, with those focused on early-onset diseases supporting deferral and those on preventable conditions opposing it.
DNA tests on albatross poo reveal secret diet of top predator
A study analyzing 1460 scats from breeding sites found that jellyfish are a common prey of black-browed and Campbell albatrosses. Jellyfish were present at seven of the eight sites sampled and comprise 20% of the DNA sequences identified.
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.
New 'movie' technique reveals bacterial signalling in sharper resolution
Researchers at John Innes Centre developed an advanced analysis method to study bacterial signalling, enabling a comprehensive 'signalling map' for the key protein Hfq. This approach integrates data from multiple experiments, increasing our capacity to understand plant and human diseases.
Ornamented artifact may indicate long-distance exchange between Mesolithic communities
A study published in PLOS ONE found an ornamented bâton percé with antler from a reindeer species, suggesting long-distance exchange between Mesolithic communities. The artifact was likely transported from North Karelia to Central Poland, providing new insight into the flow of goods and ideas in Early Holocene hunter-gatherer groups.
DNA discovery could help shed light on rare childhood disorder
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh and Harvard University made a breakthrough in understanding how cells store and manage DNA during cell division. Their study revealed the importance of careful timing in organizing genetic material, which may help shed light on Cornelia de Lange syndrome.
People in New Guinea exhibit great genetic diversity
A genetic analysis of Papua New Guinea reveals a sharp genetic divide between highlanders and lowlanders, dating back 10,000 to 20,000 years. The study, led by Anders Bergström, genotyped 381 individuals from 85 language groups across PNG, finding strong genetic differentiation within both highland and lowland populations.
Study of transplanted hearts reveals risk gene for cardiovascular disease
Researchers analyzed RNA from transplanted hearts to discover new risk factors for dilated cardiomyopathy and other heart conditions. The study identified 228 genes that are expressed differently in DCM patients and healthy subjects, including 60 new genes linked to the disease.
SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalGenome Biology·DateSep 13, 2017
An officer and a gentlewoman from the Viking army in Birka
A female Viking warrior was confirmed as a military leader through genetic analysis of her remains, challenging the long-held assumption that only men held high ranks in battle. The study used ancient DNA to identify the woman's sex and revealed a more complex understanding of Viking society.
Diabetes and heart disease linked by genes, reveals Penn-led study
A Penn-led study identified 16 new genes associated with type-2 diabetes and one new genetic risk factor for coronary heart disease. The researchers found that most of the sites known to be associated with higher diabetes risk are also linked to higher CHD risk, highlighting potential targets for future therapies.
First atlas of B-cell clones in body forms new foundation for infectious disease research
Scientists mapped B-cell clone populations across the human body, discovering two broad networks that influence immune responses. The findings provide a new foundation for infectious disease research and could lead to tissue-specific immune monitoring assays.
You and some 'cavemen' get a genetic checkup
A recent study by Georgia Institute of Technology reveals that genetic risks to health, such as cardiovascular disease, may be rising in modern humans. This contradicts the long-term trend of decreased genetic risk found in ancient ancestors.
Timing and diversification of placental mammals
A genome-scale analysis of 82 mammalian species reveals continuous placental mammal diversification despite the KPg extinction. The findings support the fossil record and challenge the notion that the event hindered their diversification.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 2017
CNIC scientists develop new methods for analyzing gene function
Researchers at CNIC have developed new methods to induce multispectral genetic mosaics in vertebrate models, allowing precise study of gene behavior. The technology enables simultaneous analysis of multiple genes in different cell populations, providing insights into gene interaction networks and regulatory hierarchies.
SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalCell·DateAug 10, 2017
Supporting women's autonomy in prenatal testing
The Hastings Center recommends adopting reimbursement policies and guidelines to support clinicians in providing informed consent for prenatal genetic testing. The authors also suggest funding education and counseling approaches to help patients make decisions about testing.
Researchers find corn gene conferring resistance to multiple plant leaf diseases
NC State researchers pinpoint a specific gene, caffeoyl-CoA O-methyltransferase, associated with partial resistance to Southern leaf blight and gray leaf spot, and possibly Northern leaf blight. The gene is involved in lignin production and can be used to build disease-resistant corn plants.
In saliva, clues to a 'ghost' species of ancient human
Researchers have found evidence of archaic admixture in modern Sub-Saharan African populations through the study of a salivary protein called MUC7. This suggests that interbreeding between different early hominin species may not have been unusual, but rather the norm.
Gene drives likely to be foiled by rapid rise of resistance
Researchers found that mutations giving rise to resistant genetic sequences formed frequently in fruit flies, hindering the efficiency of gene drives. This development may necessitate new approaches to overcome resistance in genetically diverse populations, making gene drive technology less reliable.
Too many bats are being killed for research
A study highlights the need to limit bat collection for scientific research due to their slow reproduction rates and dwindling populations. Modern technology can often replace killing bats, allowing for the preservation of these species.
Comparing algorithms that search for cancer mutations
A team of scientists compared 20 subgene resolution algorithms to analyze cancer genome data, reproducing known cancer genes and discovering new drivers. This study informs potential users about algorithm assumptions and results, shedding light on the complexities of cancer.
Through fossil leaves, a step towards Jurassic Park
Using infrared spectroscopy and statistical analysis of organic molecules in fossil leaves, researchers have solved long-standing questions about extinct plant relationships. The study reveals that ancient plant species grouped according to well-established botanical relationships, shedding light on their evolution.
Dinosaurs' loss was frogs' gain: The upside of a mass extinction
A new study reveals that most frog species descended from just three lineages that survived the mass extinction event, with rapid radiation occurring due to available environmental niches. The loss of dinosaurs led to the rise of trees and flowering plants, which in turn favored the evolution of frogs.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 3, 2017
How are long strands of DNA packed into tiny cells?
Scientists describe the first step of DNA packing in a cell, revealing how protein H1 helps compact and shield DNA. The discovery sheds light on genetic processes critical to understanding diseases like cancer and muscular dystrophy.
Molecular test for common causes of vaginitis receives FDA approval
A molecular diagnostic test has received FDA approval for accurately distinguishing among the three most common causes of vaginitis. The test is more sensitive, faster, and objective than traditional methods, providing detailed diagnoses that can help determine the best course of treatment.
What percentage of ALS is genetic?
A study published in Neurology found that approximately 17% of ALS cases are caused by gene mutations, with rare and likely harmful variants being more common in those with the disease. The research highlights the importance of genetic factors in ALS development and suggests a larger percentage of sporadic cases may be linked to genetics.
Scientists demonstrate adaptation of animal vision in extreme environments
Researchers found that rhodopsin accelerates visual performance in cold-water catfish at high altitudes, enabling survival. The study provides new insights into the evolution of complex biological processes and potential therapeutic targets for human disease.
International study identifies new genetic risk factors for testicular cancer
A large analysis of five major testicular cancer studies has uncovered eight new genetic markers associated with an increased risk of developing testicular germ cell tumors. The findings, published in Nature Genetics, substantially increase the number of known susceptibility genes linked to testicular cancer.
E-cigarettes potentially as harmful as tobacco cigarettes, UConn study shows
A UConn study uses a novel device to detect DNA damage caused by e-cigarette vapor, finding that non-nicotine e-liquids can also cause DNA damage similar to filtered cigarettes. The researchers' findings raise concerns about the potential health risks of e-cigarettes.
Vapor from novel tobacco hybrid device minimally impacts human cells
A study found that vapour from a novel hybrid tobacco heating product and two standard THPs had little to no impact on human cells in lab-based biological tests. The results suggest these products could reduce smoking-related disease risks when compared to cigarette smoking.
Identifying species from a single caviar egg
A new tool enables identification of high-end caviar from Beluga sturgeons by analyzing DNA from a single caviar egg, contributing to conservation and fair international trade. The development helps distinguish Beluga caviar from Bester and other species using targeted genetic variants.
CRKL in 22q11.2; a key gene that contributes to common birth defects
Research identifies CRKL gene as crucial for normal genitourinary development, with gene dosage changes associated with developmental abnormalities. The study's findings have significant implications for initial patient diagnosis and potential treatments for individuals affected by DiGeorge syndrome.
SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2017
Paper: DNA may have only modest impact on sexual assault arrests
A new study found that DNA testing has a modest impact on sexual assault arrest rates, with most arrests occurring before laboratory results are available. In 7.6% of cases, DNA matches were made to suspects in the FBI's Combined DNA Index System database.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateMay 23, 2017
The genetic history of Bantu speakers and their relationship to African-Americans
Researchers analyzed 548,055 single nucleotide polymorphisms to model Bantu-speaking peoples' migration paths and gene variations. They found that BSPs acquired adaptive genes from other African populations, including immune-related genes, and retained western RHG ancestry in modern African Americans.
Report: Even in death, indigenous border crossers marginalized
A new analysis reveals that people with indigenous backgrounds are less likely to be identified after death due to inadequate family involvement and trust issues with government institutions. Non-governmental organizations can serve as bridges between families and authorities to improve identification rates.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAmerican Anthropologist·DateMay 3, 2017
People could be genetically predisposed to social media use
A recent study found that genetics play a significant role in determining social media use, accounting for one-third to two-thirds of the variance. The research used twin study survey data and provided an analytical blueprint for studying genetic influence on communication behaviors.