Articles tagged with Genetic Analysis
Researchers have discovered new genetic and epigenetic factors that contribute to diabetes, suggesting a shared pathway between genes and environment. The study found similar epigenetic changes in fat cells of obese mice and humans, highlighting the consilience of genetics and environment.
A new study using DNA barcoding confirms that most Ginkgo biloba supplements contain the expected species, while others may be adulterated or contain incorrect materials. The research provides a validated method for supplement manufacturers to ensure quality control and may help consumers avoid toxic or ineffective products.
International research confirms King Richard III's identity to 99.999% accuracy using DNA and genealogical study. The study also reveals his likely appearance, including almost certainly blue eyes and probably blond hair, as seen in the Arched-Frame Portrait.
Scientists at Institute of Food Research developed a fast and cheap alternative to DNA testing for distinguishing horse meat from beef. The new method uses NMR spectroscopy to analyze the chemical composition of fat in meats, with results available in just ten minutes.
Researchers found that plasmid DNA attached to a rocket exterior survived suborbital spaceflight, re-entry, and landing conditions. The study showed that up to 53% of the DNA retained its full biological function, with 35% remaining functional after heating up to 1000°C.
Researchers used big data to identify crizotinib as a possible new coating for drug-eluting stents, which could reduce in-stent stenosis without affecting the endothelium. The study found that crizotinib reduced plaque buildup in blood vessels and prevented the narrowing of arteries after stenting.
A study by Gregory Clark and Neil Cummins found that social status is consistently passed down among families over multiple generations, even more strongly than height. The researchers tracked social mobility from 1170 to 2012 using rare English surnames and found little change in social mobility since pre-industrial times.
Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center found that calorie-restricted diets slowed the normal rise and fall of genes linked to aging and memory formation in the brain. The study used female mice fed food pellets with 30% fewer calories than controls, and tissue analyses showed a significant impact on gene expression.
Researchers found that males who consistently bully females tend to father more babies with their victims. Long-term aggression, particularly by high-ranking males, increased paternity success.
Researchers found that people with one inactive copy of the NPC1L1 gene had lower LDL cholesterol levels and a 50% reduced risk of coronary heart disease. The study suggests that targeting this gene may provide protection against heart attack, but further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
A new study using forensic DNA tests successfully identified the species of venomous snakes that bit people 100% of the time. The test has the potential to improve care for patients affected by deadly snakebites in countries where this is a major health risk.
Scientists discovered eight shared molecular pathways and several key driver genes in Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. These findings suggest that treating the two conditions together could be effective, with potential therapeutic targets identified.
Researchers have discovered fungal genes associated with the devastating witches' broom disease of the chocolate tree. The study identified 1,967 unique genes and 8,617 fungal genes active in infected green brooms, providing a new basis for developing targeted treatments.
Researchers will develop algorithmic methods and models to aid in complex DNA mixture interpretation, including identifying multiple contributors and determining match strength. The goal is to achieve accurate and reliable methods for interpreting forensic data from physical evidence.
Scientists analyzed DNA from ancient European skulls and found that they were intolerant to lactose for 5,000 years after adopting agriculture. Major technological transitions in Central Europe were associated with changes in genetics of these populations.
Research at ASHG 2014 Annual Meeting uses genetic analysis to break down complex conditions like Type 2 Diabetes and obesity into their underlying metabolic proteins. This approach enables the development of new drugs that directly target these processes, with potential treatments on the horizon.
A new DNA isolation technique using MagnaCel paramagnetic cellulose particles has been shown to improve the quality and quantity of DNA extractions across a wide range of flowering plants. This method outperformed traditional techniques like CTAB and DNeasy, providing an average of twice the DNA yield and more consistent DNA purity.
A UCSF study found that educating pregnant women about their choices on prenatal genetic testing leads to a decrease in the number of tests. Women who received clear information and unbiased guidance were less likely to undergo diagnostic testing, scoring higher in knowledge of genetic testing.
Researchers are using multiparental populations to map complex trait genes in organisms such as mice, fruit flies, and maize. This approach enables the identification of specific gene regions associated with traits like nicotine resistance and toxicity of chemotherapy drugs.
Researchers have identified 5 genes differentially expressed in normal accompanying cells of colorectal tumors. These genes can be used to classify tumors and predict patient outcomes, enabling clinicians to make informed decisions about chemotherapy treatment.
A global study of 80,000 men with prostate cancer has identified another 23 prostate cancer risk loci, bringing the total to 100 genetic regions associated with the disease. The study found that these genetic variants explain 33% of familial risk and can be used to predict aggressive form of prostate cancer.
A study published in Nature Genetics has identified a genetic marker that increases the risk of pancreatitis in patients prescribed thiopurine drugs. Researchers found that 17% of patients with two copies of the marker are at high risk, four times more than those with one copy.
North Carolina State University researchers have identified candidate genes controlling the hypersensitive defense response in corn, a rapid localized cell death that limits pathogen spread. The findings could help build better defense responses in corn and other plants.
The BitSeq method has been found to produce clearly the most reliable results in measuring gene expression, outperforming other methods in accuracy and efficiency. The approach accounts for uncertainty and error in RNA-seq data, providing a more accurate representation of gene expression levels.
Researchers have identified chemical changes in DNA that could screen people for Crohn's disease and reveal possible targets for new treatments. These genetic changes can be detected in blood samples, opening the door to a simple test for the condition.
A recent study reveals that genetic selection has imprinted its signature on the genomes of poplars, a finding that could improve predictive climate change models and tree breeding programs. By analyzing over 1,100 wild poplar trees, researchers identified 397 genomic regions contributing to adaptive traits.
Researchers use simulation techniques to characterize the mechanisms of knot formation in DNA strands as a function of nano-channel diameter. Below 50 nanometers in diameter, knot formation decreases dramatically.
The OncoFinder algorithm reduces errors in transcriptome analysis by mapping gene expression onto signalling pathways, allowing for more effective evaluation and analysis. The method enables scientists to characterise functional states of transcriptomes more accurately, improving research and clinical applications.
A recent study found that flexible sigmoidoscopy screening significantly reduced the incidence of colorectal cancer by 20% and mortality rate by 27%, compared to no screening. The screening method was effective in reducing the risk of colorectal cancer, regardless of age group.
A large new genetic study in thousands of children and adolescents offers early glimpses of the overall patterns and connections among cognitive abilities such as language reasoning, reading skill, and types of memory. The findings may lead to new tools in understanding human cognitive development and neuropsychiatric disorders.
A new species of frog was discovered in Malaysian swampland, genetically distinct from its doppelganger on Siberut Island. Genetic analysis using Next Generation Sequencing confirmed the separation, making it a unique finding in herpetology.
Recent studies reanalyze gene expression patterns in mouse models, finding greater similarities with human disease conditions, contrary to a 2013 study that suggested poor correlation. The new research highlights the potential of mouse models for studying human disorders and developing treatments.
Researchers at Weizmann Institute of Science discover that genetic mutations affecting only half the population, like those causing male sterility, occur twice as often as those affecting males and females equally. This finding has implications for understanding causes of genetic diseases and developing targeted treatments.
Researchers found that imprinted genes influence puberty timing, linking it to breast cancer, diabetes, and heart disease risks. The study suggests a possible biological conflict between parents over their child's development, with the genetics involved potentially contributing to age-related conditions.
A new study found that genetic variations, particularly imprinted genes, play a significant role in determining the age of puberty in girls. The research analyzed DNA data from over 180,000 women and identified six imprinted gene variants associated with earlier or later menstrual cycles.
A study of over 180,000 women found that imprinted genes, active only when inherited from one parent, influence the age of puberty in girls. These genetic variations were associated with a difference in development between boys and girls.
A UK-led study has discovered over 100 genetic risk factors linked to schizophrenia, shedding light on the biological cause of the condition. The findings point to new biological mechanisms and pathways, including genes associated with schizophrenia being active in the immune system.
A study published in Nature Communications found that around half of the genes influencing reading ability also impact mathematics skills. The research suggests a substantial overlap in genetic variants affecting both traits, with complex interactions between genetics and learning environment playing a crucial role.
Researchers have uncovered 31 genes crucial to the development, growth, and spread of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the most common form of kidney cancer. The study found eight previously unlinked genes and six unknown to any cancer type, highlighting potential new therapeutic targets.
A study in southern England found that queen bumblebee queens often disperse widely, sometimes several kilometers away, before founding their own nests. This suggests that genetic diversity is maintained through queen dispersal, highlighting the importance of preserving flower-rich habitats for bumblebee conservation.
Researchers from MGH have uncovered new information about genes that may increase the risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias. The studies identified a greater role for calcium signaling in regulating cardiac function and pinpointed specific genes involved in the biology of cardiac repolarization.
Researchers mapped a gene variant among Greenlanders that markedly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The gene variant is primarily found in Greenlanders and explains 15% of cases in the country.
A team of researchers has identified six new gene loci associated with forced vital capacity, a volume parameter of lung function. The study suggests involvement of these genes in lung development and certain pulmonary diseases.
A study published in BMC Ecology found that British Columbia's mainland wolves and coastal wolves are more genetically distinct than previously thought. The researchers attribute this difference to the varying ecological environments of the two regions.
A study has found that copy number variants (CNVs) are a common event contributing to various conditions, including blindness, deafness, and metabolic disorders. CNV screening can aid in diagnosis, clinical management, and prognosis, providing valuable information for reproductive counselling.
Exome sequencing may miss a high proportion of clinically relevant regions in key disease-causing genes, raising concerns about patient diagnosis. The study's findings highlight the need for improved methods to provide reliable coverage of these genes.
Myriad Genetics Inc. presented new data on its BRACAnalysis CDx and HRD tests, supporting their clinical efficacy in predicting platinum-based therapy response for triple negative breast cancer patients. The company also announced an early access launch of the HRD test in FY15.
Exposure to environmental toxins like benzene and stress may affect biological age, with cigarette smoke considered the most significant gerontogen. Researchers advocate for molecular tests to predict toxicity and accelerate aging research.
Researchers have identified a specific DNA stretch controlling genes that determine face structure and those producing building materials. The region's regulatory elements affect gene Myc activity, leading to facial changes and increased susceptibility to environmental factors like smoking during pregnancy.
A 12,000-year-old girl's DNA has revealed a significant genetic connection to modern Native Americans. The study found that Naia's skull shape was distinct from modern Native American populations, but her mitochondrial DNA showed a strong link. Researchers hope to sequence the full genome of this ancient girl in future studies.
A genetic study has identified an ancient girl as part of a genetic lineage shared by modern Native Americans, resolving years of speculation about the Americas' first inhabitants. The study, published in Science, used mitochondrial DNA from her tooth to confirm that she came from the same source population as living Native Americans.
Researchers found that a variant of the KLOTHO gene not only has anti-aging effects but also enhances brain function by increasing klotho levels. The improvements occur regardless of age, with beneficial effects observed in aging mice as well as young animals.
Researchers developed a new gene expression analysis approach to identify cancer-associated genes from microarray data, outperforming traditional methods. The variance-based approach identified high variation in adjacent 'normal' tissue samples and preferentially selected genes specifically associated with cancer.
A researcher is working on procedures to identify female menstrual blood and vaginal material at crime scenes, while also identifying male fluids. This study aims to differentiate between seminal fluid and semen to prove the occurrence of sexual intercourse in cases of false accusation or prosecution.
A genome-wide association study found a strong link between ABCC9 gene variations and an increased risk of Hippocampal Sclerosis of Aging (HS-A). The study also suggests that sulfonylurea medication use is associated with an elevated risk for HS-A. Researchers hope this discovery may inform new strategies to search for cures.
Immunology is the study of the human immune system, which seeks out and destroys dangerous bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It also explores how its activity connects with other body systems, influencing metabolism, hormone levels, and overall well-being.
Researchers found that multiple types of primitive cells in blood provide the same benefits as a single stem cell, including protecting and repairing blood vessels. The study used a systems approach to analyze gene activity patterns, identifying 15 genes with cardiovascular-relevant functions.
A study of active US military personnel found higher rates of Graves disease among blacks and Asian/Pacific Islanders compared to whites. Hashimoto thyroiditis incidence was highest in whites, lowest in blacks and Asians.
A new circadian gene named Chrono has been discovered to function as a transcriptional repressor of the negative feedback loop in the mammalian clock. Mice lacking this gene exhibit longer circadian cycles, highlighting its importance in regulating daily rhythms.
Research reveals that beneficial insects like dung beetles and flies react differently to ivermectin due to varying levels of sensitivity. This poses a risk to ecosystem functioning and highlights the need for more comprehensive safety tests to protect these organisms.