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Variations on the genetic theme

Researchers have created a global map of human gene expression using data from 163 laboratories worldwide involving 5,372 human samples. The analysis reveals six distinct groups or 'continents' of gene expression activity, providing new insights into the genetic basis of human function and behavior.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 8, 2010

New approach to immune cell analysis seen as first step to better distinguish health and disease

A new mathematical approach, csSAM, allows for accurate and quick characterization of immune cells in human blood, enabling the distinction between health and disease states. This breakthrough method identifies changes in gene expression patterns, overcoming previous obstacles such as cell separation and variation in cell proportions.

The mammoths' swan song revised

Researchers discovered ancient DNA samples in permafrost soil, dating back to between 10,500 and 7,500 years ago, indicating that mammoths and prehistoric horses roamed the area for 2,600-5,600 years longer than previously assumed. This finding sheds new light on the extinction of these species.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2009

Orphan army ants join nearby colonies

A team of researchers from Harvard University discovered that army ant colonies can be cooperative instead of combative when they lose their queen. The lost workers are absorbed by neighboring colonies and integrate quickly, often losing their distinct colony odor within days.

Dartmouth researchers get personal with genetics

Two studies by Dartmouth researchers analyzed how personal genetic testing companies use genome data to judge customer health, finding the knowledge base is still in its infancy. The authors also used genetic data to reveal ancestry information, discovering six subgroups of people with distinct genetic backgrounds.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateSep 15, 2009

Carnegie Mellon algorithm charts evolution of genetic networks during fruit fly life cycle

A new algorithm developed by Carnegie Mellon University has revealed how genetic networks in fruit flies evolve during their life cycle. The Tesla algorithm uses machine learning techniques to analyze the rewiring of these networks over time, providing insights into how they respond to stimuli and become dysfunctional.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2009

Aluminum-oxide nanopore beats other materials for DNA analysis

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a new solid-state nanopore sensor made from aluminum oxide, exhibiting superior mechanical properties and noise performance. The sensor can detect single molecules with signal-to-noise comparable to other technologies, opening doors for personalized medicine and advanced diagnostics.

Squid 'sight': Not just through eyes

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered that certain squids can perceive light through a light-emitting organ beyond their eyes. This finding may lead to new insights into controlling and perceiving light. The study suggests that the squid's light organ, which is also involved in camouflage, uses the same pro...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2009

Study identifies genes that protect against aging

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have developed a new method to identify genes that help protect the body from age-related changes. The study analyzed over five million gene measurements across multiple tissue types in animals and humans, highlighting key biological mechanisms that allow the body to adapt to aging.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalBioinformatics·DateApr 20, 2009