Add BrightSurf on Google Email

How the dengue virus replicates in infected cells

The dengue virus uses nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) to replicate in infected cells, with a key role in viral RNA replication and formation of the membranous replication organelle. A novel interaction between NS1 and NS4A-2K-4B is required for viral RNA replication but not for replication organelle formation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMay 9, 2019

New approach will help geneticists identify genes responsible for complex traits

Researchers developed SPAEML, a statistical approach that can accurately detect the underpinnings of simulated complex traits. The method was tested on datasets similar to Alzheimer's disease and flower structure in corn, identifying simulated markers and distinguishing between additive and interacting loci.

New techniques better determine how ancient viral DNA influences human genes

Researchers have developed new techniques to identify which of our genes are influenced by ancient viral DNA snippets, revealing complex interactions between viruses and human genetic material. The study found that a single transposon can control multiple genes, increasing the complexity of its impact on health and disease.

Productive interaction

Scientists at the University of Konstanz have gained detailed structural insights into DNA polymerases interacting with modified substrates. This knowledge can be used to advance genome sequencing and other areas of molecular biology-based diagnostics.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 18, 2018

A case of 'kiss and tell': Chromosomal kissing gets less elusive

A study by Philipp Maass and Anja Weise found that chromosomes 12 and 17 frequently interact with each other across different individuals, resulting in recurrent patterns. This interaction is linked to a human genetic condition, brachydactyly, where the deletion of a specific gene alters chromosomal arrangements and disturbs interactions.

Single-molecule dissection of developmental gene control

A study published in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology reveals the mechanism by which PHF1 increases PRC2 activity, allowing for efficient gene regulation across different species. The findings suggest that stable PRC2 chromatin interactions mediated by PHF1 are key to increased lysine trimethylation and gene repression.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateOct 23, 2017

Understanding genetic synergy in cleft palate

Researchers investigate how genetic genes IRF6 and SPRY4 interact during fetal development to form the palate. Studies reveal that these two genes interact to reduce adhesion of the oral surface to the tongue, leading to cleft palate formation. The study aims to better understand this interaction to address defects in palate creation.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJul 19, 2017

WSU researchers show genetic variants and environmental exposures have influence on health

Researchers at Wayne State University School of Medicine have shown that interactions between genetic variants and environmental exposures significantly impact human traits and diseases. The study highlights the importance of precision medicine initiatives for communities with different ancestries, including urban areas.

Long-term response to selection predictable regardless of genetic architecture

Research resolves debate on gene interactions and adaptation by showing that the long-term response can be predicted in two scenarios: when genetic drift or selection dominate. Epistasis affects long-term response only if it changes sign during adaptation, regardless of initial trait variance components.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2016

DNA molecules directly interact with each other based on sequence, study finds

Researchers discovered that DNA molecules interact directly with each other based on their sequence and epigenetic factors, suggesting a new mechanism for DNA organization in the cell. The study found that methyl groups play a key role in regulating these interactions, which could impact gene expression and chromosome organization.

Same switches program taste and smell in fruit flies

Fruit flies develop complex nervous systems through a set of genetic control switches that interact early in development to generate dozens of types of olfactory neurons. The same gene network also plays a role in programming taste neurons, suggesting the same basic mechanism could be at work in other animals.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 3, 2016

A silver lining

The study demonstrates the use of DNA nanotechnology to position arrays of hundreds of identical silver clusters with tunable fluorescent properties. This approach enables controlled assembly of photonic arrays, opening up new possibilities for sensing and imaging applications.

Are you genetically predisposed to antisocial behavior?

A study of Swedish teenagers found that three genetic variants interacted with environmental factors to increase the risk of delinquency, while a positive parent-child relationship decreased the risk. The research suggests that genes affect brain function and behavior by altering sensitivity to negative or positive environments.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateDec 14, 2014