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DNA helicity and elasticity explained on the nanoscale

Researchers developed a simple mechanical model to effectively explain DNA's double-stranded structure and elasticity at the nanoscale. The model shows how extreme conditions can cause DNA conformational changes, and its extension is used to study various phenomena such as sequence heterogeneity and protein-DNA interaction.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Biological Physics·DateDec 5, 2013

Genetics: More than merely a mutated gene

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that genetic mutations interact with an individual's genome background about 75% of the time, affecting disease outcomes. This finding has significant implications for understanding and treating diseases with a simple genetic basis, such as breast cancer.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 1, 2013

Virus and genes involved in causation of schizophrenia

A study by an international team of researchers has found that a combination of cytomegalovirus infection in the mother and a specific gene variant in the child significantly increases the risk of schizophrenia. The risk is five times higher than usual, according to the research published in Molecular Psychiatry.

SourceAarhus University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 8, 2013

Selenium supplements could be harmful to people who already have enough selenium in their diet including a large proportion of US population

A new review suggests that taking selenium supplements can increase the risk of developing type-2 diabetes in people who already have enough selenium in their diet. The study found that a large proportion of the US population has adequate selenium levels, making supplementation potentially harmful.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 28, 2012

Singapore scientists lead in 3D mapping of human genome to help understand human diseases

Researchers at the Genome Institute of Singapore have made a groundbreaking discovery by mapping the human genome's three-dimensional structure, revealing how genes interact and influence each other. This study sheds light on the complex regulation of gene expression and its implications for understanding human diseases.

Not quite 'roid rage

A new study reveals that fruit fly aggression is correlated with smaller brain parts and involves complex interactions between networks of important genes. The findings also show that certain portions of the fly brain affected by hyper-aggressive flies, and that calming did not necessarily come through chemistry.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2011

The gene-environment enigma

A study by Washington University School of Medicine reveals that genes alone do not predict disease risk, as environment interacts with DNA in complex ways. The research found that genetic variants have different effects in different environments, making it challenging to make accurate predictions.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateDec 3, 2010

Gene-environment interaction in yeast gene expression

A new study published in PLoS Biology shows that gene-environment interactions play a crucial role in determining thousands of traits in yeast, with the environment having a bigger effect on regulated genes than direct mechanisms. The research reveals intriguing interactions between genetic and environmental factors.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 14, 2008

Simple reason helps males evolve more quickly

Researchers found that males' simpler genetic architecture enables them to evolve faster and more efficiently in response to sexual selection. This is because males have only one X chromosome, making their inheritance pathway less complicated compared to females, who have two X chromosomes with interacting genes.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2007

Einstein researchers use novel approach to uncover genetic components of aging

Scientists at Einstein College of Medicine have discovered the secret behind people living to 100 or more: favorable “longevity” genes that protect against disease-causing genes. The novel method used by researchers could lead to new drugs to protect against age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 24, 2007

With fruit fly sex, researchers find mind-body connection

New research by Brown University biologists debunks the notion of separate genes controlling sexual behavior and physical body differences. Doublesex gene plays a crucial role in regulating both male and female courtship behaviors, acting together with fruitless to establish wing-shaking come-ons and flirtatious flights.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 30, 2006

What determines body size?

Researchers analyzed the mechanism controlling body size in Manduca sexta and found that it is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. The study suggests that a balance between growth rate and developmental time determines optimal body size.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biology·DateAug 1, 2006