Researchers at UCLA Health have shown that boosting the activity of a healthy gene copy can offset the effects of a mutation linked to autism. The approach, using a modified form of CRISPR, targets enhancers to control gene expression, offering a new direction for treating autism and related neurodevelopmental conditions.
Researchers analyzed genomic data from over 100 species and 2,000 genes to shed light on the evolution of multicellularity in Zygnematophyceae algae. The study found that multicellular growth emerged repeatedly from simpler ancestral forms, contradicting the idea of a single evolutionary transition.
A study led by University of California, Riverside researcher Joy Xiang identified new targets for coronavirus antiviral drugs by mapping RNA-protein interactions. The researchers found that disrupting specific interactions between the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and the nucleocapsid protein significantly reduced viral replication. Th...
Researchers at Chiba University have identified a protein called OMC1 that maintains chromosome cohesion in eggs from fetal development to adulthood, potentially mitigating age-related decline in egg quality. This discovery has significant implications for reproductive health in societies where childbirth is increasingly delayed.
The study found that Nematostella carries eight of the ten proteins humans use to pair and align meiotic chromosomes, making it a promising system for understanding human fertility. The sea anemone's proteins show unexpected flexibility in their roles, revealing new insights into meiosis and its potential impact on fertility.
A new study by uOttawa-led researchers reveals how a specialized protein helps cells safeguard their genetic material. The study shows that chemical changes to a histone variant regulate interactions with the TONSL protein, which plays a crucial role in repairing damaged DNA.
Researchers from the University of East Anglia have discovered 18 new bacterial species collected from prostate cancer patients, including previously linked species like Porphyromonas and Treponema. The study provides new insights into microbes in cancer patients and could uncover links that improve understanding of how cancer develops.
A new tool called OpenCGChromatin allows researchers to explore chromatin folding, interactions, and forces that hold its structures together. The tool enables the study of chromatin systems at a larger scale than previous models, revealing molecular movements and interactions that are difficult to capture experimentally.
Researchers identified patterns of gene activity associated with severe COVID-19 in children, linked to immune responses and cell regulation. The findings provide new insights into disease severity and suggest potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Researchers at MIT have found a way to stabilize lipid nanoparticles used to deliver RNA vaccines, making them more heat-resistant. This breakthrough could allow for wider distribution and enable novel administration methods like microneedle patches.
Researchers at the University of Liège and Rockefeller University have made a major breakthrough in understanding the biology of trypanosomatid parasites, which cause diseases such as sleeping sickness and Chagas' disease. The discovery sheds light on a previously mysterious molecular machine essential to the parasites' survival, revea...
Researchers at MIT have developed a noninvasive way to detect biomarkers of senescence, a state of cells that stop dividing but do not die, using Raman microscopy and gene expression data. This method could lead to better diagnosis and treatment of age-related disorders.
Researchers identified two opposing patterns of brain gene activity in mice carrying autism-risk mutations, which vary by sex and respond differently to experimental drugs. The patterns, which are shared across multiple analyses, suggest that many different genetic mutations converge into a limited number of molecular brain states.
Salk Institute researchers have discovered a novel pathway that links chronic interferon II exposure to mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to immunosuppression and enhanced tumor growth. By blocking prostaglandin E2, they found a viable target to restore immune system function and combat immunotherapy resistance.
The Single Cell Genomics Center is expanding its services, becoming more accessible, and exploring new applications of single-cell sequencing. New tools, including robotics and a sequencer, are streamlining the center's analytical workflow and enabling the team to explore new opportunities.
Parasitic plants, such as dodders, steal genes from other plants and remodel them over time, retaining their original function. This process, known as horizontal gene transfer, allows the plant to adapt and survive, with the gene becoming an integral part of its genome.
Researchers at the University of Maine discovered that planktonic baby lobsters preferentially feed on Calanus finmarchicus, a tiny, calorie-rich zooplankton species, during one of the most vulnerable stages of their lives. This finding is crucial to understanding fluctuations in the abundance of lobster larvae and future adult lobsters.
Researchers have developed an mRNA immunotherapy that eliminates pancreatic tumors in mice, achieving complete tumor responses and long-term disease-free periods. The treatment uses a cocktail of immune cytokine and tumor-associated antigen mRNAs, showing promise as a potential transformative treatment for pancreatic cancer.
A new study led by the University at Buffalo sheds light on RNA's ability to form droplets, which may have helped give rise to the first cells. The study found that a tiny chemical difference between RNA and DNA enables RNA to more readily organize into droplets, particularly at high temperatures.
Researchers will investigate how mutation rates evolve across species, with potential insights into cancer progression and antibiotic resistance. The study aims to understand how reproductive modes alter mutation rates, which could inform broader understanding of evolution and adaptation.
Researchers have discovered compact viral RNA elements that can stabilize mRNA, increasing protein production. These elements, called tailons, work by extending the poly(A) tail of mRNA, slowing its degradation. This breakthrough offers a simple way to develop longer-lasting and more efficient mRNA technologies for various applications.
Researchers at Salk Institute develop novel 'dye-cycling' strategy to measure RNA polymerase movement along DNA with unprecedented lengths of time. This breakthrough provides critical mechanical insights into how genes are transcribed in cells, shedding light on the fundamental processes of life.
Researchers used AI and single-cell technology to study the 3D genome in brain cells from individuals with Alzheimer's disease. They found increased compartment mingling, reduced gene activity, and altered brain cell organization. The study identifies 3D genome organization as a key layer of Alzheimer's biology.
Evo 2 analyzes and generates DNA sequences across various forms of life, marking a major step toward unified AI for biology. The model can predict harmful genetic variants and generate biologically realistic DNA.
A new gene circuit technology has enabled cells to autonomously generate programmed responses, processing multiple molecular signals at once. The RATEX platform allows cells to compute and respond to various types of molecular information.
A study by researchers from the University of Ottawa found that Calling and Non-calling western toads are genetically distinct, behaviourally different, and have ecological variations. This discovery has important implications for conservation and wildlife management in Canada.
Researchers at Texas A&M University develop a laser technique called TRIP to directly measure quantum forces shaping proteins, enabling accurate prediction of how pharmaceutical drugs interact with them. This breakthrough could lead to the design of medicines tailored to specific diseases, revolutionizing precision medicine.
Researchers have found evidence of ancient human DNA on cave walls, even where bones or artifacts are absent. The discovery opens up new possibilities for studying prehistoric human behavior without disturbing archaeological deposits.
A psychologist warns of the profound psychological implications of gifting or taking a DNA test, including identity disruption, acceptance challenges, and data security worries. The decision requires careful consideration to ensure recipients can cope with unexpected outcomes.
A new study reveals that ancient bacterial genomes from teeth of human remains found at four hunter-gatherer cemeteries in East Siberia reconstructed the earliest forms of plague. The findings suggest that these early strains were highly lethal and carried a unique superantigen, increasing the severity of infection.
Researchers have uncovered the structural basis of Argonaute assembly, revealing that chaperone proteins hold it in an open conformation allowing miRNA loading. The study also found that RNA plays a key role in guiding Argonaute folding.
Researchers identified a promising new strategy for reversing autism-related brain deficits by targeting a specific glycine transporter. The therapy restored NMDA receptor function in mouse models and human brain organoids, improving behavioral abnormalities such as social interaction and repetitive behaviors.
A UAB research team analyzed the genome of 54 newborns to track the genetic history of the Iberians. The study found a great genetic continuity, with little external influence, until the arrival of Romans, who introduced new genetic influences.
A new federally funded study using mice reveals that some epigenetic marks can be inherited in ways that break the rules of inheritance explored by Gregor Mendel's work. The study also found new examples of inheritance patterns that defy Mendel's law, including a naturally occurring paramutation.
A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has uncovered a fundamental rule governing gene arrangement inside the cell nucleus. By adjusting the balance between gene activity and DNA folding, they can partially restore expression of a key gene involved in Friedreich's ataxia, a neurodegenerative disorder.
Dr. Dilek Colak's journey began with a childhood observation of a boy with mental illness, which inspired her to pursue a career in neuroscience. Her current work focuses on understanding autism and schizophrenia through the study of human brain organoids.
Researchers at MIT have found that chromatin can exist in two different categories: constrained and free, which affects its interaction with genes and DNA regulatory sequences. This study provides insight into gene regulation and DNA repair processes.
Researchers suggest treatment could start during pregnancy to prevent brain damage and reduce neurological harm. A new RNA-based therapy reduces abnormal electrical currents in patient-derived excitatory neurons.
Researchers discovered a small molecule, UNI418, that destabilizes key DNA repair proteins, making drug-resistant cancer cells vulnerable to PARP inhibitor therapy. This approach restores tumor sensitivity and improves treatment outcomes.
Researchers at MIT discovered that gene circuits can reshape DNA folding and affect gene expression in human cells. The study found that rearranging genes along a DNA strand, or 'gene syntax,' can amplify or suppress the expression of neighboring genes.
Researchers used eDNA to monitor human diets and track local wildlife in NYC's East River, revealing the presence of domesticated animals and seasonal fish populations. The study found correlations between wastewater eDNA levels and human dietary patterns, providing a valuable tool for urban estuary management.
A specific region of Dicer must be activated to achieve proper cell division and reproduction, a discovery that sheds light on the regulation of this enzyme's critical role in both cancer biology and fertility. This finding opens new avenues for studying how small epigenetic changes contribute to disease.
Researchers at Tohoku University discovered a hidden mechanism in DNA damage caused by singlet oxygen generating abasic sites. This process is common and represents one of the main forms of DNA damage, alongside guanine-related types.
Researchers developed a nasal spray that reversibly reduces brain inflammation, restores cellular power plants, and improves memory. The treatment bypasses the brain's protective shield through intranasal delivery, suppressing chronic inflammation and promoting successful brain aging.
Salk Institute researchers have developed a new biological platform for studying mitochondrial DNA in human physiology, adaptation, and therapeutic development. The platform allows scientists to investigate mitochondrial DNA variation in health and disease, enabling therapeutic innovation for mitochondrial disorders.
A research team discovered that a protein complex consisting of SMG1, SMG8, and SMG9 ensures the efficient execution of nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD). The study found that this complex is essential for maintaining the stability of NMD under various conditions.
A new approach, called INSTALL, enables non-toxic DNA integration in multiple human cell types and successfully inserts large genetic payloads in mice, offering a promising solution for genetic therapies. The study's findings have the potential to broaden the applicability of genome editing therapies.
New research finds that chromosomal inversions help Atlantic silversides maintain genetic differences suited to cold and warm waters, influencing growth rates and vertebrae numbers. This discovery suggests a fundamental role for chromosomal inversions in local adaptation and may shape population responses to ocean warming.
Engineers have refined a technology to edit individual genetic base pairs, reducing unintended edits and increasing safety for potential treatments. The new base editors could lead to better outcomes for some cystic fibrosis patients and more accurate models for drug testing.
Researchers found that cancer's powerful genetic on switches, called super-enhancers, drive intense gene activity, causing DNA breaks and stress. This can lead to accumulation of mutations over time, fueling cancer's evolution.
Researchers identify circulating extracellular vesicles produced in diseased kidneys as the culprit behind toxicity in the heart. The discovery could lead to the development of a blood test to identify patients at high risk for serious heart problems and novel treatments to prevent and treat heart failure.
Scientists successfully sequenced a woolly rhinoceros genome from a 14,400-year-old tissue sample found in an ancient wolf's stomach. The study reveals that the species likely died out due to rapid population collapse rather than gradual decline.
Researchers have successfully isolated and sequenced RNA molecules from Ice Age woolly mammoths, providing new insights into the biology of extinct species. The study reveals that RNA can be preserved for nearly 40,000 years, offering a glimpse into the final moments of life.
Researchers developed a new DNA analysis technique to study old genetic samples, shedding light on disease evolution and changes in biology over time. The approach has potential for unlocking the root causes underlying shifting landscapes of modern diseases.
A review highlights transposable elements' influence on gene expression, genome stability, and disease development. TEs are recognized as regulators of gene regulation and disease, offering new avenues for diagnosis and therapy.
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh have identified a new mechanism of resistance to common antibiotics, targeting a special repair system possessed by certain bacteria. This discovery could aid efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance, one of the world's most urgent health challenges.
Researchers identified 32 common differentially expressed genes involved in IA, including NGFR and SERPINE1, which may serve as biomarkers. The study suggests that understanding the involvement of aging-related genes can aid in developing therapeutic strategies to minimize surgical interventions.
Scientists studied Neanderthal DNA to understand how facial features develop and evolve. They found a region of DNA that activates the SOX9 gene, leading to a larger lower jaw in Neanderthals. This discovery sheds light on the genetic mechanisms behind face variation and evolution.
Researchers at OIST develop a new method harnessing 'jumping genes' to recreate the termite tree of life, providing a template for solving ancient evolutionary mysteries. The study achieves similar accuracy to trees built from thousands of protein marker sequence alignments.
Advanced molecular dynamics simulations model complex RNA structures with high accuracy, enabling potential applications in RNA-based therapies and drug design. The study successfully simulated the folding of diverse RNA stem loops, revealing a distinct folding pathway for challenging motifs.