Genetic Methods
Articles tagged with Genetic Methods
BGI Genomics joins HGP2 rare disease alliance to close rare disease care gap in Asia-Pacific
Brain Health honors J. Craig Venter (1946–2026), the genomicist whose earliest breakthroughs began at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
J. Craig Venter's pioneering work in expressed sequence tags revolutionized brain-expressed genes identification, while his synthetic cells paved the way for synthetic biology as a working discipline. His legacy has reshaped our understanding of genomes and their functions.
New tool tracks how microbes spread — even when they look almost identical
Researchers developed a new tool called TRAnsmision Clustering of Strains (TRACS) to track the spread of disease-causing microbes using genomics. The tool distinguishes between closely related bacterial strains and can identify transmission networks and rule out events in ongoing public health applications.
Novel tool more accurately predicts risk of Li-Fraumeni Syndrome
A new mathematical model called LFSPRO was developed to predict the risk of Li-Fraumeni Syndrome. The model provides a more quantitative risk estimate for individuals who would benefit from testing but do not meet established criteria.
Oral-gut axis points to salivary biomarkers for early gastric cancer detection
A recent study identified distinct microbial signatures in the oral cavity and gut that serve as robust biomarkers for early gastric cancer detection. These microbial markers can be detected in saliva or stool samples using machine learning models, achieving an AUROC of 0.87 for saliva-based detection.
The bacterium responsible for scarlet fever was not introduced to the Americas by Europeans.
A pre-Columbian Bolivian mummy has been found to harbor the ancient Streptococcus pyogenes bacterium, a pathogen responsible for scarlet fever. The genome of this centuries-old bacterium was reconstructed from its DNA, revealing genetic variants that may no longer exist today.
Genetic markers fast-track breeding of seedless muscadine grapes
Using new genetic markers, fruit breeders can predict flower sex type and seedlessness in muscadines and other grapes with high accuracy. The approach will save time and resources in developing new grape varieties, including the major challenge of creating flavorful seedless muscadines on self-pollinating vines.
Robotics meets genetics: Joining forces to explore Fusarium
Two junior research groups at Leibniz-HKI are combining robotics and genetics to discover new antifungal agents against Fusarium. By integrating automated screening experiments and genetic analysis, they aim to identify potential drug candidates and uncover the genetic basis of Fusarium virulence.
Mark Adams honored as 2025 AAAS Fellow for his contributions to genomics
Mark Adams, a leading expert in genomics, has been elected an AAAS Fellow for his groundbreaking work in DNA sequencing and genome mapping. His pioneering efforts have laid the foundation for modern precision medicine.
New alliance clinical trial aims to improve outcomes in brain tumors
A new clinical trial will investigate whether adding the oral medication vorasidenib to standard chemotherapy improves progression-free survival for people with newly-diagnosed, grade 3 IDH-mutant astrocytoma. The study aims to recruit 400 individuals with this type of brain cancer and evaluate the safety and side-effect profile of the...
Genetic risk for mental illness is far less disorder-specific than clinicians have assumed, massive Swedish study reveals
A massive Swedish study of over 2 million individuals reveals that genetic risk for mental illness is far less disorder-specific than clinicians have assumed. Schizophrenia shows the highest genetic specificity, while drug use disorder has a much lower specificity, scattering its genetic risk across multiple conditions.
Sugar beet, oilseed rape, tomatoes and dandelions: four precision breeding projects win major funding to support UK agriculture
The John Innes Centre has been awarded £21.5m in funding to support four precision breeding projects, aiming to reduce emissions and strengthen crop resilience. These projects will help protect two major agricultural crops from diseases, enhance the nutritional content of tomatoes, and develop sustainable sources of rubber.
New genetic tools offer more accurate breast cancer prediction for women of African ancestry
Researchers developed polygenic risk score models to predict breast cancer risk in women of African ancestry, improving accuracy and performance compared to existing models. The new tools could lead to earlier screening, tailored care, and increased survival rates for high-risk women.
Scientists demonstrate first-time use of AI for genetic circuit design
Researchers developed a new technique called CLASSIC that enables large-scale testing of complex DNA circuits in human cells. The approach uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze vast numbers of complete circuits at once, providing scientists with a clearer picture of the rules governing genetic part behavior.
4D Nucleome Consortium produces detailed models of the 3D genome over time in cells
The study created a critical framework for understanding the architecture of the genome and its association with gene function in cells. The 4DN Consortium integrated data from over a dozen techniques to compile an extensive catalogue of looping interactions between genes and regulatory elements.
Schizophrenia and osteoporosis share 195 genetic loci, highlighting unexpected biological bridges between brain and bone
A comprehensive genetic investigation by Dr. Feng Liu and collaborators identifies shared genetic loci between schizophrenia and osteoporosis, suggesting overlapping biological pathways. The study found that psychiatric patients face elevated fracture risks due to these molecular connections.
Global psychiatry mourns Professor Dan Stein, visionary who transformed mental health science across Africa and beyond
Professor Dan Stein was a visionary who bridged neuroscience, clinical care, and philosophy to transform psychiatric research in Africa. His integrative approach produced scholarship of extraordinary range, with over 1,600 peer-reviewed publications and a Google Scholar h-index exceeding 220.
New tech can unlock mysteries of genome’s hidden half
Researchers have found that a new DNA sequencing technology can study how transposons move within and bind to the genome, playing critical roles in immune response, neurological function, and genetic evolution. The discovery has significant implications for agricultural advancements and understanding disease development and treatment.
Insights from worms could help scientists harness the power of dietary restriction for longevity
Research from Michigan Medicine uncovers connections between a longevity gene, behavior, and environment, suggesting that manipulating stress responses could extend life without downsides. Touch activates a circuit modulating signals to reduce the longevity effect of dietary restriction.
145 families receive a diagnosis with new genomic method
Researchers have developed a new pipeline to identify complex structural genetic changes, enabling accurate diagnoses for 145 children with rare conditions. The study found that structural variants play a key role in the development of multiple health conditions, including neurological and developmental disorders.
Study links genetic variants to higher 'bad' cholesterol and heart attack risk
A new resource identifies genetic variants associated with elevated 'bad' cholesterol, a major contributor to heart disease. Clinicians can now predict patient risk for heart attacks and strokes, allowing for prevention and early treatment.
Genetic inflammation markers reveal distinct depression subtypes affecting treatment response
Researchers identified a genetic inflammatory signature that defines specific depression subtypes and influences antidepressant outcomes. Higher CRP polygenic scores were associated with reduced weight and appetite loss, earlier age of onset, and lower employment status after treatment.
Cracking the CRISPR code
A new method called GenomePAM enables targeted modification of genomes using CRISPR technology. This breakthrough accelerates the development of precision gene editing tools and advances clinical drug development.
Improved genetic tool reveals hidden mutations that can drive cancer
Researchers have refined a powerful DNA sequencing tool to uncover hidden mutations in healthy tissues, providing insights into the earliest steps of cancer development. The study, led by the Wellcome Sanger Institute, analyzed over 340,000 mutations in cheek cells and identified key driver genes associated with cancer.
Genetic map reveals influence of DNA on metabolism
A new study has created the largest genetic map of human metabolism, revealing key genes controlling metabolites and their impact on health. The research highlights similarities in genetic control across ancestries and sexes, offering new avenues for developing medicines to prevent heart diseases.
Stowers scientists identify the fusion point of Robertsonian chromosomes, hinting at how chromosomes evolve
Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research have identified the precise location where human chromosomes break and recombine to form Robertsonian chromosomes. The study reveals that repetitive DNA sequences play a central role in genome organization and evolution, explaining how these rearrangements form and remain stable.
Triggering RNA activation on demand
Researchers have devised a method to safely and temporarily 'switch off' and then 'turn on' ribonucleic acid (RNA) inside cells using disulfide-containing chemical groups. This strategy could potentially open new avenues in more precise RNA-based therapeutics and gene editing.
King’s College London researcher advances psychiatric genomics through pioneering polygenic scoring innovations
Dr Oliver Pain develops GenoPred platform advancing personalized mental healthcare worldwide through accessible genetic tools, democratizing access to cutting-edge genomic methodologies. His work aims to reduce global health inequities by developing inclusive polygenic scoring methods that perform accurately across all ancestry groups.
Compact genetic light switches transform disease control
Researchers developed photo-inducible binary interaction tools (PhoBITs) to precisely control gene expression, cell signaling, and immune responses. PhoBITs enable targeted treatment with minimal side effects, opening new avenues for cancer therapy, immunotherapy, and regenerative medicine.
New study uncovers how DNA damage can lead to Motor Neurone Disease
Researchers found that mutations in the CFAP410 gene change its interaction with another protein, making motor neuron cells more vulnerable to DNA damage and cell death. This discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying Motor Neurone Disease and highlights potential targets for new therapies.
Genomic techniques can streamline breeding for grain quality
Researchers developed a strategy to predict multiple traits at once based on the whole genome, increasing predictive ability by 2-10 times. This method, called multi-trait genomic selection (MT-GS), combines genetic markers with known trait links for more accurate predictions, making it a promising tool for efficient and cost-effective...
Finding microproteins to treat obesity and metabolic disorders
Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified dozens of microproteins that play a crucial role in regulating fat cell proliferation and lipid accumulation. This breakthrough discovery offers new potential drug targets for treating obesity and metabolic disorders, building on recent advances in CRISPR gene editing technologies.
New AI tool illuminates “dark side” of the human genome
Researchers at Salk Institute launched a machine learning framework called ShortStop to explore overlooked DNA regions and discover microproteins with potential roles in disease. The tool identified 210 new microprotein candidates in lung cancer data, including one validated target for therapeutic treatment.
New gene tool leads to better treatments for complex diseases
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University developed a computational method and tool to identify genes and genetic changes causing complex diseases. Their new approach allows doctors to detect and treat cardiometabolic diseases earlier in their development, identifying new genes that were previously overlooked.
Molecular arms race: How the genome defends itself against internal enemies
Researchers discovered how the genome uses competition between proteins to prevent rogue retrotransposon LINE1 from causing damage. The team found that a modified protein NRBP2 marks and disposes of another protein NRBP1, which is no longer functional due to mutations.
Fear in sync: Collective survival through neurogenomic diversity
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that genetic diversity within groups of fruit flies improves their ability to evade predators and forage more efficiently. The research team identified a key gene, Ptp99A, that regulates group behavior and promotes survival performance.
Scientists create biological ‘artificial intelligence’ system
Researchers at the University of Sydney developed a biological 'artificial intelligence' system called PROTEUS, which can accelerate cycles of evolution and natural selection to create molecules with new functions in weeks. The system has potential applications in finding new medicines and improving gene editing technology like CRISPR.
Brazilian neuroscientist reveals how viral infections transform the brain through microscopic detective work
Dr. Danielle Beckman's research uses animal models to understand how viruses like COVID-19 trigger neurological damage and accelerate Alzheimer's disease. Her work has established critical connections between viral infections and neurodegenerative processes.
New resource illuminates gene activity in African populations
The new resource provides a detailed map of blood regulatory variation in South Africans, enabling researchers to interpret genetic variations using genome-wide association studies (GWAS). This innovation has the potential to uncover why people from specific genetic backgrounds may be more susceptible to certain diseases.
Study reveals ‘switch-like’ behavior for hundreds of genes with links to human disease
Researchers identified nearly 500 switch-like genes, which express at high or low levels, and linked them to various ailments like vaginal atrophy and COVID-19. The study suggests that hormones and genetic variation drive this 'switch-like' behavior.
Renowned psychiatrist illuminates biological roots of mental illness through pioneering research
Professor Benedetti's research explores the intersection of genetics, environmental factors, and treatment response in mood disorders. His work has led to breakthroughs in chronotherapeutics and immuno-psychiatry, revealing crucial insights into immune-inflammatory mechanisms and gene variants influencing brain function.
Pioneering ADHD researcher reveals biological pathways linking genes to behavior
ADHD researcher Barbara Franke's work transforms understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders through innovative molecular approaches. Her research combines cutting-edge bioinformatics with experimental models to identify genes and pathways underlying behavioral differences.
HIV: Genetic characteristics associated with sustained HIV remission after stopping treatment
Scientists identified specific immunogenetic characteristics in post-treatment controllers who maintain undetectable viral loads after stopping treatment. These genetic markers are associated with the existence of specific NK cell populations that better control infection, supporting their role in long-term HIV remission.
Long-term survival rates of some Acute Myeloid Leukaemia patients could double with sensitive bone marrow test
A highly sensitive bone marrow test has shown to double survival rates for patients with AML mutations in NPM1 and FLT3 genes, allowing for early detection of potential relapse. This trial indicates that regular molecular testing can improve long-term survival rates by restarting treatment earlier.
Research on genetic differences in men's and women's health awarded
Colm Nestor's research aims to understand genetic differences in men's and women's health, with potential applications in disease treatment and prevention. His unique approach combines basic research with clinically relevant issues, aiming to uncover new insights into the mysteries of the X chromosome.
E-I-E-I-Omics: New discoveries in corn genetics could help grow more productive, resilient crops
A new study published in Science reveals insights into the activity of genes inside different cell types in maize plants. The research, led by Alexandre Marand at the University of Michigan, sheds light on how molecular biology connects to a plant's visible traits, such as ear size and growth.
20 nM Pladienolide B +6 h treatment = totipotent stem cells? The new method captures totipotency
A new method captures totipotency using a short-term high-dose treatment of Pladienolide B, reprogramming classical mouse embryonic stem cells into transient totipotent blastomere-like stem cells. These cells exhibit remarkable developmental potential and self-organize into blastoid structures mimicking early embryonic development.
Tulane researchers use AI to improve diagnosis of drug-resistant infections
A new artificial intelligence-based method detects genetic markers of antibiotic resistance in bacteria, potentially leading to faster and more effective treatments. The method, called Group Association Model, uses machine learning to identify key mutations linked to drug resistance, reducing false positives and misdiagnoses.
New method reveals how the brain and inner ear are formed
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a method to track the development of cells in the nervous system and inner ear. The technique, known as ectoderm barcoding, reveals that cells in the inner ear develop from two main types of stem cells.
How researchers are shining a light on kidney disease
Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered a way to identify and track material carried by extracellular vesicles, which play a key role in the development of renal diseases like polycystic kidney disease. This breakthrough could lead to new therapies for patients with PKD, a common genetic disorder.
Unlocking the mechanics of life: Enzymes as soft, programmable nanobots
Researchers developed a new viscoelastic model of enzymes, elucidating the intertwined effects of elastic forces and friction forces on enzyme function. This breakthrough allows proteins to be perceived as soft robots or programmable active matter, revolutionizing our understanding of enzymatic catalysis.
Why does one person develop schizophrenia while another does not? A leading psychiatric geneticist investigates the answer
Dr. Consuelo Walss-Bass shares her groundbreaking research on schizophrenia, emphasizing the importance of considering both genetic predisposition and environmental factors. She also discusses her work with induced pluripotent stem cells to develop personalized psychiatry and reduce stigma around mental health.
One-step creation of Cre-loxP organisms: precise control and modification of gene expression
Scientists developed a new technology to produce Cre-loxP organisms in a single step, reducing the need for crossbreeding and decreasing production time. The method involves introducing a TAx9 sequence to prevent Cre gene expression in E. coli bacteria, allowing for precise control and modification of gene expression.
Stowers scientists uncover principles underlying the toxicity of “selfish” genes
Researchers found that selfish genes use self-assembly properties to harm cells, with aggregate size and distribution being key factors in toxicity. The study also reveals an evolutionary arms race between sabotage and salvation, where rapid evolution of 'selfish' genes can lead to their own destruction.
Global neurology leader makes The Neuro world's first open science institute
Dr. Guy Rouleau, a renowned geneticist and neurologist, has founded the world's first academic institution committed to open science principles. The Neuro institute aims to transform how brain disease research is conducted worldwide by promoting data sharing and collaboration.
Tattoos may be linked to an increased risk of cancer
Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark found that tattooed individuals are more frequently diagnosed with skin and lymphoma cancers compared to those without tattoos. The study suggests that chronic inflammation in the lymph nodes triggered by tattoo ink may lead to abnormal cell growth and an increased risk of cancer.
Bioanalytical assays for oligonucleotide therapeutics
The article discusses the need for bioanalytical assays to measure immune responses to oligonucleotide therapeutic drugs, especially when they include carriers or conjugates. Highly specific antibodies may enhance the development and production of ONTs, expanding studies on their safety and efficacy.
Study succeeds in the early diagnosis of leptomeningeal disease in diffuse midline gliomas by liquid biopsy
Researchers developed a method to detect H3K27M-mutant droplets from circulating tumor DNA in cerebrospinal fluid, enabling early diagnosis and treatment of leptomeningeal disease. This approach improved survival rates for patients with diffuse midline gliomas.
Novel molecular insights into bone remodeling
Researchers identify Fam102a as a key regulator of both osteoclast and osteoblast differentiation, leading to enhanced osteoblast formation and bone volume. The study reveals significant protein-protein interactions involving Fam102a and Kpna2, shedding light on the critical molecular interactions involved in bone remodeling.