A team of HKUST researchers has analyzed the genome sequence of the scaly-foot snail, a deep-sea creature with armor-like scales. The study reveals that the snail's unique morphology is largely determined by genes already present in other mollusks, such as squid and pearl oysters.
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The study found that wild and domesticated cotton genomes are remarkably similar, with less diversity between species than within humans or cells. This limits the ability to introduce beneficial traits like disease resistance through gene mining.
The study reveals that despite its widespread distribution, the cotton genome is remarkably stable, with only minor differences between species. This knowledge can inform breeding practices and improve crop yields.
Researchers have identified extremely rare variants that affect the boundaries of a 3D genome structure called topologically associated domains (TADs) in people with schizophrenia. These variants may contribute to dysregulation of gene expression, leading to the development of the disease.
Researchers at UC Davis cleared a major obstacle to using CRISPR-Cas9 gene drive technology to control mosquito-borne diseases. A study found that 90% of protein-coding genes in mosquito populations have suitable target sequences for the gene drive, making it effective against disease-causing viruses and parasites.
A research team led by Jonathan Losos will sequence the genomes of 200 species of Anolis lizards and introduce genetic changes using CRISPR to test their effects on adaptation. The study aims to identify genes responsible for evolutionary adaptation in Central American lizards.
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A study found that 54.8% of COVID-19 cases imported to Brazil by March 5 came from Italy, while 24.9% traveled from Italy to São Paulo. The virus spread quickly in Brazil, with the first cases reported in São Paulo City, and sustained community transmission now prevails.
Scientists have mapped the genome of the German shepherd, providing a reference for future studies of diseases that afflict this breed. The completed genome will enable early detection and development of breeding programs to reduce genetic diseases like hip dysplasia.
Scientists from University of Würzburg successfully sequenced sturgeon genome, showing genetic material has changed little over 250 million years. The study sheds light on the ancestry of vertebrates and provides important insights for protecting species.
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Researchers highlight the challenges of identifying new pathogens, citing a review that explores cutting-edge genetics methods. The study discusses the promise of next-generation sequencing but notes its high cost and complexity. Despite these limitations, experts predict the technology's growing potential in healthcare.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo, Adolfo Lutz Institute, and Oxford University have published the complete genome sequence of SARS-CoV-2 in Brazil. The study reveals differences between the genomes of viruses isolated from two Brazilian patients, suggesting internal transmission is occurring in European countries.
Research in China suggests a strong association between avian influenza and the country's live poultry trade network. Movement of virus lineages was often associated with major evolutionary divergences and was much more likely to occur within regional trade communities.
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Researchers are developing new algorithms to quickly compare genetic data from viruses, bacteria, and other organisms to identify pathogenic genes. This project, Pangaia, aims to make computer-assisted pangenomics faster and more user-friendly for biomedicine applications.
A recent study found that the monkeyface prickleback, a unique fish species, has an efficient digestive system capable of breaking down plant material. This discovery holds promise for developing new, sustainable sources of protein for human consumption and could be an important alternative to traditional livestock farming.
Scientists from China's top research institutes discovered the novel coronavirus responsible for the Wuhan pneumonia epidemic through next-generation sequencing and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples. The virus is 99.8-99.9% similar among all patients' samples, closely related to bat SARS-like CoVs.
The Christen Lab has successfully produced a fully artificial genome, the Caulobacter ethensis-2.0, with over 580 functional genes. This breakthrough demonstrates the promise of synthetic biology in producing designer genomes for industrial and health applications.
A recent study analyzing over 200 mumps virus genomes provides insights into the US outbreaks, revealing a dominant strain responsible for many cases. The research also demonstrates the value of high-quality genomic data in public health surveillance and suggests future efforts should incorporate whole genome sequencing.
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Researchers at New York University have sequenced the genome of two basmati rice varieties, including one with improved drought tolerance and resistance to bacterial disease. The study provides insights into the evolutionary history of basmati rice and its unique genetic traits.
A recent study by Dr. Mark Chapman optimizes protocols for identifying simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in genomic and transcriptomic data, increasing efficiency in microsatellite discovery. The research found that small assemblies of two million read pairs can generate sufficient markers for basic population genetic studies.
Plant scientists combined second- and third-generation genomic technologies to create a more accurate and efficient method for resolving plant pathogen genomes. This breakthrough reduces the time required to sequence genome data from one-and-a-half years to just nine days, while lowering costs from $2 million to $1,000.
A recent study led by JGI uncovered a broad diversity of large and giant viruses belonging to the NCLDV supergroup. The genomes of these viruses are significantly larger than previously known, with some being up to 100 times the size of typical viruses.
The new tool, 'Kmasker plants', enables researchers to identify repetitive sequences in plant genomes and assign them to positions. This allows for the rapid analysis of complex genomes and can help identify sequence candidate regions with agronomic importance.
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African swine fever virus can replicate in various pig cells and has a relatively conservative genome. Whole-genome sequencing is crucial for understanding the transmission route of ASFV. Nanopore sequencing technology proved more efficient than traditional next-generation sequencing methods in obtaining viral genomes.
Researchers successfully sequenced and annotated the giant squid's genome, providing a unique opportunity to explore its evolutionary history. The genomic draft reveals insights into the giant squid's size, growth rate, and age.
Researchers integrated genomic and transcriptomic sequencing to classify AML and MDS into distinct biologic subgroups. This new understanding may lead to personalized treatment approaches, improving patient outcomes.
A new study has discovered a way to identify disease-resistance genes in cacao trees, which could lead to the development of more sustainable farming systems and improved crop yields. The method uses genome sequencing to rapidly identify resistant genotypes and provides insights into the genetic diversity of cacao trees.
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Researchers have developed a new tool that can analyze 1.4 million genetic sequences simultaneously, allowing them to study species relationships on a larger scale than before. This technology has the potential to reconstruct how life has evolved over hundreds of millions of years and unlock secrets about the code of life.
A team from the Earlham Institute is exploring the chemical diversity of UK plants to identify new medicines, including those found in foxgloves and willow trees. The project aims to understand how plants produce complex chemicals and unlock new pathways for biomanufacturing.
A study on valley oak found that populations grow faster at cooler temperatures, suggesting the need for new conservation methods to mitigate warming temperature effects. Selecting seed sources based on genotype may alleviate declining growth rates.
Researchers tracked genomic changes in hybrid orangethroat and rainbow darters, finding regions with genetic divergence contributing to reproductive incompatibility. These differences likely disrupt cell division and alter gene expression, driving the evolution of distinct traits.
Researchers have developed a new technique to study flagellate organisms, tiny eukaryotic creatures that provide clues about the emergence of complex life on Earth. By analyzing mitochondrial DNA and exploiting unique protein structures, scientists can fill in the gaps of the eukaryotic puzzle and better understand the history of life.
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The Devil Worm's genome reveals an unusually large number of heat-shock proteins and extra copies of cellular survival genes, suggesting its evolutionary adaptation to lethal environmental conditions. The discovery may provide lessons for humans on how to adapt to a warming climate, with potential applications in understanding life bey...
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed a new analytical tool to diagnose intellectual disability through whole-genome sequencing, discovering point mutations, structural chromosome aberrations, and expansions. This method was found to be more effective than traditional gene dose array tests in identifying genetic causes.
An international team of researchers has created a comprehensive watermelon genome resource to help plant breeders increase the domestic fruit's quality and ability to thrive during an era of climate change. The resource includes genetic insights into wild watermelon species and their potential for disease resistance, paving the way fo...
A new study reveals that chromosomal abnormalities in couples with recurrent miscarriage can be detected using low-pass genome sequencing, increasing the number of couples identified at risk. This technique may help couples conceive through in vitro fertilization and personalize their treatment.
Researchers analyzed genome assemblies of 20 butterfly species and found a high amount of gene flow among them, even between distantly related species. This challenges the idea that species are fixed entities and suggests hybridization as a key process in biological diversity.
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New studies reveal a broader range of genetic code deviations than previously thought, particularly among green algae. The research suggests that these changes may have driven the evolution of unique mitochondrial genome organizations.
Researchers developed a novel genomic analysis method for classifying Yersinia strains, revealing unexpected biodiversity and new species. The tool enables accurate identification of pathogenicity, guiding patient monitoring and public health initiatives.
Using whole genome sequencing, scientists can pinpoint populations that need an influx of new genes or identify the best pumas to move between populations. This approach may help prevent inbreeding and its consequences, such as health defects.
The US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service has published the first genome of the invasive Spotted Lanternfly, obtained from a single caught-in-the-wild specimen. The genome sequencing was made possible by Pacific Biosciences' new platform that produces 10 times more data from a single run.
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Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi's Center for Genomics and Systems Biology have developed an improved assembly of the date palm genome using long-read sequencing technology. This will help advance research and inform propagation practices for this essential MENA region food source.
The NIH has awarded a five-year contract to integrate two critical databases, EuPathDB and VectorBase, into a single resource called VEuPathDB. This $38.4 million project will provide thousands of researchers worldwide with access to genomic data on pathogens and vectors, enhancing global public health research.
A team of plant scientists has launched a major project to enhance global date palm production and protection. By sequencing the genome of the ajwa date palm, researchers hope to develop methods for rapid sex determination and improve the trees' ability to resist pathogens and pests.
Researchers at Stanford University identified 25 convergent amino acid changes in 18 genes involved in the development of the cochlear ganglion, a key component in echolocation. This discovery resolves a long-standing debate on whether echolocating bats and whales independently evolved similar genomic changes.
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The study presents the first genome sequence of the Florida panther, revealing increased genetic variation in the population. Genetic rescue efforts led to a tripling of genetic diversity in two offspring, alleviating genetic defect threats and promoting population growth from 20-30 to 120-230 individuals.
An international team has identified the LRIT3 gene mutation responsible for congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB) in dogs, a form of blindness also affecting humans. The researchers found that the mutation affects ON bipolar cells involved in dim light vision, but the retina's structure remains relatively unaffected.
Researchers sequenced the genomes of two Varroa mite species that parasitize honey bees, finding distinct strategies for survival and evolution. The study sheds light on how parasites and hosts co-evolve, potentially revealing new approaches to combat colony collapse.
A recent study reveals that parasitic flukes have a long evolutionary history, with genome comparisons showing significant adaptations to different hosts. The research team found that fasciolid flukes may have originated in ancient African elephants and later expanded into Eurasian herbivores.
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The genome comparison of almond and peach trees sheds light on their evolutionary history and the role of mobile genetic elements in diversification. The study found that transposons may have driven the differences between the two species, including variations in flavor and fruit quality.
A WVU biologist is using a $2 million grant to study the genomic basis of invasive traits in Japanese stiltgrass. The project aims to understand how plants undergo rapid evolution to become invasive species, with potential implications for managing and preventing their spread.
A team of scientists has solved the mystery of 'Fraser's Clawed Frog', an unusual species found in West Africa. The study, published in PLOS ONE, reveals that the frog inhabits hot and arid regions of northern Cameroon and Ghana, contradicting previous assumptions about its geographic origin.
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Scientists have discovered that the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, responsible for Chagas disease, can reproduce sexually after analyzing its genomic code in unprecedented detail. The study reveals that some groups of parasites exhibit high levels of sexuality, while others remain abstinent.
A research team has sequenced the genome of Dysdera silvatica, an endemic species in the Canary Islands, providing valuable information on its genetic basis and trophic specialization. The study reveals a high complexity genome with repetitive elements and identifies 36,000 protein-coding genes.
The completed brown trout reference genome will enable scientists to identify sub-species and understand the genetic roots of this highly specialised species. This knowledge will facilitate targeted conservation efforts, particularly in light of rapid climatic change.
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Researchers discovered a spike in Zika cases among travelers returning from Cuba in 2017, which was not reported locally. The study found that mosquito control measures may have initially mitigated transmission but need to be maintained.
The NIH has awarded $4.6 million to Color to establish a nationwide genetic counseling resource as part of the All of Us Research Program. Participants will receive personalized interpretation and guidance on genomic testing results, ancestry, and risk factors for specific diseases.
Researchers discovered highly sensitive snails can digest cellulose, form hard eggshells and pack neurotoxins in eggs. Genome sequencing revealed key adaptations enabling the invasion of freshwater wetlands.
The avocado genome has been sequenced, shedding light on its ancient origins and providing a foundation for future improvements to farming. The study reveals that the popular Hass avocado inherited about 61% of its DNA from Mexican varieties and about 39% from Guatemalan ones.
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A new DNA sequencing protocol enables the efficient capture and sequencing of long fragments of plastome DNA, revolutionizing plant biodiversity research. This breakthrough protocol improves genome assembly and facilitates phylogenetic analyses of non-model plant species.
The study provides insight into how the Komodo dragon's DNA encodes its astounding characteristics, including its ability to detect prey from far away. The team discovered changes in genes that increase the lizard's aerobic capacity, allowing it to achieve near-mammalian metabolism.