Articles tagged with Genome Sequencing
An international effort analyzed 1,610 Ebola virus genomes from the 2013-2016 West African epidemic, revealing insights into factors that sped or slowed the outbreak. The study found that cities played a major role in the magnitude of the epidemic and that distance between cities was key to sparing nearby regions from severe epidemics.
Researchers have unlocked genetic information about lettuce and related plants, releasing the first comprehensive genome assembly for lettuce and the Compositae family. The study found that triplicate genes may explain the success of this huge plant family.
A team of researchers used computational modeling to understand DNA knotting in nanochannels, a challenge in genome mapping. They found that experimental results are not consistent with simulations, but the data may come from other sources.
A new group of giant viruses, dubbed Klosneuviruses, has been discovered with a more complete set of translation machinery genes than any other virus known to date. These viruses are thought to have evolved from smaller viruses and encode proteins involved in protein biosynthesis, expanding our understanding of viral evolution.
Scientists from OIST and Australia have sequenced the COTS genome, revealing identical genetic material between Great Barrier Reef and Okinawa populations. The study identified water-borne molecules used by COTS for communication, which could be targeted to disrupt destructive spawning events.
A research team led by Professor Bernard Degnan and Associate Professor Sandie Degnan has discovered that crown-of-thorns starfish gather in large groups due to pheromone release. The team plans to use this knowledge to develop environmentally safe baits to capture the pests, making it easier to protect coral reefs.
Researchers sequenced the genome of Xerophyta viscosa, a 'resurrection plant', to understand its ability to tolerate severe drought. The study revealed key genes that enable plants to survive desiccation and opens up new areas of exploration for developing drought-tolerant crops.
New technologies enable basic scientists to build upon clinical genomicist work, promoting a virtuous cycle of bench-to-bedside collaboration. The researchers' recommendations prioritize data sharing, clinically relevant genes, and better data-management practices.
The study found extensive variation among Burkholderia cenocepacia isolates from cystic fibrosis patients, with changes in clinically relevant bacterial phenotypes. Genetic determinants of motility and biofilm formation may be promising targets for anti-virulence drugs.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have designed a fully synthetic yeast genome, dubbed Sc2.0, which is smaller and more customizable than the natural yeast genome. The artificial genome allows scientists to study genetic questions that are difficult to answer with natural yeast, enabling new discoveries in biotechnology.
A team of international researchers analyzed dental plaque from four Neandertals, revealing a complex picture of their behavior, diet, and evolutionary history. The study found that Neandertals had a good knowledge of medicinal plants and used them to self-medicate, including the use of poplar trees for pain relief.
The study identified 61 genetic variations that affect autism risk, including copy number variations and chromosomal abnormalities. Many of these variations were found in areas of the genome once considered 'junk DNA,' suggesting a crucial role in controlling gene activity during brain development.
Researchers at Hiroshima University developed a smart genetic reference library to determine disease-causing mutations in populations. The technique and database estimated naturally occurring rare-variants in the STAT1 gene and determined associated diseases. This will assist doctors in diagnosing primary-immunodeficiency in patients, ...
The study sequenced 10 novel Aspergillus species, more than doubling the number of sequenced species, revealing greater genomic and functional diversity. This increased understanding will aid in developing enzymes for biofuels, paper, textiles, food, feed, and pharmaceuticals.
Researchers compared the genomes of a 45,000-year-old mainland mammoth with one from Wrangel Island, which had only 300 animals. The analysis revealed an excess of genetic defects, including loss of olfactory receptors and urinary proteins. This study provides insights into the effects of small population sizes on genome deterioration.
The genome of the parasitic mite Tropilaelaps mercedesae has been sequenced to better understand its interaction with honey bees and develop effective control strategies. The study revealed specific features in the mite genome shaped by its parasitic life history, highlighting the need for new targets in controlling the mites.
Researchers sequenced three Symbiodinium gene sequences to show their genomes have features promoting a prosperous symbiosis with corals. The study reveals that Symbiodinium has evolved bicarbonate and ammonium transporters to harvest essential nutrients for photosynthesis and growth.
Researchers have developed a new method of genetic engineering that creates artificial restriction enzymes with enhanced sequence specificity and defined sticky ends. This technology has the potential to revolutionize genomic research and gene editing by improving precision and reducing obstacles posed by existing restriction enzymes.
Researchers have identified plausible gene variants that predispose some children to developing Kawasaki disease, a common acquired heart disease in children. A variation of the toll-like receptor 6 gene and another variant in tumor-associated calcium signal transducer 2 were linked to the pro-inflammatory state during KD's acute stage.
Researchers at KAUST have sequenced quinoa's genome, providing insights into its traits and growth mechanisms. The high-quality sequence is expected to aid in breeding quinoa plants with desirable characteristics, such as seed taste and plant stability.
The Lomonosov Moscow State University has created an electronic depositary of living systems, featuring a unique information system with data on biological samples from various origins. The system allows for managing and sharing information about biomaterial, including descriptions of organisms and techniques for operating with them.
The National Institutes of Health plans to expand its ENCODE Project, a genomics resource used by many scientists to study human health and disease. With additional funding, NHGRI will strengthen the foundation of high-quality data, tools, and analyses for research projects on genome sequences and gene regulation.
Genetic analysis reveals dozens of chemical compounds associated with tomato flavor that have been lost in modern varieties. Selection for size and firmness has led to a reduction in sweetness and flavor content, highlighting the need to reintroduce flavor-infusing genes.
A team led by David Baker used metagenomic sequences to generate structural models for 614 proteins, including those from neglected families. The collaboration between the Baker lab and DOE JGI enabled a powerful way of predicting structures, increasing coverage of known protein families.
A national consortium of clinical geneticists is studying the use of genome sequencing for newborn health screenings, prevention, and prediction. The study aims to develop guidelines for incorporating this technology into newborn care.
Researchers used comparative genomics to study the giant panda and red panda, revealing 70 adaptively convergent genes involved in limb development, digestion, and pseudogenization. These findings provide insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying phenotype convergence in these species.
A national consortium of researchers is studying the pros and cons of genome sequencing for newborn health, raising questions about parental responsibility and child autonomy. The four studies across the US aim to develop evidence for guidelines on effectively incorporating new technology into newborn screening or care.
A team of researchers has identified genetic mutations that enable microalgae from the Southern Ocean to adapt to extreme and variable climates. The study provides insights into how polar organisms cope with environmental changes induced by human activity.
A comparative genomic analysis of Antarctic diatom Fragillariopsis cylindrus reveals its ability to adapt to extreme cold by selectively expressing variant genes. The study provides insights into the organism's genome structure and evolution, highlighting its unique genetic features that enable survival in harsh environments.
Researchers at the Earlham Institute have developed a new method for improving wheat crop yield quality using bioinformatics tools. The w2rap pipeline enables robust and efficient genome assembly, which will aid in precision breeding and increase global food security.
Researchers have created a novel method called RESA to identify mRNA-regulatory sequences in embryos, providing insights into the maternal-to-zygote transition and gene regulation. This breakthrough has broad applications for studying genetics and biology across various species.
Scientists have sequenced the ash tree genome, which aids the breeding of resistant trees against ash dieback fungus. The UK is home to over 1,000 species that rely on ash trees, making their conservation crucial.
A study sequencing genomes of Shigella sonnei isolates found two clusters of outbreaks, one causing severe gastrointestinal problems due to a toxin gene acquired from other Shigella species and another resistant to fluoroquinolone antibiotics. The findings provide insights into the bacteria's virulence and antibiotic resistance genes.
Researchers have sequenced the dry jujube genome, identifying key factors in sugar and acid content, and genes involved in breeding compatibility. This knowledge will aid breeders in creating improved jujube varieties.
A large genome study has identified potential virulence factors to discriminate new Francisella species from the deadly F. tularensis bacterium. The study provides a framework for identifying new isolates and environmental detections, improving disease diagnosis and bioweapon detection.
A new battery-powered detection system can identify 16 virulent pathogens with high sensitivity and provides positive identification from as few as 10 DNA sequences. The device is designed for use in remote locations where laboratory resources are lacking, addressing the lack of timely diagnosis and effective treatment.
The whitefly's genome has expanded families of detoxification genes and acquired 142 genes from bacteria or fungi that enable it to feed on diverse plants and evolve resistance to insecticides. This discovery will aid in the development of new control strategies using RNA interference to combat this global pest.
A international research collaboration sequenced the entire seahorse genome, revealing gene losses and duplications that enabled specialized traits such as male pregnancy and armored body. The study provides insights into evolutionary mechanisms driving biodiversity.
Researchers found Atlantic killifish adapting to toxic pollutants due to high genetic variation, making them more resilient than other species. This study suggests that genetic diversity is key to evolutionary adaptation and could inform strategies for human sensitivity to environmental chemicals.
A Chinese research group found that the Tibetan Mastiff's high-altitude adaptation is due to interbreeding with the Tibet grey wolf, introducing a DNA swap at two genomic hotspots. This process shares similarities with human evolution, highlighting ancient interbreeding as a key factor in adaptations.
A team of researchers has identified the genetic mechanisms driving the metamorphosis that transforms flounders from symmetrical larvae to asymmetrical adults. The discovery sheds new light on an evolutionary puzzle, but also has practical implications for the fishing industry, which faces significant losses in flounder aquaculture.
The KAT tool analyzes K-mer datasets to identify error levels, biases, and contamination in sequencing data. It also checks genome assemblies for completeness and accuracy without external reference data.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo developed a platform that analyzes clinical samples to diagnose infection by 416 viruses found in tropical regions. The tool is designed for reference laboratories and can detect pathogens with the potential to cause epidemics in humans.
The ginkgo genome reveals extensive expansion of gene families for defensive mechanisms against pathogens and insects, as well as unique traits such as transposable elements. The sequence provides a genetic resource for studying early events in tree evolution and the history of demography and distribution.
The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics has released updated recommendations for reporting secondary findings in clinical exome and genome sequencing. The new list, ACMG SF v2.0, includes four additional genes and one removed gene, totaling 59 medically actionable genes recommended for return. The updates aim to provide s...
Researchers sequenced coral genomes to model population histories and show that corals can recover after environmental disasters. The study confirms fossil evidence and suggests that current reef deterioration can be reversed by reducing environmental stresses.
Researchers sequenced the genome of a 5,310-year-old corn cob and found it was genetically more similar to modern maize than its wild ancestor. The study provides insights into the early stages of maize domestication and its dispersal across the Americas.
The Japanese morning glory genome has been fully decoded, revealing genes that determine flower and leaf shapes, as well as flower colors and patterns. The research also identified a gene involved in plant hormone biosynthesis disrupted by transposons in mutants.
The DOE JGI has selected 37 projects for its 2017 Community Science Program, focusing on sustainable biofuels, plant microbiomes, and biogeochemistry. Researchers will utilize the DOE's sequencing capabilities to study key areas such as reference genomes for plants relevant to bioenergy production.
A pioneering study by Gilad Evrony and colleagues found that every brain cell has a unique genome resulting from somatic mutations during development. These findings hold promise for understanding unexplained neurologic diseases such as epilepsy, autism, and schizophrenia.
HybPiper is a streamlined pipeline for processing target-enrichment data, extracting coding and intronic regions, and detecting duplicate gene copies. The tool allows researchers to quickly analyze large amounts of DNA sequencing data, facilitating accurate species relationships.
A new program called CrispRGold helps scientists identify the most effective and specific RNA sequences for CRISPR-Cas9 system. This allows for efficient inactivation of genes in primary cells, enabling researchers to discover new genes involved in immune cell regulation.
Scientists have sequenced the entire genome of Xenopus laevis, an African clawed frog that inherited two sets of chromosomes from different species. The study provides insights into vertebrate evolution and sheds light on how tetraploidy emerged in animals.
Researchers discovered that parasitic plants, such as broomrapes, can transfer genes from their host plants, making them more invasive and resistant. This horizontal gene transfer may lead to the development of resistant host plants to combat crop loss caused by these weeds.
The Xenopus laevis genome shows that hybridization between two extinct species led to a doubling of genes and the emergence of tetraploidy. Researchers found nearly a thousand non-functional genes, revealing insights into ancient genome duplication events in vertebrates.
Scientists sequenced the entire genome of Xenopus laevis, revealing it inherited two sets of chromosomes from different diploid ancestors. The discovery provides insights into vertebrate evolution and tetraploidy, a phenomenon where an organism has four sets of chromosomes.
A new genome assembly process allows for rapid access to genetic information in Cabernet Sauvignon, enabling researchers to identify genetic markers for breeding disease-resistant vines. This breakthrough paves the way for developing new wine grape varieties suitable for changing climate conditions.
A team of researchers has successfully isolated Zika virus from a semen sample, obtaining the first complete genome sequence of the virus in humans. The study provides valuable insights into potential sexual transmission of Zika virus, which was previously poorly understood.
Researchers found a phage carrying animal-like DNA related to the black widow spider toxin gene, which also shares DNA with animal genomes. This discovery may provide insights into genetic engineering Wolbachia to fight diseases.
Scientists have created a genetic catalog of the African diaspora in the Americas, revealing why certain diseases hit those with African ancestry harder. The study found changes in DNA that put Africans at higher risk for diseases, and highlights the importance of understanding population histories to tailor clinical care.