Research reading and comparing genomes. Covers disease redefinition, pangenome-guided breeding, crop pathogens, and reference genomes for neuroscience.
The octopus genome contains widespread rearrangements of genes and a dramatic expansion of genes involved in neuronal development. The research also found novel genes that may be responsible for the creature's unique camouflage abilities.
Researchers from OIST, University of Chicago, and UC Berkeley sequence and analyze the first cephalopod genome, unlocking secrets of octopus's intelligent behavior and extraordinary features. The study sheds light on the evolution of cephalopods and their brain development, potentially inspiring robots that can explore the ocean floor.
Researchers found that the evolutionary loss of the worker caste in ants is not accompanied by a loss of genes. Instead, most genes are expressed in both queens and workers, but often at different points in development. Regulatory changes may have facilitated the evolution of sociality.
Researchers define the core set of genes and functions that a bacterial cell needs to sustain life, providing a foundation for new cell engineering approaches. The study identifies 356 essential genes across various microorganisms, enabling the rapid construction of genome-scale cellular growth models.
A study of ancient and modern genomes clarifies the history of Native American migration to the Americas, tracing their ancestry back to a single late Pleistocene event. Genetic analysis reveals two distinct populations: Athabascans and northern Amerindians, diverging from shared ancestors at around 23,000 years ago.
A new library construction method allows simultaneous generation of up to 12 size-selected long mate pair libraries with reduced DNA input, time, and cost. This approach improves the likelihood of achieving high-quality genome assemblies, particularly for complex genomes.
A new diagnostic test has been developed to quickly detect enterovirus D68, a respiratory virus that caused unusually severe illness in children last year. The test is more effective than previous methods and can be completed in just a few hours, reducing the time needed to detect the virus.
The kiwi bird's genomic changes help explain its unique characteristics, such as eliminated color vision and a highly developed sense of smell. Research identified evolutionary changes in the genome that underpin the bird's adaptations to nocturnality, with potential implications for conservation efforts.
Ancient and modern genetic data reveal that Native American ancestors entered the Americas as a single wave approximately 23,000 years ago. The research also shows that ancestral Native Americans split off into two branches around 13,000 years ago, coinciding with glacier melt and the opening of routes into North America's interior.
A new genomic analysis pinpoints the arrival of the first Americans to Siberia around 23,000 years ago, with subsequent migrations leading to distinct populations in North and South America. The study also reveals genetic admixture from East Asians and Australo-Melanesians, suggesting limited isolation from the Old World.
Genome researchers should disclose misattributed parentage to parents to respect their autonomy and sense of self. The issue also explores punishing health care providers for treating terrorists, highlighting the need for moral and legal clarity in such situations.
A study on White-breasted nuthatches found that environmental factors, such as temperature and rainfall, drive genetic differences between populations, rather than geographical distance. This discovery challenges the traditional view of isolation-by-distance and provides insights into species adaptation to unique habitats.
Researchers used genetic sequencing to trace the 2010 measles outbreak, linking it back to two visitors who brought separate genotypes of measles to Vancouver. The D8 and H1 strains spread across the province, resulting in 82 cases of measles.
As genome-sequencing technologies improve, the amount of genomics data is projected to grow exponentially, requiring significant advancements in computing infrastructure. Genomics data will surpass even YouTube's storage capacity, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to handle the deluge of genomic information.
Scientists have developed a new technique to genetically engineer cells by inserting large DNA sequences at specific genomic sites. This method may be useful for producing high levels of proteins in mammalian cells.
Researchers sequenced the genomes of two extinct woolly mammoths and three modern Asian elephants, identifying genetic variants associated with traits such as hair development, fat storage, and temperature sensation. The study found that these changes likely enabled the mammoths to adapt to harsh Arctic environments.
The study identifies extensive genetic changes responsible for woolly mammoths' adaptations to arctic life, including genes linked to fat metabolism, insulin signaling, and temperature sensation. Researchers resurrected a mammoth gene involved in temperature sensation and characterized its protein product in the laboratory.
Genomics holds key to understanding ecological and evolutionary processes as Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technique is underutilised in invasion biology. NGS can transform our understanding of why non-native species adapt and thrive in new environments.
A global team has sequenced over 200 Ebola virus genomes to capture the fullest picture yet of how the virus is transmitted and changes over time. The study reveals that cross-border transmission played a smaller role in the outbreak than previously thought, and that the virus has begun to weed out mutations that do not benefit it.
A team at the DOE JGI has developed ProDeGe, a computational protocol for quick and automated removal of contaminant sequences from draft genomes. The tool classifies sequences as 'clean' or 'contaminant' and runs at a rate of 0.30 CPU core hours per megabase of sequence.
Researchers found that modern toothed whales have inherited defunct copies of the Mx1 and Mx2 genes, profoundly altering their immune systems. The study aims to preserve these cetaceans as they face extensive die-offs.
A new study at Cornell University identifies a gene duplication causing cucumbers to produce only female flowers, leading to increased yields in greenhouse production. The research builds on previous work and shows that the genetic variation affects over 1,600 genes in the cucumber genome.
A study on social amoebae reveals that genes for cooperation and cheating have reached a stalemate, with increased genetic diversity near the social genes suggesting a prolonged stalemate. The findings suggest that cheating can be successful only when it is rare, and fail when it becomes so numerous it pushes out cooperators.
Researchers observed genome-editing proteins using a combination of sliding and hopping to navigate the vast genome. The discovery provides insight into how these proteins can be engineered for improved efficiency and reduced off-target binding, potentially leading to more effective gene therapies.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified the genetic blueprint of a bacteria that produces ET-743, a compound extracted from a marine invertebrate. This discovery expands understanding of the microbe and could lead to lab-grown production of the cancer-fighting drug.
A new online tool called TB-Profiler can predict genetic resistance to tuberculosis drugs in a matter of minutes, improving the likelihood of cure for patients with drug-resistant TB. The tool uses genome sequence data to analyze and interpret resistance to 11 drugs used for treatment.
A team of researchers used DNA from frozen and dried specimens to analyze a dataset of 39 genomes, defining seven new suborders and the 'trunk' of the Agaricales tree. The study provides a framework for testing hypotheses of mushroom evolution and highlights the importance of fungaria as scientific resources.
Researchers find single protein, nuclear Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 1 (nFGFR1), orchestrates gene expression in embryo development. This discovery has potential to enhance understanding and treatment of cancers and congenital diseases.
Two bumblebee species' genomes have been sequenced, providing insights into their behavior and responses to environmental threats. The research highlights the importance of understanding bumblebee biology to address declining populations and ensure their conservation.
The study analyzed ancient mammoth genomes to understand population dynamics and genetic diversity. The results showed low genetic variation and inbreeding, indicating a small population size. The research provides insight into the woolly mammoth's evolutionary history and potential reasons for their extinction.
Researchers found a common genetic link between child prodigies and autism, specifically on chromosome 1. The study identified shared genetic markers in five prodigies and their family members with autism, suggesting a potential genetic component to exceptional abilities.
Researchers at the University of New Hampshire have discovered a new method to detect Vibrio parahaemolyticus, a bacterium that has contaminated oyster beds and sickened consumers in the Northeast. The detection platform uses genome sequencing and analysis to identify specific genes found only in the invasive strain.
A detailed genetic road map of Upland cotton has been created to improve crop yields, reduce water usage, and minimize pesticide applications. The new sequence will enable researchers to better understand the interactions between genes that determine fiber production and oil content in seeds.
Researchers aim to create the first complete genome sequence for dogwoods, enabling plant breeders to develop new varieties with improved traits. Citizen scientists will collect data on flowering patterns, flower color, and susceptibility to diseases.
Research suggests that inbreeding has genetically benefited mountain gorillas by eliminating deleterious variations, contributing to their survival. This discovery challenges the assumption that low genetic diversity makes these animals more susceptible to environmental changes and diseases.
Researchers analyzed whole genomes of seven mountain gorillas, revealing genetic adaptations to small populations and a surprisingly low number of harmful genetic variations. This new understanding provides valuable insight into how apes adapt genetically to living in small populations.
Researchers used longer-read sequencing technology to reconstruct microbial communities, revealing over 400 previously unknown species and improving understanding of environmental processes.
Researchers developed a strategy to identify and genotype SNPs in complex cotton genomes using genotyping-by-sequencing. The approach employs Stacks software to enrich for orthologous DNA fragments, allowing for detection of polymorphisms between individuals.
Scientists at Kansas State University have developed a haplotype map of wheat that provides a detailed description of genetic differences in worldwide wheat lines. This study enables the precise mapping of genes and increases the selection of best lines for breeding, leading to faster release times for new varieties.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a more efficient method to edit the mosquito genome using CRISPR-Cas9, enabling faster studies of disease-causing genes. This breakthrough may aid in developing novel strategies to control mosquito-borne diseases and reduce their impact on human health.
A recent study found that MRSA can persist in households for years, spreading from person to person and evolving genetically. The bacteria can be transmitted through household members, especially those with skin infections, and can even acquire extraneous DNA over time.
A research group including a UF expert has located and narrowed down genes that play a role in Type 1 diabetes. The findings will help predict who might develop the disease and how to prevent it, leading to more effective treatments.
The genome of Ancylostoma ceylanicum, a nematode that infects up to 400 million people worldwide, has been sequenced. The study identified genes active during infection and potential drug targets. The findings could lead to new treatments for parasitic hookworms.
Scientists capture first detailed images of ultra-small bacteria, average volume of 0.009 cubic microns, with unique internal structure and metabolism. The discovery sheds light on the role of microbes in climate, food and water supply, and ecosystems.
An international team analyzed 49 fungal genomes, revealing that key genome adaptation enabling symbiosis evolved independently in numerous lines of fungi. The study provides crucial information on how symbiosis between fungi and trees evolved, enabling scientists to improve prediction of reaction to environmental modifications.
A team of researchers analyzed 49 fungal genomes, revealing that mycorrhizal fungi evolved independently in many fungal lineages. The study also found that up to 40% of symbiosis-induced genes were restricted to a single mycorrhizal species.
Researchers have discovered that Alu RNAs form complexes with specific proteins, regulating ribosome activity and contributing to cell immunity. This process helps cells adapt to stress and defend against viruses, such as HIV and hepatitis C.
A University of Michigan-led study has found that penguins have lost the genes for the umami and bitter tastes, as well as a sweeter taste, which is puzzling given their diet of fish. The loss of these tastes likely occurred due to ancient climate-cooling events in Antarctica.
The Eastern tiger swallowtail's genome has been sequenced, revealing mutations in proteins responsible for its unique circadian rhythm and stinky substance used to scare off predators. This breakthrough opens the door for more insect genome sequencing projects at an affordable price.
A large-scale study confirms BGI's NIFTY test accuracy for trisomy 21, 18, and 13 in nearly 147,000 pregnancies, showing high sensitivity and specificity. The study also found that high-quality NIPT service can be achieved with strict protocols and standards.
Scientists have identified a fast-growing cyanobacterial strain, Synechococcus elongatus UTEX 2973, which grows at over 50% per hour. The strain's genome is remarkably similar to another widely studied cyanobacterium, and its genetic determinants of rapid growth may hold the key to unlocking new biotech applications.
Researchers identified a set of gene loci responsible for thermostatic regulation in Chinese pigs, highlighting the importance of introgression in adaptation. The study found that adaptations to cold and hot environments were triggered by interspecies introgression, providing insights into evolutionary history and adaptation mechanisms.
A recent study of 340 whole genomes from 85 families with two children affected by autism found that most siblings share different autism-linked genes. The research, led by Stephen Scherer, provides new insights into the complex genetic underpinnings of autism and suggests that each child with autism is unique.
Researchers have developed a detailed positional cloning protocol to locate genes within the large and complex maize genome. This technique allows for the identification of genetic markers linked to specific traits, enabling precise localization of candidate regions until the gene is identified.
A new pipeline combines multiple gene-finding tools to identify genetic markers for phylogenetic study from limited genomic data. The approach, MAKER2, was used to develop loci useful for phylogenetic study in the flowering plant genus Penstemon.
A nationwide project has revealed 12 new genetic causes of developmental disorders, including intellectual disabilities and congenital heart defects. The Deciphering Developmental Disorders (DDD) project sequenced DNA from over 1,000 children to identify the genes responsible for their conditions.
A novel orthomyxovirus, Wellfleet Bay virus (WFBV), has been linked to cyclic mass mortality events in eider ducks on Cape Cod. The study found that WFBV is likely tick-borne and contributes to the deaths, but other factors such as parasitic worms and stress may also play a role.
A recent study using whole genome sequencing of ancient and modern horses has identified 125 candidate genes involved in physical and behavioral traits. The research also highlights the 'cost of domestication', including increased levels of inbreeding and deleterious mutations in domesticated horses.
Scientists sequenced the genomes of 48 bird species to reveal a new family tree for birds and understand their rapid evolution after the mass extinction. The study resolves fundamental questions about bird diversity and adaptations.
A team of scientists completed the largest whole genome study of a single class of animals to date, sequencing and comparing full genomes of 48 bird species. The study resolves early branches in the tree of life of modern birds, providing new insights into their evolutionary history and adaptation to different lifestyles.