Research reading and comparing genomes. Covers disease redefinition, pangenome-guided breeding, crop pathogens, and reference genomes for neuroscience.
A large international group of scientists has published the results of a first-ever look at the genome of dozens of common birds, revealing how modern birds evolved after the mass extinction that wiped out dinosaurs. The research also provides insight into how songbirds learn to sing and brain connection with human speech.
The study provides insights into how penguins have adapted to the cold Antarctic environment through complex biological systems. The researchers identified genes related to beta-keratins, lipid metabolism, and forelimb evolution that are unique to penguins.
An international team has sequenced and compared full genomes of 48 bird species to resolve the timing and relationships of modern birds. The study suggests that only a few bird lineages survived the mass extinction event, giving rise to the 10,000 Neoaves species that comprise 95% of all bird species.
Researchers reconstructed a partial genome of the common ancestor of crocodiles, birds, and dinosaurs, showing an exceptionally slow rate of genome evolution in crocodilians. The team found that population sizes declined sharply during the last ice age, with alligator populations experiencing a continuous decline.
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.
A global collaboration has sequenced and compared full genomes of 48 bird species, revealing the origins of feathers, flight, song, and sex chromosomes. The study resolves key debates on bird family trees and evolutionary timelines.
A team of scientists has developed a detailed map of the bird genome, shedding light on their evolution and diversification. The study reveals that birds have lost hundreds of genes compared to humans, leading to unique traits such as lighter skeletons and respiratory systems.
Researchers at Scripps Translational Science Institute are using DNA to investigate sudden deaths in San Diego County, aiming to identify genetic mechanisms and develop preventative screening programs. The study hopes to provide closure for families and potentially save lives.
A new study published in Genome Research tracked the spread of MRSA in a hospital with high transmission rates using genome sequencing. The team identified multiple distinct clades of MRSA and confirmed numerous transmission events between patients, highlighting the importance of infection control measures such as hand-washing.
Researchers used genome sequencing to track MRSA spread in a Thai hospital with high transmission rates, revealing multiple distinct clades and transmission events between patients and staff. The study highlights the need for improved hand hygiene practices and measures of within-host bacterial diversity.
Researchers at Texas Biomed are using new genomic tools to analyze individual malaria parasites, allowing for more effective treatment and vaccine design.
Researchers have discovered that electric eels use a Taser-like system to locate and incapacitate their prey. The eel emits high-frequency pulses that cause muscle contractions, temporarily paralyzing the prey within three to four milliseconds.
A study published in Genetics in Medicine found that most new parents are interested in genomic sequencing for their newborns. The study surveyed 514 parents within 48 hours of birth and found that 82.7% were somewhat, very, or extremely interested in the testing.
A new study published in Science Translational Medicine confirms the benefits of genomic medicine in diagnosing children with neurologic disorders. Genomic testing has ended diagnostic odysseys for families, leading to changes in clinical impressions and management, while also reducing wait times by over six years.
The genome of Strigamia maritima, a blind Scottish centipede, has been sequenced, providing insights into the genetic basis of centipede biology and the diversification of arthropods. The study reveals that these animals have lost genes encoding light receptors and circadian rhythm, suggesting alternative detection mechanisms.
Researchers used whole genome sequencing to track and control an Acinetobacter baumannii outbreak at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, identifying transmission hotspots and implementing new decontamination protocols. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of real-time genome sequencing in controlling hospital outbreaks.
The house fly genome project has uncovered genes responsible for male traits that evolve exceptionally fast and are gained and lost from the genome at a high rate. These findings hold promise for developing pest control strategies that do not rely on chemical pesticides, by targeting sex determination systems.
Researchers discovered contaminating bacterial and viral sequences in animal and plant genomes, highlighting the importance of careful screening. The study found unexpected DNA mixtures, including cow and sheep DNA in a supposedly finished genome, emphasizing the need for rigorous data analysis.
Genomic tests using next generation sequencing technologies face access issues due to inadequate evidence on clinical utility. Experts suggest a four-pronged approach to improve access, including robust validation studies, prioritizing research and evidence, and evolving the evidence review process.
Researchers have discovered a novel enzyme production strategy in shipworms that breaks down wood, shedding light on the potential for these bivalves to produce biofuels. The study's findings could provide valuable insights and tools for biomass-based industries.
Researchers at Scripps Translational Science Institute have identified a new genetic cause of epileptic encephalopathy, a severe and complex form of epilepsy. The KCNB1 gene mutation was found in a 10-year-old girl, offering new treatment options for her condition.
The discovery of novel microbial life through genomic technologies has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of Earth's biodiversity. Eddy Rubin proposes a new framework for categorizing microbial life into explored, unexplored, and undiscovered categories.
The Jujube genome has the highest degree of heterozygosity among sequenced plants, but BGI Tech's sequencing technology successfully decoded 98.6% of its genes, identifying 32,808 genes. This breakthrough will facilitate genetic improvement and selective breeding of Buckthorn fruit trees.
The researchers sequenced the genome of enterovirus D68 from patients treated at St. Louis Children's Hospital, enabling additional research and potential diagnostic tests. The study found that seven of nine patients with the D68 strain had severe disease requiring ICU admission.
Researchers identified the TUBA4A gene as associated with familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurological disorder. The mutated protein weakens the microtubule network, leading to motor neuron death and paralysis.
Researchers analyzed 360 tomato varieties and wild strains to understand the impact of domestication and breeding on cultivated tomatoes. The study identified genes responsible for larger fruit size and increased disease resistance, but also found areas of genetic uniformity that could be addressed in future breeding.
The Scripps Research Institute and Scripps Translational Science Institute will receive funding for a new Center for Excellence in Big Data Computing, enabling the collective mining of biomedical data. The initiative aims to accelerate research efforts on rare diseases using open approaches and citizen science platforms.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a database that analyzes microbial genomic data to speed up the discovery of new therapeutic drugs. The database allows scientists to identify promising gene clusters and predict the production of natural products, enabling them to target specific bacterial strains for study.
A team of researchers has demonstrated a means by which CRISPR/Cas9 can be programmed to recognize and cleave RNA at sequence-specific target sites. This allows for direct RNA transcript detection, analysis and manipulation, paving the way for transformative studies in RNA function.
Scientists have created a global database that increases detailed knowledge of the cattle genome by several orders of magnitude. The database contains genomes of over 1,200 animals from various breeds, providing a comprehensive resource for studying cattle genetics and livestock history.
A four-year National Science Foundation-funded project aims to resolve the evolutionary relationships of zygomycetes through genome sequencing, fossil analysis, and bioimaging. The project will also develop educational resources highlighting the importance of this poorly known group of fungi.
Researchers have sequenced an ancient Iberian pig genome from the 16th century, finding it closely related to today's Iberian pig breed. The study suggests no significant changes in the genome over the past five centuries.
A rare genetic variant in the APOC3 gene has been identified as a significant contributor to reduced triglyceride levels, associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The study analyzed data from 4,000 healthy individuals and found that approximately 0.2% of the population carries this variant.
Researchers uncover new insights into viral infections influencing SUP05 ecology and metabolic potential in oxygen-minimum zones. The study reveals viruses play a crucial role in marine microbial ecology below sunlit surface waters, with implications for ocean carbon cycling.
The Glanville fritillary genome, approximately 390 million base pairs long, has been fully sequenced at the University of Helsinki. The study confirms a key hypothesis about the ancestral lepidopteran species' chromosome count, revealing stability over 140 million years.
A team of scientists used the Hyb-Seq method to sequence hundreds of nuclear loci and plastomes from milkweeds, providing a significant advance over previous methods. This approach combines target enrichment and genome skimming to reduce genomic complexity and increase sequencing efficiency.
Researchers sequenced five African cichlid fish genomes to understand the molecular basis of adaptation in vertebrates. They found a variety of genomic changes that enabled the fishes to thrive in new habitats and ecological niches.
Rice scientists have made crucial contributions to understanding its complex agronomic traits by employing a genetics-based strategy. The study has identified key genes involved in shoot architecture, leaf development, and grain quality, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes.
Researchers at UC San Diego have sequenced the complete genome of the EDL933 E. coli strain, a common cause of food poisoning outbreaks in the US. The full genome sequence provides precise locations of jumping genes, potentially aiding in tracking and treating future outbreaks.
Researchers studied genetic variation in wild and domesticated rabbits to understand the domestication process. The study found that genes controlling brain development and nervous system were key to transforming wild rabbits into tame ones.
Researchers sequenced over 99 Ebola virus genomes from 78 patients in Sierra Leone, finding more than 300 genetic changes that make the 2014 Ebola virus distinct from previous outbreaks. The data provides insights into the outbreak's origin, transmission, and potential targets for diagnostics, vaccines, and therapies.
A global analysis of honeybee genome variation reveals high levels of genetic diversity and suggests the species originated from Asia. The study also identifies specific mutations linked to adaptation to climate and pathogens, providing new insights into evolution and genetic adaptation.
The completed Canola genome sequence sheds light on its complex evolutionary history with Brassica rapa and Brassica oleracea. Researchers aim to use this knowledge to improve canola traits such as flowering time, disease resistance and nutritional content.
A new deep sequencing approach has identified subtle somatic mutations in patients with brain disorders, revealing previously missed genetic causes. The technique complements whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing, enabling the detection of mutations in as few as 10% of patients' blood cells.
A new statistical model predicts the performance of hybrid rice, revolutionizing hybrid breeding in agriculture. The UC Riverside-led research uses genomic prediction to identify high-performance hybrids, increasing grain production and achieving global food security.
The Antarctic midge's small genome lacks many DNA segments and repeat elements found in most animal genomes. This 'bare-bones' genome may be an evolutionary answer to surviving the cold conditions of Antarctica.
Researchers at UC Davis have sequenced the genome of Solanum pennellii, a wild relative of the domestic tomato. The new data reveals genes related to drought resistance, fruit development, and flavor compounds.
Researchers have sequenced the whole genomes of 234 individual bulls, enabling trait-mapping for improved cattle breeding. The study identified mutations associated with negative impacts on animal health, welfare, and productivity, offering a leverage tool for breeders to extrapolate sequence information to numerous descendants.
Scientists at Helmholtz Munich have gained new insights into the complex gene-regulatory interactions in bread wheat, enabling them to better understand how a polyploid genome is regulated. The study's findings hold promise for improving breeding, agricultural cultivation and industrial properties of bread wheat.
A team of researchers from Kansas State University has completed a chromosome-based draft of the wheat genome, providing a valuable resource for plant science researchers and breeders. The genetic blueprint will enable the rapid location of specific genes controlling complex traits such as yield, grain quality, and disease resistance.
Using lab-cultured bacteria as 'bait,' researchers sequenced complete and partial genomes of 10 million viruses from an ocean water sample, revealing distinct categories and enabling recognition of actual virus populations. This breakthrough enables scientists to study the ecology and evolution of viruses in nature.
A groundbreaking study by Harvard University researchers shows that orb-weaver spiders do not share a single origin, contrary to long-held popular opinion. The study's findings suggest that the orb web evolved independently in two groups of spiders, with distinct behaviors and silk characteristics.
The International Wheat Genome Sequencing Consortium has released a genetic blueprint for bread wheat, enabling researchers to rapidly locate specific genes on individual chromosomes. This milestone brings the organization closer to its goal of obtaining a complete reference sequence of the hexaploid bread wheat genome within three years.
A study published in JAMA found that whole-exome sequencing successfully identified the underlying gene mutations causing mitochondrial respiratory chain defects, leading to a 60% diagnostic yield. This approach outperformed traditional methods, detecting new potential disease genes and improving the diagnosis of neurometabolic disorders.
A genetic discovery identifies the VIR gene responsible for fruit color change, allowing for more efficient harvesting and increased oil yield. The VIR gene offers a reliable visual cue for oil palm fruit ripeness, paving the way to boost productivity and conserve sensitive wild habitats.
The discovery of the electric eel genome sequence sheds light on the genetic blueprint used to evolve complex, novel organs. Researchers found that fishes with electric organs have evolved six times in history to produce electricity outside their bodies.
A study by LSTM researchers reveals that closely related Anopheles gambiae and A. coluzzii mosquito species can exchange genetic variation to adapt to environmental changes. The transfer of a major insecticide resistance mutation resulted in no detectable impact on reproductive isolation, contrary to expected outcomes.
Scientists at USAMRIID have proposed a set of standards for sequencing viral genomes, providing a common 'language' among researchers. The standards will facilitate the analysis and application of genome sequences across various fields, including diagnostics, vaccine development, and therapeutics.
Researchers analyzed 33 fungal genomes to determine if wood-decaying fungi fall under one of two general classes. They found that some fungi, such as Botryobasidium botryosum and Jaapia argillacea, show similarities to white rot fungi but lack key enzymes, complicating the traditional categorization.
Despite vast genomic data, researchers from the University of Southern Denmark found that DNA sequencing alone cannot distinguish between pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria. The team suggests that proteins provide more valuable knowledge than DNA in understanding bacterial behavior and disease-causing properties. This raises questi...