New UMBC research finds that viruses may have “eyes and ears” on us
Researchers at the University of Maryland Baltimore County have discovered that some viruses can sense their environment and
Genome Sequencing
Articles tagged with Genome Sequencing
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First-ever axolotl stereo-seq reveals brain regeneration insights
Researchers studied axolotls to understand brain regeneration, finding similarities between development and regeneration processes. They discovered a rejuvenated state of development during regeneration, which could lead to improved treatments for severe injuries in humans.
Genomic attributes explained by certain life history traits in Neoavian birds
A recent study published in Science Advances reveals a correlation between genomic attributes and life history traits in Neoavian birds. The researchers found that generation time and body mass are associated with the length of orthologous microsatellites, transposable elements, and DNA deletions.
Study reveals aggressive prostate cancer linked to ancestral heritage
Researchers have identified genetic signatures explaining ethnic differences in prostate cancer severity, particularly in African men. The study found a new prostate cancer taxonomy and cancer drivers that predict life-threatening cancers, providing a critical key to understanding the disease.
Artificial protein shell to combat COVID-19
Researchers at Indian Institute of Science create a novel virus-like particle (VLP) to safely study SARS-CoV-2 mutations and trigger an immune response. The VLP is stable, can attach to host cells, and elicit antibodies that neutralize the live virus.
Novel newborn screening system uses rapid whole genome sequencing and acute management guidance to screen and diagnosis genetic diseases
A scalable prototype for newborn screening, including rapid Whole Genome Sequencing and virtual acute management guidance, has been developed to rapidly screen for several hundred genetic diseases. The system demonstrates feasibility in identifying genetic diseases with effective interventions.
Museum collections indicate bees increasingly stressed by changes in climate over the past 100 years
Scientists analyzed UK bumblebee populations and found evidence of increasing stress due to climate change, with higher asymmetry in wing shapes linked to hotter and wetter years. The study used ancient DNA methods to determine genetic diversity loss and adaptability of bee genomes over time.
The aging heart accumulates mutations — while losing the ability to repair them
Researchers from Boston Children's Hospital found that aging heart muscle cells accumulate new genetic mutations over time, but lose the ability to repair them. This accumulation of mutations can push the heart past a tipping point into disease.
COVID-19 genomic recombination is uncommon but disproportionately occurs in spike protein region
A recent study analyzed millions of SARS-CoV-2 genomes and found that recombination occurs more frequently in the spike protein region. The researchers developed a new software, RIPPLES, to detect this phenomenon, which is crucial for understanding the evolutionary history of the virus.
Nearly a hundred genes have been lost during the woolly mammoth’s evolution
Researchers found 87 genes affected by deletions or short insertions in the woolly mammoth genome, potentially impacting its adaptability to cold environments. These changes may have contributed to unique traits such as fur growth and hair shape.
Sixty-third supplement to the AOS check-list of North American birds publishes today in ornithology
The Sixty-third Supplement to the Check-list of North American Birds updates bird classifications, including meadowlark species splits, hummingbird recognitions, kite separations, and the addition of a giant-petrel. New subspecies are also recognized for some bird species, reflecting advances in genetic analysis.
Scientists now understand the genetics responsible for leaf mimicry in butterfly wings
Researchers uncover the 'cortex' gene responsible for leaf mimicry in Kallima butterflies, revealing a complex interplay between genetics and environmental pressures. The study provides insights into the evolution of this remarkable adaptation and its potential applications in understanding biodiversity.
Ancient DNA clarifies the early history of American colonial horses
A study published in PLOS ONE analyzed the oldest domestic horse specimen from the Americas, revealing a genetic lineage linked to Southern Europe. The findings support the hypothesis that horses originated on the Iberian Peninsula and highlight the importance of ancient DNA in understanding cultural and historical processes.
Prehistoric roots of ‘cold sore’ virus traced through ancient herpes DNA
Scientists uncover ancient herpes DNA, revealing the virus's prehistoric origins around 5,000 years ago. The discovery suggests a link between the emergence of facial herpes and cultural practices like romantic and sexual kissing in Europe during the Bronze Age.
Scientists engineer DNA “receipt book” to store cells’ history
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes developed a tool called Retro-Cascorder, which logs a cell's genetic activity for days at a time. This allows scientists to create living biosensors that can record changes to their environment.
Study supports potential of genome-to-treatment (GTRx™) to guide physicians in the management of 500 treatable genetic diseases
A study published in Nature Communications describes the performance of GTRx, an automated disease management system that integrates rapid Whole Genome Sequencing diagnosis with analysis pipeline. The system provides clinical decision support to guide physicians in selecting optimal therapies for critically ill infants and children.
COVID-19 tied to wildlife sales at Chinese market; alternative scenarios extremely unlikely, studies find
Researchers confirm COVID-19 originated from live animals sold at Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan, China. The market was the epicenter of the epidemic, with vendors getting infected first and setting off a chain of infections.
ACP offers guidance on the ethical use of genetic testing and precision medicine
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has issued a position paper on the ethical use of genetic testing and precision medicine in internal medicine. The guidelines address key issues such as incidental findings, education for physicians and patients, and counseling needs. ACP emphasizes the need for ongoing surveillance and anticoag...
Genomic research supports recognizing new scrub jay species in Texas and Mexico
Genomic data reveals two distinct species of scrub jays: A. sumichrasti, endemic to southern Mexico, and A. texana, found only in Texas. The study's findings support the recognition of these new species based on phenotypic, behavioral, and genetic differences.
Awash in potential: Wastewater provides early detection of SARS-CoV-2 virus
Researchers at UC San Diego and Scripps Research developed a wastewater sequencing tool to track regional infection dynamics. This approach proved effective in identifying emerging variants and predicting COVID-19 surges, enabling early detection of cases and informing public health interventions.
‘Supergene’ wreaks havoc in a genome
Researchers have discovered a selfish genetic element, known as Segregation Distorter (SD), that skews genetic inheritance. SD has caused dramatic changes in chromosome organization and genetic diversity, leading to the accumulation of deleterious mutations.
Capturing California’s biodiversity for the future of conservation
The California Conservation Genomics Project is generating high-quality data to inform conservation policy, mapping genetic diversity across the state's diverse ecosystems. By analyzing over 22,000 genomes, researchers aim to identify critical habitats for protection and create a snapshot of genomic biodiversity.
Aging-US | Time makes histone H3 modifications drift in mouse liver
Researchers found global redistribution of histone H3 modifications with time, particularly in intergenic regions and near transcription start sites. Caloric restriction diet feeding reduced the extent of changes occurring during the first year of life in these genomic regions.
Ice Age wolf DNA reveals dogs trace ancestry to two separate wolf populations
Researchers found that dogs derive ancestry from at least two separate wolf populations, an eastern source and a more westerly source. The study, published in Nature, analyzed 72 ancient wolf genomes spanning the last 100,000 years and suggests that domestication occurred in multiple places.
Wild tomato genome will benefit domesticated cousins
A reference genome for the wild relative of cultivated tomatoes has been developed to improve crop yields and disease resistance. Researchers have also created online tools to facilitate gene discovery and analysis.
Scientists use human breast milk to treat prolonged COVID-19 in a severely immunodeficient patient
A Brazilian patient with a rare genetic disease was treated with breast milk donated by a vaccinated woman, boosting her IgA levels and eliminating the virus. The treatment was successful after a week, with the patient testing negative twice at ten-day intervals.
The secret lives of mites in the skin of our faces
Researchers analyzed DNA of Demodex folliculorum mites living in human hair follicles, finding unusual body features and behaviors due to their isolated existence. The study suggests these mites may transition from external parasites to internal symbionts as they shed unnecessary genes and cells.
1,700-year-old Korean genomes show genetic heterogeneity in Three Kingdoms period Gaya
A 1,700-year-old genome study from Korea reveals greater genetic heterogeneity among ancient Gaya confederacy individuals compared to modern Koreans. The findings suggest that the Korean peninsula experienced more genetic diversity in the past, with ancient Koreans intermixing within the region.
Origins of the Black Death identified
Ancient DNA analysis reveals that an epidemic devastated a local community in Kyrgyzstan in 1338 and 1339, linked to the Black Death. The study suggests that the Black Death's ancestor originated in Central Asia, close to Lake Issyk Kul.
New alga species named for poet Amanda Gorman
Researchers at Cornell University named a new green alga species after poet Amanda Gorman, who inspired them during a challenging year. The discovery was made by accident while studying hornwort plants and contains unique DNA from fungi and bacteria.
Unravelling the diversity of the wild house mouse
Scientists have analyzed whole genome sequences of 98 wild house mice from across Europe and Asia, revealing a greater genetic diversity than previously thought. The study confirms three primary subspecies and infers the population history, with strong evidence for interbreeding between subspecies in East, Southeast, and South Asia.
Nanopore sequencing quickly and accurately diagnoses rare genetic disorders
Researchers used nanopore sequencing to detect specific genomic disorders in a fraction of the time it takes traditional testing. The study showed that diagnosis of larger chromosomal alterations could be made in one day, while smaller CNVs took two days.
Chromatin originated in ancient microbes one to two billion years ago
Researchers at the Center for Genomic Regulation (CRG) found that chromatin, a genetic architecture that protects DNA and regulates gene expression, originated in ancient microbes between 1-2 billion years ago. This eukaryotic innovation has been essential for life since its emergence.
Fernandina Island Galapagos giant tortoise is not extinct
A Galapagos giant tortoise species previously believed to be extinct has been confirmed to still exist, thanks to genetic research that sequenced the genome of a single specimen and compared it with living individuals. The study's findings offer hope for the recovery of this species.
New species of alga named for poet Amanda Gorman
A group of researchers discovered a new species of green algae, Gormaniella terricola, in Central New York State. The alga's unique chloroplast genome was found to contain DNA from fungi and bacteria, highlighting the importance of horizontal transfer.
‘Fantastic giant tortoise,’ believed extinct, confirmed alive in the Galápagos
A giant tortoise from the Fernandina Island species, believed extinct for over a century, has been confirmed alive through genetic sequencing. The discovery opens up new questions about its evolutionary relationship to other Galápagos tortoises and provides hope for conservation efforts.
New genomic tools shed light on the evolutionary history of chimpanzees and contribute to their conservation
An international research team has created the largest and most detailed genomic diversity atlas of wild chimpanzees, revealing their evolutionary history and genetic diversity. The study sheds light on demographic past, genetic differentiation, and exchanges between subspecies, providing valuable insights for conservation.
Researchers design a method to pinpoint the origin of illegally traded chimpanzees
The study creates a catalogue of genomic diversity for endangered chimpanzees, allowing researchers to pinpoint the origin of confiscated animals within 100 kilometers. This information can support conservation efforts and combat the illegal trade of chimpanzees.
Researchers identify ancient bird behind giant eggs from Down Under
A team of researchers has identified the ancient bird species behind giant prehistoric eggs in Australia, resolving a years-long debate. The study found that the eggs belonged to a unique duck-like line of megafauna known as the 'Demon Ducks of Doom', which was laid by the Genyornis newtoni bird.
Reference genomes provide first insights into genetic roots of mustelid physiological and behavioural diversity
A study comparing whole genomes of several mustelids, including the tayra and wolverine, identifies multiple sources of genomic variation contributing to species-specific traits. The research sheds light on how these adaptations evolved in response to different ecological challenges.
A family of termites has been traversing the world’s oceans for millions of years
Researchers mapped out the natural history of drywood termites, revealing oceanic voyages that accelerated their evolution and confirmed recent dispersals via humans. The study also challenged the common assumption of primitive lifestyles, highlighting the diversity and complexity of termite social behavior.
Coeliac cereal – Research shows oats could be the answer
Researchers from Edith Cowan University, CSIRO, and WEHI have decoded the genome of oats, revealing why they may be a suitable alternative to wheat for those with coeliac disease. The study found that oats contain fewer gluten-like proteins, making them a potentially healthier option.
The oat genome unlocks the unique health benefits of oats
The oat genome has been fully sequenced, revealing key genes responsible for its health-promoting properties, including beta-glucans that reduce cholesterol and alleviate metabolic diseases. This breakthrough enables targeted breeding for more nutritious and sustainable oats.
Understanding the genomic modifications in transgenic papaya
A new study has identified genomic modifications in the transgenic papaya 'SunUp', which was developed to resist the papaya ringspot virus. The researchers used advanced sequencing technologies to read long stretches of DNA and found that the insertion did not cause any change in gene expression.
Ancient DNA gives new insights into 'lost' Indigenous people of Uruguay
Whole genome sequences of ancient Uruguayan Indigenous people provide a genetic snapshot of populations before European military campaigns decimated them. The results support the theory of separate migrations into South America, contradicting the idea of a single Native American race across North and South America.
Probe of DNA repeats reveals genetic link to schizophrenia
Researchers found a genetic link between long repeated DNA sequences and schizophrenia. The study discovered rare tandem repeat expansions near genes associated with the disorder, contributing to dysfunction at synapses and disrupting gene function.
Gene that shapes mutation rate found in mice
Researchers identified a region of the mouse genome associated with higher mutation rates, which is linked to a specific gene called Mutyh. This finding supports the theory that genetic differences can affect mutation rates, and may also shed light on cancer susceptibility.
Hybrid strains make insidious parasite more dangerous
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have mapped the formation of hybrid strains in Trypanosoma cruzi, a parasite causing chronic infection and severe symptoms. These hybrids are more effective at evading the immune system and causing disease, but understanding their formation can help develop new diagnostic and treatment methods.
Genetic options ensure rust resistance is toast
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) have identified a stem rust resistance gene in Aegilops sharonensis and transferred it to common wheat. The new transgenic wheat lines show high levels of resistance to the stem rust pathogen, providing hope for mitigating the devastating effects of climate change.
Squid and octopus genome studies reveal how cephalopods’ unique traits evolved
Researchers studied the genomes of squid, octopus, and cuttlefish to understand how they developed complex behaviors and organs. The studies found that cephalopod genomes are highly rearranged, with novel gene families that contribute to their unique traits, such as large brains and camouflage capabilities.
BGI-led international team releases first panoramic atlases of life in cell
An international team led by BGI-Research has produced the first spatiotemporal maps of cellular dynamics in mice, Drosophila, zebrafish, and Arabidopsis using Stereo-seq technology. This breakthrough enables scientists to analyze the distribution and placement of molecules and cells in situ and over time.
Researchers discover new species of salamander from Gulf Coastal plains hotspot
A new species of dusky salamander has been discovered in the Gulf Coastal Plain of Mississippi and Alabama, increasing knowledge of the region's biodiversity. The species, Desmognathus pascagoula, is similar to another recently discovered species but has distinct morphological, genetic, and geographic characteristics.
Mapping study yields novel insights into DNA-protein connection, paving way for researchers to target new treatments
Researchers have mapped the connections between DNA and blood proteins in two large populations, providing insights into disease causes and potential treatment targets. The study's findings could shed light on health disparities and help develop new therapies.
How genome organization influences cell fate
A team of researchers at UC Riverside has discovered that a protein complex called CAF-1 controls genome organization to maintain lineage fidelity in blood stem cells. The study found that CAF-1 keeps specific genomic sites compacted and inaccessible to transcription factors, ensuring the expression of lineage-specific genes.
Genetic changes differed, increased in people with Alzheimer’s disease
Researchers found that somatic mutations accumulated at a faster rate in Alzheimer's disease patients' brain cells, leading to DNA damage and dysfunction. This discovery provides a window into the molecular events of AD pathogenesis, potentially leading to novel treatments targeting these pathways.
Study suggests why most smokers don’t get lung cancer
A recent study led by scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine suggests that some smokers have robust mechanisms to limit mutations, protecting them from lung cancer. The findings could help identify those with an increased risk for the disease and warrant close monitoring.
New resource could provide clues on the past, present, and future of clownfish
Researchers have assembled a comprehensive genome of the false clownfish, providing insights into its ecological behavior, evolutionary history and adaptability. The genome comparison with its orange-clownfish cousin reveals unique genes related to neurobiology, affecting their behavior and ecology.
Researchers discover new neurodevelopmental disorder
Australian researchers have discovered a new neurodevelopmental disorder linked to the tumor suppressor gene FBXW7. The condition causes mild to severe developmental delay, intellectual disability, and other symptoms, with genetic variations in this gene found in 28 individuals from 32 families worldwide.
Genetic 'hotspots' that speed up and slow down brain aging could provide new targets for Alzheimer's drugs
Researchers have discovered 15 genomic loci that either accelerate or decelerate brain aging, offering potential new drug targets to combat Alzheimer's disease and other degenerative brain disorders. The study, led by USC researchers, found overlap with genes involved in depression, schizophrenia, and cognitive functioning.
Study describes new method for probing the bewildering diversity of the microbiom
A new technique called Operational Genomic Units (OGU) allows for improved resolution and simplicity in analyzing microbiome samples. By using individual genomes as basic units, researchers can pinpoint biologically relevant characteristics such as age and sex with greater accuracy.