Research reading and comparing genomes. Covers disease redefinition, pangenome-guided breeding, crop pathogens, and reference genomes for neuroscience.
Researchers identify nearly 108,000 previously undetected structural variants and 278 SV hotspots in diverse human populations. The findings provide fundamental insights into the structure and variation of the human genome.
Researchers have developed a new method, Cre-Controlled CRISPR, which combines the benefits of the Cre/lox system and CRISPR/Cas9 genetic scissors for conditional gene inactivation. This approach allows for faster and easier gene editing with reduced labor needed to flank genes with lox sequences.
A recent study has shed new light on the evolutionary history and genomic variation of tigers, revealing population bottlenecks and recent divergence between subspecies. The research highlights the importance of local adaptation and genetic rescue efforts in tiger conservation.
A new study reveals that European Starlings in North America underwent rapid local adaptation, adjusting to temperature and rainfall variations through subtle genetic changes. The species' massive population size enabled the spread of beneficial gene variants across generations.
Researchers have discovered that non-teleost ray-finned fishes possess genetic traits similar to those of lobe- and ray-finned fishes, including limb development and respiratory systems. These findings provide crucial insights into the water-to-land transition during vertebrate evolution.
The Human Genome Project has enabled millions to access their personal genomic information, but diversity gaps persist in clinical trials. Experts call for increased Indigenous participation, open data sharing, and multidisciplinary approaches to address biases and develop polygenic risk scores for diverse communities.
Researchers have sequenced over 700 novel microbial genomes from the gut microbiome of a goat, discovering that fungi play a disproportionate role in biomass degradation. The study also found that fungi are more efficient at producing methane, a potential game-changer for renewable energy production.
Researchers have produced a high-quality reference sequence of the complex switchgrass genome using samples from 10 experimental gardens across eight states. This allows breeders to test what genes affect the plant's adaptability to various environmental conditions and associate climate adaptations with switchgrass biology.
Researchers at University of Tsukuba have produced genome sequences of two wild tomato ancestors, Solanum pimpinellifolium and S. lycopersicum var. cerasiforme, which will aid in breeding improved crop varieties with enhanced disease resistance, climate tolerance, and taste.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have identified three distinct populations of switchgrass with unique adaptations to climate, paving the way for breeding high-yielding varieties matched to specific climates. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and sustainable biofuel production.
Researchers have produced the most comprehensive genome of Sapria himalayana, a major Rafflesiaceae lineage found in Southeast Asia. The analysis revealed an astonishing degree of gene loss and surprising amounts of gene theft from ancient and modern hosts, offering new insights into the evolution of flowering plants.
Researchers developed a novel method to sequence RNA from wastewater, detecting complete and nearly complete SARS-CoV-2 genomes. This approach provides early signal detection of new variants, enhancing control measures.
Researchers developed a simple barcoding system to reduce sequencing errors in Oxford Nanopore Technologies' MinION device, enabling accurate analysis of microorganisms like SARS-CoV-2. The new method achieves error rates below 0.005% and can process long stretches of DNA up to 10 times longer than conventional technologies.
Researchers sequenced 107 microalgae species from diverse locations to gain insights into genomic differences in saltwater and freshwater microalgae. The study reveals fundamental differences in nuclear and cellular membranes between the two, with marine species containing more viral-origin genes.
A £1.2M grant will upgrade the CLIMB COVID-19 project's computational equipment to process genomic data globally. Researchers can analyze genomes from local populations in relation to global datasets, facilitating equitable data sharing and fighting pandemic diseases.
Advanced sequencing technique reveals 19 new RNA mycoviruses in fungus Aspergillus, including 9 undetected by conventional methods. The study also identifies novel RdRp gene structures, challenging existing understanding of RNA virus genetics.
Researchers from Chinese Academy of Sciences and University of Bristol solve the 'flea mystery' by classifying fleas as a group of highly modified scorpionflies. The study suggests that fleas evolved from small, nectar-feeding scorpionflies that later developed specialized blood-sucking mouthparts.
Researchers have created a more complete reference genome for the rhesus macaque, expanding its potential use in human disease modeling and genetic therapy development. The updated genome assembly reveals thousands of naturally occurring gene variants associated with human conditions like autism and developmental delay.
Genetic analysis reveals that improved maize varieties developed by Indigenous South Americans were reintroduced into Central America, potentially leading to more productive and consumed varieties. The study provides new insights into the spread of maize in the Americas and its impact on human history.
Three 2,000-year-old cobs from Honduras show that humans brought maize varieties back to Mesoamerica, sparking potential productivity increases and shaping civilization. This new study fills gaps in corn's history, revealing a more complex domestication story with parallel but differing speeds across regions.
Researchers have identified 35 known and one new neuropeptide produced by the American cockroach that could be targeted for pest control. The neuropeptides' expression varies by tissue, developmental stage, and sex, making some more suitable targets than others.
The iGenomics app allows iPhone users to create a mobile genetics laboratory, enabling pandemic and ecology workers to study DNA on-the-go. The device can quickly map viral pathogen sequences and identify mutations for diagnosis and treatment.
A new study recommends strategies for generating polygenic risk scores that inspire confidence among consumers, reducing variability and improving the accuracy of these scores. By running algorithms multiple times and paying attention to variable elements, companies can improve the quality of scores delivered to customers.
Researchers have sequenced multiple wheat and barley genomes, revealing hidden genetic variation that can be used to breed more productive and resilient crop varieties. The project aims to increase global wheat production by over 50% by 2050 to meet future food demands.
The study's results provide key insights into the genetic factors behind wheat's adaptability and diversity. The researchers found that chromosome fragments from wild grasses were cross-hybridized with wheat, leading to differences in immune receptors and enabling the crop to adapt to regional climate conditions.
Kansas State University researchers and international partners have completed the genome sequencing of 15 wheat varieties, representing breeding programs worldwide. This valuable resource will improve global wheat production by unlocking genetic potential for disease resistance and quality improvement.
Researchers discover endogenous viral elements from giant viruses are common in chlorophyte green algae, suggesting a potential beneficial relationship between hosts and their viruses. The findings challenge current understanding of host-virus interactions and may shed light on the early evolution of plants.
A new study by CSIRO and partners found that most COVID-19 genome data lacks relevant patient information, hindering the fight against the virus. The researchers developed a standardised data collection template to capture critical patient data, enabling scientists and clinicians to build a more complete picture of COVID-19's impact on...
A massive international study of bird genomes has revealed new details on genomic diversity and evolution. The Bird 10,000 Genome Project has sequenced genomic resources for 363 bird species, including 267 new genomes, which have improved resolution on genomic evolution analyses.
The study provides a comprehensive genomic resource for the world's birds, enabling researchers to explore evolutionary relationships and traits. More than 92% of the world's avian families are represented in the dataset, which will aid in the conservation of threatened species.
A public repository of 52,515 microbial draft genomes has been made available, revealing 44% new bacterial and archaeal diversity. The GEM catalog provides a valuable resource for understanding the biology and diversity of uncultivated microbes.
A team of researchers has developed a model for acid-tolerant yeast that can produce succinic acid, a precursor for industrial polymer production. The model uses gene editing and computational tools to identify the optimal genetic modifications required to maximize succinic acid production.
Researchers analyzed over 5,085 strains of the virus, finding that a specific protein mutation became dominant during the second wave, causing increased transmissibility. The study also discovered a correlation between patients with this mutation and younger demographics, lower median incomes, and less severe symptoms.
Researchers report the goldfish genome sequence, identifying regions subjected to strong artificial selection for aesthetic features. The analysis sheds light on the evolutionary origin and domestication history of goldfish, providing a model for examining natural mutations and artificial selection.
Researchers assembled full genomes for domesticated apple and two wild progenitors, giving breeders detailed information to improve crop traits. The study provides a detailed genomic roadmap for building better apples with improved flavor, texture and disease resistance.
A study of over 5,000 COVID-19 patients in Houston found that the virus is accumulating genetic mutations, one of which, D614G, may have made it more contagious. This mutation was prevalent in 71% of initial cases and reached 99.9% prevalence during the second wave.
Newly sequenced ancient dog genomes show a long shared history with humans, with dogs diverging from wolves around 11,000 years ago. The study reveals multiple dog lineages worldwide by this time, and genetic links to human migration patterns.
Researchers found a single small gene region influences Chinook salmon migratory timing, contradicting previous assumptions of complex genetics. This discovery may facilitate conservation efforts by clarifying the genetic basis of ecotypes.
The study provides a genetic road map for researchers to optimize Miscanthus sinensis's desirable traits, including its high tolerance for drought and cool temperatures. The genomic analysis reveals new regulators of perenniality, a trait important for biofuel crops.
Scientists have sequenced the genome of New World screwworms, identifying ways to slash populations by targeting specific genes. This research could lead to a more efficient biological barrier system to prevent the species from moving north and causing massive livestock losses.
The sequencing of the cauliflower coral genome provides a resource for studying genetic adaptation to different environmental conditions. The analysis revealed approximately 27,500 genes, with a higher percentage of repetitive elements than closely related corals.
A study analyzing genomic sequences from historical plague victims suggests that a wildlife reservoir in Eurasia, near Europe's edge, may have seeded epidemics. The research also reveals a common strain responsible for the 1722 Great Plague of Marseille and separate introductions to Scandinavia and the Caucasus region.
A new analysis found that the critically endangered vaquita remains genetically healthy despite its low population numbers. The study suggests that the species' ability to survive at low numbers is not doomed to extinction and gives hope for conservation efforts.
Genome sequencing reveals a gradual decline in African ancestry across hundreds of miles as bees approach climate barriers. The study suggests that climate is the primary factor limiting the spread of Africanized bees, with colder winters posing a survival challenge.
A new method, Sonication Inverse PCR (SIP), has been developed to identify any genome sequence located next to a known sequence. This approach uses high-frequency sound waves to randomly cut DNA, eliminating bias from enzyme use, and is applied across clinical settings and molecular evolutionary analyses.
The IDseq tool uses metagenomic analysis to identify emerging pathogens from a single sample, providing actionable reports on infectious diseases worldwide. By leveraging open-source software, researchers can rapidly detect and track disease outbreaks, aiding in pandemic prevention and global health initiatives.
Researchers sequenced and analyzed coral genomes, discovering genes that may help corals adapt to ocean warming. The study found that Acropora corals diversified when the world's oceans were warmer, suggesting they could handle temperature changes.
The UK Crop Microbiome Cryobank will preserve the microbiomes of six major food crops in the UK, including barley, oats, oil seed rape, potato, sugar beet, and wheat. This project aims to improve crop yield and reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Researchers sequenced genomes of figs and pollinators to uncover dynamic karyotype variation associated with adaptive evolution. They also identified candidate genes for sex determination and a potential molecular mechanism of coevolution between fig species and their wasp pollinators.
A study reveals that re-emergence of yaws, a neglected tropical disease, was caused by at least three distinct lineages of bacteria. The researchers recommend employing strategies to maximize population coverage and intensive post-MDA surveillance to control the spread of new infections.
Researchers at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center have identified a novel seed dispersal gene in wild green millet, which could lead to more efficient crop production. The discovery was made through the analysis of nearly 600 genome sequences and confirmed by gene editing studies.
A new mobile app, Genopo, developed by Garvan Institute of Medical Research, makes genomics more accessible to remote or under-resourced regions and the hospital bedside. The app enables fast, real-time genomic analysis on a smartphone, opening possibilities for point-of-care testing and unlocking information in DNA or RNA.
A new study sequenced the genomes of two millipede species, revealing vast differences in genome size due to unique gene structures. The research also identified genes involved in toxic secretion, supporting the idea that ozadene gland secretions protect against microbes and predators.
Münster University researchers develop new software '2-n-way' to compare any genomes, identifying relationships among species or individuals. The tool can analyze genome evolutions, genetic diseases, and sequence any number of genomes.
The genome of Fleming's original Penicillium strain has been sequenced for the first time, showing that the UK and US strains use different methods to produce penicillin. The results suggest new routes for industrial production and could help inspire novel solutions to combatting antibiotic resistance.
Researchers discovered three primary routes of transmission for antibiotic resistance genes in Klebsiella pneumoniae via plasmids. Long-read sequencing technology enabled complete plasmid sequence analysis, revealing the importance of including plasmids when tracking antibiotic resistance.
A research team has successfully sequenced and assembled the Wels catfish genome, which is expected to reveal insights into its remarkable growth rate, appetite, and lifespan. The study's findings will help address bottlenecks in aquaculture and conservation of wild populations.
Researchers found that external factors drive positive selection in certain genomic positions, while epistasis leads to negative selection, slowing down substitutions. This discovery sheds light on the complex interplay between environmental pressures and genetic interactions shaping protein evolution.
Researchers identified mutations in the novel gene ANGPT2, responsible for primary lymphedema. The discovery provides insights into the disease's underlying mechanisms, potentially leading to improved treatments.
A new study reconstructs the spread of coronavirus across the world with unprecedented detail, revealing that early interventions were effective at containing outbreaks. Contrary to speculation, the virus did not jump from China to Europe via British Columbia, Canada, but rather through direct flights and travel. Swift testing and isol...