Genomic Dna
Articles tagged with Genomic Dna
Brain Health honors J. Craig Venter (1946–2026), the genomicist whose earliest breakthroughs began at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
J. Craig Venter's pioneering work in expressed sequence tags revolutionized brain-expressed genes identification, while his synthetic cells paved the way for synthetic biology as a working discipline. His legacy has reshaped our understanding of genomes and their functions.
Selfish sperm hijack genetic gatekeeper to kill healthy rivals
A new study reveals that selfish chromosomes exploit the Overdrive gene to destroy rival sperm, boosting their chances of passing into the next generation. The gene acts as a quality control checkpoint during sperm development, normally eliminating abnormal sperm cells, but selfish chromosomes hijack the system to kill competitors.
Illumina and the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance partner to sequence the Frozen Zoo®, supporting critical conservation genetics efforts globally
The partnership aims to support conservation genetics efforts globally by sequencing up to 4,000 unique animal samples across 1,300 species. The project will provide valuable genomic insights to inform conservation management decisions and promote ecological resilience.
Wits-led genetic study adds over 1000 new African genomes to global science
The Assessing Genetic Diversity in Africa (AGENDA) project has generated whole-genome sequence data from over 1000 individuals from underrepresented communities, aiming to correct the imbalance in global genomic datasets. This effort will help predict disease risk and tailor treatments more effectively for African populations.
Innovations in spatial imaging could unlock higher wheat yields
Researchers at John Innes Centre and Earlham Institute developed a powerful single-cell visualisation technique to understand wheat spike development. The study reveals distinct expression patterns across spikes, shedding light on why basal spikelets fail to achieve full size.
National genomic screening program would save thousands of Australians from preventable cancer and heart disease
A nationwide pilot study tested for 10 medically actionable genes in 10,000 Australians aged 18-40, finding an estimated 1 in 50 carries a high risk genetic variant. Researchers urge government funding to progress a national preventive genomic testing program that could be available to all adult Australians.
Brazil's genetic treasure trove: supercentenarians reveal secrets of extreme human longevity
A recent genomic study by Dr. Mayana Zatz and colleagues reveals that Brazil's admixed population may hold the key to understanding exceptional aging. The study identifies over 8 million novel genetic variants in the Brazilian population, with potential protective mechanisms against age-related diseases.
Scientists map the human genome in 4D
Researchers created detailed maps of the human genome's three-dimensional organization across time and space, revealing how genes interact and fold as cells function. The study provides a powerful framework for predicting which genes are likely to be affected by pathogenic variants.
Smarter tools for peering into the microscopic world
Researchers at Arizona State University introduce powerful tools to analyze microbial family trees and biological data, strengthening microbiome research, disease tracking and environmental monitoring. The new software library scikit-bio provides a foundation for analyzing large biological datasets.
From shiloh shepherds to chihuahuas, study finds that the majority of modern dogs have detectable wolf ancestry
Research reveals that post-domestication wolf ancestry has shaped the evolution of dogs, influencing characteristics such as body size, sense of smell, and personality traits. The study found detectable levels of wolf ancestry in a wide range of dog breeds, including Shiloh shepherds and chihuahuas.
What we learned from a decade-long genome cohort study of 100,000 Japanese individuals
Researchers at Tohoku University shared key findings from their 10-year genome cohort study, highlighting effective techniques for analyzing and managing genomic data. The study's unique approaches to whole-genome sequencing, including qMiSeq and iDeal protocols, have been widely adopted by institutions worldwide.
Kids First releases landmark dataset on rare childhood germ cell tumors
The Gabriella Miller Kids First Data Resource Center has released its 37th study on extracranial germ cell tumors, a rare group of childhood cancers. The dataset comprises information from 393 children and young adults, including inherited genetic data and tumor-specific changes.
Scientists reveal how human retrotransposon enzyme targets structured DNA to reshape genome
Researchers have unveiled the molecular mechanisms underlying L1's retrotransposition and integration into genomic DNA. The study reveals that ORF2p interacts primarily with the DNA backbone through electrostatic forces, enabling site-specific cleavage during retrotransposition.
Gut bacteria linked to how our genes switch on and off, UH research finds
A University of Hawaii study reveals how gut microbes interact with human genes, shaping disease risk, aging, and future medical treatments. The review highlights the potential for personalized medicine and precision health strategies tailored to each individual's unique microbial and epigenetic makeup.
New study and major data updates expand the Kids First data ecosystem
The Gabriella Miller Kids First Pediatric Research Program has released its 36th study, introducing significant new data updates to two existing studies. These advances aim to uncover the genetic foundations of childhood cancers and congenital conditions. With over 110,000 data files available, researchers can explore publicly accessib...
New study maps out the timeline of DNA damage for multiple myeloma
A new study reveals that DNA damage in multiple myeloma initiates 2-4 decades before diagnosis, with key genomic events including IGH translocation and chr 1q gain. These findings may lead to new precision medicine treatment strategies for patients.
Genomic techniques can streamline breeding for grain quality
Researchers developed a strategy to predict multiple traits at once based on the whole genome, increasing predictive ability by 2-10 times. This method, called multi-trait genomic selection (MT-GS), combines genetic markers with known trait links for more accurate predictions, making it a promising tool for efficient and cost-effective...
Unraveling variations in ‘centromeres’: The engines of chromosomal segregation
Researchers analyzed centromeres in onion, garlic, and Welsh onion using CENH3-targeted antibody to map centromere regions. They found significant variations in size and position/mobility between species, challenging the static view of centromeres.
There’s something fishy going on with great white sharks that scientists can’t explain
Despite using a large genetic dataset, scientists were unable to find a definitive explanation for the formation of distinct great white shark populations in the southern Indo-Pacific Ocean. A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that genetic divergence began around 7,000 years ago.
ADLM 2025 to address medical misinformation, health risks posed by plastics, AI integration into care, precision medicine, and more
ADLM 2025 will tackle urgent topics like clinical AI integration and fake medical news, as well as leveraging genomics for personalized healthcare. The meeting also explores the health threat of plastics and microbiome medicine to combat diseases.
Scientists zero in on cellular mechanism fueling drug-resistant cancers
Researchers have discovered a key role of centrosomes in signaling cells to proliferate despite DNA damage, enabling cancer resistance. The study suggests targeting Polo-like kinase 1 could prevent adaptation to therapy-induced DNA damage and drug resistance.
How cucumbers got longer - and why it's a big deal for farming
Researchers found that a single synonymous mutation in a gene drives cucumber elongation by altering RNA structure and function. This breakthrough has significant implications for crop breeding programs and may lead to the development of precision-crop improvement techniques.
Genomes reveal the Norwegian lemming as one of the youngest mammal species
Researchers at Stockholm University have uncovered the evolutionary history of the Norwegian lemming, revealing it to be one of the most recently evolved mammal species. The study found that the Norwegian and Siberian lemmings diverged approximately 35,000 years ago, with no evidence of interbreeding between them.
New ‘molecular GPS’ will fast-track drug discovery
The Northwestern University-developed SOAR platform helps researchers understand diseases and find potential treatments by analyzing gene activity across various tissues. This tool enables prioritization of drugs to be sent to clinical studies, reducing development time.
New AI tool reveals single-cell structure of chromosomes — in 3D
A new AI tool developed by University of Missouri researchers can predict the 3D shape of chromosomes inside individual cells, providing a new view of how genes work. The tool helps identify unique differences in chromosome folding between cells, which controls gene activity and can lead to diseases like cancer.
Leonardo da Vinci’s DNA: In new book, researchers announce breakthrough confirmation of Y chromosome shared by six living family descendants
Experts uncover biological secrets of Leonardo da Vinci through 30 years of genealogical research, revealing genetic continuity of the Da Vinci male line since the 15th generation. The study also confirms the existence of a Da Vinci family tomb and analyzes DNA samples from six living descendants.
Researchers map 7,000-year-old genetic mutation that protects against HIV
Researchers have mapped a 7,000-year-old genetic mutation that provides protection against HIV, found in 18-25% of the Danish population. The mutation arose in an individual from the Black Sea region between 6,700 and 9,000 years ago.
Grains of truth: New focus issue explores how pathogens and pests of cereal crops undermine global food security
The latest focus issue of Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions explores the molecular, cellular, and genomic details of cereal crop diseases, highlighting key research on plant-pathogen interactions. Groundbreaking work has advanced the field, offering new insights into disease resistance and management strategies.
Study: New DNA-reading technology holds promise for rare disease research
Researchers developed a new DNA-reading technology that identified more genomic imprinting in DNA, contributing to rare pediatric diseases. The study used HiFi long-read sequencing to analyze over 200 genetic samples and found widespread parent-of-origin effects on methylation at thousands of novel loci.
Beyond the double helix: Alternative DNA conformations in ape genomes
A team of researchers has comprehensively predicted the location of non-B DNA structures in great apes using newly available telomere-to-telomere genomes. The study suggests that non-B DNA is enriched in these segments and may play a role in genetic diseases and cancer, with potential new functions discovered.
Childhood exposure to bacterial toxin may be triggering colorectal cancer epidemic among the young
Researchers identify colibactin, a bacterial toxin that alters DNA, as a potential trigger for early-onset colorectal cancer. Exposure to colibactin in childhood may imprint a distinct genetic signature on colon cells, increasing the risk of developing cancer before age 50.
Four generations help science explore genome mutation rate
Researchers analyzed DNA from four generations of a large family to understand genetic mutations and their transmission. They found that the rate of de novo mutations varied by over twenty-fold depending on genome location.
Parts of our DNA may evolve much faster than previously thought
A team of researchers has developed a comprehensive atlas of genetic change through generations, revealing that parts of the human genome change much faster than previously known. This discovery has significant implications for understanding human disease and evolution, including the roots of genetic diseases.
Three-dimensional gene hubs may promote brain cancer
A recent preclinical study from Weill Cornell Medicine researchers suggests that three-dimensional gene hubs may promote brain cancer. The findings, published in Molecular Cell, offer a new way to think about cancer beyond gene mutations and highlight the importance of understanding DNA organization in tumor cells.
Transgene-free genome editing in poplar trees: A step toward sustainable forestry
Researchers have developed a new method to genetically improve poplar trees without introducing foreign DNA into its genome. This breakthrough could accelerate the deployment of genetically enhanced trees with benefits for both the environment and the bio-based economy.
Sylvester Cancer Tip Sheet for April 2025
Researchers are exploring the use of immunotherapy drugs and a tumor-busting 'oncolytic' virus to tackle high-grade neuroendocrine tumors. A new clinical trial, led by Dr. Aman Chauhan, aims to unlock the mysteries of renal cell carcinoma through detailed laboratory and clinical studies.
DNA methylation entropy: A new way to track and predict aging
Researchers developed a new method to measure changes in DNA that can help predict a person's age, focusing on how random chemical tags become over time. The study found that methylation entropy predicted age as accurately as traditional methods, with an average error of just five years.
Our DNA is at risk of hacking - warn scientists
A comprehensive review highlights growing concerns over cyber-biosecurity threats to next-generation DNA sequencing, which could be exploited for data breaches and biothreats. The study recommends practical solutions, including secure protocols, encrypted storage, and AI-powered anomaly detection.
Light bulb moment for understanding DNA repair switches
Scientists at the University of Birmingham have made strides in understanding how cells repair DNA damage. Two studies identify key players and mechanisms involved in preventing excessive DNA signal overload, which could lead to refinements in future cancer therapies.
New tool for cutting DNA: Promising prospects for biotechnology
A new family of Ssn endonucleases was discovered, enabling targeted cuts in single-stranded DNA. This breakthrough sheds light on a crucial genetic mechanism with significant promise for biotechnology applications, including gene editing, DNA detection, and molecular diagnosis.
New strategy may enable cancer monitoring from blood tests alone
A new method for detecting cancer from blood samples has been developed, enabling the detection of extremely low concentrations of circulating tumor DNA. The technique, which combines whole-genome sequencing with error-correcting methods, shows high sensitivity and accuracy in identifying cancer mutations.
Scientists create “metal detector” to hunt down tumors
Researchers created an algorithm called PRRDetect to identify tumors with faulty DNA repair mechanisms, which are more sensitive to immunotherapy. The algorithm could help doctors tailor treatments to individual patients and improve treatment outcomes for cancers such as lung and brain tumors.
How human cells repair damaged DNA
Researchers have discovered new interactions and identified potential targets for cancer therapy by analyzing the effects of inactivating DNA repair genes. By comprehensively studying the interactions between more than 500 crucial genes, the team gained important new insights into how cells maintain genome integrity.
How this tiny snake could change our view of genetics
Researchers at UTA uncovered how the flowerpot snake repairs its DNA and prevents harmful mutations, shedding light on genetic repair mechanisms that could deepen our understanding of human gene evolution. The study also reveals surprising findings about reproductive strategies and immune-related genes in reptiles.
How a critical enzyme keeps potentially dangerous genes in check
Cells employ a protein network to repress TE activity and keep themselves healthy. O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) is a lead choreographer in this process, protecting cells from genomic instability by restraining TET activity.
How chromosomes shape up for cell division
Researchers directly observed DNA formation into rod-shaped chromosomes during cell division, revealing the role of condensin complexes and their looping process in compaction. This discovery provides insights into the molecular mechanism of chromosome segregation.
Cracking the code of pistachio genetics
The study provides a comprehensive genetic map of the pistachio genome, allowing for the creation of better-nutrition varieties. The research also identifies four key stages of nut growth from flower to harvest, providing insights into shell hardening and kernel growth.
Illuminating the immune response to aberrant DNA
A novel fluorescent biosensor captures spatio-temporal dynamics of STING activation in response to aberrant DNA, enabling visualization of single cell and population responses. This study reveals new insights into the immune response to chromosomally unstable tumours and potential avenues for treatment.
Genetic study reveals hidden chapter in human evolution
Researchers found evidence of a genetic mixing event between two ancient populations around 1.5 million years ago, which contributed to the modern human species. The study suggests a more complex story of human evolution than previously thought, with different groups developing separately before reuniting.
Thorny skates come in snack and party sizes. After a century of guessing, scientists now know why.
Thorny skates exhibit a unique size discrepancy, with small and large varieties coexisting along the North American coast. A new study reveals that COVID-19 restrictions led to an abundance of genetic data, allowing researchers to uncover the secret behind the size difference.
The secret DNA circles fueling pancreatic cancer’s aggression
Researchers found that pancreatic cancer cells gain a survival edge by carrying copies of critical cancer genes on circular pieces of DNA outside chromosomes. The discovery highlights the importance of targeting extrachromosomal DNA in treating the disease.
Research by UMass Chan scientists upends scientific understanding of how anticancer drugs kill cancer
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism of how anticancer drugs attack and destroy BRCA mutant cancer cells, including drug-resistant breast cancer cells. The study found that small DNA nicks can expand into large single-stranded DNA gaps, leading to cell death.
Bacterial ‘jumping genes’ can target and control chromosome ends
Researchers at Cornell University have found a new way that transposons, or 'jumping genes', can survive and propagate in bacteria with linear DNA. The study reveals that these genes can target and insert themselves at the ends of linear chromosomes, called telomeres, which is essential for their survival.
Australian researchers call for greater diversity in genomics
A new study highlights the need for more diversity in genomics research, as a commonly found gene variant was mistakenly linked to heart disease in people from Oceanian communities. The researchers found that the variant is actually common among healthy individuals from these regions.
Chinese Medical Journal article reveals the anticancer potential of poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors
PARP inhibitors have been found to be effective in treating cancers with BRCA1/2 mutations by blocking DNA repair pathways. The combination of PARPis with chemotherapeutic drugs can also improve treatment efficacy, increasing DNA damage and blocking repair processes.
Rice’s Gustavsson receives NSF CAREER Award to investigate dynamics of gene regulation
Gustavsson's five-year grant aims to develop innovative tools for visualizing and analyzing DNA organization and interactions in real-time. Her project seeks to uncover the relationship between DNA structure and gene activity, with potential applications in treating diseases linked to gene regulation disruptions.
3D genome structure guides sperm development
Two landmark studies show that the 3D genome structure coordinates thousands of genes to form a sperm cell. The work identifies two proteins that establish cellular memory and set up a new structure that cements the cell's future fate as a sperm cell.
Human chromosomes evolved at hyperspeed to give us better brains
Scientists found that parts of human chromosomes have evolved rapidly to enable complex brain development in humans. However, this acceleration may also lead to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism. The study used artificial neurons derived from human and chimpanzee cell lines.
A protein from tiny tardigrades may help cancer patients tolerate radiation therapy
Researchers have developed a new strategy to protect cancer patients from radiation-induced DNA damage using a protein from tardigrades. The approach makes use of messenger RNA encoding the protein, which is delivered to patient tissues before radiation treatment. This reduces double-stranded DNA breaks by 50% in mouse models.