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Two ways to read a genome: Scientists reveal the first body-wide, single-cell atlas that maps DNA folding and epigenetics together

Researchers at Salk Institute create a body-wide single-cell atlas of two major epigenetic systems, revealing that cell-type-specific epigenetic features can affect disease risk. The study identifies over 1.36 million differentially methylated regions and 283,606 differential chromatin loops across the human body's cell types.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 23, 2026

ORC2 regulation of human gene expression shows unexpected breadth and scale

A recent study reveals that ORC2 subunit regulates epigenetics and gene expression by compacting chromatin and attracting repressive histone marks at some sites, but activating gene expression at others. This regulation also prevents CTCF binding at certain sites, leading to changes in chromatin structure and gene expression.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2025

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.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateApr 16, 2025

Mapping DNA's hidden switches: A methylation atlas

The study identified over 34,000 genomic regions with distinct ON/OFF methylation patterns, including novel imprinted regions and tissue-specific variability. This atlas provides valuable insights into epigenetic regulation and may help explain the inheritance patterns of genetic diseases such as CHARGE syndrome.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 11, 2025
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

RNA modifications in individual cells better understood with new modelling

Researchers developed a new tool called SigRM to analyze single-cell epitranscriptomics data, enabling the study of RNA modifications in individual cells. This can provide valuable insights into gene regulation and its impact on health and disease, particularly in complex conditions like cancer.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalCell Genomics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 5, 2024

Genetic ‘episignatures’ guide researchers in identifying causes of unsolved epileptic neurological disorders

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered DNA methylation patterns that help identify the root cause of developmental and epileptic encephalopathies, a condition affecting 1 in 590 children. The findings provide a new tool for diagnosing children with DEE and could lead to more effective treatments.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 2024

Breakdown of ‘protective mechanisms’ can drive lung cancer development

A new study from the Van Andel Research Institute reveals that loss of two key 'protector' proteins, TET and RYBP, transforms healthy lung cells into cancerous ones through epigenetic changes. The research found that deficiency of these proteins leads to widespread aberrant methylation and malignant transformation.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalCancer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Epigenetic profiling identifies potential COPD treatment targets

Researchers have identified potential targets for COPD treatment through high-resolution epigenetic profiling of lung fibroblasts. Early epigenetic changes in the genome of COPD fibroblasts may trigger aberrant signaling pathways leading to impaired functions, suggesting new therapeutic avenues.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateMay 24, 2023

Aging | DNA methylation GrimAge version 2

Researchers developed a new epigenetic biomarker, GrimAge version 2, which leverages two DNAm-based estimators of plasma proteins to predict mortality risk. The study found that GrimAge 2 outperforms existing clinical biomarkers in predicting mortality across multiple racial/ethnic groups and associations with age-related conditions.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Regulation of the genome affects its 3D structure

Researchers found that DNA methylation increases stiffness of DNA, affecting its 3D structure and gene activation. This discovery reveals a cryptic mechanism connecting epigenetic footprinting and gene programming.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2021

Being top baboon costs males their longevity

A recent study by Duke University researchers reveals that male baboons who attain high social status experience accelerated aging due to the physical and energetic demands of competing for dominance. This is in contrast to humans, where high social status typically predicts better health.

SourceDuke University·DateApr 6, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Accurate aging of wild animals thanks to first epigenetic clock for bats

A new study led by University of Maryland researchers found that DNA from tissue samples can be used to accurately predict the age of bats in the wild. The study showed age-related changes to DNA are different between long-lived and short-lived bat species, especially near genes associated with cancer and immunity.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 12, 2021

New DNA modification 'signature' discovered in zebrafish

Researchers at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research have discovered a new form of DNA methylation in zebrafish, specifically at TGCT repeats. This discovery could lead to the development of new experimental models for studying how DNA modifications impact human development and disease.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateDec 3, 2020
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

New insights into epigenetic modifications

Researchers at EMBL Rome reveal that protein glycosylation plays a central role in DNA methylation, inducing gene silencing by modifying regulatory factors. This breakthrough sheds light on the mechanism behind the most studied epigenetic modification.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2020

Study sheds light on the darker parts of our genetic heritage

Researchers successfully studied DNA methylation loss in human cells, revealing the activation of transposons that can lead to serious diseases. The study provides new insight into how changes in DNA methylation contribute to diseases and opens up potential for a new understanding of genome function.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 2019

A treasure map to understanding the epigenetic causes of disease

Scientists have identified a unique fraction of the genome that can be used to predict epigenetic causes of disease. The 'treasure map' of correlated regions of systemic interindividual variation (CoRSIVs) comprises a previously unrecognized level of molecular individuality in humans, associated with diseases such as obesity and cancer.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenome Biology·DateJun 2, 2019

Uncovering a 'smoking gun' of biological aging clocks

A newly discovered rDNA clock can accurately determine an individual's chronological and biological age. The study found that calorie restriction interventions accelerate or slow aging in mice, as well as in humans, making it a potentially widely applicable predictor of individual age.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalGenome Research·DateFeb 14, 2019
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Mechanism safeguarding unique epigenome of oocytes and maternal fertility

A novel DNA methylation regulator Stella has been identified to safeguard the unique epigenome of oocytes. The dysregulation of Stella results in aberrant DNA methylation during postnatal oogenesis, affecting preimplantation embryo development. DNMT1 is found to be responsible for this aberrant methylation.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateNov 28, 2018

Studies raise questions over how epigenetic information is inherited

Researchers from the University of Cambridge found that epigenetic marks are reprogrammed from one generation to the next, contradicting previous theories. Only a small percentage of variably-methylated transposable elements showed evidence of epigenetic inheritance.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateOct 29, 2018

DNA marks in adults tracked back to changes in earliest days of life

Scientists have discovered how epigenetic marks behave in the first few days after conception, shedding light on their role in shaping later health. The study found that these marks are sensitive to external environmental factors and may be linked to adverse health outcomes in later life.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 11, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Understanding how DNA is selectively tagged with 'do not use' marks

Researchers at Salk Institute identify a small family of proteins controlling DNA methylation marks, crucial for gene regulation. This discovery sheds light on epigenetic mechanisms in plants and animals, potentially leading to new strategies for correcting genetic defects associated with diseases like cancer.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 7, 2018

Laboratory study shows that father's age can affect offspring lifespan

Researchers found that the offspring of elderly mouse-fathers had a shorter lifespan and featured exacerbation of histopathological and molecular aging traits. Epigenetic changes in paternal sperm and offspring were also observed, suggesting intergenerational influences on aging processes.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 19, 2018

Tracking down genetic influences on brain disorders

New findings help clarify genetic influence on brain disorders by analyzing 3 million genomic locations, revealing links to schizophrenia and other disorders. The study identifies specific variable locations in the genome that affect gene expression and DNA methylation.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 27, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Finding a new major gene expression regulator in fungi

Researchers have identified a new major gene expression regulator in fungi, which is preferentially deposited based on gene function and conservation. The discovery was made using DNA sequencing data from 16 fungal genomes, revealing high levels of DNA base modifications, including the methyl group addition to adenine (6mA).

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 8, 2017

Scientists reveal how epigenetic changes in DNA are interpreted

A new study from Karolinska Institutet reveals that certain 'master' regulatory proteins can activate normally inactive genome regions due to epigenetic changes, leading to embryonic development and cancer. The findings contribute to a better understanding of gene regulation and its role in diseases.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScience·DateMay 4, 2017

DNA labels predict mortality

Researchers analyzed DNA methylation levels in 1,900 participants to identify 58 CpGs linked to mortality. These epigenetic marks show stronger correlations with survival than previously studied genetic alterations.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 20, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Cultural differences may leave their mark on DNA

A recent study has identified signatures of ethnicity in the genome that reflect shared culture and environment rather than genetic ancestry. The researchers found that only three-quarters of epigenetic differences between Mexican and Puerto Rican children could be accounted for by genetic ancestry, suggesting a biological stamp made b...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateJan 10, 2017

New type 2 diabetes biomarker identified

Researchers have found an epigenetic mechanism implicated in the regulation of blood sugar, with the TXNIP gene associated with diabetes mellitus type 2 and poor glucose control. The study's results could help identify patients at risk of developing diabetes and develop new therapies.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateFeb 8, 2016
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Scientists create first map of the wheat epigenome

Researchers have mapped the wheat epigenome, identifying patterns of DNA methylation that regulate gene activity. This discovery could lead to improved crop breeding technologies and a better understanding of genetic variation in wheat.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalGenome Biology·DateDec 10, 2015

The silence of the genes

A team of scientists has identified a key segment of DNA involved in the genomic imprinting process, which regulates gene expression based on an individual's parental origin. This discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying imprinting disorders and may lead to breakthroughs in understanding genetic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalDevelopment·DateNov 24, 2015
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Epigenetic algorithm accurately predicts male sexual orientation

Researchers developed an epigenetic algorithm that accurately predicts male sexual orientation by analyzing DNA methylation patterns in nine specific regions of the genome. The algorithm achieved a 70% accuracy rate in predicting male sexual orientation, providing new insights into the molecular markers underlying human sexuality.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 8, 2015

Long-term endurance training impacts muscle epigenetics

A new study reveals that long-term endurance training affects thousands of DNA methylation sites and genes associated with improved muscle function and health. The research also found epigenetic differences between male and female skeletal muscle, which may lead to gender-specific therapies in the future.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEpigenetics·DateDec 9, 2014

How black truffles deal with the jumpers in their genome

The black truffle genome contains a high rate of methylation, with transposon elements being more likely to be methylated than genes. Reversible epigenetic processes allow the truffle to adapt to its surroundings, increasing its plasticity and potentially playing a role in controlling traits like aroma and color.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateJul 30, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

NIH study offers insight into why cancer incidence increases with age

A NIH study reveals that age-related DNA methylation changes may contribute to increased cancer incidence. The researchers identified sites across the human genome that become increasingly methylated with advancing age and are also disproportionately methylated in various human cancers.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalCarcinogenesis·DateFeb 3, 2014

New insights into how genes turn on and off

Researchers have discovered that 37% of the placental genome has regions of lower methylation, called partially methylated domains (PMDs), where gene expression is turned off. This could enhance our understanding of epigenetics and its impact on human development, cancer research and autism.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2013

Biomarking time

A study by University of California, San Diego researchers describes markers and a model that quantify how aging occurs at the level of genes and molecules. The findings provide a way to determine a person's actual biological age from just a blood sample.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 21, 2012

Research reveals how dynamic changes in methylation can determine cell fate

A study by CSHL and USC researchers reveals that methylation patterns are dynamic and can influence cell fate. The team observed that subtle changes in methylation within specific regions can lead to the activation of genes associated with particular cell types, challenging traditional views on epigenetics.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 26, 2011
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Epigenetic changes don't last

Scientists discovered that epigenetic modifications in plants, such as DNA methylation, are unstable and often disappear after a few generations. These changes can occur frequently but usually do not contribute significantly to long-term evolution.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateSep 20, 2011

Study surprise yields new target for assessing genes linked to autism

Researchers discovered a new genetic signature that correlates strongly with autism and involves the way genes are turned on and off. The finding may suggest new approaches to diagnosis and treatment of autism, potentially identifying individuals who will respond better to oxytocin treatment.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 21, 2009