Articles tagged with Heritability
A new review emphasizes the importance of smell health, highlighting its role in nutrition, cognitive function, and psychological resilience. Researchers call for a global campaign to promote smell health through education, awareness, and targeted public health policies.
Researchers at the University of Maryland discovered multiple pathways for dsRNA molecules to enter cells, challenging previous assumptions about RNA transport. They found that a protein called SID-1 plays a key role in regulating genes across generations, which could lead to better targeted treatments for human diseases.
Research emphasizes the impact of parental factors on offspring's health outcomes. The study discovered a significant association between parents' weight status at 17 and their children's risk of obesity. This finding suggests that health issues can be inherited across generations, with parental characteristics playing a crucial role.
A new paper shows that evolvability, a measure of a population's ability to evolve, predicts macroevolution by correlating with population divergence. Traits with higher evolvability are more divergent among existing populations and species, indicating rapid adaptation to environmental changes.
A study published in Cell Reports found that environmental factors play a significant role in shaping metacognitive abilities, including mentalizing. The researchers used twin studies to investigate the interplay between genetics and environment on cognitive processing.
A study of over 1 million Swedish children reveals that genetic differences contribute to phenotypic variation in autism spectrum disorder, differing significantly between males and females. The findings suggest underlying causes of autism may differ between the sexes, partly explaining the skewed sex ratio in the condition.
Researchers identified rare genetic mutations in two tropical tree species, which are transmitted to offspring and contribute to their genetic diversity. These mutations have no effect on UV exposure but can help the trees adapt to changing environments.
A new study found that genetic factors contribute around 33% to the variation in levels of trust among individuals, while life circumstances such as age, health, and relationship status also increase trust. The research used twin studies to disentangle genetic and environmental influences on trust.
A new genetic study found that consistently sleeping less than five hours a night may raise the risk of developing depressive symptoms. The study, published in Translational Psychiatry, analyzed data from over 7,000 people and found that short sleep was associated with the onset of depressive symptoms.
A study by Washington State University researchers found epigenetic alterations associated with elk treponeme-associated hoof disease, suggesting a systemic impact. The findings also suggest that the disease may be heritable, raising concerns about its transmission and susceptibility.
A study published in Cell Genomics reveals that noncoding DNA accounts for 69% of the heritability of dairy cattle traits, including milk production and fertility. This breakthrough could improve the efficiency of agricultural breeding programs and provide a new model system for future studies in humans and other animals.
The study identified two genes, SOX9 and KLF5, that contribute to the development of hidradenitis suppurativa. These genes play a role in hair follicle and epidermal development, respectively, and their mutations may lead to improper development of hair follicles and inflammation.
A long-term study of male macaques found that same-sex sexual behavior is common and correlated with coalitionary bonds, providing social benefits. The research also revealed a genetic link to primate SSB, challenging the idea that it defies nature and evolution.
A new study reveals that Dupuytren's disease, a hand disorder affecting Northern Europeans, has a significant genetic component tied to Neandertal ancestry. Researchers identified three variants of Neandertal origin as major risk factors for the condition.
Researchers analyzed 692,534 race times to find genetic improvement accounts for 60% of speed increase in short-distance races, while heritability is low across all distances. The study suggests weaker selection or other factors limiting genetic progress, particularly over long distances.
A new study finds that clear and accurate information about the cause of death, provided in multiple formats, can influence family members' decisions to seek follow-up screening for inherited heart conditions. The study suggests that communication from death investigators and health care professionals is crucial in addressing families'...
A new American Heart Association scientific statement provides guidance on interpreting incidental genetic variants associated with cardiovascular disease risk. The statement aims to determine whether a variant truly carries a health risk and suggests next steps for individuals and healthcare professionals.
A recent twin study found that serious eating disorder ARFID is highly influenced by genetic factors, with a significant 79% genetic component. Researchers estimate that between 1-5% of the population is affected by ARFID.
Researchers have created a genetic map to identify important genes causing sarcoma, a common childhood cancer. The study found that one in 14 individuals with sarcoma carries a clinically significant gene, offering hope for earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Research found that male rats exposed to ifosfamide during adolescence had offspring and grand-offspring with increased incidence of diseases, including kidney and testis problems. The study's epigenetic analysis revealed changes passed down through sperm and ova, indicating a potential risk for future generations.
Research found that human brain hemispheres have distinct functional patterns, with regions on the left and right sides specialized for different tasks. Individual differences in these arrangements were heritable, suggesting genetic influence, while environmental factors also play a role. The study also compared humans to monkeys, find...
A new software application predicts the likelihood that a case of dilated cardiomyopathy has a genetic mutation. The Madrid Genotype Score identifies patients most likely to have inherited the disease, facilitating genetic screening and tailored treatment adjustments.
Researchers at the University of Illinois found that certain characteristics of the brain's connectome can be inherited from one generation to the next. This may contribute to differences in cognitive abilities between individuals.
A team of scientists has uncovered new information about Mendel's work, revealing that he began with practical objectives as a plant breeder before exploring underlying biological processes. This work laid the foundation for modern genetics and was only recognized 34 years after its publication.
A new study found that pollutants can be transmitted over many generations in water fleas, persisting long enough to influence the evolutionary process. The effects of low doses of pollutants were detected even after switching to clean water, indicating stable epigenetic marks passed down through generations.
A large-scale study of UK twins found that identical twins shared a greater affinity for nature and frequent visits to natural spaces compared to fraternal twins. Heritability estimates ranged from 46% for nature orientation to 34% for garden visits, suggesting a moderate genetic influence.
Scientists have discovered recently evolved regions in the 'dark genome' that code for proteins associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. These protein biomarkers could help distinguish between the two conditions and identify patients at risk of psychosis or suicide.
A study published in BioScience found that genetic factors contribute to concern for nature and pro-environmental behavior, with moderate heritability (30-40%) reported. The researchers also observed high genetic correlations between these traits, suggesting a partially shared genetic basis.
A new study reveals corals have a high ability to pass on adaptive traits, helping them cope with climate change stress. However, reducing global warming is crucial for making the most of this adaptation capacity.
Researchers have identified a novel genetic marker, rs139185008, that distinguishes C9orf72 repeat expansion carriers from non-carriers in large population-based cohorts. This SNP is strongly associated with patients having a clinical diagnosis of FTLD and motor neuron disease ALS.
A recent study found that genetics plays a nearly universal role in shaping the gut microbiome of wild baboons, with heritability estimates strongly correlated between humans and baboons. The researchers discovered that microbiome traits are dynamic and context-dependent, varying by diet diversity, season, and host age.
A University of Notre Dame study found that most gut microbiome traits are heritable, with 97% variation influenced by genetics. The research team discovered that environmental factors also play a significant role in shaping the microbiome, particularly across seasons and age.
A Uppsala University study found that genetic variants contribute more to educational attainment in socioeconomically deprived regions. The study of over 350,000 UK Biobank participants suggests an interaction between genes and environment, with socioeconomic deprivation modifying genetic effects.
A large population-based family study found that individuals with an affected first-degree relative have a threefold higher risk of chronic kidney disease. Genetic factors play an important role in modulating susceptibility to kidney disease.
Researchers identified thousands of rare epigenetic variations in the human genome, linked to abnormal gene expression and Mendelian diseases. The study highlights the significance of epivariations in contributing to a fraction of genetic diseases, including hereditary cancers.
A recent study found that genetic background affects adaptations to aging in same-sex aging twins. DNA methylation changes correlate strongly with aging and are partly heritable in late life. The research highlights the role of genetic regulation in biological aging rates, including immune-inflammatory pathways.
Two new studies reveal individual cells maintain internal clocks through a combination of genetic and random mechanisms. These findings suggest that cellular periodicity is influenced by epigenetic control and may hold insights into aging and cancer.
A new theoretical framework for heredity proposes that information is stored outside the genome, in regulatory molecules that help cells function. This approach may provide new avenues for understanding hereditary diseases and evolution.
A Swedish cohort study found that breast density, microcalcifications, and masses have a significant genetic component, with heritability estimates of 58%, 23%, and 13% respectively. The study also identified positive associations between these traits and genetic predisposition to breast cancer.
A new study estimates heritability and maps relationships among thousands of diseases using electronic health record data. Disease prevalence curves show early onset vs late onset patterns, revealing genetic links between diseases. The team identifies new patterns, including parasitic infections aligning with noninfectious diseases.
A multistakeholder study proposes six policy options for governing heritable genome editing, including proactive regulation and broad public engagement. Meanwhile, gynecological surgery reform is urged due to declining OB-GYN skills and lack of transparency, putting patient safety at risk.
A Mount Sinai study reveals that over 30% of heart disease risk is attributed to genetic factors, surpassing previous estimates. Researchers identified 28 independent gene networks active in coronary artery disease and found an additional 11% contribution to the inherited risk.
Researchers discovered that behavioral traits are highly heritable, explaining differences between breeds. The study analyzed data from over 6,000 cats representing three breeds: Maine Coon, Ragdoll, and Turkish Van.
Researchers Nicolae Morar and Brendan J. M. Bohannan examine five common conceptual frameworks describing the human microbiome, highlighting their benefits and drawbacks. The study suggests a pragmatic approach considering all metaphors to explore therapies for diseases and disorders.
Scientists at the University of Illinois have developed a new method to measure water-use efficiency in corn, which could make breeding more efficient. The method uses leaf samples and measures the ratio of heavy to light carbon isotopes to determine water status.
A new analysis of an aggregated set of family trees suggests that the heritability of life span is well below past estimates, likely no more than seven percent. This finding could be due to assortative mating, where people select partners with similar traits, including longevity.
A new study on red junglefowl has found that the ability to learn quickly is heritable, while optimism can be explained by environmental factors. The researchers tested over 300 chicks with various cognitive tasks and found that genetic factors play a larger role in fast-learning abilities.
A study of hundreds of related monkeys found individual differences in brain connectivity associated with anxious temperament. Functional connectivity within the extended amygdala is heritable and linked to early-life anxiety risk.
A study identified 143 species-level taxa associated with plant genotype, regardless of environmental factors. This finding suggests heritable microbes could be selected for beneficial traits in plant breeding.
Researchers used emergency contact information in electronic health records to build family trees, which can be used to study heritability of hundreds of medical conditions. The study found that certain traits, such as high levels of HDL and LDL cholesterol, have a significant genetic component.
A study of over 11,000 twins found that children's reading level is highly heritable and determines their reading habits. The research highlights the importance of improving both reading skills and motivation to combat a cycle where children avoid reading due to difficulties.
A new study at Oregon Health & Science University found that brain activity patterns are inherited, with heritable relationships demonstrated within five brain systems. This discovery may lead to personalized and targeted treatment approaches for conditions like ADHD and autism.
A new analysis estimates that genetic factors account for 83% of the risk for autism spectrum disorder, while nonshared environmental influences contribute 17%. This estimate is higher than previous twin studies but more accurate than a lower estimate using traditional methods.
A new proposal defines subspecies based on a potentially incipient new species, heritable trait, and geographic isolation. The concept of subspecies has been contentious, but the newly proposed definition aims to simplify its recognition.
A recent study led by the University of Arizona found that trust is significantly influenced by genetics, while distrust appears to be primarily socialized. The research suggests that trust and distrust are distinct qualities, with genetics playing a more significant role in shaping trust behaviors.
A CU study reveals that genes may play a significant role in how people perceive their weight, with female participants showing a stronger genetic influence. The research used twin data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health, finding that perceived weight status has a heritability estimate of 0.47.
A study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that heritability of thoracic spine curvature is significant, with a heritability score of 54%, suggesting genetic control. This discovery may inform prevention efforts for hyperkyphosis, a condition causing breathing, walking, and daily life difficulties.
Researchers demonstrate MYK-461's ability to prevent and reverse hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in genetically modified mouse models. The study supports a therapeutic hypothesis that reducing sarcomere power output can improve structural pathology, potentially treating HCM.
Scientists have calculated precise measurements of heritability in nine childhood-onset autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The research strengthens a child's risk prediction for associated autoimmune diseases, potentially informing personalized therapies.
Scientists at McGill University have discovered that histones, previously underappreciated molecules, play a crucial role in transmitting environmental memories over several generations. This finding has the potential to profoundly change our understanding of inheritance and could lead to new avenues for disease prevention and treatment.