Articles tagged with Human Genetics
A study found that chronic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases are linked to a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease in patients. The research identified specific genetic patterns associated with cardiovascular disease risk across different chronic IMID patient groups, which could lead to the development of more efficient preve...
A team of scientists has identified genetic mutations that could potentially allow the bird flu strain H7N9 to spread between humans. The researchers found that certain mutations in a key protein could enable the virus to latch onto human cells, sparking concerns about a potential pandemic.
Researchers bioengineered human liver tissues that exhibit previously unknown genetic-molecular crosstalk controlling developmental processes. The study reveals key communication between signaling proteins and receptors that instruct the development of liver tissues.
Researchers have identified the mouse lemur as an ideal model for studying primate biology and human diseases such as cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's. The study, which involved analyzing hundreds of lemurs in Madagascar, has already revealed unique genetic traits including obesity and progressive eye disease.
The Human Cell Atlas is using sequencing technology to redefine every cell in the body. The platform will allow scientists to share and analyze vast amounts of diverse information generated by researchers across academia and industry.
Researchers aim to genetically modify human bone marrow cells to produce more bone morphogenetic protein, a key factor in bone healing, to tackle challenging bone repairs such as extensive fractures and failed spinal fusions. The five-year grant will support the study's efficacy and safety assessment.
A research team has identified the HAND2 gene as a key regulator that triggers the formation of cardiac valves in mouse embryos. This discovery advances our molecular knowledge of cardiac valve development and may also help provide genetic diagnosis for patients with congenital heart malformations.
A team of researchers discovered that C. elegans makes decisions by calculating mathematical integration of environmental information via calcium ion concentration changes in nerve cells. This process is similar to the human brain's integration of information for decision-making, suggesting a possible genetic link between the two.
Scientists have successfully generated blood-forming stem cells in the lab using pluripotent stem cells from patients' own cells. The advance opens up new opportunities to create immune-matched blood cells and potentially treat genetic blood disorders.
A new genomic study on southern Mediterranean populations from Sicily and Southern Italy reveals a shared genetic background extending to Cyprus, Crete, Anatolia, and the Aegean islands. This shared Mediterranean ancestry may have originated in prehistoric times as a result of multiple migration waves.
Researchers have found that microbes manipulate the molecular machinery of animal cells, triggering patterns of gene expression associated with health and disease. The study suggests ancient parts of the genome and interactions with microbes are relevant to modern-day human diseases.
According to Rutgers University researcher John McGann, humans can detect and discriminate an extraordinary range of odors, rivaling that of rodents and dogs. The human olfactory bulb is similar in size and number of neurons to other mammals, challenging the long-held misconception about human sense of smell.
Researchers have discovered a more favorable virus species for delivering genes, as its surface structure avoids liver toxicity. This could enable the use of viruses in gene therapies and vaccine development.
Researchers have identified the origins of Indian populations by analyzing genetic evidence from people alive in the Subcontinent today. The study reveals that hunter-gatherer groups arrived from Africa more than 50,000 years ago, while later waves of settlement came from Iran and Central Asia.
A recent study suggests that fructans in wheat plants hold the key to developing climate-resilient varieties with increased nutritional value. The authors propose using fructans as a breeding target to create healthier and more resilient wheat varieties.
A new study examining the muscles of bonobos found they are more closely related to humans than common chimpanzees. This is the first study to compare the anatomy of the three species, providing evidence for a possible link between bonobos and human ancestors.
Scientists at Max-Planck Institute develop new method to retrieve hominin DNA from cave sediments, revealing genetic affiliations of ancient humans. The discovery sheds light on human evolution, allowing researchers to uncover the genetic history of extinct species like Neandertals and Denisovans.
Researchers created a new model to study how chlamydia interacts with the human immune system, identifying key players IRF5 and IL-10RA. The results suggest these genes could be drug targets for new treatments.
Researchers at Babraham Institute and European Bioinformatics Institute identified a mouse epigenetic ageing clock, which shows age-related changes in DNA methylation. The accuracy of the mouse clock is surprisingly similar to humans, with lifestyle interventions affecting ticking rate.
Researchers have recorded spring fish migrations by analyzing DNA in water samples, providing a harmless and economical alternative to traditional methods. The study's findings suggest that environmental DNA can be used to monitor fish populations, estimate abundance, and track distribution.
Researchers explore effects of human-provided foods on large predators, finding changes in social structures, movements, and behavior. Human-fed populations often form distinct genetic subgroups, potentially leading to future speciation events.
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have successfully regenerated auditory hair cells in adult mice using genetic manipulation. The research marks a significant step towards treating hearing loss in humans, which affects millions worldwide.
A study on fruit flies found that a gene called THADA plays a key role in regulating metabolism and energy storage, which may have relevance to human obesity and cold tolerance. The researchers observed that THADA knockout flies were more sensitive to cold and had slower metabolisms, leading to obesity.
Researchers at Uppsala University discovered two independent mutations required for the development of sex-linked barring in chickens, a pattern resembling the common cuckoo's plumage. The study sheds light on the genetic mechanisms behind colour variation and pigmentation in birds.
Researchers have identified a key gene in zebrafish that causes congenital blindness, which could hold the key to treating a similar disease in humans. The study found that the gene affects cone photoreceptors and leads to degeneration without impacting rod cells.
Researchers at Washington State University have identified a key gene involved in the quality of sleep experienced by humans and animals. The study found that a variant of the gene FABP7 is associated with poorer sleep quality, suggesting its importance in regulating sleep across species.
A new study of ancient DNA from northwest North America finds evidence of genetic continuity spanning over 10,000 years. The research suggests that indigenous groups living today in southern Alaska and British Columbia are descendants of the first humans to inhabit the region, supporting their oral traditions.
A UMD study found fruit flies taking naps had strongest resistance to fungal infection and bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is a major human disease-causing agent. The research identified genes that contribute to overall immune system resistance, providing new insights into human health.
A recent study found that longer telomeres in mice may shield them from age-related human diseases. Researchers used mice with shortened telomeres to examine a genetic defect causing an age-associated congenital heart disease in humans. The findings suggest that decreasing telomere length contributes to the onset of age-related diseases.
Researchers developed a modified Hi-C technique to identify incorrect scaffold positions and anchor sequences, achieving 99% genome assembly accuracy for human genomes. The technique was applied to assemble the genomes of two mosquito species, revealing shared ancestry that could aid in controlling disease-carrying vectors.
Archaeological excavations in northern Taiwan have uncovered significant evidence of early European presence and influence, contradicting long-held theories. The site, once a Spanish colony, now suggests that Taiwan played a crucial role as a globalized hub during the 17th century.
Researchers captured the first steps of human DNA replication in unprecedented detail, revealing how proteins orchestrate the process. The study sheds light on crucial mechanisms, including ATP usage and protein interactions, which may help prevent diseases like Meier-Gorlin Syndrome.
A study published in PLOS Genetics found that nose size and shape are linked to differences in ancestral temperature and humidity levels. Wider nostrils were correlated with ancestors who lived in warmer climates, suggesting a role for climate in shaping human nasal evolution.
The study found that nose width is strongly correlated with temperature and humidity levels in different climates, suggesting a role for natural selection in shaping nose shape. The researchers also identified differences between men and women in nose features across populations.
A study on European populations reveals genetic adaptations to dietary changes, influencing the production of vital fatty acids. The findings suggest that Europeans are adapting to a diet rich in plant-derived fats, while those with high animal fat intake produce more long-chain PUFAs.
Researchers have mapped how proteins bind along DNA to control gene activity in the bladder lining, revealing a complex interaction between transcription factors. This understanding could lead to new treatments for chronic bladder diseases such as interstitial cystitis and cancer.
Researchers have developed a technique to precisely track the replication of yellow fever virus in individual host immune cells. The method could aid in the development of new vaccines against a range of viruses, including Dengue and Zika.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has found no evidence of increased transmissibility or sustainable human-to-human transmission of the highly pathogenic A(H7N9) virus. New genetic mutations have been detected, but their impact on poultry and human risk remains unclear.
A study by the University of Bonn found that shorter men have an increased risk of becoming bald prematurely, linked to genetic alterations in the human genome. The research identified 63 genes that increase the risk of premature hair loss, often accompanied by other characteristics and illnesses.
Researchers propose that naked mole-rats' exceptional longevity is due to slowing individual development, resulting in a longer youth period and decelerated aging. Similarly, human data suggests a similar slowdown in the 'Master Biological Clock', leading to increased lifespan and prolonged youth.
New study suggests that ancient humans entered South America in at least two waves of population dispersals from Asia. The findings, published in Science Advances, rely on a pioneering method to analyze cranial morphology and contemporary genomic data, providing new insights into the complex narrative of human migration.
A University of Toronto study has identified a gene that may strongly influence obesity in humans, similar to the foraging gene found in fruit flies. The study reveals that the human version of this gene plays multiple roles in feeding and metabolism.
A study analyzing over 100 linguistic features suggests complex patterns of contact and migration among early Americans. The diversity of languages in the Americas is unprecedented, with many isolates having no demonstrable connection to other languages.
The ethics of gene editing is being explored in a session at the AAAS annual meeting, examining concerns beyond safety, such as modifying the human germline, parental relationships, and respect for persons with disability. Experts will discuss new technologies and their social and ethical implications.
Researchers found that inhibiting intestinal protein NCoR1 breaks down bilirubin, eliminating signs of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in mice. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches for preventing or treating the condition.
A study led by Berkeley Lab researchers found that newborn mice exposed to thirdhand smoke weighed less and had altered blood cell counts, which persisted even after exposure ended. The findings suggest that the lingering residue of tobacco smoke could be harmful to human health, particularly for babies and toddlers.
Researchers at Whitehead Institute have identified essential genes in human cancer cells, revealing potential vulnerabilities for new therapies. By analyzing genetic interactions, they discovered a genetically defined subset of cancers that could be exploited with existing treatments.
Researchers discovered 83 genetic variations affecting adult height by more than 2 centimeters, influencing bone and cartilage development. The study's findings may help identify genetic variations that influence common diseases and develop personalized treatments.
Researchers at Florida State University have discovered a tumor suppressor protein in fruit flies that can help understand the development of malignant rhabdoid tumors in children. The protein, Snr1, was found to act as a tumor suppressor in an unconventional manner.
Researchers have quantified social genetic effects on over 100 phenotypes in laboratory mice, finding that up to 29% of variation is explained by the social environment.
Researchers found that genetic makeup of social partners significantly impacts wound healing, anxiety, and body weight in mice. The study provides insights into the mechanisms of social genetic effects and their potential application to human health.
Researchers have discovered a critical DNA sequence code, known as the human Initiator, that regulates over half of all human genes. This breakthrough provides insight into gene regulation and may lead to new discoveries in understanding how human genes are turned on and off.
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have discovered a new broad-spectrum antiviral protein called Schlafen11 that can inhibit HIV-1 replication in non-human primate species. The protein's effectiveness is highest in chimpanzees and orangutans, but much lower in humans and gorillas.
Researchers have turned to frog models to study the impact of early stressors on adult diseases, finding that a specific gene USH1g is highly expressed in response to stress. This study sheds light on the mechanisms behind fetal stress hormone effects on adult chronic diseases.
Researchers at Tohoku University found that a mutant strain of fruit fly lacks the scribbler gene, rendering them unable to copulate. This impairment parallels the neural control of copulation in humans, where BMP signaling and serotonin regulation are crucial for sexual activity.
A study by Lund University researchers reveals that retroviruses in the human genome can affect gene expression, potentially contributing to brain development and neurological diseases. The viruses, known as endogenous retroviruses, can act as docking platforms for proteins like TRIM28, influencing protein production.
According to a new report from the USPSTF, nearly a quarter of reproductive-age women have sub-optimal folate levels, highlighting the importance of daily folic acid supplements. The FDA has also announced plans to fortify corn masa flour with folic acid, targeting Hispanic women at higher risk.
A recent study examining 1,600 instances of phenotypic change worldwide shows that urbanization is affecting the genetic makeup of species crucial to ecosystem health. The research highlights the importance of understanding human-induced trait changes and their implications for ecological and human well-being.
A study finds that Arctic Inuit and Native American cold adaptations originated from an extinct hominid population related to the Denisovans. The archaic variant of the TBX15/WARS2 region was introduced into modern humans during their expansion, potentially providing a unique adaptive trait.
Researchers found that a genetic mutation in protein NOD1 increases susceptibility to human cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. Studies with human cells and mice showed decreased CMV replication when NOD1 was activated, suggesting a key role in controlling the virus.