Articles tagged with Human Genetics
Researchers found that bexarotene reduces amyloid-beta levels in late-stage Alzheimer's mice but increases them in early stages. This study suggests a personalized treatment approach for APOE4 carriers, who may benefit from short-term treatment in later disease stages.
Researchers at UCSF identified an antibiotic, lactocillin, produced by a common vaginal bacterial species that kills certain pathogens while sparing others. The study suggests that naturally occurring drugs made by our own microbes may play an important role in maintaining human health.
Researchers have discovered a pathological process that affects both mice and humans with type 2 diabetes. By analyzing genome, phenome, proteome, and metabolome data, they identified a specific gene on chromosome 2 that plays a crucial role in the development of the disease.
The gibbon genome sequencing project provides new insights into chromosomal rearrangements, evolutionary history, and genetic factors in human health. The study sheds light on the complex evolution of gibbons and their role in understanding human diseases.
Researchers discovered that a single-celled organism, Oxytricha trifallax, can break its DNA into nearly quarter-million pieces and reassemble them in 60 hours for mating. This ability highlights the complexity of life on Earth, with intricate mechanisms to reconstruct chromosomes.
A comprehensive DNA study reveals that the Paleo-Eskimos were a single group of people who migrated to the Arctic from Siberia around 5,000 years ago, surviving in near-isolation for over 4,000 years. Their culture developed into three discrete cultural units: Inuit, Native Americans, and Thule culture.
The FASEB MARC Program has announced the recipients of its travel awards for the 2014 American Society of Human Genetics meeting. The program aims to increase diversity in biomedical research, and this year's awardees represent a total of $29,600.
A Yale-led analysis of genomic data reveals shared molecular toolkits in flies, worms, and humans, with comparable numbers of functioning genes and coordinated gene expression patterns. However, pseudogene regions show stark differences reflecting divergent evolutionary histories.
A recent study has identified key sets of co-expressed genes essential for animal cells, regardless of species. The researchers used RNA-seq data from multiple tissues and developmental conditions to create a map of highly important genome regions.
A team of researchers from Arizona State University has discovered the genetic 'recipe' for lizard tail regeneration, which involves turning on at least 326 genes in specific regions. This finding may lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches for spinal cord injuries and birth defects.
Researchers used mathematical models and genetic analysis to discover that cooperative bacteria are better equipped to adapt to environments, increasing their ability to infect multiple species. This knowledge could help predict and manage health threats from animal-borne diseases.
A study published in Global Heart explores the prevalence of atherosclerosis across ancient populations, revealing that genetic susceptibility is present in all cultures. Environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and physical activity play a crucial role in determining when and how quickly atherosclerosis develops.
Recent studies have shown that clustered DNA mutations are common in cancer development and may result from the process of DNA repair. The discovery provides a mechanism to potentially explain how genetic changes form in human cancers.
A study analyzing the iceman mummy suggests that genetic predisposition is a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis, even in ancient times. The iceman's genome revealed specific genetic mutations linked to cardiovascular disease, contradicting the idea that our ancestors lived healthier lives.
Researchers found that only 8.2% of human DNA has a clear function, with most being 'junk' DNA. This figure challenges the previous claim of 80% functional DNA, highlighting the need for a more precise definition of 'function'.
Whitehead Institute researchers have discovered a way to manipulate and maintain human ESCs in a "naïve" or base pluripotent state without reprogramming factors. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize human ESC research and may lead to new treatments for diseases.
A team of researchers has identified 46 genes in Escherichia coli necessary for its survival at high levels of radiation, including DNA repair pathways. The discovery reveals potential new ways to protect humans from cancer and improve our understanding of ionizing radiation effects.
Researchers found that bexarotene reduces levels of neurotoxic protein amyloid-beta in mice with late-stage Alzheimer's, but increases it during early stages. This suggests that treatment timing and duration may be crucial for effectiveness.
Wisconsin scientists have identified two genetic programs that can turn blank-slate stem cells into red and white blood cells. The discovery gives scientists the tools to make blood products, investigate cell development and production of clinically relevant blood products.
A Georgia State University research study found that chimpanzee intelligence is largely determined by genes, while environmental factors may play a lesser role. The study's findings suggest that genes significantly influence cognitive abilities in chimpanzees, with some similarities to the structure of human intelligence.
A 100,000-year-old archaic early human skull found in Northern China reveals a surprising presence of an inner-ear formation long thought to occur only in Neandertals. This discovery challenges current scenarios of later Pleistocene human population dispersals and interconnections.
A CNIO team updates the number of human protein-coding genes to 19,000, with almost all having ancestors prior to primate evolution. The study suggests that differences between humans and primates are small, and complexity lies in gene regulation and non-coding regions.
Scientists have discovered that Tibetans inherited a gene from their extinct human cousin, the Denisovans, which helps them adapt to high-altitude plateaus with low oxygen levels. This variant of the EPAS1 gene allows Tibetans to survive at elevations above 15,000 feet without cardiovascular problems.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have successfully retrained human gastrointestinal cells to produce insulin in response to glucose. This breakthrough could potentially replace damaged cells lost in type 1 diabetes, offering a new avenue for treating the condition.
Researchers have identified two genes that may help prevent muscle wastage in humans: survivin and checkpoint kinase 1. These genes are highly active in burrowing frogs that survive dormancy without suffering significant muscle damage.
By analyzing somatic mutations in healthy cells, researchers can reconstruct a cell's development from the early embryo to adulthood. This approach provides insight into normal cell development and could help understand how it differs from cancerous cells.
A global study has successfully mapped the genes of a parasitic worm in pigs, which could lead to new treatments for inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and autism. The genetic sequence of the 'pig whipworm' provides insights into its interaction with human immune systems.
A study published in Science found that father's age has a stronger impact on mutation rates in chimpanzees compared to humans, with 90% of new mutations originating from fathers.
A new study from Uppsala University found that elderly carriers of the FTO gene have higher ghrelin levels and lower leptin levels, making them more prone to weight gain. The study suggests that this genetic variant may facilitate weight gain by shifting the endocrine balance towards hunger hormone ghrelin.
Researchers found that human herpes simplex virus (HSV) -1 and -2 originated in chimpanzees, with HSV-1 present in humans for over 6 million years. The study suggests that HSV-2 emerged from ancient chimps around 1.6 million years ago, prior to the rise of modern humans.
Researchers have identified a specific DNA stretch controlling genes that determine face structure and those producing building materials. The region's regulatory elements affect gene Myc activity, leading to facial changes and increased susceptibility to environmental factors like smoking during pregnancy.
Researchers found four genes in trypanosome parasites that make them sensitive or resistant to the human immune system. The study identified a previously unknown gene that codes for a transmembrane channel, which may be involved in the uptake of human defense factors by the parasite.
The discovery of Naia, a 12,000- to 13,000-year-old teenage girl's skeleton, provides conclusive evidence of a genetic connection between ancient Paleoamericans and modern Native Americans. The remains were found in an underwater cave in Mexico and contain an intact cranium, teeth, and DNA from an Asian-derived lineage.
A study published in mBio reveals that humans and companion animals share the same types of MRSA infections, indicating a common population of bacteria. The research suggests that antibiotic usage in animal medicine is shaping the human pathogen, and healthy pets are not likely to pick up MRSA from their human companions.
A new study by University of South Carolina anthropologist Sharon DeWitte provides insights into how the plague shaped population demographics and health for generations. The findings suggest that survivors of the Black Death experienced improvements in health and longevity, with many people living to ages of 70 or 80 years.
Researchers discovered genetic variation influencing immune cell function is linked to increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The study found a striking enrichment of functional effects in monocytes for these variants, highlighting the potential role of immune system cells in human disease pathology.
A study published in Nature Communications found that a mother's diet before conception can permanently affect how her child's genes function. Researchers analyzed blood and hair samples from infants born to mothers who conceived during rainy or dry seasons, revealing higher rates of methyl groups linked to nutrient levels and BMI.
A study has identified a dozen genetic mutations involved in changes to complete blood counts and the onset of severe biological disorders. The research used DNA from 6,796 people and found mutations in genes related to red and white blood cells and platelets.
Researchers demonstrate that transplanting hearts from genetically engineered pigs in combination with target-specific immunosuppression prolongs graft survival in baboons, paving the way for human transplantation. The study shows promise for overcoming immunologic roadblocks and eliminating the shortage of donor organs.
Researchers have sequenced the tsetse fly genome, revealing genetic adaptations that enable it to transmit diseases such as sleeping sickness and Nagana. The study provides a valuable resource for developing prevention strategies to reduce deaths and illness associated with these diseases.
Researchers have developed a new mouse model that accurately replicates the progression of Alzheimer's disease in humans. The models are characterized by early accumulation of Abeta peptides and cognitive dysfunction similar to human patients.
University of Montreal scientists discovered how Epstein Barr (EBV) virus takes over gene regulating machinery to replicate itself. The viruses trick the human defense systems by mimicking components, allowing them to survive and cause diseases like infectious mononucleosis and lymphoma.
A new genome analysis method has confirmed that humans and Neandertals interbred in Eurasia, providing a definitive answer to the long-standing debate about the origin of modern humans. The study's findings suggest that Neandertal admixture occurred after modern humans migrated out of Africa.
UC Davis researchers have identified a genetic mutation responsible for cleft palate in Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, providing a new model for studying the craniofacial defect. This discovery may lead to a better understanding of cleft palate in humans and its associated complications.
Researchers found that European humans have a higher number of Neanderthal variants in genes related to lipid breakdown, which may have provided a selective advantage. This study suggests that Neanderthal ancestry has driven evolutionary changes in lipid processing and brain composition among Europeans.
A mathematical model explains how high-rank individuals in hierarchical groups engage in seemingly altruistic behavior by competing with peers in other groups, leading to increased total group effort towards conflict. This behavior is linked to within-group hierarchy and inequality, observed in nature across various species.
A comprehensive atlas of human gene activity has been released, revealing complex networks that govern gene expression. The new findings could lead to a better understanding of the genetic causes of diseases and improve disease diagnosis.
A study analyzing ancient DNA from over 250 radiocarbon-dated moa samples reveals that the iconic New Zealand bird was thriving when humans arrived, contradicting previous theories of population collapse before human arrival. The research suggests human activities contributed to the moa's extinction.
A recent study using brain imaging found that dogs have a stronger response to the scents of familiar humans than other humans or even familiar dogs. The research suggests that dogs' brains have mental representations of their human companions that persist even when they're not present.
A recent study identified genetic factors associated with lactase persistence in African populations, which became more prevalent after cattle domestication in Africa. Individuals retaining high levels of lactase enzyme allow them to digest milk sugars in adulthood.
A recent study discovered that IRX3 controls body mass and regulates body composition, with obesity-associated FTO introns interacting with IRX3. Mice without the IRX3 gene were significantly leaner due to reduced fat and improved glucose processing.
Research suggests that natural selection has altered European appearance over the past 5,000 years, with ancient DNA revealing darker skin, hair, and eye pigmentation. This phenomenon is comparable to other examples of adaptive evolution, such as malaria resistance and lactase persistence.
The discovery of RNase L's 3D structure reveals its role in the innate immune system and provides insights into its function. The enzyme helps defend against bacteria and possibly prostate cancer and obesity.
A CU-led study bolsters the theory that early Americans may have been isolated on the Bering Land Bridge for thousands of years before spreading throughout the Americas. The research links genetics to paleoecological evidence, suggesting a population of hundreds or thousands lived in central Beringia for 5,000 years or more.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina have discovered a new target for human antibodies that could hold the key to a vaccine for dengue virus. The team found that natural human antibodies bind to a specific region called an epitope hinge, which is composed of just 25 amino acids.
Researchers discovered a 'microbial Pompeii' in ancient dental calculus, revealing opportunistic pathogens and periodontal disease-causing bacteria. The study also recovered dietary DNA, providing insights into ancient diets and the origins of antibiotic resistance.
Researchers have discovered that genes expressed in the nasal passages can serve as accurate proxies for those expressed deeper in the lungs. This breakthrough allows for less invasive and more affordable genetic profiling of asthmatic patients, potentially leading to improved treatment options and better understanding of the disease.
A recent study has found that European beavers have low genetic diversity due to human hunting. The research, led by University of York Professor Michi Hofreiter, analyzed ancient and modern DNA to show that the beaver population was heavily impacted by expanding human populations over thousands of years.
Researchers created a global map detailing the genetic histories of 95 populations across Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. The study found evidence of previously unrecorded genetic mixing, including European DNA in modern-day China and Mongol DNA in Pakistan.
The study uses genome data from 1490 individuals to identify genetic mixing events between populations, dating back to historical events such as the Mongol Empire. The technique, called 'Globetrotter,' provides insight into past events and may have implications for public health and disease prevention.