Articles tagged with Human Genetics
Researchers analyzed 1,785 ancient human genomes to determine parental relatedness, revealing that cousin marriages occurred only 3% of the time. The new method allowed for more efficient screening of ancient DNA, also providing insights into population dynamics and demographic impact of agriculture.
Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago found a potential direct connection between neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), glaucoma, and herpesvirus. The study suggests OPTN protein restricts HSV-1 virus spread in cells.
Researchers at UC San Diego will use $6.4 million in NIH funding to study the influence of external signals on insulin production in beta cells. They aim to create a roadmap of genetic variations that can predict changes in insulin output, which may help prevent and treat diabetes.
Researchers found that viral fossils in Australian marsupials are used to make non-coding RNAs that protect against outside infection. The study suggests that these viral fossils may be helping to immunize animals, potentially providing a mechanism similar to vaccination.
Researchers analyzed ancient DNA from victims of epidemics in Mexico and found evidence of newly introduced viruses, including smallpox, measles, and mumps. The study suggests that European colonists brought these viruses to North America, contributing to devastating epidemics among Indigenous communities.
A new open-access repository aggregates and enhances FAQs by genomics researchers to explain their studies and debunk bias. The repository provides easily accessible information for various stakeholders, including policymakers, journalists, industry, and patient groups.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have discovered a hormone in fruit flies that regulates human metabolism, potentially leading to new treatments for obesity and diabetes. The CAPA hormone plays a crucial role in maintaining energy balance, raising blood sugar levels, and regulating insulin secretion.
A Mount Sinai study found that polygenic risk scores were no better at predicting worsening symptoms than written reports in schizophrenia patients. The results raise questions about the use of polygenic risk scores in real-world situations, suggesting a doctor's report may be an untapped source of predictive information.
A UC Riverside-led study identifies how loss-of-function mutations in the gene PTPN2 affect intestinal epithelial cells' ability to maintain a barrier. The researchers found that increased fluid loss and diarrhea are linked to the mutation, which can be reversed by treating cells with synthetic matriptase.
Researchers found that UVB phototherapy increases levels of romantic passion and aggression in both men and women. Exposure to sunlight affects the endocrine system's regulation of sexual hormones.
A new study identifies at least three migratory events that shaped central European prehistory, revealing a more dynamic period than previously thought. Genetic profiles show evidence of recent migrations and novel insights into social processes, such as the expansion of Corded Ware culture and the assimilation of women.
A 7,000-year-old human skeleton from Sulawesi has provided new insights into ancient human relations. The genome analysis shows a connection to the first modern humans to reach Oceania and a mix of Denisovan and Asian genetic components.
A new study led by UCL researchers confirms that genetic inheritance has a significant impact on educational outcomes. However, the study also reveals that parent genes that aren't directly inherited can shape parents' education levels and subsequently influence their children's learning environment, affecting their academic success.
A new study found that rare single-nucleotide variants in the MX1 gene increase human susceptibility to zoonotic H7N9 avian influenza infection. These genetic vulnerabilities may act as incubators for transmission of virulent new IAV subtypes, posing a risk for pandemic viruses.
Researchers reconstructed genetic histories and social organization in two ancient Croatian sites, uncovering a diverse population with little biological kinship. The study found that individuals from different burial rites had similar genetic ancestry, but also identified endogamous mating practices and patrilocal social organization.
A team of researchers has identified a novel splicing mechanism for human short introns, involving the distinct factor SPF45. This discovery sheds light on alternative splicing and its potential applications in cancer treatment.
Researchers created the first detailed cell-by-cell description of how the coronal suture develops, identifying new genes and cell types involved in generating stem cells that grow skull bones. The study aims to advance new interventions for patients with craniosynostosis.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have developed a more accurate laboratory model for studying retinoblastoma, a rare pediatric eye cancer. The models closely mimic the biology of patient tumors and provide an important resource for studying the earliest stages of the disease as well as screening new therapies.
A new study published in Genome Biology found that the ability of gut bacteria to produce spores is associated with their adaptation to humans. Bacteria that can produce spores have larger genomes and are less abundant in the gut, while those that cannot have smaller genomes and are more adapted to human hosts.
A new study generated 137 whole-genome sequences from eight Middle Eastern populations, filling a major gap in international genomic projects. The researchers found 4.8 million previously undiscovered genetic variants, which could hold medical relevance.
Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have discovered that exercise can alter the structure of our DNA, specifically the enhancers that regulate gene expression. This epigenetic rewiring may be responsible for the beneficial effects of physical activity on human health.
Researchers identified a novel lncRNA, Teshl, which plays a crucial role in the development of Y-bearing sperm and regulates sex chromosome gene expression. The study provides new insights into sex ratio variations and suggests that genetics may be a key factor in human male infertility.
Researchers analyzed Neandertal and Denisovan genomes to identify blood groups, confirming their African origin and Eurasian dispersal. The study also found evidence of low genetic diversity and possible demographic fragility, shedding light on the disappearance of Neandertals.
A study found no detection of COVID-19 vaccine-associated messenger RNA (mRNA) in breast milk samples from vaccinated mothers. Researchers analyzed 13 human milk samples and concluded that the mRNA was not detectable.
A comprehensive genetic study led by the University of Bonn has identified 45 new regions in the human genome associated with an increased risk of cleft lip and palate. These regions are linked to variations in DNA sequences that regulate gene activity, disrupting normal facial development.
Researchers at University at Buffalo have published a detailed protocol for generating mouse-human chimeric embryos, enabling more accurate models of human development and disease. The method has the potential to revolutionize biomedical research and potentially lead to the generation of human organs for transplantation.
Scientists from the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience found that mice have a region called 'focea' with improved visual sensitivity, similar to the fovea in human retinas. This discovery suggests that mice may be better models for studying human vision than previously thought.
A UCLA-led study comparing human and mouse astrocytes found that mouse cells are more resilient to oxidative stress, a key mechanism behind many neurological disorders. The findings have important implications for basic and translational research into conditions like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral scl...
Researchers have developed a method to control the degradation of messenger RNA, which could lead to more efficient biotechnological functions and improved medical outcomes. This breakthrough has potential applications in vaccine development, genome engineering, and therapeutic treatments.
This study highlights PGC1α's role in maintaining vascular smooth muscle cells' contractile phenotype and reducing atherosclerotic plaque formation. Overexpression of PGC1α attenuates high cholesterol diet-induced atherosclerosis in rabbits, showing its therapeutic potential for cardiovascular diseases.
A joint research team led by Prof. FU Qiaomei has sequenced the ancient genomes of 31 individuals from southern East Asia, unveiling a missing piece of human prehistory. The study reveals three genetically distinct ancestries in southern East Asia and Southeast Asia: Fujian ancestry, Hòabìnhian ancestry, and Guangxi ancestry.
Researchers discover a previously unknown population of archaic hominin in Israel, exhibiting unique features between Neanderthals and modern humans. The findings suggest close cultural interactions and genetic admixture between different human lineages before 120,000 years ago.
A new study by NYU Langone Health researchers discovered a molecular mechanism hijacked by SARS-CoV-2 that makes it vulnerable to drug candidates. The study showed that coronavirus reproduction requires chemical changes made by the human protein METTL3, which can be inhibited by the compound STM2457.
A study of 18 bat species in Switzerland revealed 39 different viral families, with 16 infecting vertebrates and potentially posing a risk to humans. A near-complete genome of an MERS-CoV-related virus was also identified, highlighting the need for continued monitoring of viruses carried by bats.
The study reveals that the pituitary gland in mice ages as a result of chronic inflammation, which can potentially be slowed down or partially repaired. The researchers found that stem cells in the ageing pituitary gland retain their regenerative capacity when taken out of an inflammatory environment.
African MERS-CoV strains show lower replication rates and virulence compared to Saudi Arabian strains. Spike protein differences contribute to the disparity, raising concerns about increased transmission and global outbreak risk.
Researchers found that puppies as young as 8 weeks old demonstrate social communication skills, such as following pointing gestures and engaging in eye contact. Genetics explain more than 40% of the variation in puppies' abilities, suggesting an innate capacity for human interaction.
Scientists have measured the mass of human chromosomes using X-rays for the first time, finding them to be significantly heavier than expected. The study's results suggest there may be unexplained excess mass in chromosomes, which could have important implications for understanding human health and diagnosing cancer.
A team of biologists has developed a new classification system for cell nuclei, revealing how species can switch between different nuclear types. The researchers discovered that mutations in a protein called condensin II can convert human cells into fly-like nuclei, and created a computer program to simulate the effects.
Researchers have mapped the genetic changes of malaria parasites in unprecedented detail, revealing new targets to block key stages in the parasite's development. This could lead to new ways to prevent transmission through future drugs or vaccines.
A new study from Clemson University identifies specific cell clusters in the brain of fruit flies affected by acute cocaine exposure. The findings show widespread changes in gene expression and distinct differences between males and females, potentially leading to therapeutic development.
Researchers discovered innate immune markers increased in frequency in modern people from a region that experienced the plague, suggesting these markers might have evolved to resist the disease. The study also found changes in allele distribution for immune-related genes, which could be evidence of past Yersinia pestis exposure.
A genetic study has identified two regions in the canine genome associated with a high risk of developing an aggressive form of hematological cancer, known as histiocytic sarcoma. The research, which combined multiple sequencing techniques, found that these regions account for 35% of the risk of the disease in flat-coated retrievers.
Researchers developed a gold leaf electrode system that sensitively detects human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA using CRISPR-based assay. The method is simple, affordable and adaptable to detect other viral infections, addressing a need for diagnostic tests in low-resource settings.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have adapted CRISPR-Cas9 technology to edit human monocytes, a type of white blood cell that plays key roles in the immune system. The study shows the potential utility of gene editing for understanding how the human immune system fights viruses and microbes.
Scientists discovered that errors often occur when genetic material from each parent combines immediately after fertilization, leading to incorrect numbers of chromosomes. This process is surprisingly inefficient and can result in developmental defects and miscarriage.
Ancient DNA analysis reveals that Bronze Age migrations changed burial practices and kinship structures in Italy. The study found that Steppe-related ancestry arrived in Central Italy around 3,600 years ago, while Northern Italy received it around 4,000 years ago.
The world's vast population of people, pets, and livestock has created an ideal environment for the evolution and transmission of zoonotic infectious diseases. To mitigate this threat, experts recommend using vaccination passports, maximizing genetic variation in livestock, and reducing animal protein consumption.
A study reveals significant epigenetic differences in the cerebellum of humans, chimpanzees, and monkeys, highlighting its importance in human brain evolution. The findings suggest that the cerebellum played a key role in the development of human culture, language, and tool use.
A new bonobo genome assembly has been created with high accuracy, allowing for precise comparisons to other great apes and humans. The study reveals over 5,500 structural variants that distinguish the bonobo and chimpanzee lineages, providing insights into gene evolution and species divergence.
Researchers discovered SARS-CoV-2 uses m6A modification to evade immune response, increasing viral replication and survival. Inhibiting METTL3 suppressed viral replication.
Researchers discovered that organisms like plants, fungi, and corals use gene conversion to inherit less mutated oDNA, unlike humans and animals which rely on a bottleneck process. This finding could have implications for crop plants where gene conversion can cause sterility.
Researchers found that kiwi populations differ genetically between areas, but lack understanding of local adaptations and breeding changes. The study emphasizes the importance of strategic sample regimes and informative markers for developing effective conservation policies.
An international team of scientists has identified 267 genes linked to creativity that differentiate Homo sapiens from Neanderthals, suggesting this genetic difference enabled humans to replace them. These genes are also associated with superior adaptation to the environment, resilience to ageing and disease, and greater physical fitness.
A new study identified 267 genes unique to modern humans that play a crucial role in creativity, self-awareness, cooperativeness, and healthy longevity. These genes are found only in Homo sapiens and not in Neanderthals or chimpanzees.
Researchers found that female mice with glioma lacking the POT1 gene survived less than males, leading to further investigation of human glioma cells. Low POT1 expression correlated with reduced survival in females, suggesting immune response and tumor cell proliferation played a role in tumor growth.
Researchers developed methods to recover, enrich and analyze archaic human nuclear DNA from cave sediments. This approach revealed new insights into Neanderthal population history, including a replacement event in northern Spain about 100,000 years ago.
The full assembly of human chromosome 8 has been completed, revealing novel genes and potential disease risks. The sequence fills in gaps missing from the current reference genome and provides new insights into immune disorders, brain development, and heart defects.
Researchers have identified the oldest reconstructed modern human genome, dating back around 2,000 years, from a fossil skull in Czechia. The study suggests that early modern humans did not successfully adapt to Europe, with a possible explanation being the Campanian Ignimbrite volcanic eruption.
Researchers found that manual workers are twice as likely to develop ALS, with close to two-thirds of patients reporting a blue-collar job. The study also discovered that jobs involving sustained physical exertion, such as construction and carpentry, were associated with a higher risk of bulbar-onset ALS.