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Defining what it means to be a naive stem cell

Researchers developed a method to revert and maintain human ESCs in a naive state, closely resembling that of mouse ESCs. The team assembled a checklist of characteristics human ESCs must have to be considered naive, including gene expression, DNA methylation, and X chromosome inactivation.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 14, 2016

Genetics of type 2 diabetes revealed in unprecedented detail

A comprehensive study of the genetics of type 2 diabetes has unveiled significant details about the disease's underlying mechanisms. The research identified common genetic variants that contribute to an individual's risk of developing the disease, as well as genes and proteins directly involved in its development.

SourceNIH/Office of the Director·JournalNature·DateJul 11, 2016

GA4GH presents vision, model for genomic and clinical data sharing

The Global Alliance for Genomics and Health presents a vision for a common framework of principles, protocols, and interoperable systems to enable responsible data sharing. The alliance has created tools such as the Genomics API and the Framework for Responsible Sharing of Genomic and Health Related Data.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateJun 9, 2016

We've got tapeworms and scabies! And reproducible research

Two new research papers on scabies and tapeworms showcase a collaboration with protocols.io to share scientific methods, improving reproducibility. The articles provide detailed and complete methodology descriptions, enabling researchers to easily access and build upon the studies.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·DateJun 2, 2016
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.

Migration back to Africa took place during the Paleolithic

The study retrieved the complete sequence of a fossil's mitogenome, confirming its Eurasian origin and supporting a Palaeolithic back-migration to Africa. This migration suggests that some populations embarked on a journey from Eurasia to Africa around 40,000 years ago.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 26, 2016

Shedding light on the 'dark matter' of the genome

Researchers have developed a method called 'LIGR-Seq' to explore the functions of non-coding RNAs in human cells. The study revealed new roles for small nucleolar RNAs in regulating protein-coding mRNA stability and abundance.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMay 19, 2016

An old new weapon against emerging Chikungunya virus

Researchers identified two existing compounds effective against the Chikungunya virus in an animal model, bringing a potential treatment within reach. The findings also suggest that these compounds may be useful for broadly acting antivirals against emerging viruses.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 12, 2016
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Loss of chromosome 8p governs tumor suppression and drug response

Researchers created cell lines with targeted chromosomal deletions to study the role of specific chromosomal losses in cancer development. The findings suggest that chromosomal engineering is a more effective approach than studying individual genes or micro-RNAs.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCancer Cell·DateMay 10, 2016

The first happiness genes have been located

A large-scale international study has identified three genetic variants associated with happiness and two variants linked to depression. The findings provide new insights into the genetic basis of neuroticism and the interplay between nature and nurture in shaping human happiness.

SourceVrije Universiteit Amsterdam·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 25, 2016

Repairing DNA damage in the human body

Researchers found increased mutations at gene promoter sites are caused by a compromised nucleotide excision repair system. This highlights the need for further research into gene promoter mutations and their role in cancer development.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Modern men lack Y chromosome genes from Neanderthals, Stanford researchers say

A new study led by Stanford researchers suggests that Neanderthal Y-chromosome genes disappeared from the human genome long ago. The study found no evidence of Neanderthal DNA in human males, but discovered several genes on the Y chromosome that differ from those in humans and may have played a role in barriers to gene flow.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 7, 2016

A new approach to sequence and assemble primate genomes

A new approach to sequence and assemble primate genomes has been developed using longer sequence reads. This technology has enabled the discovery of missing genes and genetic variation in Western lowland gorillas, providing new biological insights into a living species closely related to humans.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·DateMar 31, 2016

More ancient viruses lurk in our DNA than we thought

Researchers discovered 19 new non-human DNA sequences from ancient viruses, one containing a complete viral genome, found in 50 out of 2,500 human genomes. The study sheds light on how humans and viruses have evolved together over time.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 22, 2016
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.

Scientists generate a new type of human stem cell that has half a genome

Researchers at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem have successfully generated a new type of embryonic stem cell carrying a single copy of the human genome. These haploid stem cells are pluripotent and retain a single set of chromosomes, offering a powerful tool for genetic analysis and potential therapies for diseases.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 2016

Spotted Gar genome links humans to vertebrate ancestry

The Spotted Gar genome is a small and manageable genome that has conserved its genetic material over time, making it an out-group for evolutionary studies. The study reveals the conservation of key genes involved in enamel formation, providing clues to the evolutionary history of gene families and their role in human complex diseases.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 9, 2016

Zebrafish and humans have new biomedical friend in the spotted gar

A genome sequencing project has identified the spotted gar as a genetically sound bridge between zebrafish and humans, enabling advancements in biomedical research on human diseases. The gar's genome retains ancestral characteristics lost by other fishes or humans, making it an evolutionary repository of ancient genetic materials.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 7, 2016
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Sweeping review of human genome IDs stroke risk genes

The study confirmed the role of known genes, ruled out others and identified a new gene associated with strokes caused by large artery atherosclerosis. The research found that each identified gene is associated with a specific stroke subtype, suggesting a need for subtype-specific risk factor investigation.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateFeb 29, 2016

Neandertal-derived DNA may influence depression and more in modern humans

Researchers have identified correlations between Neandertal-derived genes and disease states in modern humans, including depression, addiction, and metabolism. The study found that Neandertal alleles were significantly correlated with the risk for 12 traits, including myocardial infarction and blood disorders.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 11, 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.

Duplicate DNA a hallmark of tick genome

Researchers have sequenced the Ixodes scapularis tick genome, which supports redundancy and has implications for disrupting disease transmission. The large genome includes duplicative elements and hormones regulating development, suggesting potential for developing a 'birth-control pill' to eradicate ticks.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 9, 2016

Innate teaching skills 'part of human nature'

Researchers studying the Aka pygmies found that teaching is an innate aspect of human behavior, with adults giving infants sharp objects to learn a skill. The study's findings suggest that teaching occurs naturally in small-scale groups and may be essential for human learning.

SourceWashington State University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateFeb 8, 2016

Groundbreaking journal, Gender and the Genome, to launch in summer 2016

The journal will publish evidence-based original research on the impact of biological sex on 21st century technology and human life. Topics include sex-specific differences in genomic and cellular function, synthetic biology, and technological advances.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGender and the Genome·DateJan 27, 2016
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

What's height got to do with it?

A study of over 13,000 couples found that genetic variation affecting height influences mate choice, revealing an innate preference for partners of similar height. The research provides new insights into the mechanisms driving sexual attraction and human variation.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateJan 19, 2016

NIH genome sequencing program targets the genomic bases of common, rare disease

The National Institutes of Health has launched the Centers for Common Disease Genomics (CCDG) to explore the genomic contributions to common diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. The program will sequence tens of thousands of genomes from individuals with these diseases, aiming to identify genes and genomic variants underlying d...

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateJan 14, 2016

Neanderthal genes gave modern humans an immunity boost, allergies

New studies reveal that Neanderthal genes have increased the ability of modern humans to ward off infection, but may also contribute to allergies. The findings highlight the importance of interspecies relations in human evolution and specifically in the evolution of the innate immune system.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 7, 2016
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Science's 2015 Breakthrough of the Year: CRISPR

The CRISPR genome editing technique has been hailed as a breakthrough due to its ability to deliver genes precisely, low cost, and ease of use. It has enabled the creation of gene drives, human embryo editing, and the deletion of retrovirus DNA in pig genomes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 17, 2015

New ASU worldwide resource for exploring genes' hidden messages

Researchers at Arizona State University have created a worldwide resource to explore genes' deep and hidden messages, specifically the untranslated elements (UTRs) of the human genome. The UTRome library contains over 1,400 human 3'UTRs and is freely available for researchers to study gene regulation and disease.

SourceArizona State University·JournalBMC Genomics·DateDec 11, 2015

At ASCB 2015: CRISPR/Cas9 + HPSC = human PKD lab model

Researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 to guide human pluripotent stem cells into becoming a lab model for polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a common inherited disorder. The system produced stable, biologically accurate human models with cyst-like structures in kidney tubules.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 11, 2015

3-D map of human genome reveals relationship between mutations and disease development

Researchers at Whitehead Institute created a 3D map of the human genome's DNA loops that regulate gene expression in human embryonic stem cells and adult cells. This new understanding will help scientists predict relationships between mutated elements and their target genes, leading to improved disease development insights.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 10, 2015
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.

Protein factors tie the genome up in a bow for gene expression

Researchers mapped the topological structure of the human genome, revealing how proteins like CTCF and cohesin organize genes for proper transcription. The findings provide new insights into the relationship between genome architecture and gene regulation, with potential implications for understanding genetic diseases.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalCell·DateDec 10, 2015

Adapting to -70 degrees in Siberia: A tale of Yakutian horses

The study reveals that Yakutian horses developed their adaptations in less than 800 years, making it one of the fastest examples of adaptation in mammals. The genome analysis shows that the founders of modern Yakutian horses entered the region with Yakut horse-riders in the 13-15th century AD.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

Scientists fill in the gaps of human hunter-gatherer history

Researchers sequenced ancient genomes from Late Upper Palaeolithic period, revealing a new strand of European hunter-gatherer ancestry. The discovery provides insights into the genetic history of modern populations in Europe and beyond.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 16, 2015

Complex grammar of the genomic language

A recent study from Karolinska Institutet shows that the human genome's 'grammar' is more complex than even intricate spoken languages. The findings contribute to understanding how genetic differences affect disease risk and pave the way for cracking the genetic code controlling gene expression.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature·DateNov 9, 2015

Earliest embryonic lethality gene identified

Researchers have identified a single gene, TLE6, responsible for human embryonic lethality at an earlier stage of development than previously documented. The mutation impairs the binding of components of the sub-cortical maternal complex, leading to arrest in early embryonic development.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateNov 4, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Predicting the human genome using evolution

Researchers developed an approach to predict human genome variation by compiling data from 46 vertebrate species and applying evolutionary probability analysis. The method predicts probable mutations and identifies evolutionarily improbable variations, which may be strong candidates for adaptive evolution.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 28, 2015

Gene on-off switch works like backpack strap

A team of researchers has found that proteins forming loops in human chromosomes work like a sliding plastic adjuster on a backpack. This discovery could provide new clues about genetic diseases and allow for reprogramming cells by directly modifying the loops in genomes.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Virally cleansing the pig genome

Researchers have successfully used the CRISPR-Cas9 system to eliminate porcine endogenous retroviruses (PERVs) from pig epithelial cells. The study found that PERV infectivity was reduced by up to a thousand fold, making genetically modified pigs for human transplantation a promising option.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 13, 2015
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.

JAX reseachers, collaborators report on variations in human genome

A massive research project has revealed widespread structural variation in the human genome, including copy number variants and insertions/deletions of DNA segments. The findings underscore the significant role of these variations in determining gene expression and disease risk.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalNature·DateOct 2, 2015

Scientists create world's largest catalog of human genomic variation

The 1000 Genomes Project Consortium has created the world's largest catalog of genomic differences among humans, identifying over 88 million sites that vary among people. This database will help researchers understand how inherited genetic variations contribute to disease risk and drug response, enabling the development of improved dia...

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature·DateSep 30, 2015

Gene deletions and duplications reveal our genetic storyline

Researchers analyzed copy number variation across 236 genomes from 125 populations to identify patterns of ancestry and genetic subpopulations. DNA deletions are more reflective of selection, while duplications highlight these variations.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 6, 2015
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.

Punctuating messages encoded in human genome with transposable elements

Recent study finds that Mammalian-wide Interspersed Repeats (MIRs) serve as genetic landmarks to target regulatory mechanisms, coordinating gene expression in cells. Boundary elements, encoded by MIRs, help establish the geography of genome packaging, controlling timing and extent of gene expression.

SourceAelan Cell Technologies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 3, 2015

In CRISPR advance, scientists successfully edit human T cells

Researchers have made significant progress in editing human T cells using CRISPR/Cas9, opening doors to potential therapies for autoimmune diseases, AIDS, and cancer. By disabling key proteins such as CXCR4 and PD-1, scientists hope to develop new treatments for various health problems.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2015

New techniques improve specificity of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing tools

Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital developed two new strategies to reduce off-target effects of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. These techniques use truncated guide RNA molecules and the addition of a FokI domain to the Cas9 protein, resulting in highly specific genome editing.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateJul 20, 2015

Presidents of National Academy of Medicine and National Academy of Sciences Present new initiative on ethics of human gene editing technology

The National Academies have launched an international initiative to address the technical, social, and ethical issues surrounding human genome editing. The initiative aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of human genome editing and its implications for improving human health and boosting food production.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateJul 16, 2015

The sting in dengue's tail

Singapore researchers have identified specific molecular interactions in the dengue virus genome that allow it to manipulate human immune defenses and spread more efficiently. These genetic changes increase the virus's capacity for epidemic outbreaks, highlighting the need for targeted surveillance and response strategies.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Longstanding problem put to rest

Researchers at MIT report that a widely held assumption about computational complexity is correct, making it unlikely that a more efficient algorithm exists. The current edit distance algorithm, in use for over 40 years, has been deemed the best possible solution for comparing genomes or strings of symbols.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 11, 2015