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Evolution's toolkit seen in developing hands and arms

A comparative genomics study led by Yale School of Medicine researchers has identified thousands of sequences controlling genes in the developing human limb. These regulatory sequences are active in humans but not in other primates or mice, suggesting they evolved since the human-monkey divergence.

SourceYale University·JournalCell·DateJul 3, 2013

Team describes molecular detail of HIV's inner coat, pointing the way to new therapies

A team led by Peijun Zhang has described the 4-million-atom structure of HIV's capsid protein shell, revealing critical molecular interactions that could lead to new treatments. The findings may enable the development of drugs that disrupt the shell's assembly or disassembly, potentially stopping the virus from replicating.

Study by Worcester Polytechnic Institute professor produces first edition of a bookworm's genome

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have sequenced the genetic code of Panagrellus redivivus, a tiny nematode also known as the beer-mat worm. The study reveals nearly 24,000 putative genes and sheds light on animal biology, including differences between male and female organisms and unique adaptations of parasitic worms.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalGenetics·DateApr 25, 2013

Fishing for solutions

Researchers have generated mutations in almost 40% of zebrafish genes, creating a resource for understanding physical and biochemical consequences of genetic variation. The study aims to reveal the function of each gene in zebrafish to shed light on human disease.

Painted turtle gets DNA decoded

The study reveals that turtles activate existing genes in new ways to adapt to oxygen deprivation, which may lead to improved treatments for human heart conditions. The research also highlights the importance of preserving turtle diversity due to their slow evolution rate and declining global populations.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalGenome Biology·DateApr 3, 2013

You don't 'own' your own genes

A recent study reveals that 41% of the human genome is covered by longer DNA patents, which could lead to a loss of individual genomic liberty. The study also found that short sequences from patents cover virtually the entire genome, even outside of genes.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalGenome Medicine·DateMar 25, 2013

Study maps human metabolism in health and disease

A team of international researchers has created an instruction manual for the human genome, providing a framework to understand the relationship between genetic makeup and lifestyle. The model explains how individual biological parts operate differently within each person, paving the way for tailored treatments in personalized medicine.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 3, 2013

Learning the alphabet of gene control

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified the DNA sequences that bind to over 400 proteins controlling gene expression, representing half of all human transcription factors. This discovery provides a valuable resource for furthering our understanding of the human genome and its role in disease development.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell·DateJan 17, 2013

Mutation hotspots in autism genes

A study found that autism genes are more prone to mutation hotspots, contributing to disease risk. The researchers used whole-genome sequencing on monozygotic twins with autism and their parents, identifying clusters of nucleotide substitutions in specific parts of the genome.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateDec 20, 2012

New insights into a virus proteome

Researchers have identified over 700 novel proteins in the herpesvirus genome, many of which are surprisingly small and complex. This discovery provides new insights into the biology of the herpesvirus and highlights the importance of analyzing the products actually produced from the genome.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateNov 23, 2012

1000 genomes study is 'guidebook' to how genes vary

The 1000 Genomes Project has sequenced 1,092 human genomes, providing a genetic guidebook to help researchers interpret genetic changes in people with disease. The study found that rare gene variants are restricted to specific geographic regions and can be used to identify individuals at risk of certain conditions.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·DateOct 31, 2012

Spot the difference

The 1000 Genomes Project has mapped normal human genetic variation at different scales, revealing differences between individuals and populations. The results open new approaches for research on the genetic causes of diseases, including links to specific DNA sequences and their inherited variants.