Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Domestic cat genome sequenced

The domestic cat genome has been successfully sequenced, revealing approximately 65% of its euchromatic regions. The analysis identified 20,285 putative genes and hundreds of chromosomal rearrangements among mammals, shedding light on feline health and human disease.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateOct 31, 2007

Largest ever Alzheimer's gene study underway

A team of experts is conducting a genome-wide association scanning study to analyze DNA samples from 14,000 people with late-onset Alzheimer's disease and healthy controls. This study aims to identify common genetic variations that increase the risk of the disease, providing valuable insights into its causes.

Giardia genome unlocked

The complete Giardia genome has been unlocked, revealing several unusual proteins that could lead to the development of new drugs. The parasite's unique genetic makeup is thought to have allowed it to evade the human immune system and survive for long periods in contaminated water.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 2007

First individual genome sequence published

Researchers at JCVI have published the first true diploid genome from one individual, Craig Venter's, covering over 2.8 billion base pairs. The study reveals high genetic variation between two chromosomes within an individual and uncovers a total of 4.1 million variants, including 3.2 million SNPs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 3, 2007

Neutral evolution has helped shape our genome

A study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that neutral genetic drift contributed significantly to the human genome, with mitochondrial DNA elements accumulating and spreading across populations. The study suggests these neutral elements had little impact on human health and fitness.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJul 9, 2007

The wider view from a detailed focus

A comprehensive analysis of the human genome has shown that a significant portion of the genome is actively transcribed and copied into RNA, relaying information to cellular machinery. The study identified new regions of gene regulation and altered our understanding of how genes are controlled.

Botulism bug has few genome wrinkles

The Clostridium botulinum genome, the source of the world's deadliest toxin, is remarkably stable and shows limited genetic variation. The organism uses a single-minded opportunistic approach to survive, relying on its ability to form dormant spores and attack animal hosts with its potent toxin.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalGenome Research·DateMay 23, 2007

The sound of proteins

Researchers at UCLA have created a system to translate protein sequences into musical notes, with a 20-note range spanning over 2 octaves. The music is designed to be melodic and less 'jumpy,' making it more accessible to those who are visually impaired.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateMay 3, 2007

Triplex assay used to assay duplex genomic DNA

A new triplex assay developed by Ingeneus Research enables direct detection of base sequences in human genomic DNA, eliminating the need for PCR. The assay uses YOYO-1 to de-condense duplex targets, allowing specific oligo probes to bind and detect sequence variations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 20, 2007

New mathematical model to add rigor to studies of disease genetics and evolution

A new mathematical model developed by USC College computational biologist Peter Calabrese simulates the evolution of genetic recombination hotspots in the human genome. The model reveals that hotspots are not as fixed as previously thought, but rather vary across populations and can be found in multiple ethnic groups.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 2007

2-step process filters evolution of genes of human and chimpanzee

A study published in PNAS reveals that genes of human and chimpanzee underwent a rigorous two-step filtering process, with radical mutations more harshly screened. The researchers estimated that around 10-12% of genetic changes between humans and chimpanzees are adaptive, with most responsible for significant evolutionary divergence.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 5, 2007

Which genome variants matter?

A global survey of genetic variation shows that at least 10-20% of heritable variation in gene activity is due to copy number variations (CNVs), affecting the activity of over 1,000 genes. The study provides a first genome-wide view of how unique genetic variations lead to unique patterns of gene activity.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateFeb 8, 2007