Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Mapping the mouse genome

Researchers created a detailed genetic map of the mouse genome using two groups of mice, tracking over 10,000 SNPs to identify patterns of inheritance. The study found variations in recombination rates across the genome, between sexes, and identified sequence motifs that may be representative of recombination hot spots.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 13, 2006

Comparing chimp and human DNA

A new study published in PLoS Genetics has identified specific DNA regions that have accelerated their evolution in humans compared to chimpanzees. These 'Human Accelerated Regions' (HARs) are located near genes involved in growth and development, suggesting they may play important roles in human evolution.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 12, 2006

Powerful genome ID method extended to humans

A novel genome mapping method has been extended to humans, offering a faster and more cost-effective tool than traditional DNA sequencing. The algorithm makes it possible to optically map the human genome, revealing large-scale structure and detecting genomic abnormalities. This breakthrough may accelerate research in cancer biology.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 9, 2006

Speeding discovery of the 'human cancer genome'

Researchers identified two genes that can produce liver cancer and a gene important to melanoma spread. Genes in these pathways are promising targets for cancer drugs, according to the study. Improvements in genome technology have enabled researchers to filter out non-causal genetic changes and focus on functionally relevant ones.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJun 28, 2006

UB scientist publishes first human microbiome analysis

A team of researchers led by UB microbiologist Steven R. Gill analyzed the DNA of microbes in the human distal gut using metagenomics. The study found significant differences between two microbial communities from healthy individuals, highlighting the importance of understanding the interactions between human and microbial genomes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalScience·DateJun 1, 2006

Chimpanzee study reveals genome variation hotspots

A recent study has identified copy number variants in chimpanzees that are comparable to those found in humans, indicating regions of the genome may be inherently unstable in both species. This research provides valuable insights into genetic diversity and adaptations in our nearest relatives.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2006

Mining the human genome for signs of recent selection

Researchers analyzed genetic data from three distinct populations and found roughly the same number of signals of positive selection within each population. The study also identified previously known sites of recent adaptation, such as the lactase gene, which enabled the digestion of milk to continue into adulthood.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 6, 2006

Tandem transcripts team together

Researchers identified over 200 cases of TIC involving 421 human genes, finding that genes often reside closer together and share standard splicing machinery. The discovery challenges the 'one gene, one protein' rule and may lead to the development of non-toxic engineered fused proteins for drug applications.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateJan 4, 2006

New methods offer insight into regulatory DNA

Scientists have developed new methods to study the connection between regulatory DNA and disease, using a combination of genome-wide associations and cell culture data. The study identified over 3000 genes that could be subject to modification of activity due to common genetic variations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateDec 15, 2005