Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Gut microbiome influences ALS outcomes

Researchers identified a new gut-brain connection in ALS, finding that altering the gut microbiome can prevent or improve disease symptoms in mice with a common genetic mutation. The study suggests that the gut microbiome may influence disease severity and could be a target for therapy.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateMay 13, 2020

Lipid metabolism controls brain development

A recent study by University of Zurich researchers has identified a key mechanism controlling brain development and cognitive function. The study found that a lipid metabolism enzyme, fatty acid synthase (FASN), regulates the lifelong activity of brain stem cells, leading to reduced division and learning deficits.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 7, 2020
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.

New MDS subtype proposed based on presence of genetic mutation

A new subtype of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) has been proposed based on the presence of a genetic mutation, known as SF3B1. This subtype is characterized by ineffective production of red blood cells and may benefit from treatment with luspatercept.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateApr 29, 2020

Belgian scientists identify ATP10B as novel risk gene for Parkinson's disease

Researchers have identified ATP10B as a novel risk gene for Parkinson's disease, revealing its role in transporting glucosylceramide, a lipid critical to the disease's pathogenesis. Mutations in this gene can lead to neuronal loss and increased sensitivity to environmental risk factors.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateApr 10, 2020

Researchers map mechanism to explain role of gene mutations in kidney disease

A study has uncovered a mechanism explaining how genetic mutations lead to nephrotic syndrome, a rare genetic kidney disorder. The researchers found that disruptions in the recycling of cell membranes cause abnormal kidney cell structure and function.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 3, 2020

Investigation of inherited mutations in autism spectrum disorder

Researchers identified a novel mutation in the S6K1 enzyme that affects protein synthesis and is associated with altered cognitive abilities in children with autism spectrum disorder. The study found that this mutation changes the course of normal neural development and memory forming capacity.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalNeurobiology of Learning and Memory·DateMar 25, 2020

Rare driver mutations disrupt NOTCH signaling to promote squamous cell carcinoma

Researchers identified 15 potent tumor suppressor genes that, when mutated, triggered rapid growth of HNSCC in mice. These genes include ADAM10 and AJUBA, which are also mutated in human HNSCC. The study reveals the identity of rare driver mutations in tumor-suppressing genes using a mouse-based CRISPR screen.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 12, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Study finds 'silent' genetic variations can alter protein folding

Scientists have found that 'silent' genetic variations in DNA sequences can significantly impact protein folding, impairing cell function. The study, conducted by the University of Notre Dame, used a bacterium to test this hypothesis, finding that synonymous mutations can alter protein synthesis rates.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2020

How do zebrafish get their stripes? New data analysis tool could provide an answer

A new data analysis tool has been developed to study the formation of zebrafish stripes, enabling scientists to objectively test ideas about how patterns are formed. The algorithm uses topological data analysis to quantify attributes of shapes and patterns, providing a more objective approach to understanding developmental processes.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2020

Scientists find link between genes and ability to exercise

Researchers identified a genetic mutation affecting cellular oxygen sensing and a patient's limited exercise capacity. The von Hippel-Lindau gene is fundamental for cells to survive in low-oxygen conditions, and its impaired functionality limits the patient's exercise capacity compared to those without the mutation.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2020
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Human language most likely evolved gradually

Researchers question the idea that human language arose instantaneously through a single gene mutation, proposing instead a gradual evolution through accumulation of smaller biological changes. They argue that the cognitive operation Merge, key to human language, evolved gradually over time.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 12, 2020

Study resurrects mammoth DNA to explore the cause of their extinction

Researchers resurrected mammoth DNA and found unique genetic mutations affecting neurological development, male fertility, insulin signaling, and sense of smell. The study suggests that the small population's genetic defects may have hindered their survival.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 7, 2020

Finding genetic cancer risks

Researchers identified germline mutations in the MBD4 gene as a driver of somatic mutations in cancer genomes, accelerating the clock-like mutational process. This discovery has significant implications for understanding cancer development and may lead to personalized screening and early intervention strategies.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateFeb 5, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers identify mechanism that triggers a rare type of muscular dystrophy

A research team has identified a mechanism that triggers a rare type of muscular dystrophy, Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) 1G. The study reveals that a specific protein isoform with two domains is prone to forming toxic aggregates, while another isoform with three domains can prevent aggregation through phase separation.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 29, 2020

Major Asia gene study to help doctors battle disease

A new study of Asian genes aims to improve disease treatment and care by shedding light on human migration history. The research will create detailed reference databases for Asian populations, helping medical researchers identify genetic differences that can cause diseases.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNature·DateJan 28, 2020
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.

Hope for patients with a rare genetic condition linked to severe infections

A team of researchers created the first cellular model of chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), a rare genetic condition that causes severe infections. The study's findings suggest that restoring NADPH oxidase function in defective cells could help develop new and more effective treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJan 22, 2020

Cardiac and visual degeneration arrested by a food supplement

Researchers at UNIGE discovered a new gene linked to blindness and cardiomyopathy, which causes a deficiency in taurine. Administering a taurine supplement halted the progression of eye disease and treated cardiac disease in two children.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJan 21, 2020

Avatar worms help to identify factors that modify genetic diseases

Researchers used CRISPR gene-editing to introduce human mutations into C. elegans worms, identifying genes that modify disease progression and pinpointing harmful drugs. The study found three candidate disease-modifier genes and demonstrated the importance of screening for potential harm in patients with genetic mutations.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJan 21, 2020

Mutations in donors' stem cells may cause problems for cancer patients

A new study suggests that rare, harmful genetic mutations present in healthy donors' stem cells can be passed on to cancer patients, causing heart damage, graft-versus-host disease and new leukemias. The study analyzed DNA samples from 25 AML patients and their matching donors, revealing 44% of donors had at least one harmful mutation.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 15, 2020
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

WSU study aims to prevent adverse drug reactions in dogs

A recent WSU study discovered a rare genetic mutation in greyhounds that affects their ability to break down certain anesthetics, but also found similar mutations in popular breeds like golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers. The research team is working on a simple cheek swab test to detect the mutation and provide accurate advice ...

SourceWashington State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 13, 2020

Genetic test could aid quest to reveal causes of rare diseases

A new genetic test approach may help diagnose Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy and other rare diseases by identifying mutations that trigger muscle-wasting conditions. The study identified over 20 new mutations linked to the condition, which affects around one in 100,000 people worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalEBioMedicine·DateDec 17, 2019

Splice-altering mutations and human disease

Splice-altering mutations can contribute to inherited predisposition to cancer by altering RNA splicing patterns. The cBROCA method identifies altered transcripts and associated genes, revealing potential therapeutic targets.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019
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.

Researchers identify new gene mutation in familial thyroid cancers

Researchers discovered a rare gene mutation in the DUOX2 gene associated with familial thyroid cancer, which increases the risk of hereditary non-medullary thyroid cancer. The mutated protein produces excess hydrogen peroxide, potentially causing additional genetic mutations and increasing cancer risk.

SourcePenn State·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 20, 2019

Study decodes gene function that protects against type 2 diabetes

A recent study has identified the gene function that protects against type 2 diabetes, revealing a zinc transporter's role in insulin secretion. The research found that individuals with a specific mutation in the SLC30A8 gene have enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and reduced blood sugar levels.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 4, 2019

Rare mutations drive cystic fibrosis in Caribbean

A comprehensive genome sequencing study reveals rare CFTR mutations in Puerto Rican and Dominican patients, driving the disease's progression. This finding underscores the need for diverse clinical trials to develop personalized therapies, as transformative new drugs may not benefit minority populations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPediatric Pulmonology·DateOct 31, 2019

Faster heartbeat helps deer mice to survive at high altitudes

Researchers discovered a genetic variant in the Epas1 gene that enables high-altitude deer mice to survive by increasing their heart rate in response to low oxygen levels. This adaptation is also found in Tibetans living at high altitudes, suggesting potential benefits for long-term survival.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 30, 2019
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.

Uncovering the pathway to colon cancer

Researchers found complex patterns of mutations, including changes in cancer genes, and a huge variability of mutations in healthy colon tissue. The study provides insight into how a healthy cell becomes a cancerous one and identifies new mutational signatures in normal colon cells.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 23, 2019

New genetic link found for some forms of SIDS

A genetic link has been discovered between Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and a mutation in the HADHA gene, causing infants to die suddenly from cardiac arrest. Researchers hope that this discovery will lead to new treatments and interventions for the disease.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 11, 2019

New research uncovers how common genetic mutation drives cancer

A new study published in Nature found that a single genetic mutation in the SF3B1 gene is associated with an increased risk of developing various types of cancer. The researchers discovered that this mutation leads to the production of abnormal RNA molecules, including noncoding DNA sequences that disrupt the genetic message.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalNature·DateOct 9, 2019
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.

Genetic mutation appears to protect some people from deadly MRSA

A genetic variant in the DNMT3A region of chromosome 2p appears to help people with MRSA clear blood stream infections by regulating immune response. The mutation reduces levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, allowing for a more effective host response.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2019

Cancer research -- The genetic context is crucial

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that inherited germline variations and somatic mutations interact to determine the course of Ewing sarcoma disease. The research, led by Dr. Thomas Grünewald, shows how genetic context influences tumor growth and progression.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 11, 2019

Genetic mutation linked to flu-related heart complications

Researchers at Ohio State University have found a link between a genetic mutation and flu-related heart complications in mice. The study suggests that some people may be genetically predisposed to these complications, which could lead to new therapies.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2019
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Global warming may diminish plant genetic variety in Central Europe

A new study published in Nature found that only a few individuals of the thale cress plant have adapted to extreme climate conditions, suggesting a potential collapse of species genetic diversity in Central Europe. This could lead to reduced plant populations unable to survive due to changing precipitation and temperature patterns.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2019

Study identifies mutations linked to familial pancreatic cancer

A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers has found a mutation in the RABL3 gene linked to hereditary forms of pancreatic cancer. The discovery may lead to earlier diagnoses and improved treatments for patients with strong family histories.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 15, 2019

Accurate detection of low-level somatic mutation in intractable epilepsy

Researchers developed an advanced method to detect low-level somatic mutations in intractable epilepsy with 100% accuracy, surpassing conventional sequencing analysis which stands at 30%. The study used deep sequencing replicates of major focal epilepsy genes and identified mutations in approximately 5% of patients.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateAug 14, 2019
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.

Inherited pancreatic cancer risk mutation identified

Scientists have discovered a rare, inherited gene mutation that significantly increases the risk of pancreatic and other cancers. The RABL3 mutation was found in a family with multiple relatives diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and zebrafish carrying the mutation also showed dramatically higher rates of cancer.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 12, 2019

1 in 300 thrives on very-early-to-bed, very-early-to-rise routine

A study led by UCSF found that advanced sleep phase, where people wake up at 4 a.m., may be more common than previously thought, affecting around 1 in 300 adults. This condition is distinct from early rising with normal aging and can improve daytime functioning.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalSLEEP·DateAug 6, 2019

Finding a cause of neurodevelopmental disorders

Researchers identified the molecular mechanism linking a protein mutation with abnormal nervous system development in neurodevelopmental disorders. A complex of proteins called the SWI/SNF complex was found to be affected, leading to changes in gene expression and brain development.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 30, 2019
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Saving Beethoven

Researchers at Harvard Medical School developed a precise gene-editing tool to target the faulty Tmc1 gene in Beethoven mice, achieving an unprecedented level of accuracy. The treatment successfully preserved hearing in mice with hereditary deafness, paving the way for potential treatments of other dominantly inherited genetic diseases.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 3, 2019
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.

Discovery of new mutations may lead to better treatment

Researchers analyzed genomic data from over 31,000 parent-child trios and identified 307 significantly enriched genes, 49 of which are novel. The study explains about 51% of the DNM burden in their dataset, leaving half unexplained, providing clues for future discovery.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Genetics·DateJun 14, 2019

Discovery of new genetic causes of male infertility

A study has identified new potential genetic causes of male infertility, which will help develop better diagnostic tests. Researchers found de novo mutations in genes involved in spermatogenesis, none of which were previously known to cause human infertility.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Genetics·DateJun 13, 2019

Scientists edge closer to root causes of multiple sclerosis

Researchers discovered 12 genes that increase MS risk in families with multiple members affected by the disease. They found a common biological process leading to increased inflammation, paving the way for personalized treatments and preventative strategies.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 6, 2019
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

CRISPR baby mutation significantly increases mortality

A genetic mutation in the CCR5 gene associated with a lower survivability rate was created on twin babies born last year. The mutation increases mortality by 21%, particularly between ages 41 and 78, according to researchers at the University of California, Berkeley.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 3, 2019

Combination of three gene mutations results in deadly human heart disease

A research study has identified a deadly human heart disease caused by the combination of three subtle genetic variants inherited within a family. The study uses CRISPR genome editing and human pluripotent stem cell technology to prove that the interaction between these genes leads to severe heart defects in multiple siblings.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalScience·DateMay 30, 2019

New causes of autism found in 'junk' DNA

Researchers used machine learning to analyze whole genomes of 1,790 individuals with autism and their unaffected parents and siblings. Noncoding mutations were found to be comparable in number to protein-coding mutations causing gene disablement.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 27, 2019

Artificial intelligence detects a new class of mutations behind autism

A Princeton University-led team used AI to decode the functional impact of non-coding DNA mutations in people with autism. The researchers analyzed 1,790 family genomes and found thousands of potential genetic contributors. This breakthrough method is applicable to discovering genetic contributions to any disease.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 27, 2019

Defects in heart valve cilia during fetal development cause mitral valve prolapse

Research by Medical University of South Carolina investigators reveals genetic variations in fetal heart valve cells can cause mitral valve prolapse later in life. The study found that defects in primary cilia contribute to the disease, which can be present early but remains benign until decades later.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 22, 2019
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.