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Latino genomes point way to hidden DNA

Researchers discovered 20 million base pairs of genetic sequence hidden in centromeres, a key finding that could aid in mapping the human genome. Latino genomes proved uniquely powerful in filling in uncharted regions due to their African ancestry.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateAug 8, 2013

A GPS in your DNA

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a method for determining more precise geographical locations of an individual's ancestral origins using genetic traits. By analyzing DNA samples from 1,157 people across Europe, they were able to accurately determine two separate points on the map for an individual's mother and father.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 16, 2012

Nature or nurture? It may depend on where you live

Researchers found that genetic and environmental factors influence childhood characteristics differently across the UK, with some traits more strongly linked to genes in certain regions. The study's nature-nurture maps provide a global overview of how environment interacts with genetics.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 12, 2012

Not the black sheep of domestic animals

A study mapping sheep ancestry over 11,000 years reveals vast genetic diversity and adaptability to diverse environments. The research provides insights into the evolution of selective breeding for traits such as coat color and body size.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 7, 2012

Salk scientists map the frontiers of vision

Researchers at the Salk Institute have produced neuron-by-neuron maps of the mouse brain's visual processing system, laying the groundwork for decoding brain circuitry using genetic research techniques. The study revealed specialized roles for different areas in processing visual information, including direction and fine detail.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNeuron·DateJan 6, 2012

Scientists map out regulatory regions of genome, hot spots for diabetes genes

Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill created a first-of-its-kind map of the human genome's regulatory elements, revealing clusters specific to pancreatic islet cells. The study identified genetic variants associated with type II diabetes and found that certain genes are 'turned on' or 'off', opening new avenues for understanding the disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 2, 2010

Gene linked with human kidney aging

Researchers from Stanford University and colleagues have discovered a gene associated with human kidney aging, revealing new insights into the aging process. The study used sequential transcriptional profiling and eQTL mapping to identify genetic variants linked to kidney aging.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 15, 2009

Mapping the crocodile genome

Researchers created a genetic linkage map for the saltwater crocodile, facilitating genome scans to identify genes affecting complex traits. The map provides a scaffold for genome sequence assembly and will aid in understanding reptilian molecular evolution.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Genomics·DateJul 28, 2009

Gene map aims to combat blood flukes

Researchers created a genetic linkage map for S. mansoni, a blood fluke infecting 90 million people in Africa and the New World. The map will facilitate high-resolution population genetic studies and improve understanding of transmission patterns.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateJun 29, 2009

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

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

Lateral thinking produces first map of gene transmission

Researchers mapped how genes are shared between bacteria through lateral genetic transfer, a process where genes are transferred between unrelated organisms. The study reveals that this phenomenon is widespread and can occur even between distantly related organisms, contributing to the rapid spread of disease-causing bacteria.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 10, 2005

Navigating an integrated yeast network

Lan Zhang et al. integrated five biological relationships to discover recurring patterns and themes, highlighting previously unknown relationships between functional modules. Their approach can predict interactions and gene functions, offering a basis for detailed network reconstruction and understanding biological networks.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biology·DateMay 31, 2005