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The biological clock gets a time stamp

Yale researchers have identified key molecular pathways involved in the aging of human eggs, which could lead to new treatments for age-related fertility issues. The study found that oxygen-deprived cells are a major cause of egg damage, leading to chromosomal abnormalities and reduced egg quality in women over 40.

SourceYale University·JournalMolecular Human Reproduction·DateJun 6, 2016

Detecting an early biomarker for pancreatic cancer in blood

Researchers identify human satellite II (HSATII) RNA as a promising early detection method for pancreatic cancer, with significantly higher levels found in patients' blood serum. A pilot study validated the test's ability to detect pancreatic cancer and a precancerous lesion in two cohorts of patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateJun 2, 2016

Change in mosquito mating may control Zika virus

New Cornell research reveals genetic cues from male mosquitoes affect female reproductive tract gene expression, influencing blood feeding, egg development, and immune defense. This study aims to develop novel strategies for controlling mosquito populations to fight diseases like Zika virus.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 11, 2016

Early warning gene signature for Alzheimer's

A gene signature associated with 'healthy ageing' has been identified, allowing for early prediction of age-related diseases like Alzheimer's. The discovery provides a reliable molecular profile for distinguishing people at risk and could transform medical decision-making.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateSep 6, 2015

Worldwide study demonstrates accuracy of genetic analyses

A comprehensive study led by Mayo Clinic in 12 countries validates the accuracy of RNA genomic sequencing techniques and laboratories. The research establishes best practices for laboratories to ensure reproducible results, enabling clinicians to make informed decisions based on genomic data.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateSep 12, 2014

Edited RNA + invasive DNA add individuality

A new study reveals that edited RNA and invasive DNA contribute to individual variation in humans by regulating gene expression. The study found a 20% difference in life span and eye color between individuals with varying levels of ADAR activity.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2013

Shining light on neurodegenerative pathway

University of Adelaide researchers have identified a likely molecular pathway that causes neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington's and Lou Gehrig's. The team found that RNA plays a key role in the development of these diseases, which share similar genetic mutation mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Neuroscience·DateSep 18, 2013

Flowering at the right age

Researchers from Max Planck Institute find that Alpine rock cress measures age based on miR156 concentration, which decreases over time. This allows the plant to synchronize growth and flowering with environmental cues like vernalisation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateJun 10, 2013

Hitting back at 'wiretapping' parasite

Researchers have discovered a way to make plants resistant to parasitic dodder vines by attacking the junctions where they tap into their hosts. The technique, using RNA interference, has shown promise in preventing dodder from spreading and can potentially be applied to other parasites like Striga.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJul 24, 2012

The cell's 'New World'

Scientists at EMBL have created a first complete atlas of RNA-binding proteins, revealing over 300 previously unknown proteins. This discovery opens new avenues for studying diseases such as diabetes and glaucoma, suggesting that gene mutations may affect RNA control rather than protein function.

Need for speed

A team of scientists at EMBL found that oskar RNA requires both tags to reach its correct destination, suggesting a 'ticket' that also affects its speed of transport. The study provides clues on how a single molecule could receive tickets for different destinations depending on the type of cell.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMar 18, 2012

Solving a traditional Chinese medicine mystery

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered a natural product from traditional Chinese medicine that blocks gene control machinery in cells, suggesting potential as an anticancer drug. The compound, triptolide, has been shown to be effective against cancer and other conditions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 3, 2011