Scientists have mapped and analyzed DNA methylation profiles in 580 different animal species, providing insights into the evolutionary conservation of epigenetic mechanisms. The study reveals that DNA methylation constitutes a cancer-protective mechanism in large animals with long lifespans, contradicting Peto's paradox.
A new study found that increased extracellular matrix stiffness leads to a decrease in the longevity protein Klotho in knee cartilage, damaging chondrocytes. Conversely, softer extracellular matrices restored healthy cartilage states in aged cells.
Researchers found that early prenatal alcohol exposure changes gene function and epigenome in placenta and human embryonic stem cells. These changes are associated with altered DNA methylation patterns, particularly in genes linked to nervous system development, such as DPPA4 and FOXP2.
The HUSH complex is involved in normal brain development, neuronal individuality, and connectivity. The complex also regulates repetitive-like gene clusters, including protocadherin gene clusters, which are essential for neuron-to-neuron interactions.
Scientists have discovered that leukemia cells can change their DNA read-out to evade treatment, making them harder to treat. The study identified key genetic changes that allow cancer cells to survive and relapse.
The study reveals how the activating partner PI5P interacts with two different regions of regulatory protein UHRF1, showing its role in modulating complex proteins. This finding could breathe new life into the search for UHRF1-directed medicines.
A new study by UC Santa Cruz researchers demonstrates 'transgenerational epigenetic inheritance,' where epigenetic marks are transmitted from parents to offspring and grandoffspring. This can lead to altered gene expression patterns in tissues, affecting health and development.
A new diagnostic marker has been identified that predicts successful and efficient oocyte development. The study found that X-chromosome inactivation and reactivation are critical for normal germ cell differentiation.
Researchers have identified the Xist gene as a critical regulator of fetal development in mice, leading to miscarriage and abnormal placentas when epigenetic instructions are missing. The study's findings suggest that failed Xist imprinting can be 'cured' by targeting specific genes involved in histone modifications.
Researchers have uncovered a collaboration between RNA decay and chromatin regulating complexes that work together to control the levels of transposable element RNAs, preventing genetic instability. The study reveals an unprecedented mechanism of transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine found that a medium-chain fatty acid called octanoic acid can reduce further injury and improve heart function after a heart attack. This discovery could lead to the development of a new therapy to treat heart attacks, targeting the interplay between energy metabolism and epigenetics.
Researchers discover a chromatin degrader that blocks cancer-causing genes, offering potential treatment for over 90% of prostate cancers. The study found that blocking the SWI/SNF complex slowed cancer cell growth and induced cell death, especially in tumors driven by FOXA1 or androgen receptor.
Researchers found that protein lactylation occurs in brain neurons and is positively correlated with lactate levels. The study showed that neural excitation and social stress enhance lysine lactylation of histone H1 proteins, leading to increased anxiety-like behaviors.
The study found that H2A.Z promotes H4K20me2 deposition, recruiting ORC1 to license and activate early DNA replication origins. H2A.Z-regulated origins have higher firing efficiency and earlier replication timing compared to other origins.
Researchers have discovered a novel epigenetic regulation mechanism that improves DNA damage response in plants, enabling them to withstand environmental stresses. The study reveals the role of histone demethylase LDL1 in suppressing RAD54's interaction with chromatin at damaged sites.
A new mechanism has been identified that triggers multiple sclerosis disease through epigenetic regulation, with a protective variant reducing the risk. The study found that people with the major risk variant HLA-DRB1*15:01 have increased expression of the HLA-DRB1 gene, increasing the risk for MS.
Kavitha Sarma, a researcher at The Wistar Institute, has been awarded the NIH Director's New Innovator Award for her work on epigenetic regulation and chromatin biology in neurodegeneration and cancer. The $1.5 million grant will support her research efforts to identify new therapeutic targets.
A study at Mount Sinai found that inhibiting a family of epigenetic brain proteins, known as BETs, can induce an autism-like syndrome in mice. This links environmental factors to gene transcription and may provide insights into the disease's pathology.
Researchers identified epigenetic disruption of a small non-coding RNA pathway as a hallmark for testicular tumor development. This aberration compromises the function of these RNAs, contributing to cellular transformation.
The American Association for Anatomy's Young Investigator Awards recognize investigators in early stages of their careers for contributions to biomedical science. This year's winners include Tamara Franz-Odendaal, Thomas Jhou, Joanna Wysocka, and Thomas Maresca, who will present lectures at the AAA Annual Meeting/EB 2013.
Researchers at Helmholtz Zentrum München have identified the enzyme TFIIH kinase as responsible for selectively phosphorylating RNA polymerase II, regulating the production of specific RNA molecules. This discovery sheds light on epigenetic mechanisms and their significance in cancer and disease.