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Computational method puts finer point on multispecies genomic comparisons

Researchers developed a new model for comparative genomic analysis, revealing differences in gene regulation between primate species. The Phylogenetic Hidden Markov Gaussian Processes model provides insights into what makes a human a human and has implications for understanding evolution and certain diseases.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalCell Systems·DateJun 20, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mechanism controlling multiple sclerosis risk identified

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.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 19, 2018

Non-coding DNA changes sex determination

Researchers have identified a critical non-coding DNA element regulating the Sox9 gene, crucial for male sex development. Deleting this enhancer results in sex reversal in mice, shedding light on the genetic mechanisms underlying sex determination and potentially improving diagnosis for patients with differences in sex development.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateJun 14, 2018
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.

Big data identifies lipids as signatures of health and disease

Researchers identified plasma lipid species as signatures of healthy or unhealthy metabolic states, including fatty liver disease. They also pinpointed genetic regulators of lipid species and their physiological functions using systems genetics approaches.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell Systems·DateJun 13, 2018

Unlocking the genome

A team led by Prof. Stein Aerts uncovers how access to relevant DNA regions is orchestrated in epithelial cells, shedding light on biological mechanisms of gene regulation and potential new avenues for cellular reprogramming. Grainyhead, a pioneer factor, acts as a key that can be used to access specific DNA regions.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 4, 2018

Embryonic gene regulation through mechanical forces

Researchers found that mechanical cues contribute to the regulation of gene expression during early development. External pressure can activate or restore the expression of a crucial developmental regulator gene, brachyury. This mechanism is conserved across species, including zebrafish and fruitflies.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2018
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.

Profiling the genome hundreds of variations at a time

Researchers use CRISPR-Cas9 to precisely alter hundreds of genes or features in yeast cells with 80-100% efficiency, identifying gene alterations that trigger or prevent specific behaviors. The approach allows for rapid profiling and identification of key genes and DNA sequence variations associated with traits and diseases.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 21, 2018

Where GM meets GE

Rothamsted Research will conduct a field trial of genome-edited (GE) Camelina, a genetically modified crop that accumulates omega-3 fatty acids, alongside a traditional GM version. The trials aim to investigate the efficiency of genetic engineering in developing plants with desired traits, such as improved nutrition and sustainability.

SourceRothamsted Research·DateMay 18, 2018

A new drug shows preclinical efficacy in Rett syndrome

A new drug has been found to reduce symptoms and activate dormant neurons in preclinical models of Rett syndrome, a genetic disorder causing intellectual disability. The treatment, SB216763, also shows promise in improving quality of life by lengthening lifespan and reducing tremors and breathing difficulties.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 14, 2018
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.

Regulation of the Hoxb gene cluster maintains blood-forming cells and inhibits leukemia

Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research discovered a global regulatory element within the Hoxb cluster that controls its expression in blood-forming stem cells. This mechanism helps maintain normal hematopoiesis and prevents acute myeloid leukemia by regulating Hoxb cluster genes in a methylation-dependent manner.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 8, 2018

Researchers find genetic 'dial' can control body size in pigs

A genetic 'dial' controlling body size has been discovered in pigs, with decreased size observed at varying levels of gene expression. The study found that pigs with normal gene expression were average-sized, while those with one copy expressed had a 25% reduction and those without any expressed had a 75% reduction.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2018

The effect of night shifts: Gene expression fails to adapt to new sleep patterns

A study published in PNAS found that genes regulating immune system and metabolic processes fail to adapt to new sleep patterns caused by night shifts. Eight healthy volunteers were subjected to a five-day schedule simulating night shift work, showing that almost 25% of rhythmic genes lost their biological rhythm.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2018
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.

A non-coding RNA lasso catches proteins in breast cancer cells

A Danish-German research team has identified a novel long non-coding RNA, A-ROD, that enhances the production of specific proteins with involvement in cancer. The RNA functions as a lasso that brings transcription factors to specific sites in DNA to enhance gene expression.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2018
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.

Genetic variation tied to consonant use across populations

A study identifies genetic variants related to consonant processing, dyslexia, and reading performance. Variations in the READ1 sequence are tied to modern human-specific changes acquired between 4 million and 550,000 years ago.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2018

How life generates new forms

A recent study found that gene regulation by protein transcription factors is the most likely mechanism for generating evolutionary change. This discovery challenges previous assumptions and sheds light on the process of evolutionary adaptation.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2018

The rhythm of genes: How the circadian clock regulates 3-D chromatin structure

Researchers at EPFL discovered that the circadian clock orchestrates gene expression by regulating chromatin structure, affecting protein synthesis and physiological processes. The study found that promoter-enhancer looping oscillates along the 24-hour cycle, controlled by the circadian clock.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalGenes & Development·DateMar 26, 2018
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Specific gene region in hypertension revealed

A team of University of Tsukuba researchers uncovered the essential role of a specific gene region in regulating blood pressure homeostasis. By deleting certain regions of the renin gene, they found that one particular region, known as -5E, plays a crucial role in the basal expression of the gene.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateMar 20, 2018

Quantum machine shows promise for biological research

Researchers applied quantum machine learning to a real-world biological problem, predicting the strength of binding sites for transcription factors. The study demonstrated the potential of quantum computing for biology, with results consistent with current understanding of gene regulation.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateFeb 27, 2018

Five novel genetic changes linked to pancreatic cancer risk

Researchers discovered five new regions in the human genome associated with increased pancreatic cancer risk, including variants in genes that regulate cell growth and tumor suppression. The findings may lead to more targeted treatments and early detection screening for pancreatic cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 2018
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.

A pair of RNA scissors with many functions

Scientists at the University of Freiburg discovered RNase E as a crucial enzyme in CRISPR/Cas systems, enabling correct gene expression and immune defense. The findings suggest stronger interaction between CRISPR/Cas systems and host organisms, increasing potential for its applications.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 7, 2018

Active genetics technology opens new horizons

The active genetics technology has been used to edit gene regulatory elements in fruit flies, revealing new fundamental mechanisms controlling gene activity. The researchers provided experimental validation for using active genetics as an efficient means for targeted gene insertion and single-step replacement of genetic control elements.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateFeb 6, 2018

Potential enzyme as therapeutic target for diabetes

A team of Japanese researchers has identified Sirt2 as a key player in regulating hepatic glucose uptake, which is impaired in obesity and type 2 diabetes. The study found that Sirt2 regulates the dissociation of glucokinase from its regulatory protein, GKRP, through post-translational modifications.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 26, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

'Hijacker' drives cancer in some patients with high-risk neuroblastoma

Researchers identified mechanisms driving 10% of high-risk neuroblastoma cases and showed c-MYC hijacks DNA to drive its own expression. The findings may help develop more effective therapies, including precision medicines. High-risk neuroblastoma has a poorer prognosis, but the study provides new insights into its development.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalCancer Discovery·DateJan 22, 2018

The Down syndrome 'super genome'

A study by UNIGE and UNIL researchers found that individuals with Down syndrome have an excellent genome, better than the average genome of people without the genetic abnormality. This high-quality genome may compensate for the disabilities caused by the extra chromosome 21, enabling some fetuses to reach full term and grow up to old age.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalGenome Research·DateJan 19, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Genome architecture's surprising role in cell fate decisions

Researchers at the Centre for Genomic Regulation found that genome architecture influences gene expression during cell reprogramming. The study reveals that transcription factors promote chromatin changes before gene activation, suggesting a new role in controlling cell fate.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 16, 2018

HKBU scholars develop new technology to decode gene transcription

A research team from HKBU has developed a new technology to accurately establish a gene regulatory route for analyzing genetic function and understanding complex biological events. The 'LogicTRN' algorithm can help locate key regulatory routes for complicated diseases, facilitating targeted therapy drug development.

SourceHong Kong Baptist University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 15, 2018
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.

More complex biological systems evolve more freely

Researchers found that mutations in two components interact with each other, increasing the system's freedom to change and evolve. The study provides a mechanistic understanding of how genetic structure determines patterns of epistasis.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·DateDec 19, 2017

Restoring aging genes in rats

Researchers found that overexpressing FKBP1b restored gene expression in hippocampal neurons, improving water maze performance and reversing age-related memory impairments in rats. The study suggests addressing FKBP1b deficiency may be a new avenue for countering age-related memory loss.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateDec 18, 2017

Supercoiling pushes molecular handcuffs along chromatin fibers

A team of scientists found that supercoiling powers the movement of cohesin protein complex along chromatin fibers, a key piece in understanding gene expression regulation. This discovery establishes a new chemo-mechanical process in chromosomes shaping optimal gene regulation through structural arrangements.

SourceSwiss Institute of Bioinformatics·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateDec 14, 2017
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Insights on how SHARPIN promotes cancer progression

Researchers found that SHARPIN increases PRMT5 activity, boosting transcription factors that contribute to melanoma growth. SHARPIN acts as a counterbalance to reduced PRMT5 activity in tumors with deleted genes.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 11, 2017

CLOCK gene may hold answers to human brain evolution

A new study provides insight into the CLOCK gene's vital role in regulating human-specific genes important to brain evolution. The findings suggest that CLOCK regulates genes linked to cognitive disorders and has an important role in human neuronal migration, a process crucial for brain development.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 6, 2017

Gene regulation: Risk-free gene reactivation

Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism to reactivate gene expression in mouse embryonic stem cells without causing DNA damage. The new pathway involves enzymatic oxidation of the methyl group attached to cytidine, converting it into 5-formylcytidine, which is then rapidly converted back into unmethylated cytidine.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 1, 2017

Study identifies genes involved in tolerance following kidney transplantation

Researchers found genes associated with B cell receptor signaling and activation in tolerant kidney transplant recipients, suggesting an active immune regulation of B cells. The study provides insights into the mechanisms behind tolerance induction in renal transplantation, potentially leading to minimization of immunosuppression.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 30, 2017
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.

What can zebrafish teach us about our survival in the face of mutations?

Researchers have found that zebrafish can survive despite mutations by using workarounds such as regulating expression of related genes or skipping errors in DNA transcription. This study provides guidelines for designing targeted mutations and accelerating the development of diagnostics and therapeutics for human diseases.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateNov 27, 2017

Gender roles in ancient times

Researchers at Osaka University have found a key gene responsible for the development of male and female traits in an ancient crustacean. The study reveals how this gene, doublesex1, is expressed differently in males and females, leading to distinct sex-specific characteristics.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 8, 2017

Circadian clock discovery could help boost water efficiency in food plants

Researchers have identified key genes that regulate water-efficient photosynthesis in pineapple and other CAM plants. This breakthrough could lead to improved water use efficiency in C3 crops, allowing them to thrive in environments previously inhospitable to them.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateNov 7, 2017

Important mechanism of epigenetic gene regulation identified

Researchers at the University of Zurich have discovered a crucial mechanism for epigenetic gene regulation, involving the DNMT3A enzyme. This finding provides new insights into the development of aggressive types of leukemia and may lead to more effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateOct 30, 2017
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.

Genome editing and fat regulation in pigs

Researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 to insert UCP1 gene in pigs, reducing fat deposition and increasing lean meat production. The findings have potential implications for animal welfare and production efficiency in the pork industry.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 23, 2017

Creating a better RNA switch

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a powerful RNA switch that can activate genes thousands of times better than nature, providing precise control over gene expression. This technology has potential applications in diagnostics, metabolic engineering, and regulating RNA networks.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 19, 2017
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.

Scientists demonstrate path to linking the genome to healthy tissues and disease

Researchers have developed a mechanistic model for how healthy bodies function and identified key genetic variants that contribute to complex diseases. The study, co-led by Princeton University scientists, used multi-tissue data from over 449 donors to map associations between genetic variants and gene expression levels.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 2017

Pioneering discovery of an odor-detecting receptor enhancer

Researchers discovered an evolutionary conserved sequence motif in mammalian genomes that regulates class I odorant receptor genes, a novel mechanism of expression. The J element controls the selective expression of these genes, highlighting its importance in understanding gene regulation and disease.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 12, 2017

Preeclampsia triggered by an overdose of gene activity

Researchers identify DLX5 gene as key player in preeclampsia, a complex disease affecting 4% of pregnancies. An in vitro model demonstrates the disorder's dysregulation and opens door to new treatments.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCirculation·DateOct 6, 2017