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Gene discovery unlocks mysteries to our immunity

A team of researchers from CSIRO Australia has identified a new gene called C6 that regulates the body's immune response to infection and disease. The discovery could lead to targeted therapies for various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and inflammatory disorders.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 1, 2018

A case of 'kiss and tell': Chromosomal kissing gets less elusive

A study by Philipp Maass and Anja Weise found that chromosomes 12 and 17 frequently interact with each other across different individuals, resulting in recurrent patterns. This interaction is linked to a human genetic condition, brachydactyly, where the deletion of a specific gene alters chromosomal arrangements and disturbs interactions.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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