Articles tagged with Gene Regulation
Researchers create synthetic transcription factors, mimicking natural regulators to probe gene regulation and explore new treatment approaches. The artificial activation domains developed in Mapp's lab were as effective as a natural activation domain at turning on genes.
Researchers found that disrupting the circadian clock gene led to abnormal estrous cycles and high rates of mid-gestation pregnancy failure. The study's findings have implications for human infertility, particularly for women working swing-shifts, who are more susceptible to irregular menstrual cycles and miscarriage.
Researchers identified NRH1 as essential for regulating convergent extension in frogs, a process also influenced by Wnt/PCP signaling. Overexpression of NRH1 resulted in shortening of the body axis and failure of mesodermal marker gene expression, while loss-of-function led to inhibition of convergent extension.
A recent study by Takayuki Onai et al. reveals that XsalF, the Xenopus homolog of spalt, regulates forebrain and midbrain-specific gene expression. The research demonstrates direct linkage between XsalF expression and forebrain/midbrain identity.
Researchers found a natural mutation of the SUMO-4 gene, which regulates immune system activity, to be a major contributor to type 1 diabetes. The mutation increases the immune system's reactivity to environmental triggers, leading to an autoimmune response that attacks the patient's own tissue.
Researchers at SLU have identified the first gene regulating programmed cell death in plant embryos, revealing a previously unknown mechanism. This discovery has significant implications for plant breeding and forestry, as it may help increase production and bolster resistance in plants.
Researchers have identified a critical regulatory region for the development of the enteric nervous system, which plays a vital role in gastrointestinal functions. Genetic mutations in this region may lead to incomplete development of the enteric nervous system, often causing Hirschsprung disease.
A study published in Cancer Research identified a cancer-causing gene, HMG-I, that contributes to the development of leukemia and lymphoma in humans. The researchers found that overexpression of the gene led to the rapid development of tumors in genetically engineered mice.
Mice with disrupted STAT3 proteins exhibit severe obesity and enlarged livers due to excessive fat deposits. The study also reveals a link between STAT3 and energy balance through its effect on leptin, which could lead to new therapeutics for treating obesity and infertility.
Researchers identified four genetic variants strongly associated with type 2 diabetes in Finnish and Ashkenazi Jewish populations. The variants cluster in the regulatory region of the HNF4A gene, influencing insulin secretion in response to glucose.
Researchers at the University of California - Davis have cloned the VRN2 gene in wheat, which controls vernalization and plays a crucial role in the crop's adaptation to different environments. The study provides valuable insights into breeding strategies for improving wheat varieties through manipulation of flowering times.
Researchers found that gene regulation is bipolar, with a small set of genes relying on the TATA box for proper function, while most genes rely on the TFIID complex. This discovery provides clues about how to understand gene function and regulation in yeast and potentially applicable to human genetics.
Gene expression scales closely with initial expression levels, with highly expressed genes showing dynamic changes and lower-expressed genes less variability. A 'rich-travel-more' mechanism governs this proportionality, underlying complex biological networks.
Scientists have developed a new genomics tool that enables the efficient mapping of genome binding sites for transcription factors in human organs. This technology has been used to study the role of transcription factor HNF4 in type 2 diabetes, revealing its association with about half of all genes needed to make the pancreas and liver.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute solved the structure of a regulatory protein that controls gene expression by recognizing specific RNA sequences. The discovery provides valuable insights into post-transcriptional gene regulation and its potential to target diseases such as inflammation.
Elevated iron stores, particularly plasma ferritin concentration, may predict type 2 diabetes risk in healthy individuals. Healthy women with moderately elevated iron levels were found to have higher baseline intake of heme iron and lower fiber and magnesium consumption.
Tumors use Stat3 signaling to secrete factors that inhibit the immune system, keeping dendritic cells from maturing. This activation blocks expression of inflammatory mediators required to trigger the immune response. New treatments aimed at flushing cancer cells into the open may help the body's armies against disease destroy them.
A new study by researchers at The Wistar Institute shows that gene activation is a highly dynamic process requiring specific molecular modifications, including the addition and removal of ubiquitin. This process involves a sequence of events and not just the accumulation of molecular groups.
A genome-wide analysis of 1,875 people found a significant link between a region on chromosome 1 and blood pressure regulation. The study identified 24 genes that may play a role in hypertension, with three genes showing specific genetic changes associated with the condition.
Researchers identified a mutation in the human serotonin transporter gene, hSERT, associated with OCD, which may result from a genetic double hit increasing serotonin transport and leading to treatment resistance. The study provides insights into transporter function and potential tests for identifying and treating mental illness.
Researchers found that a mutated fruit fly gene controlling hearing produces similar consequences in humans, including hearing loss and limb deformities. The study suggests that hearing may have evolved earlier than previously thought, linking human genetics to those of fruit flies.
A study by Temple University researchers identifies the molecular mechanisms that may assist the tumor-suppressing gene Rb2/p130 in blocking lung cancer cells. The study reveals nearly 70 genes regulated by Rb2, including previously known and unknown targets involved in lung cancer progression.
Scientists identified 25 genes expressed differently in soldier and worker termites, with workers having higher levels of cellulose-degrading genes. Soldiers had higher levels of muscle- and cytoskeleton-related genes, suggesting their large mouthparts may be linked to these genes.
Researchers at North Carolina State University found that changes to genes regulating olfactory behavior in fruit flies have far-reaching implications. The study used a model organism to quantify the extent of ripples in the genome affecting behavior, revealing that two-thirds of affected genes impact olfactory behavior.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have provided new insights into the emerging theory of gene regulation, showing how two enzymes work together to activate specific genes by loosening chromatin. This study supports the 'histone code' theory, suggesting complex modifications to histones control gene activity.
Researchers have discovered microRNA JAW that controls the development of flat leaves, a key characteristic in capturing sunlight and energy. The study reveals the importance of microRNA regulation in plant morphology, paving the way for new avenues in agricultural advancements.
Researchers at UNC identified two key genes involved in blood vessel development: BMPER and HOXB5. The study found that BMPER inhibits further differentiation of endothelial cells, while HOXB5 activates the endothelial cell program, increasing vessel formation.
A recent study by North Carolina State University researchers found that a gene variant in the Dopa decarboxylase enzyme is associated with variation in fruit fly lifespan. The study's results suggest that this genetic variation may also play a role in human longevity, with potential implications for pharmacological interventions to im...
Researchers at Purdue University have identified nine specific genes that are shut off in plants before they develop from embryos to adults. These genes, part of the LEAFY COTYLEDON (LEC) class, are controlled by a master regulator called PKL, which turns them off to allow plants to develop root and leaf systems. The study's findings m...
The International Council for Science (ICSU) has released a report synthesizing over 50 science-based reviews on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food and agriculture. The report addresses key questions on the safety, environmental impact, and regulations of GM foods.
A new two-step method for identifying transcription factors has been developed, reducing irrelevant regulators by 85%. The tool, ConSite, uses a combination of sequence scanning and conservation analysis to pinpoint regulatory elements.
A new method reveals previously unknown control genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, enabling insight into the roles of regulatory genes and their targets. The method predicts functions of regulator genes and their targets, shedding light on gene regulation and its implications for cell function and disease.
A new computational method, developed by Stanford University and Hebrew University researchers, efficiently identifies regulatory genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker's yeast). The method reveals previously unknown control genes and predicts their regulatory roles, making the experimental process more efficient.
A novel computational method, MiRscan, has been developed to estimate the total number of miRNA genes in different animals. The researchers used this tool to identify 88 miRNA genes in C. elegans and estimated that miRNA genes comprise nearly one percent of the human genome.
A policy report by Oregon State University professor Steven Strauss argues that government regulations on genetic engineering are stifling research and favoring large corporations. The report suggests reducing regulations for
Researchers have identified a critical gene called Eed that regulates epigenetic changes, leading to proper genome imprinting. The study's findings hold significance for understanding human disorders such as cancer, birth defects, and mental retardation.
Researchers have identified a new gene, endothelial lipase (LIPG), that regulates HDL cholesterol levels and impacts the risk of developing heart disease. By altering LIPG expression in genetic models, scientists found an inverse relationship between HDL cholesterol and EL expression.
The study reveals that the SIX3 protein secures anterior neural cells by blocking out a posteriorizing signal, crucial for forebrain formation. In mouse models and zebrafish, forced expression of Six3 rescues forebrain development, demonstrating its critical role in vertebrate head development.
The American Physiological Society recognized 12 prominent researchers with its 2003 Distinguished Lectureships, honoring their groundbreaking contributions to physiology. The awardees delivered lectures on April 11-14, 2003, at the Experimental Biology meeting.
A study by UCSF researchers reveals that the human gene BOULE regulates meiosis in sperm development, a key step in creating sperm and eggs. The finding has significant implications for understanding infertility and developing new treatments, including drugs to assist immature sperm cells or block sperm maturation.
A UMass scientist has identified a gene, Nhlh2, that regulates body weight, physical activity levels, and sex behaviors in mice. The knockout mice are severely obese and exhibit reduced physical activity, illustrating the critical role of the gene in regulating appetite and exercise.
Researchers have identified a vital component in the regulation of the circadian clock, which controls daily behavior such as sleeping and waking. The discovery may lead to the development of drugs that speed up or slow down the circadian clock, potentially treating sleep disorders affecting 70 million Americans.
Researchers discovered a key molecule regulating multiple genes in yeast and humans, potentially enabling rapid response to stress. The molecule, inositol polyphosphate, affects hundreds of genes by regulating enzymes that alter chromatin structure.
Researchers discovered identical organizing principles in genetic, neural, and food networks, revealing potential strategies for information processing and filtering noise. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding complex systems and could lead to breakthroughs in fields like medicine and electronics.
A recent study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found a specific gene on chromosome 2q33-35 linked to depressive disorders in women, with no correlation in men. The CREB1 gene encodes a regulatory protein involved in brain function and plasticity.
The study reveals how SATB1 regulates gene transcription by remodeling chromatin and positioning nucleosomes. In thymocytes, SATB1 brings specific enzymes to the IL-2Ra gene site, regulating its activation and repression.
SMU and UNC researchers discovered that the E(Z) protein silences genes by modifying a specific chromatin protein, a mechanism found to be conserved in both humans and Drosophila. This breakthrough sheds light on how Polycomb-group proteins regulate gene expression during development.
Researchers have found an enzyme that activates specific RNAs outside the nucleus, enabling them to carry out important steps of germ line development. The discovery provides an important piece of the puzzle in understanding how genes are controlled and may lead to new ways of regulating genetic information.
Researchers identified a significant link between a specific gene variant and increased risk of antisocial behavior in maltreated children. The study found that individuals with a certain variation of the MAOA gene were more likely to develop behavioral problems, comparable to major risk factors for heart disease.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered that Spot 42, a small RNA, differentially regulates gene expression in the E. coli galactose operon through an antisense mechanism. The study provides mechanistic insight into the process and answers long-standing biological questions.
Researchers have found a new piece of the gene expression puzzle, revealing how histone proteins interact with each other and with other molecules to regulate gene activity. The discovery sheds light on potential causes of male infertility and highlights the complex mechanisms at play in chromatin.
Researchers have identified 22 genes essential to the operations of the body's internal clock, which synchronize behavior and physiology with a near 24-hour cycle. The study found that these genes influence the expression of other genes throughout the body, controlling behaviors like sleep and wakefulness.
Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine have discovered that a protein previously thought to be in the nucleus resides in the cytoplasm, correcting a scientific theory since 1992. This finding offers new parameters for understanding gene switches and their role in human diseases.
Researchers found over 200 groups of adjacent and similarly expressed genes in Drosophila melanogaster, accounting for approximately 20% of the genome. The 'sloppy' regulation may reflect chromatin's packaging and influence gene expression more by accident than design.
Researchers have discovered a novel sugar digestion pathway in Pyrococcus furiosus, utilizing non-related enzymes. The organism's unique ability to withstand high temperatures makes its enzymes industrially valuable.
The American Physiological Society hosts a series of briefings on the physiology and pathophysiology of obesity, featuring renowned experts who examine gene-environment interactions, neurobiology, endocrine/metabolic consequences, and cardiovascular regulation. The conference aims to advance understanding of human health and disease.
A researcher has found a key genetic change that separates the spineless from the backboned, revealing how an old gene gave birth to new ones. The study sheds light on the evolution of developmental programs in animals, including the adaptation of T-box genes in humans and other species.
A study found that a certain form of the SCA6 gene affects the onset and severity of spinocerebellar ataxia, a disease characterized by loss of balance and coordination. Researchers analyzed 331 patients with SCA2 from Cuba and discovered significant variation in the SCA6 gene among those with earlier and later age-onset diseases.
Dr. Larysa Pevny, a UNC neuroscientist, has received a $1 million federal grant to study the genetics of neural stem cells and their potential in developing transplantation therapy for neurodegenerative diseases. Her research aims to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in regulating neural stem cell differentiation.
A study found that farmers with specific genetic variations in the paraoxonase gene are more likely to experience poor health after exposure to organophosphates used in sheep dip. This suggests a potential link between repeated exposure and chronic ill health.