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The first frost is the deepest

Researchers discovered that the first frost triggers a molecular response in plants, called COOLAIR, which helps regulate flowering. This finding has implications for understanding how plants adapt to fluctuating temperatures and could lead to improved crop yields.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalGenes & Development·DateMay 13, 2021

Researchers speed identification of DNA regions that regulate gene expression

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital scientists have developed an integrated system to better understand and possibly manipulate gene expression for treatment of disorders like sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia. The new method identified dozens of DNA regulatory elements that orchestrate fetal-to-adult hemoglobin switch, offeri...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 6, 2021

Bypassing broken genes

Researchers developed a new approach called Co-opting Regulation Bypass Repair (CRBR) that can correct genetic diseases caused by single gene mutations. The method uses the CRISPR/Cas9 system and non-homologous end joining to insert a functional copy of the gene, enabling treatment in all adult tissues.

SourcePenn State·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateApr 21, 2021

Yeast epigenome map reveals details of gene regulation

A high-resolution protein architecture of the budding yeast genome was mapped using ChIP-exo, revealing two distinct gene regulatory architectures. The study identifies a surprisingly small number of unique protein assemblages used repeatedly across the yeast genome, expanding the traditional model of gene regulation.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateMar 12, 2021

The 3Rs of the genome: Reading, writing, and regulating

A high-resolution map of protein binding locations in yeast has produced two distinct gene regulatory architectures, challenging traditional models of gene regulation. The study revealed unique protein assemblages and absence of specific regulatory control signals at housekeeping genes.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateMar 10, 2021

WOX9: A jack of all trades

Researchers discovered that the WOX9 gene can induce more flowers to form in various plant species by changing its regulation, suggesting potential for improving crop yields. Genome editing allowed them to reveal the gene's additional functions without altering its protein product.

Super-resolution RNA imaging in live cells

Researchers at Heidelberg University developed a novel fluorescence marker called RhoBAST to enable super-resolution RNA imaging in live cells. The method reveals details of subcellular structures and molecular interactions involving RNA, improving image resolution.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 25, 2021

Simulating evolution to understand a hidden switch

Researchers used computer simulations to study evolution and phenotypic switching in organisms, finding that a 'hidden' switch mechanism is used for stability, and can be activated in response to environmental changes. The study suggests that this mechanism helps organisms maintain gene expression levels under stable conditions.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Computational Science·DateJan 15, 2021

New cyberattack can trick scientists into making toxins or viruses -- Ben-Gurion University researchers

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University have discovered a new end-to-end cyber-biological attack that can trick scientists into generating dangerous toxins in their labs. The attack uses malware to interfere with biological processes within the victim's lab, exploiting weaknesses in biosecurity screening protocols and cybersecurity controls.

The Popovich of floral nectar spurs

Researchers at Harvard University have identified a key gene POPOVICH responsible for floral nectar spur development, a crucial innovation in plant evolution. This discovery provides insight into the origin of this trait and its role in promoting biodiversity among flowering plants.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2020

The male Y chromosome does more than we thought

A recent study published in Scientific Reports has found that Y chromosome genes may regulate cellular functions differently than previously thought, potentially explaining why men are more susceptible to certain diseases like Covid-19. The discovery could also provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of male health disparities.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 25, 2020