Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Stowers scientists identify the fusion point of Robertsonian chromosomes, hinting at how chromosomes evolve

Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research have identified the precise location where human chromosomes break and recombine to form Robertsonian chromosomes. The study reveals that repetitive DNA sequences play a central role in genome organization and evolution, explaining how these rearrangements form and remain stable.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2025

Evaluating DNA impurities in recombinant adeno-associated virus

A new study found that recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) capsids contain single-stranded DNA impurities derived from plasmid and host cell DNA. The researchers suggest that the adverse effects of these impurities may differ from those of double-stranded DNA, highlighting the need for further evaluation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2025

The evolutionary paradox behind the unusual mating strategy of the ruff

A study on ruff (Calidris pugnax) found a surprisingly low mutation load in the supergene controlling male mating strategies, forcing a reevaluation of supergene evolution. The researchers propose two potential scenarios to resolve this paradox: recent acquisition of recessive lethality or introgression from another species.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2023

How to slow the spread of deadly ‘superbugs’

A new Australian study suggests harnessing genomic surveillance technology can detect the rise of deadly 'superbugs', slowing their evolution and spread to improve global health outcomes. The study highlights the need for a multifaceted 'One Health' approach to surveillance, with practical recommendations for implementation.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Reviews Genetics·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 23, 2023

UTHSC researchers’ work on human pangenome aids understanding of common chromosomal abnormality

Researchers from UTHSC have made a foundational discovery about chromosome biology through their work on the first-ever human pangenome reference. The draft pangenome uses complete genome assemblies to provide a diverse look at the genetic makeup of humans, shedding light on variation in parts of the genome that could not be seen before.

Omicron has mutations detected in previous variants, which explains vaccine effectiveness, scientists say

Researchers attribute vaccine effectiveness to mutations shared with previous variants, resulting in relatively small severe cases and deaths among vaccinated patients. The study analyzed over 200,000 genomes and found identical mutations that could serve as targets for future vaccines.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Medical Virology·DateFeb 8, 2022

Clearer distinction needed between GMOs and genome-edited organisms

Researchers from Hokkaido University have proposed a framework to clarify the distinction between genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and genome-edited organisms (GEOs). The framework considers scientific, ethical, and social factors to determine whether an organism is a GMO or GEO. The proposal aims to enhance regulatory reliability...

SourceHokkaido University·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 24, 2022

Butterfly genes flow

Researchers analyzed genome assemblies of 20 butterfly species and found a high amount of gene flow among them, even between distantly related species. This challenges the idea that species are fixed entities and suggests hybridization as a key process in biological diversity.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2019

Male Y chromosomes not 'genetic wastelands'

Researchers sequenced a large portion of the fruit fly Y chromosome, discovering duplicated sequences and gene conversion mechanisms that enable genes to survive on the often-misunderstood Y chromosome. This new understanding challenges traditional views of the Y chromosome as a 'genetic wasteland',

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalGenetics·DateFeb 6, 2019

Elusive viral 'machine' architecture finally rendered

Scientists at Brown University have finally rendered the elusive viral 'machine' architecture of the lambda virus, mapping protein-DNA interactions that enable its genetic recombination mechanisms. The team's groundbreaking work provides a detailed understanding of how the virus integrates and extracts DNA from host cells.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 11, 2014