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Study is first demonstration of noninvasive gene transcription measurement

Researchers at Rice University have developed a noninvasive method to track the expression of specific genes in living brain tissue, enabling real-time monitoring of gene activity. The tool, called In-vivo Tracking of Active Transcription (INTACT), uses engineered reporter molecules and sensors to detect target mRNA in the bloodstream.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2026

Brain diseases are better classified using analysis of gene activity

Researchers at McGill University found that analyzing gene activity can classify brain diseases into five primary groups, improving diagnosis accuracy. The study identified previously unknown relationships among diseases, such as language development disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder, which share common genes and cell types.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2023

Researchers reveal largest catalogue of gene activators

A team of researchers has identified over 250 gene activators in human cells, expanding our understanding of transcriptional regulation and its role in cancer. The study also reveals new insights into how proteins interact with each other to regulate gene expression, potentially leading to the development of targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022

Caught on Camera: Live Imaging of Transcription Using Active RNA Polymerase II-Specific Probes

Scientists from Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a genetically encoded probe to visualize active transcription sites in living cells. The probe successfully identified phosphorylated Ser2 in RNA polymerase II, allowing for the localization of elongation phase transcription sites in real-time.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Small molecules mimic natural gene regulators

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed small molecules that mimic the behavior and function of a natural regulator of gene expression, binding to a key protein and promoting gene activity. This breakthrough could lead to new approaches for treating diseases caused by errors in gene regulation.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateJun 3, 2009

Junk DNA yields new kind of gene

Researchers found a new regulatory gene, SRG1, which blocks the expression of adjacent genes by physically preventing transcription factors from binding. This discovery provides evidence that junk DNA may have hidden functions and could be a common mechanism for regulating gene expression.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2004