Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Capturing language change through the genes

Researchers discovered that languages from different continents and populations become more similar after contact, with rates of borrowing ranging from 4-9%. The team found that linguistic features are not consistently transferable, challenging long-held assumptions about language learning.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Advances·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 29, 2025

Pacific Northwest Research Institute uncovers hidden DNA mechanisms of rare genetic diseases

Researchers at PNRI reveal how specific DNA rearrangements called inverted triplications contribute to the development of various genetic diseases. These complex rearrangements are caused by segments of DNA switching templates during the repair process, leading to disruptions in normal gene function and contributing to genetic disorders.

SourcePacific Northwest Research Institute·JournalCell Genomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024

WVU researchers capture atomic view of synthetic DNA, revealing ‘molecular scissors’ that could treat disease

Researchers at WVU have developed a way to view synthetic DNA at the atomic level, enabling them to understand how to change its structure for enhanced scissor-like function. This breakthrough could lead to new technology for medical diagnoses and treatments, including potential therapies for diseases like retinal degeneration and cancer.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateJul 24, 2023

DNA design brings predictability to polymer gels

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a tuneable, elastic and temperature-sensitive gel by using complementary DNA strands to connect star-shaped polymer molecules together. The gel exhibits predictable behavior, self-healing properties and durability suitable for medical and engineering applications.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2022

Scientists use nanoscale building blocks and DNA 'glue' to shape 3-D superlattices

Researchers developed a method to fabricate structured composite materials using directional bindings of shaped particles for predictable assembly. The approach uses linker molecules made of complementary strands of DNA to control the arrangement of particles, achieving long-range order in large-scale assemblies and clusters.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 23, 2015

Making a gem of a tiny crystal

A Northwestern University research team successfully built near-perfect single crystals out of nanoparticles and DNA, transforming disordered materials into orderly crystal structures. The technique, developed by Chad Mirkin and Monica Olvera de la Cruz, holds promise for novel technologies and new industries.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateNov 27, 2013

Liquid crystal phases of tiny DNA molecules point up new scenario for first life on Earth

Researchers at CU-Boulder and University of Milan found that short segments of DNA can assemble into liquid crystal phases with 'self-orient' properties, paving the way for a new scenario on the origin of life. The discovery was made by observing how short DNA segments could condense into droplets in which conditions are favorable for ...

Watching DNA repair in real time

Direct observations of DNA are giving new insights into genetic material copying and repair processes, revealing how enzymes like RecA assemble into filaments. The findings have implications for understanding breast cancer risk and future studies on single enzymes at work unwinding DNA strands.

Images of enzyme suggest way to improve DNA sequencing

Researchers have identified a structural anomaly in the Taq DNA polymerase enzyme that hampers its performance in DNA sequencing. By modifying this anomaly, scientists created an improved version of the enzyme, which increases sequencing speed and reduces errors.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 1999

DNA Used To Create Self Assembling Conducting Wire: Breakthrough Will Lead To Next Leap In Emerging Nanoelectronics

Scientists at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology have successfully created a working electronic component using DNA to assemble a conducting wire. The wire, 100 nanometers wide, has potential properties that could be used to make computer memories, and its narrow size allows for potentially much faster computer chips.