Novel gene-editing tool overcomes drawbacks of CRISPR
Researchers at the University of Tokyo in Japan have unveiled the spatial structure of a novel gene-editing tool, “prime editor,” promising more accurate gene therapy treatments without cutting both DNA strands like the CRISPR technique.
Scientists generate the first complete chromosome sequences from non-human primates
A team of researchers from the National Human Genome Research Institute, USA, have generated the first complete chromosome sequences of five great ape species and the siamang gibbon.
Ancient DNA reveals the appearance of a 6th century Chinese emperor
Researchers have reconstructed the face of Chinese Emperor Wu of Northern Zhou, revealing insights into his appearance, health, and the genetic history of ancient northeastern Asia.
Beethoven’s genes reveal low predisposition for beat synchronization
A study reveals Beethoven’s surprisingly low genetic predisposition for musicality, challenging assumptions about the genetic basis of exceptional talents.
Revealing the evolutionary origin of genomic imprinting
Researchers at IMBA unveiled a genetic mechanism in nematodes, hinting at imprinting’s evolution by silencing genes based on parental origin, as reported in Nature.
Synthetic DNA sheds light on mysterious difference between living cells at different points in evolution
A study reveals DNA activity differences in yeast and mammalian cells, hinting at evolutionary functions and impacting future gene therapy and medicine development.
Researchers decipher mysterious growth habit of weeping peach trees
A recent study published in Plant Physiology unveils that a single gene deletion affecting the hormone auxin’s distribution causes the unique downward growth of weeping peach tree shoots, challenging conventional plant growth patterns.
Ancient DNA reveals Down syndrome in past human societies
An international research team, by analyzing ancient DNA, has discovered cases of chromosomal disorders in prehistoric remains, including what may be the earliest identified case of Edwards syndrome, revealing how individuals with these conditions were valued in their ancient communities.
DNA’s memory lane: How historic trauma in Alaska native communities is passed on through epigenetics
From University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 09/09/23 Researchers investigated the relationship between historical traumatic events experienced by Alaska Native communities and epigenetic markers on genes that previous studies have linked to trauma. The new study found a similar pattern among Alaska Native participants, with specific epigenetic differences observed in those who reported experiencing the most […]
Engineered bacteria can detect tumor DNA
From University of California – San Diego 28/08/23 Pushing into a new chapter of technologically advanced biological sensors, scientists from the University of California San Diego and their colleagues in Australia have engineered bacteria that can detect the presence of tumor DNA in a live organism. Their innovation, which detected cancer in the colons of […]