Genome

Ancient Malaria Genome from Roman Skeleton Hints at Disease’s HistoryGenetic information from ancient Roman remains is helping to reveal how malaria has moved and evolved alongside peopleBy Tosin Thompson & Nature magazineMalaria, an endemic disease caused by hematozoic parasites (Plasmodium falciparum) transmitted by the blood to humans through the bite of the female anophele mosquito. Credit: BSIP SA/Alamy Stock PhotoResearchers have sequenced the mitochondrial genome of the deadliest form of malaria from an ancient…

A groundbreaking study has unveiled key genes linked to DNA damage, offering new perspectives on cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and potential therapies. This research underscores the significance of maintaining genome stability for health and disease management.Scientists unveil 145 genes vital for genome health, and possible strategies to curb progression of human genomic disorders.More than one hundred key genes linked to DNA damage have been uncovered through systematic screening of nearly 1,000 genetically…

Researchers at EPFL, led by Didier Trono, have developed a novel method to detect previously undetectable transposable elements (TEs) in the human genome, significantly expanding our knowledge of DNA composition. This discovery has profound implications for understanding genetic diseases and the genome’s response to various stresses.The human genome, a complex mosaic of genetic data essential for life, has proven to be a treasure trove of strange features. Among them are segments of DNA that can “jump around” and move…

Recent research on tardigrades uncovers a complex genetic basis for their extreme resilience, challenging previous assumptions about their ecological adaptations and pointing to independent evolutionary events in their anhydrobiosis capability.Tardigrades may be nature’s ultimate survivors. While these tiny, nearly translucent animals are easily overlooked, they represent a diverse group that has successfully colonized freshwater, marine, and terrestrial environments on every continent, including Antarctica.Commonly known…

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have developed a groundbreaking genome-editing technique to treat Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease by reducing PMP22 protein levels, showing potential for a new clinical therapy in a field with limited existing treatments. AAV gene therapy-based genome editing recovered myelination in human CMT1A patient nerve differentiated from iPS cells. Credit: Department of Neuropathology, TMDUScientists at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have created a new genome-editing method that…

The Ayeyarwady pit viper, a new species discovered in Myanmar by Dr. Chan Kin Onn, illustrates the complexities of species differentiation in pit vipers. This species, which displays traits of both the redtail and mangrove pit vipers, was initially thought to be a hybrid but was confirmed as distinct through genomic analysis. Credit: Wolfgang WüsterFinding and describing new species can be a tricky endeavor. Scientists typically look for distinctive characters that can differentiate one species from another. However,…

A new study in Scientific Reports reveals significant differences in the nucleolus organizing region (NOR) of American and Chinese chestnut genomes. This disparity challenges assumptions about their compatibility in hybridization for blight resistance.Potential implications for American chestnut restoration and blight-resistance.The chromosomes of American and Chinese chestnuts are not so similar after all, at least in one key region of the genome – the nucleolus organizing region (NOR).The finding, published today…

An international consortium has sequenced the hagfish genome, filling a significant gap in vertebrate evolutionary research. This work, published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, enhances understanding of genome duplications in vertebrates and their impact on the evolution of major physiological structures. Credit: Universtiy of MalagaResearchers have sequenced the hagfish genome, providing vital insights into vertebrate evolution and genome duplication history.An international scientific team made up of more than 40…

December 21, 20234min readAs the climate crisis continues, sooner or later the massive West Antarctic Ice Sheet will collapse. An unassuming octopus just gave scientists an important clue about how quickly that might happenBy Meghan BartelsTurquet’s octopuses are found all around Antarctica crawling along the seafloor. Scientists who are trying to understand Antarctica’s past face a daunting challenge. Ice doesn’t fossilize, so there’s no direct evidence showing how far the southernmost continent’s glaciers stretched in…

 New research reveals insights into the “dark genome,” focusing on LINE-1, a genetic element associated with various diseases. An international team of scientists detailed the structure of LINE-1 and its reverse transcriptase enzyme, offering potential pathways for disease treatment. The study highlights similarities between LINE-1 and HIV-1 reverse transcriptase, paving the way for targeted drug development. Credit: SciTechDaily.comUnderstanding the mechanism of LINE-1 is key to developing potential new treatments for…