Credit: PixabayHave you ever found yourself caught in a flurry of water droplets as a wet dog shook to dry off? Well, it’s not a choice. Scientists have discovered the mechanism that drives dogs—and many other furry mammals—to shake off water with intense vigor. This behavior is involuntary and has fascinating genetic roots.Discovering the...
A new study shows that different people transfer different amounts of genetic material to items that they touchDepositphotosIf you’ve ever watched CSI, you know that suspects often leave incriminating DNA traces at crime scenes. However, a recent study suggests that the amount of this genetic material could also indicate a person’s guilt or innocence....
One of the almost-thornless roses (left) alongside an unmodified plantMohammed Bendahmane/INRAE, CNRS, Université de Lyon, FranceEveryone adores roses, but they’d be even more enjoyable without their sharp thorns. Scientists have now developed a way to grow thornless roses, which could simplify crop harvesting.It’s worth noting that some rose varieties are naturally thornless.However, most plants don’t...
As we age, the protective caps at the end of our chromosomes called telomeres get shorter and shorterDepositphotosIn pre-clinical studies, a small molecule successfully stimulated neuron regeneration, decreased inflammation, and enhanced memory, speed, coordination, grip strength, and other factors. These findings hold significant promise for aging and associated diseases.Researchers at the University of Texas...
An mRNA vaccine against glioblastoma, a deadly form of brain cancer, has shown promise in a new clinical trial DepositphotosGlioblastoma, among the deadliest cancers, has limited treatment options. However, a recent small-scale clinical trial showcased an mRNA vaccine that swiftly activates the immune system against tumors, showing encouraging outcomes.Glioblastoma stands as the predominant brain cancer...
Credit: PixabayA recent study has linked uncommon mutations in certain genes to the occurrence of left-handedness in humans. Understanding the implications of these genetic variations on other aspects of left-handers' characteristics could provide insights into phenomena such as the genetic predisposition to neurodevelopmental disorders or the onset of neurodegenerative diseases.Researchers from the Max Planck...
Credit: PixaobayIf you've had the opportunity to interact with Australia's renowned magpies, you're aware of their remarkable intelligence. With their distinctive black and white feathers, melodious calls, and intricate social interactions, magpies exhibit a level of avian cleverness that captivates both bird enthusiasts and researchers.However, what factors contribute to the success of these intelligent...
Lead scientist Stephanie Fraley works with one of the possibly infected blood samples used in the studyDavid Baillot/UC San Diego Jacobs School of EngineeringA new technique that melts bacterial DNA in blood samples could diagnose life-threatening infections faster than before.Typically, to detect harmful bacteria in a person's bloodstream, a blood sample is cultured in...
Humans interbred with Neanderthals and spread DNA across the world. Credit: DepositphotosNeanderthal DNA offered evolutionary advantages during environmental adaptation, yet it also introduced drawbacks, with nicotine addiction being one of the adverse effects associated with certain genesGenetic experts assert that six key indicators can reveal the presence of Neanderthal DNA.Approximately two percent of our...
A study has found that the discharge from an electric eel can transfer environmental DNA to nearby animalsDepositphotosA recent investigation indicates that the electrical discharge from an electric eel is potent enough to facilitate the transfer of genetic material from the surroundings into the cells of neighboring animals.In laboratory conditions, electroporation refers to applying...
