Genetics

Rare Gene Variants Linked to Left-Handedness

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...

Genetics Not the Answer to Magpie Intelligence

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...

Bloodborne Pathogens Swiftly Identified by Melting their DNA

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...

Six Indicators of Neanderthal DNA, as Identified by Genetic Experts

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...

Electric Eel Shocks Transfer Genes to Nearby Animals

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...

The Initial Chimeric Monkey has Surfaced, Displaying Dual Sets of DNA

Images show the green fluorescence signals in different body parts of the three-day-old chimeric monkeyCao et al/Cell/(CC By SA)In a scenario reminiscent of the initial scenes in a science fiction horror movie, scientists have injected stem cells from a seven-day-old monkey embryo into an unrelated four-to-five-day embryo of the same species. This combined embryo...

New Rare Gene Discovery Sheds Light on Male Baldness

New research has identified rare genetic variants associated with male pattern hair loss. Credit: PixaobayA recent research endeavor has pinpointed uncommon genetic variations linked to male pattern baldness, including two previously unknown ones. Beyond expanding our comprehension of this condition, these discoveries hold the potential to open the door to personalized treatment approaches.Androgenetic alopecia,...

Why Flat-Faced Dogs Seem Cuddlier Than Long-Muzzled Ones

Credit: PixaobayResearchers from multiple institutions in Hungary, including ethologists, natural scientists, and psychologists, have uncovered evidence indicating that the appeal of flat-faced dogs to humans may be linked to their greater inclination to seek assistance compared to other dog breeds.In a study featured in the journal Scientific Reports, the team conducted experiments involving two...

Genetic Alteration of Individual Animal Cells

Mother Jones. Credit:Scientists at ETH Zurich have devised a technique for genetically modifying individual cells separately within animals. This innovation streamlines the research process, eliminating the need for numerous animal experiments. By applying this novel approach, the scientists have pinpointed genes linked to a severe, rare genetic disorder.Typically, investigating the genetic origins of...

New Research Links Mitochondrial Gene Expression to Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

Credit: Physiological Genomics (2023). DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00005.2023High blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy poses severe risks to the pregnant and fetus. A recent study sheds light on potential contributing factors to these dangerous disorders, focusing on changes in mitochondrial gene expression. The research offers valuable insights into understanding and potentially addressing hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.Examining Hypertensive Disorders of...