Genetics
Bed bugs may be the first human pest
Bed bugs may be the first human pest Bed bugs are likely the first human pest, according to new research that compared the whole genome sequence of two genetically distinct lineages of bed bugs. The human-associated lineage of bed bugs followed a similar demographic pattern as humans and may be the first true urban pest, […]
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Beyond de-extinction and dire wolves, gene editing can help today’s endangered species
Beyond de-extinction and dire wolves, gene editing can help today’s endangered species Gene editing can help today’s endangered species by providing solutions to conservation problems, such as disease resistance and genetic diversity. The use of gene editing for conservation purposes raises legal and definitional challenges, particularly under the Endangered Species Act, which requires a clear […]
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How horses run through a ‘genetic stop sign’
How horses run through a ‘genetic stop sign’ Horses have evolved a genetic mutation that allows them to bypass a “genetic stop sign” in their NRF2/KEAP1 pathway, enabling them to produce high levels of energy and protect themselves from damage during exercise. This adaptation, which involves a molecular mechanism that recodes the stop codon, is […]
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Spit test could flag risk of chemo side effects
Spit test could flag risk of chemo side effects A new saliva test using artificial intelligence algorithms may help identify cancer patients at high risk for severe side effects from chemotherapy drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). About 1 in 3 people has a reduced ability to process 5-FU, which can lead to toxic levels and life-threatening complications. […]
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How baker’s yeast sheds light on human migration
How baker’s yeast sheds light on human migration Baker’s yeast has been found to have genetic links to human migration, suggesting that humans domesticated it around 7000 BCE. Researchers analyzed DNA from wild and domesticated yeast in different regions of Europe and America, finding distinct subpopulations within continents. The study suggests that the forest populations […]
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NASA Kicks Off Biological Research Aboard Space Station
NASA Kicks Off Biological Research Aboard Space Station NASA has launched several biological experiments aboard the International Space Station as part of its 32nd SpaceX commercial resupply services mission. The experiments include studying how microgravity affects protein production by microalgae, testing a microscope to capture microbial activity, and examining genetic activity in biofilms. Microalgae are […]
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Can your DNA predict your income, education, and love life?
Can your DNA predict your income, education, and love life? Dalton Conley’s new book “The Social Genome” explores how genes shape society in profound ways. The author debunks the nature vs. nurture debate, revealing a deeply intertwined relationship between genetics and environment. Genetic science can forecast aspects of our lives, including income, education level, and […]
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DNA repair insights could pave way for new cancer therapies
DNA repair insights could pave way for new cancer therapies DNA repair mechanisms play a crucial role in helping cells survive daily challenges beyond external threats. Researchers have discovered new vulnerabilities in cancer cells that could be exploited therapeutically, thanks to insights into genetic interactions. A systematic approach identified 5,000 gene pairs where inactivating both […]
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Are twins allergic to the same things?
Are twins allergic to the same things? Twins are more likely to share allergies due to their shared genetics and growing up together. Allergies are caused by a combination of someone’s genes and the environment they live in, making it possible for twins to develop similar allergies. Research has shown that identical twins are more […]
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23andMe is potentially selling more than just genetic data – the personal survey info it collected is just as much a privacy problem
23andMe is potentially selling more than just genetic data – the personal survey info it collected is just as much a privacy problem For companies like 23andMe, consumers are as much the product as the DNA test kits. Veronika Oliinyk/iStock via Getty Images Plus As soon as the genetic testing company 23andMe filed for bankruptcy […]
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