Genetics News

The key to bigger brains is in the DNA

Scientists have identified a human DNA element that spurs nerve growth and brain growth when placed in mice. The consequences are that the larger brain might have a greater memory capacity.

Gene discovered that makes finches distinctive

New research into the full genomes of Galápagos finches has revealed an important gene for the beak shape of the birds. The research has also revealed three previously overlooked species.

Mothers pass traits to offspring via bacterial DNA

A remarkable study suggests that the DNA of bacteria that live in the body can pass a trait to offspring in a way similar to the parents' own DNA. This is based on studies conducted using mice.

Britain authorises 'three-parent' babies

London - Britain on Tuesday became the first country in the world to allow the creation of babies with DNA from three people after MPs voted for the controversial procedure.

Op-Ed: DNA manipulation — Designing perfect babies

Advancements in genetic modification and DNA editing make the possibility of creating customized designer babies a reality. Is this medical advancement really a good idea?

Obesity due to genes, environment and time

Framingham - New research indicates that a common genetic variant increases the risk of obesity only in people born after 1942. This means genes, environment and time are key factors.

Op-Ed: Should a genetics company plan to create new creatures?

San Francisco - A San Francisco-based biotech wants to see its technology applied for inventing new organisms. This has raised concerns about so-called “Frankenstein science.”

Biotech companies partner for Parkinson’s research

The biotech companies 23andMe and Genentech are to work together on research into Parkinson’s Disease. The firms have entered a multi-year deal for the analysis of whole-genome sequence data.

New business venture to make rare disease drugs

A new company called Vtesse is to work with the U.S. National Institutes of Health to advance treatments for Niemann-Pick Type C disease and other similar disorders.

Genes and environment link up to trigger diabetes

A new study into lean and obese mice and humans has unearthed the combined influence of both genetics and the environment upon the risk of developing diabetes.

New genetic link to autism

Scientists have identified a molecular network that includes many genes previously linked to autism spectrum disorders. Narrowing this down, one specific molecular pathway appears responsible.

Predicting antibiotic resistance through advanced genetics

Tokyo - The challenge faced by scientists in developing a new generation of antibiotics to challenge the menace of antibiotic resistant superbugs is considerable. To help with this, researchers have pinpointed the how resistance develops.

Europe revises its stance on GM crops

A new agreement in the European Union allows genetically engineered crops to be approved without member-state votes. This represents a U-turn for before all member states needed to agree. The new policy will allow several GMO foods to enter the market.

Understanding the genetics of birds

A staggering advancement in genetics this week concerning the genome of birds. A series of eight paper have been published in one journal which present 45 bird species genomes. Previously only five species had been genetically mapped.

Mapping the human interactome predicts cancer genes Special

Researchers have developed the largest-scale map of direct interactions between proteins encoded by the human genome. This allows for predictions about the genes involved with cancer.

Gut bacteria, health and genetics are interlinked

Analyzing data from a large twin study, researchers have homed in on how host genetics can shape the composition of the microbes in the gut. The types of microbes in the body is connected with human health.

Hospital challenges the patenting of genes

Toronto - Who owns your genes? You? Big Pharma? Or should it be for the public good? At present the balance is with the company that patents the genetic material. Is this right? Not according to an Ottawa hospital.

New way to improve breast cancer treatment

Vanderbilt - Medical technologists have devised a new method for improving breast cancer treatment. This is based on tumors being different and from studying sections of the tumor, then most effective treatment can be applied.

Can crime be linked to genetics?

The nature-nurture debate has resurfaced in relation to a new scientific study which argues that certain genes are connected to violent crimes.

U.K. invests £230 million in disease research

London - The British government is to partner the Medical Research Council to develop new methods orientated towards identifying the causes of diseases such as cancer and dementia.

Study of zebrafish helps boy with rare disease

A study into zebrafish has helped identify the cause of an unknown genetic disorder affecting a boy and two of his uncles. Although no cure is imminent, the study could pave the way to alternative approaches for dealing with rare genetic diseases.

Is a taste for Java in the genes?

Why do some people drink more coffee than others? The answer could lie with genetic differences, according to a new study.

Schizophrenia's genetic basis challenged

London - Recently the Molecular Genetics of Schizophrenia Consortium presented genetic evidence to suggest schizophrenia is not one but “a group of heritable disorders.” This has been challenged by other scientists.

Isis plans clinical trials for Huntington's Disease treatment

Carlsbad - Of all the neurodenerative diseases known to mankind, Huntington's Disease is certainly the most relentless. No cure or treatment is available, however, if Isis Pharmaceuticals has its way, that may be history.

Revealing the genetics of schizophrenia

Three independent genetic studies suggests that schizophrenia is a group of heritable disorders associated with distinct clinical syndromes.

New non-GMO ‘super wheat’

Seattle - Botanists have discovered a wheat gene that can be used as a vehicle to transfer key genes from other plants to wheat. The discovery will allow farmers to develop new robust wheat varieties without having to resort to GMO crops.

Op-Ed: The patent gene debate: who owns your genes?

The Federal Court of Australia has rejected an appeal of a ruling that allows companies to patent isolated human genes. This reignites the debate: who owns your genes - you or the company that extracts them?

Latest genome sequencing research

Scientists continue to make advances with genome sequencing. Digital Journal has reviewed the latest research and some of the new creatures to be typed and categorized.

New findings into an alcohol dependence gene

Scientists have linked a gene, already identified with alcohol dependence, with a neurotransmitter involved in anxiety and relaxation.

Genetic recipe allows lizards to re-grow their tails

Scientists have discovered the genetic “recipe” for lizard tail regeneration. This comes come down to using genetic ingredients in just the right mixture and amounts.

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Genetics Image

Warner Bros

Representative image of the region of the brain affected by Huntington Disease.

Susann Schweiger

Tulip poplar, or yellow poplar, (Liriodendron tulipifera), closeup looking into flower on leafy branch.

Dcrjsr

Professor David Sinclair, an Australian scientist and entrepreneur

Harvard College