Feature Channels: Genetics

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A pivotal study has revealed the gap-free genome of Citrus reticulata 'Chachi' (CRC), providing new insights into the biosynthetic pathways of flavonoids that contribute to the fruit’s distinct flavor and health benefits. By mapping the metabolic changes of these compounds across various stages of fruit development, the research paves the way for enhancing the nutritional value of citrus fruits.

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A recent study has revealed the genetic mechanisms behind transgenerational phenotypic plasticity—a crucial factor in plant adaptation to environmental changes. By investigating Arabidopsis thaliana grown under different light conditions across generations, researchers demonstrated how maternal environments shape offspring traits. These findings could inform new strategies for crop improvement and ecological conservation.

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A recent review offers critical insights into the graft healing process in plants, a key aspect of successful asexual reproduction. By examining the complex interactions between phytohormones, environmental factors, and molecular mechanisms, researchers have unveiled new strategies to strengthen plant unions, potentially boosting crop yields and resilience to environmental stress.

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Between and around the billions of neurons in the human brain is an interlinked net of proteins and sugars, which can regulate memory, learning, and behavior. A new tool developed by University of Utah Health researchers has uncovered detailed, dynamic patterns in this network's structure.

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Researchers have achieved a groundbreaking advancement in plant biotechnology by using a magnetofected pollen gene delivery system to genetically transform cucumbers. This cutting-edge method uses DNA-coated magnetic nanoparticles to introduce foreign genes into pollen, producing genetically modified seeds without the need for traditional tissue culture or regeneration steps. This technique significantly streamlines and accelerates crop genetic modification, opening up new avenues to boost agricultural productivity and resilience.

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A pivotal study has mapped the genetic blueprint of Hydrangea macrophylla, uncovering the molecular foundations behind its stunning ornamental features. This genetic deep dive not only revolutionizes the breeding of this beloved garden staple but also provides fresh insights into the evolution of the Asterid clade, one of the largest families of flowering plants.

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A recent study study has revealed critical insights into the metabolic landscape of Artemisia annua, a plant essential for artemisinin production, the cornerstone of malaria treatment. Researchers investigated a mutant strain with developmental defects in glandular secretory trichomes (GSTs), which are vital for artemisinin synthesis. The study uncovered severe disruptions in the plant’s metabolic pathways, notably hindering artemisinin and other key secondary metabolites. These findings could pave the way for enhanced strategies to boost artemisinin yield, potentially transforming malaria treatment.

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A pivotal study unveils the genetic blueprint of the endangered Jacktree, shedding light on the molecular factors hindering its germination. The research highlights the challenges posed by the tree’s highly lignified pericarps, which serve as both a protective feature and a significant barrier to seed propagation, underscoring the need for targeted genetic and conservation interventions.

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We’re living much longer than our ancestors, but is that always a good thing? With many people living well into our late 70s or beyond, more of us are also spending a greater portion of our lives—sometimes a decade or more—saddled with physical and mental health conditions that can make it challenging to accomplish the tasks of daily life.

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A significant number of multiple myeloma patients may have an inherited but previously unrecognized risk of developing the disease, a new study led by Roswell Park Chief of Clinical Genomics Kenan Onel, MD, PhD, reveals.

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The LJI team uncovered important similarities between H5N1 and these common viruses, which allowed them to predict that many people already have "cross-reactive" T cells that are ready to target H5N1—should it ever mutate to cause widespread disease in humans.

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September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Experts from Johns Hopkins Medicine who specialize in sickle cell disease are available to discuss health equity issues related to sickle cell disease.

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People with rare genetic variants associated with Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders are at increased risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to new research presented at the 149th Annual Meeting of the American Neurological Association (ANA). The study is the first to find that rare variants linked to other neurodegenerative diseases are associated with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Researchers also found having these rare variants raises the risk of faster progression of ALS as well as shorter survival.

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Mount Sinai study could lead to new treatments for fibromuscular dysplasia

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The “Ozempic Revolution” did not start with celebrities posting their weight-loss success stories on Instagram, or slick TV ads featuring the earworm jingle: “Oh, Oh, Oh, Ozempic!”

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A new USDA-supported project based at Iowa State University will create an encyclopedia of livestock species' genetic regulatory regions, a DNA netherworld that could be useful in breeding for improved animal efficiency and health.

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A study by UdeM professor Claude Perreault's team at IRIC proposes three potential functions for so-called parasite DNA sequences in T cell development.

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