Accelerated biological aging seen in prematurely born males

A unique study using epigenetic markers to track biological aging has found prematurely born males, of extremely low birth weight, seem to age more rapidly than prematurely born females with similar birth weight. Why this is the case is unclear but the… Continue reading Accelerated biological aging seen in prematurely born males

Biomarkers in fathers’ sperm linked to autism risk in children

A novel proof-of-concept study is suggesting epigenetic biomarkers in a father’s sperm can potentially predict how susceptible their offspring will be to developing autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The research is still in preliminary stages so requires… Continue reading Biomarkers in fathers’ sperm linked to autism risk in children

Anti-aging gene therapy restores vision to mice with glaucoma

Using an experimental gene therapy, Harvard scientists have successfully restored vision to mice suffering glaucoma by effectively rewinding the aging process in their cells. While still in the early stages, the team says the research is a proof of con… Continue reading Anti-aging gene therapy restores vision to mice with glaucoma

Childhood trauma found to accelerate biological signs of aging

A compelling new meta-analysis from a trio of accomplished psychologists suggests violent or traumatic experiences in childhood can accelerate biological signs of aging. Early puberty, rapid cellular aging, and structural brain changes could all be lin… Continue reading Childhood trauma found to accelerate biological signs of aging

Stressed-out plants pass down “memories” to make offspring stronger

Like any good parent, it turns out that plants can use their own experience to teach their offspring about how to overcome tough times. Geneticists at Penn State University have manipulated the expression of one gene in a plant that makes them more res… Continue reading Stressed-out plants pass down “memories” to make offspring stronger

Study suggests embryos communicate with each other while still inside the egg

We know baby birds communicate, often loudly, and mostly about food, but a new study suggests they can also communicate with each other while still in the egg. This method of communication influences the behavioral and physiological traits of… Continue reading Study suggests embryos communicate with each other while still inside the egg

Worm study shows behaviors can be passed down several generations

It’s basic biology that physical traits are passed from parent to offspring, but what about behaviors? Biologists at Princeton have shown that in worms, learned behaviors can be passed down as many as four generations, with younger worms inst… Continue reading Worm study shows behaviors can be passed down several generations