Mice have innate gene therapy agent to sidestep mutations, study finds

Researchers have discovered that mice possess a natural form of gene therapy, a non-coding RNA that can sidestep genetic mutations. They were able to engineer a programmable version that recognized specific genetic mutations and might be used to treat … Continue reading Mice have innate gene therapy agent to sidestep mutations, study finds

Electric eel’s zap can transfer genes to nearby animals, study finds

A recent study has found that the electricity produced by an electric eel’s discharge is strong enough to cause the transfer of genetic material from the environment into the cells of nearby animals. The finding suggests that electric eels – and other … Continue reading Electric eel’s zap can transfer genes to nearby animals, study finds

Mouse passes mirror test, joining elite club of ‘self-aware’ animals

Joining the likes of killer whales (Orcinus orca) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), plus a number of primates, a common dark-furred mouse has passed what’s known as the mirror test, backed up by gene mapping, that suggests it may possess we… Continue reading Mouse passes mirror test, joining elite club of ‘self-aware’ animals

Christmas tree genetically improved for less needly mess to clean up

Researchers have taken the best genetic characteristics of the Fraser fir, arguably the most popular choice for Christmas tree, and used them to create a tree that’s taller, prettier, and – importantly – sheds only a fraction of its needles.Continue Re… Continue reading Christmas tree genetically improved for less needly mess to clean up

Brain cell gene changes linked to neuroinflammation seen in Alzheimer’s

A study has linked genetic changes in the brain's immune cells to the neuroinflammation seen in Alzheimer's disease

New research has revealed how genetic changes in a specialized population of brain cells called microglia contribute to neuroinflammation and, in turn, to Alzheimer’s disease. The findings could lead to more effective, targeted therapeutics.

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Continue reading Brain cell gene changes linked to neuroinflammation seen in Alzheimer’s

Rethinking cancer? Study reveals mutant protein’s role in tumor growth

A new study has, for the first time, settled the debate about how a mutated protein present in half of all human cancers drives tumor growth. The discovery will not only facilitate a rethink of the way cancer is treated but may lead to new and improved… Continue reading Rethinking cancer? Study reveals mutant protein’s role in tumor growth

Algorithm identifies 188 new CRISPR gene-editing systems

CRISPR systems are powerful tools for genetic engineering, but they have their limitations. Now, scientists have discovered almost 200 new CRISPR systems in their native habitat of bacteria, and found that some can edit human cells even more precisely … Continue reading Algorithm identifies 188 new CRISPR gene-editing systems

Probiotic powers genes to relieve constipation, without upsetting gut

At any given time, as many as four million Americans are suffering through bouts of constipation, which has many causes but can also prove stubborn to relieve and hugely impact daily life.Continue ReadingCategory: Medical, ScienceTags: Gut Bacteria, Ce… Continue reading Probiotic powers genes to relieve constipation, without upsetting gut

Mostly armless: A starfish is one big “head crawling along the seafloor”

Patrick Star of SpongeBob SquarePants fame had already stretched the boundaries of anatomical correctness, yet it turns out that what all of us think about the bodily composition of a sea star is most likely wrong, thanks to new genetic work that sugge… Continue reading Mostly armless: A starfish is one big “head crawling along the seafloor”

One-off gene-editing treatment lowers inherited bad cholesterol levels

Researchers have presented the interim results of a clinical trial that used a single infusion of CRISPR gene-editing technology to permanently switch off low-density lipoprotein cholesterol production in people with a genetic condition that causes ele… Continue reading One-off gene-editing treatment lowers inherited bad cholesterol levels