Sleepy cells and insect stings: The pain discoveries of 2023

Throughout 2023, researchers have looked at pain, especially chronic pain, and its molecular mechanisms, in an effort to find new, targeted ways to effectively resolve the complex condition. We present this year’s top discoveries in pain research.Conti… Continue reading Sleepy cells and insect stings: The pain discoveries of 2023

Five key blood markers linked to suicide have been identified

In a finding that could have a significant impact on personalized medicine and treatment, scientists have identified blood compounds linked to suicidal ideation.Continue ReadingCategory: Medical, ScienceTags: UC San Diego, Depression, Neuroscience, Gen… Continue reading Five key blood markers linked to suicide have been identified

A single big night of drinking a week ramps up liver-disease risk by 4x

It’s a safe assumption that we all know binge drinking is not good for our general health. But a new study shows that one big night a week is significantly more harmful than spreading that same amount of drinks out over the same period.Continue Reading… Continue reading A single big night of drinking a week ramps up liver-disease risk by 4x

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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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