Genetics and Genomics News and Research

Latest Genetics and Genomics News and Research

A novel approach to identify cancer targets using 'synthetic lethality'

With advances in genome sequencing, cancer treatments have increasingly sought to leverage the idea of "synthetic lethality," exploiting cancer-specific genetic defects to identify targets that are uniquely essential to the survival of cancer cells.

28 Jul 2020

Virginia Tech scientists reveal molecular cause underlying rare genetic disorder

Virginia Tech scientists have revealed how a nonfunctioning version of an ordinary gene impairs brain structure and function. The findings help explain a genetic form of microcephaly -- a condition where babies' heads are small and grow more slowly than their peers.

28 Jul 2020

Community-based genetic screening has potential to identify individuals at risk for inherited diseases

In a new study published today in the journal Nature Medicine, researchers behind the Healthy Nevada Project® suggest that community-based genetic screening has the potential to efficiently identify individuals who may be at increased risk for three common inherited genetic conditions known to cause several forms of cancer and increased risk for heart disease or stroke.

28 Jul 2020

EBV viral genome modifies the host epigenetic landscape to promote gastric cancer

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), one of the most common human viruses, is associated with about 8-10 per cent of stomach -- or gastric -- cancers, the third leading cause of cancer death globally.

28 Jul 2020

Artificial intelligence-based process can help design novel proteins

Proteins are known to perform complex tasks and catalyze chemical reactions, making them crucial for cell survival.

27 Jul 2020

Rare gene mutation eliminates immune cell population

A study has allowed researchers to identify a rare human gene mutation that removes a population of immune cells, called mucosal-associated invariant T cells.

27 Jul 2020

Study shows genetic mutations allow MRSA to develop antibiotic resistance

Researchers have discovered that genetic mutations that occur in MRSA enable it to evolve and turn out to be more resistant to antibiotics like penicillin.

27 Jul 2020

Optical fibers made of agar have potential for various medical applications

An optical fiber made of agar has been produced at the University of Campinas (UNICAMP) in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. This device is edible, biocompatible and biodegradable.

27 Jul 2020

Heparin blocks SARS-CoV-2 infection in cell studies

In a test of antiviral effectiveness against the virus that causes COVID-19, an extract from edible seaweeds substantially outperformed remdesivir, the current standard antiviral used to combat the disease.

27 Jul 2020

Researchers identify mechanism that prevents death of neurons

When our neurons -- the principle cells of the brain -- die, so do we. Most neurons are created during embryonic development and have no "backup" after birth.

27 Jul 2020

Research identifies TLR7 gene that predisposes individuals to severe COVID-19

Current observations suggest that the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 causes severe symptoms mainly in elderly patients with chronic disease.

27 Jul 2020

Researchers use mathematical modeling to unravel the mechanisms behind tetraploidy

Cell division is a fundamental process that organisms need to reproduce, grow, and make repairs. But when an error disrupts this complex biological process, cellular abnormalities can lead to diseases, such as cancer, where cells are enabled to grow and divide out of control.

27 Jul 2020