Health — DNA — Genetics — August 13th, 2026

Researchers identify genes that hinder CRISPR editing efficiency
Like a delivery driver navigating crowded city streets, a gene-therapy-toting lipid nanoparticle faces a gauntlet of potential detours on its journey toward a cell's nucleus.
August 13th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — August 12th, 2026

Machine learning approach could bring greater certainty to prenatal genetic testing
Advances in genome sequencing are giving more families access to prenatal genetic testing and new information about an unborn baby's health, including whether genetic changes may be linked to a neurodevelopmental condition.
August 12th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — August 7th, 2026

From growth to function: Gene helps human heart cells decide when to mature
Understanding how heart muscle cells stop dividing and acquire the characteristics needed to sustain lifelong cardiac function remains one of the greatest challenges in cardiovascular biology. Leveraging human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell technology, a team led by Associate Professor Yoshinori Yoshida (Department of Clinical Application, CiRA, Kyoto University) and Associate Professor Antonio Lucena-Cacace (WPI-PRIMe, The University of Osaka) has identified PRDM16 as an important regulator governing the balance between proliferation and maturation in human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes.
August 7th, 2026 — Source

High-coverage ancient genomes reveal prehistoric population histories of Japan
A research team led by Koji Ishiya of Kanazawa University reconstructed exceptionally high-coverage genomes from two ancient individuals in Japan: IY1, a woman from the Initial Jomon period who lived about 8,300 years ago, and DO, a man from the Middle Yayoi period who lived about 2,300 years ago.
August 7th, 2026 — Source

NIH selects Dr. Judy Cho to helm the National Human Genome Research Institute
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Jay Bhattacharya, M.D., Ph.D., today announced the selection of Judy Cho, M.D., as director of NIH's National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI). Dr. Cho joins NIH from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City where she served as dean and professor of translational genetics. She is expected to begin her role on August 23, 2026.
August 7th, 2026 — Source

Researchers use AI to design functional bacteriophage genomes from scratch
Using AI, researchers have designed complete, functional bacteriophage genomes from scratch and tested them against bacteria that had evolved resistance to a natural bacteriophage.
August 7th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — August 5th, 2026

Study reveals evolutionary shift in gene crucial for the human nervous system
Investigators found that the modern human DNA sequence of PSPH differs from sequences identified in ancient hunter-gatherers. In evolution-guided yeast complementation assays, modern-day human phosphoserine phosphatase had the greatest function, with ancient proteins showing diminished function and disease-associated variants exhibiting the weakest function.
August 5th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — August 3rd, 2026

Cells share universal on switches but evolve unique strategy to silence genes
The signals that cells use to switch genes on have remained almost unchanged across two billion years of evolution, but the ones used to switch genes off vary dramatically from one branch of life to another, according to a new study from the Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) in Barcelona.
August 3rd, 2026 — Source

Four magnetic nanocubes give DNA origami nanorotors useful torque
Four spaced magnetic nanocubes give DNA origami rotors useful torque while reducing the variability caused by dense particle loading.
August 3rd, 2026 — Source

Using DNA sequencing for accurate identification of microbial infections in cystic fibrosis patients
Lung infections are a constant risk for people living with cystic fibrosis (CF), a life-threatening genetic disorder which impairs lung function, predisposes people to persistent airway infections and exposes them to acquiring multidrug resistant infections.
August 3rd, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 31st, 2026

X-chromosome inactivation attracts mutations that increase risk of hemophilia and muscular dystrophy
In a study published in the journal Science, researchers in Queensland and the United States discovered that the human X chromosome attracts an unusual kind of DNA mutation, potentially doubling the risk of certain genetic disorders, including hemophilia and muscular dystrophy.
July 31th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 29th, 2026

New gene editing tool reduces Huntington's symptoms in mice
A gene editing tool designed to precisely rewrite the gene that causes Huntington's disease reduced toxic protein fragments and symptoms associated with the disease in mice, researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign report.
July 29th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 27th, 2026

Novogene Europe expands single-cell sequencing capability at Cambridge Omics Centre
Novogene Europe, a multiomics research services partner, today announced that it has expanded its single-cell RNA sequencing capability at its Cambridge Omics Centre. This expansion brings single-cell sequencing workflows built around the 10x Genomics Chromium platform closer to academic, biotech and biopharma researchers in the UK. The service builds on Novogene Europe's established single-cell expertise, including existing capability in Germany, and combines specialist project support, sequencing infrastructure and bioinformatics analysis to help researchers generate deeper biological insight from complex samples and meet growing demand for accessible single-cell transcriptomics.
July 27th, 2026 — Source

Why the same DNA damage causes cancer in some people but not others
A controlled mouse study has provided direct evidence that inherited genetics can steer how cancer begins and evolves after DNA damage. The discovery could eventually help doctors better predict cancer risk and tailor screening and treatments to each patient.
July 27th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 24th, 2026

Death of girl in Chinese gene-editing trial kept secret: Report
A 6-year-old Chinese girl died last year after receiving an experimental gene therapy to correct a non-life-threatening condition, according to an investigation by Science and Retraction Watch.
July 24th, 2026 — Source

Taiwan Biobank data reveals ongoing natural selection in living humans
In a new study, researchers analyzed genomic data from over 72,000 Han Taiwanese participants in the Taiwan Biobank by comparing allele frequencies across adult age groups. This analytic framework enabled them to identify genomic signatures of ongoing natural selection and uncover disease-associated genetic variants that may otherwise have gone undetected.
July 24th, 2026 — Source

Team uses AlphaFold AI to redesign gene-editing proteins to make them safer
Google's AlphaFold can help ID what parts of a gene editing protein enable mistakes.
July 24th, 2026 — Source

The billion-dollar problem keeping Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound from patients
GLP-1 drugs may be worth the money, but insurers fear the staggering cost of covering everyone who could benefit.
July 24th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 23rd, 2026

Compact genetic switch enables targeted gene therapy for epilepsy
Epilepsy affects over 50 million people worldwide, making it one of the most common neurological disorders. Although medication helps many patients achieve seizure control, approximately one-third continue to experience seizures despite treatment. Seizures often arise when the brain's excitation-inhibition (E/I) balance breaks down. In healthy conditions, specialized inhibitory neurons act as a natural braking system, releasing a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) that helps prevent excessive electrical activity. When this inhibitory control is weakened, abnormal bursts of activity can spread through the brain and trigger seizures.
July 23rd, 2026 — Source

CRISPR-Cas orchestrates a layered defense network to fight bacterial viruses
All cellular life-from humans to bacteria-possesses two layers of immunity: innate and adaptive. Scientists have long understood how these two types of immunity work together in higher organisms but not in the microbial world.
July 23rd, 2026 — Source

Gene activity in blood fluctuates more than expected—and that has consequences for medicine
Take a blood sample from someone in the dead of winter. Take another in midsummer. Same person, same laboratory. And yet, at the level of gene activity, the molecular picture can look surprisingly different. This is not an anomaly. This, a new Nature Communications study argues, is simply how human biology works, and it has significant implications for the way biomarkers have traditionally been studied
July 23rd, 2026 — Source

RNA testing uncovers 171 mutations driving MET exon 14 skipping in lung cancer
New research has shown that RNA-based testing can improve the detection and interpretation of clinically actionable genomic alterations that lead to MET exon 14 skipping in patients with lung cancer—important biomarkers that may be missed by DNA-only approaches.
July 23rd, 2026 — Source

RNA-based testing can improve detection of key lung cancer biomarkers
The mutations leading to MET exon 14 skipping occur in 3% to 4% of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. They are exceptionally heterogeneous and occur across a broad splice-site region, creating significant analytical challenges for both DNA- and RNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays.
July 23rd, 2026 — Source

Study reveals how networks of switches in DNA, which regulate gene expression, drive cancer growth
Enhancers are pieces of DNA that act like switches, regulating when genes are turned on and off and how strongly they are activated. Scientists know these switches play a critical role in cancer and other diseases, but they have yet to fully understand how enhancers work together to control gene expression.
July 23rd, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 22nd, 2026

Antibiotic-tolerant bacteria rely on a hidden RNA-based survival strategy
Antibiotics are a medical marvel, but many microbes are gaining the ability to resist and tolerate these therapeutics. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital scientists have uncovered how S. pneumoniae adapts to antibiotic exposure and immune pressures. Their findings reveal that changes in RNA regulation enable bacteria to enter a state of antibiotic tolerance. The results provide a deeper understanding of how pathogens survive treatment and could inform strategies to improve the effectiveness of existing antibiotics.
July 22nd, 2026 — Source

CRISPR-Cas coordinates a layered bacterial defense network in innate immunity
All cellular life—from humans to bacteria—possesses two layers of immunity: innate and adaptive. Scientists have long understood how these two types of immunity work together in higher organisms but not in the microbial world.
July 22nd, 2026 — Source

New tool uncovers overlooked disease-linked genes by accounting for ancestry and family ties
Every person's DNA tells a unique story. To unlock the full potential of genetic research, scientists need tools that reflect the complexity of the people they study.
July 22nd, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 16th, 2026

Antibiotic resistant gene found in Australian soil
The novel gene, found in contaminated freshwater sediment in New South Wales by researchers at Macquarie University and the University of Sydney, provides bacteria with resistance to polymyxin, a critical last-line antibiotic used when others stop working.
July 16th, 2026 — Source

Finding the RNA aptamer in the haystack that could improve treatment for Parkinson's
Synucleinopathies are a group of neurodegenerative disorders that include serious conditions such as Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. There are currently no cures for these disorders, and treatment is limited to mitigating symptoms. Recently, antibody-based therapies have attracted considerable attention, but alternative approaches are still necessary.
July 16th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 12th, 2026

Low-cost genome sequencing approach is powering genetics research on mental illness and many other studies
For researchers on the hunt for the genetic roots of disease, the cost of deep whole-genome sequencing makes it challenging to conduct large genetic studies involving thousands of participants, which are needed to reveal new genetic insights. So scientists at the Broad Institute came up with a clever approach, called the Blended Genome Exome (BGE), that lowers the cost of sequencing by 75% and is becoming one of the most commonly used sequencing methods at the Broad.
July 12th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 11th, 2026

New stem cell therapy offers hope for chronic spinal injury
New research presented today at the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) 2026 Annual Meeting highlights a significant step toward developing a stem cell-based treatment for chronic spinal cord injury (SCI), a condition for which no effective restorative therapy currently exists.
July 11th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 10th, 2026

Genomic study of the Asian house shrew reveals a complex history of Indo-Pacific trade and human migration
Sometimes mistaken for a strange-looking mouse with a long, pointed snout, the Asian house shrew is a small, furry animal known for its musky odor. It's usually found lurking near homes and farms, ports and cities, across Southeast Asia, East Africa, southern Japan and islands across the Indian Ocean. In new research published in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, scientists from Hokkaido University show that hidden within the DNA of the Asian house shrew is a record of human migration, trade and cultural exchange stretching from East Asia to the Arabian Sea.
July 10th, 2026 — Source

Genetic mapping identifies new hope for bone diseases
In a global breakthrough published in Nature Genetics, researchers have successfully mapped the cells and genes that regulate bone formation and loss at an unprecedented scale and discovered the critical role that blood vessel cells play in bone health.
July 10th, 2026 — Source

Links between genetics and cognition change across childhood
Rare DNA changes are most strongly linked to cognition in early childhood, but the link fades as children age, while common DNA changes show stronger links later in childhood, a new study finds. The research was reported July 10 in Nature Human Behaviour by researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, who analyzed data from U.K. birth cohorts to investigate how genetic makeup affects cognitive ability across early life.
July 10th, 2026 — Source

New genomic map identifies hundreds of genes governing bone health
In a global breakthrough published in Nature Genetics, researchers have successfully mapped the cells and genes that regulate bone formation and loss at an unprecedented scale and discovered the critical role that blood vessel cells play in bone health.
July 10th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 9th, 2026

New genomic method to track disease outbreaks globally
Phylo-Plex, a new computational method, has been developed by Wellcome Sanger Institute scientists and their collaborators to allow cost-effective and scalable DNA sequencing of pathogens in laboratories with limited resources. Published today (July 9) in Nature Communications, Phylo-Plex analyzes genetic information from deadly pathogens to help track disease outbreaks, monitor antibiotic resistance and build capacity for research into how infections are spread.
July 9th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — July 8th, 2026

Dry mRNA vaccine patches reveal design rules for room-temperature storage
New research could help make future mRNA vaccines easier to store and distribute. The study, involving RMIT University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard Medical School, identified conditions that help protect the particles that carry mRNA in dry vaccine patches, offering practical guidance for future patch design.
July 8th, 2026 — Source

Genome-edited stem cells dodge antibodies, raising hope for chemo-free transplants
Stem cell transplantation (also called bone marrow transplantation) and gene therapy are among the most powerful curative approaches for blood diseases such as sickle cell disease, b-thalassemia, immune deficiencies and some blood cancers. Replacing or correcting the blood-forming stem cells can offer the possibility of long-lasting benefit or a cure. However, before patients can receive these therapies, they usually need intensive and often toxic chemotherapy or radiation to clear space in the bone marrow for the new stem cells.
July 8th, 2026 — Source

How cells keep genomic hitchhikers under control
Much of the genome is made up of repetitive DNA sequences that trace back to ancient mobile elements, many of which have lost their ability to copy themselves into new locations but can still cause problems if they become active again at the wrong time. Now, two studies published in Molecular Cell from FMI scientists reveal how cells keep these potentially disruptive genetic elements under control. The researchers found that a protein complex called ChAHP acts as a targeted genome-defense system, preventing the transcription machinery from switching on these elements in mouse cells. The findings offer insight into how cells manage repetitive sequences while protecting genome stability.
July 8th, 2026 — Source

Investigational drug that targets DNA damage help could treat Alzheimer's disease
Using a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, investigators found that treatment with KCL-286, a molecule that activates the retinoic acid receptor-beta (RAR&beta), enhanced the repair of DNA damage in neurons. Activation of the receptor triggers a pathway that ultimately causes a protein complex to bind to DNA and promote the expression of certain repair genes. KCL-286 also reduced neuronal inflammation and abnormal brain immune activity, processes thought to contribute to Alzheimer's disease development and progression.
July 8th, 2026 — Source or Source

It's been 30 years since Dolly the sheep was born—where is cloning technology now?
When Dolly the sheep—the first cloned mammal—was born 30 years ago, she became one of the most famous animals in science history. Her arrival sparked predictions of a sci-fi future filled with cloned pets, cloned humans and even resurrected extinct animals like the wooly mammoth. But the reality of cloning has turned out to be much more complicated.
July 8th, 2026 — Source

New CRISPR method makes it possible to control protein production in cells
A new CRISPR method can precisely boost rRNA production, allowing researchers to control protein production in cells and study disease mechanisms.
July 8th, 2026 — Source

New gene therapy strategy uses the brain's own glymphatic transport system for drug delivery
A new study describes a gene therapy strategy that uses the brain's own glymphatic transport system to distribute engineered viral vectors throughout the brain. The approach addresses two major challenges in neurological medicine-reaching therapeutic targets behind the blood-brain barrier and limiting unwanted effects elsewhere in the body-and could pave the way for new treatments for diseases including multiple sclerosis, Huntington's disease, and rare childhood white matter disorders.
July 8th, 2026 — Source

Traveling protein waves reveal how dividing cells set chromosome-splitting spindle size
When a human cell prepares to split into two daughter cells, it must first construct a tiny internal machine called the mitotic spindle—a structure of protein fibers that physically pulls chromosomes apart and deposits one set into each new cell. Get the spindle the right size and the chromosomes segregate cleanly. Getting it wrong could result in the chromosomal errors that fuel cancer.
July 8th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — June 23rd, 2026

Chimeric RNA unique to women could influence health and wellness
Strange "chimeric" RNA once thought to be the product of cancer is actually an important controller of women's health, including influencing their susceptibility to infectious disease and autoimmune disorders, new University of Virginia School of Medicine research suggests.
June 23rd, 2026 — Source

Completing DNA replication triggers genomic instability in bacteria
If you are anything like us, whenever you plan a journey, you spend a remarkable amount of time thinking about the start and the middle. Is everything packed? What time should we leave? Will there be traffic? Is there a faster route? We rarely think about the arrival; we just—arrive.
June 23rd, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — June 22nd, 2026

CRISPR safety check evaluates intended and unintended mutations
A team of researchers led by Professor Akitsu Hotta (Department of Clinical Application) developed a comprehensive framework that combines computational prediction, experimental validation and whole-genome analysis to evaluate intended and unintended mutations arising from CRISPR-Cas9 delivered by lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), providing a practical strategy to improve the safety of genome-editing therapies.
June 22nd, 2026 — Source

More than 600 schizophrenia-associated genes uncovered by network model
Schizophrenia is more complicated than ever imagined. Advanced gene network analysis reveals how distant genetic variants work together to influence brain function and mental health. Scientists have long known that schizophrenia runs in families, but pinpointing exactly which genes contribute to risk has been like searching for needles in a haystack.
June 22nd, 2026 — Source

Social determinants of health can match or beat genetic risk in predicting some common diseases
A new study from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai shows that social determinants of health—including environmental conditions, health behaviors, access to resources and social well-being—can play an equally important or even greater role than genetics in predicting a person's risk of developing common diseases.
June 22nd, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — June 20th, 2026

Fragile X deficits in mice respond to gene therapy
A gene therapy designed to replace a missing brain protein restored normal brain activity and improved behavior in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome (FXS), according to a study led by researchers at the University of California, Riverside. The findings, published in Molecular Therapy Nucleic Acids, suggest that gene therapy may one day address the underlying cause of FXS rather than simply treating its symptoms.
June 20th, 2026 — Source

Jumping gene caught moving between species in first direct observation
Genes are not passed on exclusively from parents to their offspring. Some are mobile and can also jump to other species, as researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology in Bremen have now shown. The direct observation of a jumping gene provides the first evidence that such genes can transfer from one species to another—from predator to prey.
June 20th, 2026 — Source

This DNA repair gene went rogue and exposed a cancer weakness
A DNA-repair gene gone into overdrive may reveal a hidden weakness in many cancers—and point patients toward more effective treatments.
June 20th, 2026 — Source

Three genes may link six mental disorders through shared biomarkers
Different neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), are characterized by highly distinct patterns of behavior and associated challenges. While many past neuroscience studies have tried to uncover the unique neurobiological underpinnings of each condition, whether they share any common markers remains unclear.
June 20th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — June 19th, 2026

Gene therapy shows promise in ARC syndrome, a deadly childhood liver disease
A new gene therapy has been used to successfully treat a deadly childhood liver disease in mice that model the disease, according to researchers at UCL and Great Ormond Street Hospital. Arthrogryposis, renal dysfunction and cholestasis (ARC) syndrome is a lethal genetic disorder usually caused by a lack of the VPS33B protein, with children diagnosed with the condition rarely living beyond their first year of life.
June 19th, 2026 — Source or Source

Psychologist warns DNA testing kits can bring unexpected risks
DNA testing kits are often gifted for Father's Day, Christmas and special occasions. The idea of learning more about yourself and unearthing some long-forgotten family history is certainly appealing for many, but a psychologist has warned that these presents can come with profound psychological implications.
June 19th, 2026 — Source

Study shows jumping genes can transfer between different species
Genes are not passed on exclusively from parents to their offspring. Some are mobile and can also jump to other species, as researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology in Bremen have now shown. The direct observation of a jumping gene provides the first evidence that such genes can transfer from one species to another -- from predator to prey.
June 19th, 2026 — Source

Zebrafish study links altered neuronal genes to hyperarousal states
The altered presence of tiny fragments of neuronal genes, called microexons, causes hyperarousal in zebrafish. This is the main conclusion of an international study led by the Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) and the Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG). An abnormal pattern of neural microexon presence leads to a hyperarousal state characterized by heightened neural activity and insomnia, commonly associated with stress but also in neurodevelopmental disorders. Arousal regulation is highly conserved in evolution. Therefore, this finding could help understand the mechanism underlying some human neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism and schizophrenia, conditions associated with microexon mutations.
June 19th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — June 10th, 2026

Ancient genome duplications laid the foundations of complex brains, research suggests
New findings, published in Nature, help answer the riddle of how vertebrates evolved the diverse array of brain cells that distinguishes them from other animals. It appears that a dramatic expansion of the genetic toolkit more than 450 million years ago enabled the emergence of different kinds of brain cells. These cellular innovations are shared across vertebrates—from primitive fish to mammals—and form the basis of the sophisticated brains seen today.
June 10th, 2026 — Source

Developing DNA-based nanostructures for targeted cancer therapy
Researchers use a Vitamin E-derived molecule to enhance the ability of DNA-based nanostructures for drug delivery, imaging, and therapeutics.
June 10th, 2026 — Source

DNA tetrahedrons unlock sharper cancer targeting with vitamin E tweak
Conventional cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, often lack specificity and can damage both cancerous and healthy cells, leading to severe side effects. With this in mind, researchers at Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) have developed DNA nanostructures called tetrahedrons and modified them by attaching a vitamin E-derived molecule called alpha-tocopherol succinate (αT), which can disrupt vital functions inside cancer cells while acting protectively in healthy cells. By incorporating αT into the DNA tetrahedrons, the researchers significantly enhanced cellular uptake and improved anticancer efficacy, resulting in more selective and effective elimination of cancer cells.
June 10th, 2026 — Source

How Argonaute, a key protein for RNA therapeutics, becomes activated
RNA therapeutics have emerged as one of the most promising new classes of medicines. Eight small interfering RNA (siRNA) drugs have already been approved worldwide for the treatment of genetic diseases, yet scientists have not fully understood one of the most fundamental steps underlying their function: how Argonaute, the core protein responsible for gene silencing, becomes activated.
June 10th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — June 8th, 2026

DNA design unlocks nanometer-scale catalyst control for cleaner hydrogen production
The fixed idea that DNA is only a molecule that stores genetic information is being challenged. KAIST researchers have developed a technology that controls the chemical environment around catalysts at the nanometer scale by designing DNA sequences—the arrangement of A, T, G and C that make up genetic information. The team has presented a new catalyst platform that can improve hydrogen production efficiency and increase the yield of desired chemical products by designing DNA much like writing a computer program.
June 8th, 2026 — Source

First-in-the-world gene therapy delivers missing gene directly to infant's brain
An 8-month-old infant with severe genetic epilepsy has become the first patient in the world to receive an experimental gene replacement therapy designed to restore the function of the WWOX gene directly in the brain. The treatment, administered at Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, represents a significant milestone in the development of precision genetic therapies for rare neurological disorders.
June 8th, 2026 — Source

New genetic disorder linked to severe childhood lung disease
A new report in the American Journal of Human Genetics describes a novel disorder caused by biallelic loss-of-function variants in the TMEM63B gene, which results in severe lung disease. Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital and collaborating institutions in Asia and Europe explain how this disorder presented in five individuals from four unrelated families.
June 8th, 2026 — Source

Novel disorder causing severe respiratory dysfunction linked to loss-of-function gene variant
Variants leading to gain-of-function of one copy of the TMEM63B gene (heterozygous variants) were previously associated with neurological symptoms, including developmental delays and epilepsy. However, no previous studies have described symptoms of patients with biallelic loss-of-function variants, in which the individual inherits two abnormal copies of the gene that do not work, one from each parent.
June 8th, 2026 — Source

Using patient-derived research models to study deadly DNA loops
Damage to DNA in cancer cells can lead to pieces breaking off chromosomes and floating away, like icebergs cracking off a glacier. Just as icebergs are a threat to ships and their crew, these scattered bits of DNA loom large for physicians and cancer patients by having titanic effects on tumor progression and treatment resistance.
June 8th, 2026 — Source

Why does the Y chromosome retain UTY?
The human Y chromosome has lost many of its ancestral genes over millions of years of evolution. Yet a small number of genes, including UTY, have been evolutionarily retained despite their weak expression and reduced enzymatic activity. Why these genes persist has remained a longstanding question in chromosome biology.
June 8th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 30th, 2026

Ancient DNA reveals how women helped transform prehistoric Europe
Ancient DNA reveals a surprisingly dynamic Europe, where marriage, migration, and cultural exchange reshaped populations long before recorded history.
May 30th, 2026 — Source

Repairing DNA damage: Scientists discover a surprising new benefit of melatonin
A small clinical trial suggests melatonin supplements could help night shift workers repair DNA damage linked to working overnight.
May 30th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 29th, 2026

4basebio launches high-performance enzymatic ssDNA platform to accelerate next-generation gene editing
4basebio PLC, a specialist in synthetic DNA manufacturing and nucleic acids for next-generation therapeutics, announces the commercial launch of its high-capacity single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) product line to accelerate the development of safer, more precise genetic therapies by enabling targeted gene editing, advanced cell engineering, and innovative nucleic acid-based medicines.
May 29th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 28th, 2026

Bad cholesterol slashed 62% by single dose of gene-editing drug in small trial
The interim Phase I trial data was only from 35 people, but results look good so far.
May 28th, 2026 — Source

Gene activity clocks estimate lifespan across species, matching epigenetic tools
Molecular clocks that can provide accurate estimates of both molecular age and lifespan across multiple mammalian species and tissue types are presented in an article published in Nature this week. An analysis of more than 11,000 human, rodent, and primate samples reveals conserved signatures of aging. This framework may aid the development of targeted interventions to improve longevity.
May 28th, 2026 — Source

Improved design rules enable faster, higher-yield DNA origami assembly
New insights into DNA assembly could streamline the design and manufacturing of nanostructures for medicine, materials and beyond.
May 28th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 22nd, 2026

Key gene boundary discovery may improve treatment of rare inflammatory disorder
Not all broken genes fail in the same way: some simply stop working, while others interfere with what still works. Researchers from Hiroshima University have identified a critical boundary within the immune-regulating gene called RELA that helps predict how harmful mutations cause disease. Their findings could improve diagnosis and treatment for patients with a rare inherited inflammatory disease.
May 22nd, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 21st, 2026

AI uses everyday language to make genetic diagnosis easier
A new computational tool called MARRVEL-MCP helps researchers move toward genetic diagnoses more efficiently by analyzing and interpreting vast amounts of genetic and biological information using everyday language. The study, conducted by researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, appeared in the American Journal of Human Genetics.
May 21st, 2026 — Source

Researchers develop AI model that maps how genes work together in human cells
Scientists at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have created a new artificial intelligence (AI) model that helps reveal how genes function together inside human cells, offering a powerful new way to understand biology and disease.
May 21st, 2026 — Source

Two nanopores working in concert to control molecular traffic
Researchers used DNA nanotechnology to build a synthetic membrane that mimics cell pores, enabling coordinated transport and programmable reactions inside.
May 21st, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 18th, 2026

New drug target identified for Fragile X syndrome
UCLA Health researchers have identified a potential drug target for treating Fragile X syndrome, the most common genetic cause of intellectual disability and autism that affects roughly one in 2,000 boys.
May 18th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 17th, 2026

New CRISPR approach may open path to hepatitis E treatment by blocking viral RNA
Researchers at the Ruhr University Bochum have developed a novel antiviral concept: Using the CRISPR/Cas13 system, they were able to specifically suppress the replication of the hepatitis E virus in human cells. Hepatitis E is a common cause of acute liver inflammation worldwide, yet effective specific therapies are still lacking. The team has now demonstrated that the virus can be targeted using an RNA-directed CRISPR system.
May 17th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 15th, 2026

DNA barcodes help nanopores detect multiple heavy metals
DNA-barcoded probes let nanopores identify which metal-ion signals belong to which targets, enabling multiplexed sensing in water and soil extracts.
May 15th, 2026 — Source

New CRISPR breakthrough promises more affordable disease diagnostics
A team of engineers at the University of Florida has developed a new form of CRISPR technology that could make diagnostics and treatments safer, more precise, and more affordable, while opening the door to entirely new ways of controlling disease.
May 15th, 2026 — Source

Researchers identify enzyme that prevents chromosome breaks during DNA copying
Researchers at The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) have identified how a key enzyme called ATR protects DNA from breaking when cells copy damaged genetic material, a discovery that could affect how certain cancer drugs are developed. Published in Genes & Development, the study shows how ATR helps stabilize the cell's DNA-copying machinery during replication stalls, preventing chromosomes from breaking.
May 15th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 14th, 2026

Genetic research could help patients avoid amputations
Physicians may one day be able to identify which patients with peripheral artery disease are most likely to develop complications and intervene earlier, thanks to a Northeastern University discovery. Peripheral artery disease is a common condition in which arteries found in the legs, arms and pelvis are partially or completely obstructed as a result of plaque buildup.
May 14th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 11th, 2026

A hidden inheritance could explain disease risks beyond DNA: Q&A
When we think about genetic inheritance, we usually leap to DNA, the four-letter code containing the instructions for building a living organism. Scientists know that DNA encodes everything from hair and eye color to a person's likelihood of developing hereditary diseases like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia.
May 11th, 2026 — Source

New CRISPR RNA scissors specifically target and destroy hepatitis E virus
An enzymatic scissors recognizes and cuts viral RNA, but leaves the host cell unharmed. This opens up new antiviral strategies against hepatitis E.
May 11th, 2026 — Source

The G-value paradox: Why similar genes can lead to very different brains
Biologists have long puzzled over why organisms with similar numbers of protein-coding genes can differ so dramatically in nervous system complexity. New research points to a potential link between the expanding diversity of RNA-binding proteins, which shape how genetic instructions are processed, and greater brain sophistication.
May 11th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 10th, 2026

Do you take after your dad's RNA?
Evidence is growing that sperm carries marks of a father's life experiences, influencing traits in offspring.
May 10th, 2026 — Source

Reading genetic activity from living cells without destroying them
Until now, studying the genetic processes in cells required destroying them—making it impossible to observe these processes over extended periods of time. A team from the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and Helmholtz Munich has developed a new method to repeatedly obtain up-to-date genetic information from living cells. In the future, this will enable better monitoring of stem cells for therapies or the effects of drugs within cells.
May 10th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 9th, 2026

CRISPR safeguard changes how engineered microbes can be controlled
Engineered microorganisms are widely used in industrial biotechnology and biopharmaceutical applications, including the production of biofuels, sustainable chemicals, and therapeutic compounds. However, concerns remain regarding the unintended environmental release and uncontrolled proliferation of genetically engineered microbes. For this reason, biocontainment technologies, which are designed to prevent microorganisms from surviving outside controlled environments, have become increasingly important in both academia and industry.
May 9th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 8th, 2026

Clinicians find evolutionary explanations for anxiety more helpful than genetics
Mental health clinicians are over five times more likely to see evolutionary explanations of anxiety as helpful for their patients, rather than the genetic approaches currently taught to trainee doctors and psychiatrists in the UK and US, a new study shows.
May 8th, 2026 — Source

DNA identifies four more crew members of doomed Franklin expedition
Three served on the HMS Erebus; the fourth was Petty Officer Harry Peglar of the HMS Terror.
May 8th, 2026 — Source

Specialized RNA molecules could counter ALS neurodegeneration
Misshapen proteins cause a mess of trouble—particularly in neurodegenerative diseases. But a new study suggests it's possible that giving them a little bit of extra support could keep them working correctly, and even reverse the damage they have caused.
May 8th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — May 7th, 2026

Scientists accidentally discover DNA that breaks the rules of life
A routine experiment with a new single-cell DNA sequencing method turned into a surprising scientific twist when researchers stumbled upon a bizarre genetic code in a microscopic pond organism. Instead of following the near-universal "rules" of life, this newly identified protist rewrites how genes signal their end. This unexpected discovery challenges long-held assumptions about how genetic translation works and hints that nature may be far more flexible—and mysterious—than scientists realized.
May 7th, 2026 — Source

Study seeks to stave off mitochondrial dysfunction believed to cause aging
Dysfunction resulting from mitochondrial DNA mutations has been implicated in multiple human pathologies, including neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic syndromes, cancer and cardiovascular disease. The stress from mtDNA mutations is thought to play a significant role in the aging process and age-related diseases.
May 7th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 26th, 2026

DNA research just rewrote the origin of human species
Humans may have evolved from multiple interconnected populations in Africa rather than a single ancestral group.
April 24th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 24th, 2026

Building a better delivery system for gene editing machines by re-engineering the cellular factory
A new study improves gene editing delivery by engineering the human cells that produce virus-like particles, boosting the potency of these key therapeutic vehicles.
April 24th, 2026 — Source

Gene therapy targets untreatable cystic fibrosis mutation affecting about 10% of patients
Cystic fibrosis is among the most common, known and studied genetic diseases. It affects over 100,000 people worldwide and reduces life expectancy mainly as it causes lung and respiratory problems. Over the years, scientific research has led to the development of several pharmacological therapies for this disease.
April 24th, 2026 — Source

Genetic study reveals likely cause of common heart valve defect
New clues from genetic research may help explain what causes the most common heart defect present at birth. Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Karolinska Institutet have identified rare DNA changes during fetal development that can lead to the aortic valve forming with only two cusps instead of three, a condition known as bicuspid aortic valve (BAV).
April 24th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 23rd, 2026

Gene-sharing view challenged as bacteria shown to police DNA exchange
A new study finds that bacteria can actively block the transfer of beneficial genes to neighboring cells, using specialized proteins to specifically destroy shared DNA before it spreads. This challenges the long-held view that bacteria freely exchange genetic material and reveals a more competitive system in which microbes tightly control who gets access to valuable traits, an insight that could help scientists better understand and potentially limit the spread of antibiotic resistance.
April 23rd, 2026 — Source

UK Biobank's 500,000 genomes were listed for sale on Alibaba. The breach came from inside the system.
Genetic, medical, and lifestyle data from all 500,000 UK Biobank volunteers was listed for sale on Alibaba after three Chinese research institutions with legitimate access violated their data-sharing agreements. The data was de-identified but includes genome sequences, hospital diagnoses, and biological measures that experts say can be re-identified. Alibaba removed the listings before any sales were made, UK Biobank has paused all external data access, and the ICO is investigating. A March investigation had already found the data leaked dozens of times via GitHub.
April 23rd, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 21st, 2026

Biohacker claims to have sequenced their own genome at the kitchen table with M3 Ultra Mac Studio, Claude, and a $3,200 sequencer — DIY project requires 100GB of data storage per run, oodles of RAM
They estimate that the expense per genome sequencing run is $1,100.
April 21st, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 17th, 2026

Medicine's next leap: Delivering gene therapies exactly where they're needed
A quiet revolution is underway in modern medicine: Drug development is aiming to move from managing disease to correcting it through RNA and gene-editing therapies. But delivering these treatments safely and precisely to the right cells remains a major hurdle—especially in hard-to-target organs like the brain and kidneys.
April 17th, 2026 — Source

Waves of gene control reveal how a key gene times limb development
In a new study published in Genes & Development, research led by Dr. Lila Allou at the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences (LMS) in London and Professor Stefan Mundlos at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics and Charite in Berlin demonstrates how different regulatory genetic elements coordinate the temporal activity of a key developmental gene. Their findings likely explain subtle differences seen in patients with congenital limb malformations, for which the underlying disease mechanisms often remain unknown.
April 17th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 14th, 2026

A built-in 'hairpin' prevents rogue CRISPR RNAs
Bacteria independently evolved similar RNA hairpin structures to fix a wasteful flaw in different CRISPR immune systems, revealing convergent evolution at work.
April 14th, 2026 — Source

Largest study of pregnancy sickness uncovers six new genetic links
The USC research team that recently identified the hormone-encoding gene GDF15 as a key driver of pregnancy sickness has identified nine additional genes linked to its most severe form, hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). Six of these genes had not been previously linked to the condition.
April 14th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 12th, 2026

Genetic variants may reduce effectiveness of popular diabetes drugs
More than a quarter of people with Type 2 diabetes take GLP-1 receptor agonists, but the popular diabetes drugs might not work as well for people who have certain genetic variants, according to a new study by Stanford Medicine scientists and their collaborators.
April 12th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 11th, 2026

Hackers meet their match: New DNA encryption protects engineered cells from within
Engineered cells are a high-value genetic asset that is key to many fields, including biotechnology, medicine, aging, and stem cell research, with the global market projected to reach $8.0 trillion USD by 2035. Yet the only ways to keep the cells safe are strong locks and watchful guards.
April 11th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 9th, 2026

A single gene switch falters in heart failure—and CRISPR can revive it
In heart failure, the heart can no longer supply the body with enough blood. The condition often develops over many years, for example, due to high blood pressure or other long-term strain on the heart muscle. At first, the heart tries to compensate for this extra workload by working harder, which causes it to enlarge. Over the long term, however, this adaptation leads to structural changes in the heart tissue, and the heart's pumping function progressively deteriorates. Until now, it has been largely unclear which processes occur in the heart muscle during this process and can be specifically targeted for treatment.
April 9th, 2026 — Source

Clinical trial shows gene editing works for &beta-Thalassaemia, too
Improved gene editing process reactivates the fetal version of a hemoglobin gene.
April 9th, 2026 — Source

Liquid-like histone H1 'glues' nucleosomes, reshaping how DNA compacts
DNA inside the nucleus is not packed as a rigid regular fiber—linker histone H1 dynamically binds and loosely "glues" nucleosomes together, creating a dynamic, fluid organization that can still support essential genome functions.
April 9th, 2026 — Source

One DNA letter can trigger complete sex reversal
Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have discovered that changing just one letter in DNA can completely alter sex development in mice. In the new study, published in Nature Communications, a single-letter insertion in a non-coding regulatory region caused XX mice, which would normally develop as females, to develop instead as males with testis and male genitalia.
April 9th, 2026 — Source

Overlooked non-coding genes cause diabetes in babies, study reveals
Scientists have found new genetic causes for diabetes in babies—in a part of the genome that has historically been overlooked in genetic studies. Until recently, most research has investigated causes of disease in "coding" genes—those that produce proteins. Now, academics at the University of Exeter and their international collaborators have found that DNA changes in two genes that instead make functional RNA molecules are a cause of diabetes. RNA plays various roles in the body, including regulating genes and influencing how genetic information is "read" and interpreted.
April 9th, 2026 — Source

The hidden tradeoff behind today's most popular weight loss drugs
Weight loss drugs and bariatric surgery may work differently, but they lead to surprisingly similar results inside the body. Both significantly reduce fat while also causing a modest loss of muscle, reshaping overall body composition. Since muscle helps protect against early death, this balance matters more than the number on the scale. The study suggests these treatments improve health—but not without trade-offs.
April 9th, 2026 — Source

Your DNA has a secret "second code" that decides which genes get silenced
Cells have a built-in system that filters out weaker genetic messages, revealing a hidden layer of DNA control.
April 9th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 8th, 2026

Sequencing method exposes hidden gaps in immune signaling by tracking RNA and protein together
A new single-cell technology is giving scientists their clearest view yet of immune cell behavior—capturing not just genetic intent, but real-time activity. By measuring RNA and proteins simultaneously, it reveals cytokine activity with greater accuracy, strengthening the foundation for understanding cancer, inflammation and treatment resistance. Published in Scientific Reports, the findings could ultimately sharpen immunotherapy design and improve predictions of patient response.
April 8th, 2026 — Source

Study finds genetic basis for GLP-1 weight loss efficacy and side effects
23andMe Research Institute, a nonprofit medical research organization, announced the publication of a study that identifies genetic predictors for GLP-1 weight loss efficacy and side effects.
April 8th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 6th, 2026

Expanded MAGIC toolkit makes genome-wide single-cell mosaic analysis possible in Drosophila
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a powerful new genetic toolkit that allows scientists to study how genes function at the level of individual cells, an advance that could accelerate discoveries in development, neuroscience, and disease.
April 6th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 3rd, 2026

A gene mutation may trap the brain in the wrong reality in schizophrenia patients
A schizophrenia-linked gene mutation may lock the brain into outdated beliefs—but scientists just found a way to flip the switch back.
April 3rd, 2026 — Source

Assembling more than 1,000 human genomes affordably: New method could power genetic screening's future
A research team led by Zhen-Xing Endowed Professor Jian Yang at the School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, has developed a pangenome-informed genome assembly (PIGA) method. By combining a cost-effective hybrid sequencing strategy of long and short reads, the team successfully constructed a pangenome for more than 1,000 individuals. This achievement breaks through the limitations of previous small-sample pangenomes and provides a critical foundational infrastructure for medical and population genetics research.
April 3rd, 2026 — Source

Reprogrammed DNA controls living cells without altering their genes
Scientists used a bacterial system called retron to turn DNA into a programmable tool inside living cells, enabling gene regulation and disease detection.
April 3rd, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — April 1st, 2026

DNA damage in gray matter neurons linked to MS progression
For decades, multiple sclerosis research has focused on myelin, the insulation around the brain's wiring. Scientists paid less attention to another loss that was happening in parallel: neurons in the cortex, the seat of higher thinking and cognition, were quietly dying.
April 1st, 2026 — Source

Genetic overlap between several mental health disorders could help predict vulnerability
Psychiatric disorders, such as bipolar disorder (BD), major depressive disorder (MDD), schizophrenia and anxiety disorders, adversely affect the daily functioning and well-being of millions of people worldwide. Understanding the neural and genetic underpinnings of these disorders can help medical and psychiatry researchers to devise more effective methods to predict the risk that they will emerge, as well as diagnosing and treating them.
April 1st, 2026 — Source

Nature's photocopiers caught 'doodling'—scientists say it could revolutionize how DNA is written
New research has discovered that the molecular machines responsible for copying our DNA have a surprising hidden talent—an ability to create entirely new and highly sophisticated DNA sequences from scratch. The study, led by the University of Bristol, analyzes this curious "doodling" activity, showing for the first time that it can be steered and controlled. The findings not only help shed further light on how genetic information emerges, but could also present exciting new ways of writing long DNA sequences.
April 1st, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 31st, 2026

Excessive RNA editing enzyme alters brain circuit formation in Down syndrome
A collaborative research study co-led by scientists at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the Liber Institute for Brain Development has for the first time identified a biological process that may help explain how the brain develops differently in people with Down syndrome. The study was a collaboration among scientists from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, the Lieber Institute for Brain Development, the Medical University of Sofia in Bulgaria, and the University of Arizona.
March 31st, 2026 — Source or Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 24th, 2026

Redesigned lipid nanoparticles improve mRNA delivery to lymph nodes
Penn Engineers have redesigned a key component of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), the delivery vehicles behind mRNA vaccines, to steer the particles toward lymph nodes while reducing off-target delivery to the liver. The advance could make mRNA vaccines more efficient, potentially achieving strong immune protection at lower doses.
March 24th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 22nd, 2026

Genetic study finds links between height and risk of cardiovascular and reproductive conditions in East Asian people
A large-scale genetic analysis of East Asian individuals led by Fuu-Jen Tsai of the China Medical University Hospital, finds that people with greater height face a higher risk of endometriosis and atrial fibrillation. A person's height is the result of a complex mix of genetic and environmental factors. The genetics underlying height have been linked to multiple health conditions, but these stature-related health risks have not been well explored, especially in East Asian populations.
March 22nd, 2026 — Source

Study finds addiction risk tied to reward and impulse genes
Most of the genetic risk for developing a substance use disorder comes from genes that broadly affect how our brains process rewards, regulate impulses and weigh consequences -- not from genes that specifically influence substance use disorder or any single drug.
March 22nd, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 21st, 2026

DNA-engineered silver nanoclusters enable precision killing of drug-resistant bacteria
DNA scaffolds organize silver nanoclusters into potent antimicrobials that precisely kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including those causing meningitis.
March 21st, 2026 — Source

Predicting RNA activity expands therapeutic possibilities
With AI, it's now possible for researchers to predict the three-dimensional structures of proteins directly from their amino-acid sequences. But what biologists really want to predict, says Columbia biophysicist Hashim Al-Hashimi, is how RNA and DNA-encoded molecules behave inside their natural cellular environments.
March 21st, 2026 — Source

The epigenetics of trauma: 86 miRNAs linked to PTSD symptom severity and social adversity
Adverse childhood experiences and traumatic events experienced or witnessed at any point during one's lifetime can sometimes prompt the emergence of some mental health disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD (c-PTSD). Past studies suggest that these disorders emerge from epigenetic factors, or in other words, from changes in gene activity that occur in response to the environment or experiences.
March 21st, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 20th, 2026

AI model uses 3D lipid structures to improve mRNA nanoparticle delivery
An AI model that screens ionizable lipids by 3D conformation identified a candidate 14.8 times more efficient than current clinical lipids, enabling spleen-targeted mRNA vaccines.
March 20th, 2026 — Source

From pathology image to biological discovery: LazySlide uses foundation models to connect tissue images and RNA data
Microscopic images of human tissue are a cornerstone of biomedical research and clinical diagnostics. Yet despite their importance, these images often remain difficult to analyze systematically and to connect with other types of biological data. A new study led by CeMM Principal Investigator Andre Rendeiro and published in Nature Methods introduces "LazySlide," an open-source software tool that brings the power of foundation models and aims to democratize digital pathology analysis.
March 20th, 2026 — Source

Genes tied to impulse control play a major role in addiction risk
Most of the genetic risk for developing a substance use disorder comes from genes that broadly affect how our brains process rewards, regulate impulses and weigh consequences—not from genes that specifically influence substance use disorder or any single drug.
March 20th, 2026 — Source

Replicating bacterial DNA relies on accordion-like folds to separate, researchers discover
When bacteria cells replicate, they do so a little differently than human cells do. They don't undergo mitosis, a splitting that involves construction of spindles to carefully separate the DNA after replication. Instead, they use a process called binary fission, which is faster and allows them to separate their circular chromosomes as they are replicated. But the end result is the same: One cell turns into two cells, each with its own copy of the DNA chromosomes.
March 20th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 18th, 2026

A 'two-factor authentication' system that controls microRNA destruction
Cells rely on tiny molecules called microRNAs to tune which genes are active and when. Cells must carefully control the lifespan of microRNAs to prevent widespread disruption to gene regulation. A new study led by researchers at Whitehead Institute and Germany's Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry reveals how cells selectively eliminate certain microRNAs through an unexpectedly intricate molecular recognition system.
March 18th, 2026 — Source

Gene mutation tied to schizophrenia slows brain's updating of beliefs
One of the symptoms of schizophrenia is difficulty incorporating new information about the world. This can lead patients to struggle with making decisions and, eventually, to lose touch with reality. MIT neuroscientists have now identified a gene mutation that appears to give rise to this type of difficulty. The new study appears in Nature Neuroscience.
March 18th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 16th, 2026

Computational model predicts telomere length from routine biopsy slide images
A new computational tool infers changes occurring at the ends of the chromosomes housing our DNA. It does so by detecting structural alterations in cells and tissues captured in images taken of routine medical biopsies, according to findings published in Cell Reports Methods.
March 16th, 2026 — Source

Mutant gene behind aggressive adult leukemia offers new clues for treatment
Imagine a tiny superhero inside every cell of your body whose job is to stop damaged cells before they turn dangerous. That superhero is a gene called TP53, and for decades scientists have known it as the "guardian of the genome." But what happens when the guardian breaks?
March 16th, 2026 — Source

New genetic risk score better predicts diabetes, obesity and downstream complications
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity are metabolic conditions with many causes, including overlapping and distinct genetic features. A polygenic risk score (PRS) can capture multiple genetic risk factors to provide an estimate for whether a person may develop a complex medical condition and how they might fare long-term.
March 16th, 2026 — Source

Silicon nanotube arrays deliver mRNA into human stem cells while preserving pluripotency
Silicon nanotube arrays deliver functional mRNA into human pluripotent stem cells for the first time, achieving up to 64% transfection without compromising stem cell identity.
March 16th, 2026 — Source

Stem cell therapy shows promise for reversing aging-related frailty in new clinical trial
Stem cells are gaining attention for their potential to treat leukemia, certain solid tumor cancers, and inherited metabolic disorders. Now, a clinical trial reports that a single dose can significantly improve physical strength and key signs of aging in older adults with frailty.
March 16th, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 11th, 2026

DNA origami vaccine platform shows promise against multiple infectious viruses
The COVID-19 pandemic brought messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines to the forefront of global health care. After their clinical trial stages, the first COVID-19 mRNA vaccine was administered on 8 December 2020 and mathematical models suggest that mRNA vaccines prevented at least 14.4 million deaths from COVID-19 in the first year alone. Their extraordinary effectiveness in having softened the blow of the disease, has led to the development of mRNA vaccines to also combat other infectious pathogens. Clinical trials for influenza virus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), HIV, Zika, Epstein-Barr virus, and tuberculosis bacteria are all on the way. Importantly, however, COVID-19 research has revealed shortcomings of mRNA vaccines that highlight the need for different approaches.
March 11, 2026 — Source

DNA-based barcoding reveals which nanoparticles successfully deliver genetic therapies
DNA-based barcoding reveals which nanoparticles successfully deliver genetic therapies
March 11, 2026 — Source

New DNA barcoding method reveals why most gene therapy nanoparticles fail in cells
Researchers developed a DNA barcoding assay to measure nanoparticle cargo escape in living organisms, enabling a new class of lipid nanoparticles for more efficient gene editing.
March 11, 2026 — Source

'Stealth' DNA circles safely insert gene-sized payloads into the genome
Genome editing-based therapies typically aim to treat disease by correcting underlying genetic mutations in patient's cells. However, most genetic disorders are caused by dozens or even thousands of unique mutations spread across a gene; this diversity results in challenges of scale when it comes to developing customized therapies for many individuals.
March 11, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 5th, 2026

Cloaked stem cells evade immune rejection in mice, pointing to a potential universal donor cell line
A study published in Stem Cell Reports demonstrates that genetically engineered human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) can overcome immune rejection in mice with humanized immune systems, surviving for five months in a stringent transplantation model. The findings provide proof-of-principle for the development of a potential universal donor hPSC line designed to resist immune attack.
March 5, 2026 — Source

mRNA therapy restores fertility in genetically infertile mice
Researchers have found that targeted delivery of messenger RNA (mRNA) can restore sperm production and fertility in genetically infertile male mice. The findings, published in Stem Cell Reports, demonstrate that transient mRNA treatment restored sperm production and enabled the birth of healthy offspring.
March 5, 2026 — Source

Pond-dwelling microalga exposes a parallel track for RNA processing
Biology textbooks explain that cells follow a universal rule when processing gene transcripts to make proteins. Non-coding snippets of RNA are bracketed by a guanine-thymine (GT) nucleotide sequence on one end and an adenine-guanine (AG) sequence on the other—unmistakable signposts telling the cell exactly what sequences to leave out and what should stay in.
March 5, 2026 — Source

Scientists clock a driving factor in the evolution of error correction
All complex biological systems—like the DNA, RNA and proteins constantly being copied and built within our cells—are prone to errors. That means as life evolved to be more elaborate, it also had to evolve error-correcting strategies.
March 5, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 4th, 2026

First gene regulation clinical trials for epilepsy show promising results
A Phase I/IIa clinical trials co-led by Linda Laux, MD, from Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, show that the first gene regulation treatment for epilepsy is safe and well tolerated by patients with Dravet syndrome for whom antiseizure medications are not effective.
March 4, 2026 — Source

Understanding how cells take up and use isolated mitochondria to restore energy function
Mitochondria are essential for cell survival, repair, and adaptation. Not only do they generate most of the energy needed during a cell's life, but they also regulate cell death, calcium balance, and responses to stress. When mitochondria fail, which is a common feature of neurodegenerative diseases and many inflammatory and metabolic disorders, cells lose their ability to meet energy demands and maintain internal stability.
March 4, 2026 — Source

With Evo 2, AI can model and design the genetic code for all domains of life
The DNA foundation model Evo 2 has been published in the journal Nature. Trained on the DNA of over 100,000 species across the entire tree of life, Evo 2 can identify patterns in gene sequences across disparate organisms that experimental researchers would need years to uncover. The machine learning model can accurately identify disease-causing mutations in human genes and is capable of designing new genomes that are as long as the genomes of simple bacteria.
March 4, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 3rd, 2026

A common CRISPR platform enables comparative studies of multicellularity in social amoebae
A research group led by Associate Professor Tetsuya Muramoto from the Faculty of Science, Toho University, has established a CRISPR genome editing technique that enables comparative analysis of the evolution of multicellularity across different species of social amoebae (cellular slime molds). Until now, genetic studies had largely been restricted to a single model species, limiting cross-species comparisons.
March 3, 2026 — Source

New DNA HDD can be 'erased and overwritten repeatedly' — University of Missouri researchers aiming for next-gen thumb-drive-sized storage
Scientists are being cagey about the write mechanism, but say 'a nanopore sensor' will be used for reads.
March 3, 2026 — Source

Puberty reshapes DNA to worsen or reverse insulin resistance
A longitudinal study shows that puberty may reprogram children's epigenetic profiles in ways that track worsening or improving insulin resistance, uncovering early molecular signals of future cardiometabolic disease.
March 3, 2026 — Source

Synthetic gene medicines may disrupt DNA repair
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), used to treat genetic diseases, can affect how cells repair damage to their DNA. This is shown in a new study from Karolinska Institutet, published in Nature Communications. The findings may have implications for the development of future genetic medicines and deepen our understanding of how RNA, natural counterparts to ASOs, participate in DNA repair systems.
March 3, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — March 2nd, 2026

A rewritable DNA hard drive may help solve the growing data storage crisis
Around the world, scientists are exploring an unexpected solution to the growing data crisis: storing digital information in synthetic DNA. The idea is simple but powerful—DNA is one of the most compact, durable information systems on Earth. But one issue has held the field back. Once data is written into DNA, it can't be changed.
March 2, 2026 — Source

Mitochondria mania: Can supercharging your cells help you live longer?
"Longevity science" is on the come up—and "mitochondria" appears to be its newest mascot. The cell's energy-producing center is the talk of TikTok, wellness clinics and newsletters focused on longevity. Influencers peddle NAD⁺ supplements, which are marketed as a mitochondria-focused must-take daily elixir to boost metabolism and slow aging.
March 2, 2026 — Source

Tech upgrade reveals even finer transcription detail inside cells
In 2021, a technology developed at the University of Michigan, called Seq-Scope, revolutionized the ability to map gene activity within intact tissue at microscopic resolution, enabling researchers to measure all expressed mRNA molecules and determine precisely where they are located within the tissue, using an Illumina sequencer machine.
March 2, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — February 24th, 2026

New technology reveals hidden DNA scaffolding built before life 'switches on'
For decades, scientists viewed the genome of a newly fertilized egg as a structural "blank slate"—a disordered tangle of DNA waiting for the embryo to wake up and start reading its own genetic instructions. In research published in Nature Genetics, Professor Juanma Vaquerizas and his team have found that a surprising level of structure is already in place. They've developed a breakthrough technology, called Pico-C, which enables scientists to see the 3D structure of the genome in unprecedented detail.
February 24, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — February 17th, 2026

Ancient DNA solves 12,000-year-old mystery of rare genetic growth disorder
A 12,000-year-old Ice Age burial has revealed the earliest genetic diagnosis of a rare growth disorder.
February 17, 2026 — Source

Childhood disadvantage can block the benefits of genetic potential, study finds
New research from the University of Bath's School of Management shows that a genetic predisposition for success can be derailed by childhood adversity, shifting focus from long-term goals to immediate survival, creating hidden barriers to social mobility. The study, published in Communications Psychology, finds that genes associated with educational attainment influence how people weigh risks and wait for payoffs—but the direction of these effects is shaped by childhood circumstances.
February 17, 2026 — Source

Mysterious RNA led scientists to a hidden layer of cancer
A mysterious RNA found in breast cancer led scientists to uncover an entire hidden class of cancer-specific RNAs across dozens of tumor types. These molecules form unique molecular signatures that identify cancer type and subtype with remarkable accuracy. Some even drive tumor growth and metastasis. Because many are released into the bloodstream, a simple blood test can track how patients respond to treatment and predict survival.
February 17, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — February 15th, 2026

Large study finds no link between mRNA COVID vaccine in pregnancy and autism
Researchers tracked more than 400 toddlers to see whether mRNA COVID-19 vaccination during or just before pregnancy was linked to autism or developmental delays. After detailed assessments of speech, motor skills, behavior, and social development, they found no meaningful differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups. Experts say the results provide strong reassurance about vaccine safety in pregnancy.
February 15, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — February 14th, 2026

DNA nanomachine inside living cells measures how aggressive a cancer is
A DNA nano-harvester stays on its track inside tumor cells, measuring cancer aggressiveness by detecting a key microRNA biomarker.
February 14, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — February 13th, 2026

Cell and gene therapy across 35 years—a bibliometric analysis of global advances
Cell and gene therapies, or CGT, have come a long way since they were first introduced. In the last few decades, both cell therapy—the transplantation of living cells—and gene therapy—the use of genetic material to modify cell functions—have been increasingly incorporated into clinical practice.
February 13, 2026 — Source

Could the discovery of a tiny RNA molecule explain the origins of life?
One of the greatest mysteries of our planet is how a soup of lifeless chemicals transformed into the first living cell. There are several competing theories about where this happened, from frozen polar ice to superheated hydrothermal vents. But one thing that most scientists agree on is that life could not begin until a molecule appeared that could spontaneously copy itself.
February 13, 2026 — Source

Genetic variants in 11 regions of human genome influence the gut microbiome
In two new studies on 28,000 individuals, researchers are able to show that genetic variants in 11 regions of the human genome have a clear influence on which bacteria are in the gut and what they do there. Only two genetic regions were previously known. Some of the new genetic variants can be linked to an increased risk of gluten intolerance, haemorrhoids and cardiovascular diseases.
February 13, 2026 — Source

Light-activated crosslinking transforms DNA into a controllable nanoscale reaction vessel
Scientists developed a light-responsive artificial nucleic acid that enables reversible, controllable crosslinking within DNA, opening doors for nanomedicine, DNA nanotechnologies and drug delivery.
February 13, 2026 — Source

Men lose their Y chromosome as they age: Scientists thought it didn't matter—but now we're learning more
Men tend to lose the Y chromosome from their cells as they age. But because the Y bears few genes other than for male determination, it was thought this loss would not affect health. But evidence has mounted over the past few years that when people who have a Y chromosome lose it, the loss is associated with serious diseases throughout the body, contributing to a shorter lifespan.
February 13, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — February 12th, 2026

Gene activity pattern links childhood abuse to depression
Scientists have identified a pattern of gene activity present in some female survivors of childhood abuse that is associated with an elevated risk of depression.
February 12, 2026 — Source

Why asthma risk differs by sex: Study links early-life exposures to lung gene networks
A new study has confirmed that male and female lungs are "wired differently" at the molecular level, providing further evidence supporting sex-inclusive respiratory disease research and treatment.
February 12, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — February 11th, 2026

Aerska raises $39M to help RNA medicines reach the brain
For families living with neurodegenerative disease, the hardest part is not always the diagnosis. It is the slow erosion that follows: memory fading, personality shifting, independence shrinking.
February 11, 2026 — Source

Fragile X study uncovers brainwave biomarker bridging humans and mice
Numerous potential treatments for neurological conditions, including autism spectrum disorders, have worked well in lab mice but then disappointed in humans. What would help is a noninvasive, objective readout of treatment efficacy that is shared in both species. In a new study in Nature Communications, a team of MIT researchers backed by collaborators across the United States and in the United Kingdom identifies such a biomarker in fragile X syndrome, the most common inherited autism form.
February 11, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — February 6th, 2026

CRISPR approach turns oncogene amplification into a weakness in multiple solid tumors
The onset and aggressiveness of cancer are related to the abnormal behavior of certain genes, known as oncogenes. The best-known of these alterations is mutation, but it is not the only one. Sometimes, within a cell, a very high number of copies of the oncogene appear—tens or even hundreds. This amplification of oncogenes occurs in a significant proportion of solid tumors and may make the tumor more aggressive and prevent the body's defenses from detecting it, contributing to the development of resistance to treatments.
February 6, 2026 — Source

New CRISPR tool spreads through bacteria to disable antibiotic resistance genes
Antibiotic resistance (AR) has steadily accelerated in recent years to become a global health crisis. As deadly bacteria evolve new ways to elude drug treatments for a variety of illnesses, a growing number of "superbugs" have emerged, ramping up estimates of more than 10 million worldwide deaths per year by 2050.
February 6, 2026 — Source

The surprising power of a tiny, disordered protein in a mitochondrial supercomplex
For decades, scientists assumed that order drives efficiency. Yet in the bustling machinery of mitochondria—the organelles that crank out adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the universal "energy currency" of cells—one of the most enigmatic components is a protein that appears anything but orderly.
February 6, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — February 4th, 2026

Cracking the rules of gene regulation with experimental elegance and AI
Gene regulation is far more predictable than previously believed, scientists conclude after developing the deep learning model PARM. This might bring an end to a scientific mystery: how genes know when to switch on or off.
February 4, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — February 2nd, 2026

Biologists discover alternative systems that help cells control genes
Researchers at the School of Biological Sciences of The University of Hong Kong (HKU) have uncovered how eukaryotic cells can control gene activity even after losing one of their major gene-regulatory systems during evolution. By studying a microscopic soil-living roundworm, the team revealed how an alternative, conserved epigenetic mechanism can take over when a common one is missing.
February 2, 2026 — Source

Your genes matter more for lifespan now than they did a century ago: Here's why
How much do your genes determine how long you'll live? It's a question that fascinates us, and one that's been debated for decades. For years, the answer seemed settled—genes account for about 20--25% of the variation in human lifespan, with the rest down to lifestyle and environment.
February 2, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — January 31st, 2026

How gene loss and monogamy built termite mega societies
Termites became social superpowers by letting evolution take genes away.
January 31, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — January 30th, 2026

DNA repair enzyme failure triggers inflammation and accelerates aging in cells
If severe DNA damage is not repaired, the consequences for the health of cells and tissues are dramatic. A study led by researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt, part of the Rhine-Main University Alliance, shows that the failure of a key DNA repair enzyme called SPRTN not only results in genetic damage, but also triggers chronic inflammatory responses that accelerate aging and lead to developmental abnormalities. The findings shed light on the rare hereditary disorder Ruijs-Aalfs syndrome and may open new avenues for therapeutic intervention.
January 30, 2026 — Source

Research uncovers trade-offs in aging muscle stem cell functionality
Aging muscles heal more slowly after injury - a frustrating reality familiar to many older adults.
January 30, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — January 19th, 2026

Small molecules could treat Crohn's disease by mimicking a protective gene variant
An estimated 3 million Americans have an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. But a lucky few individuals are far less likely to develop IBD because they have a rare variant of a gene called CARD9. This protective gene variant prevents the long-term digestive tract inflammation that can cause tissue damage and lead to disease.
January 19, 2026 — Source

Super agers' resilience against Alzheimer's disease linked to protective gene variant
The gene variant posing the greatest genetic risk of late-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) is called APOE-ε4. A different variant of the same gene, APOE-ε2, is thought to confer protection against AD.
January 19, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — January 14th, 2026

A CRISPR fingerprint of pathogenic C. auris fungi for precision diagnostics
Infection with the pathogenic yeast fungus Candida auris (C. auris) can wreak havoc on the health of hospital patients and residents of nursing homes, especially those who are already weakened by other illnesses. The pathogen easily spreads and colonizes surfaces and objects where it can survive for weeks to months, and is often resistant to standard disinfectants.
January 14, 2026 — Source

Researchers expand human genome map to 2.37 million regulatory DNA elements
These genetic switches, called cis-regulatory elements (CREs), are found outside the main protein coding sequences of genes, and control the transcription of nearby genes. CREs are critical for specialized genetic and biological functions. Using this registry of candidate CREs (or cCREs), Drs. Moore and Weng and their teams were able to show how large-scale regulatory maps can reveal previously unrecognized classes of CREs and illuminate how noncoding genetic variation contributes to cell type-specific traits.
January 14, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — January 9th, 2026

Best Smart Home Gyms to Help Meet Your 2026 Goals as Tested and Recommended by a Fitness Expert
Investing in a smart home gym? Check out our favorite setups before spending a penny.
January 9, 2026 — Source

Build a Strength Training Workout Program That Will Make 2026 Your Strongest Year
Create a strength training guide that works for you with this foolproof plan.
January 9, 2026 — Source

Can't Sleep? A Yoga Teacher Recommends These 3 Poses
Trying these yoga poses can calm your mind, unwind your body and help you get a good night's rest.
January 9, 2026 — Source

Non-coding RNA mutations unveiled as new cause of retinitis pigmentosa
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a genetic eye disorder affecting around one in 5,000 people worldwide. It typically begins with night blindness in youth and progresses to tunnel vision as daylight-sensing photoreceptor cells in the retina gradually die, potentially leading to blindness over time. Although more than a hundred genes have been linked to RP, the genetic cause remains undiagnosed in ~30-40% of patients, even after extensive DNA testing. For many families, this has meant years without clear answers about their inherited vision loss.
January 9, 2026 — Source or Source

RNA gene mutations identified as cause of inherited blindness
Researchers from Radboud university medical center and University of Basel have discovered new genetic causes of inherited blindness. Their study shows that changes in specific pieces of DNA, which play a role in processing genetic information, can lead to retinitis pigmentosa. This eye condition affects about 1 in 5,000 people worldwide, causing 'tunnel vision' and often leads to legal blindness. The discovery provides clarity for dozens of families globally and opens new possibilities for diagnostics and counseling in hereditary conditions.
January 9, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — January 8th, 2026

CIRM awards $7.4 million to advance stem cell-based gene therapy for Friedreich's ataxia
The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) has awarded $7.4 million to support a University of California San Diego team developing a first-of-its-kind stem cell-based gene therapy for Friedreich's ataxia, a rare inherited neurodegenerative disease that causes progressive loss of coordination, muscle strength, heart function and overall mobility. The new funding will help the research team complete the final steps required by federal regulators before they can apply to begin a first-in-human clinical trial.
January 8, 2026 — Source

Conserved genome regulatory elements found in both vertebrates and echinoderms
The conservation of genome regulatory elements over long periods of evolution is not limited to vertebrates, as previously thought, but also in echinoderms (invertebrates). This is one of the most notable conclusions of a study published in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution, which expands our knowledge of the mechanisms governing genomic regulation and biological evolution.
January 8, 2026 — Source

Dual pathways found for centromere specification, ensuring accurate chromosome segregation
Despite the immense amount of genetic material present in each cell, around three billion base pairs in humans, this material needs to be accurately divided in two and allocated in equal quantities. The centromere, located in the middle of each chromosome, is known as the site where cellular equipment attaches to divide chromosomes successfully, but the specific mechanisms behind this remain unknown.
January 8, 2026 — Source

Shared genes may influence both artery calcification and bone density
A new study published suggests that the connection between coronary artery calcification—a measure of calcium buildup in the arteries—and bone mineral density may be driven in part by shared genetic factors, rather than one directly causing the other. By highlighting the biological pathways that influence both vascular and bone health, the findings provide researchers with new directions for understanding age-related changes in the heart and skeleton.
January 8, 2026 — Source

Stem cell engineering progress paves way for next-generation living drugs
For the first time, researchers at the University of British Columbia have demonstrated how to reliably produce an important type of human immune cell—known as helper T cells—from stem cells in a controlled laboratory setting.
January 8, 2026 — Source

Stem cell therapy for stroke shows how cells find their way in the brain
Some parts of our bodies bounce back from injury in fairly short order. The outer protective layer of the eye—called the cornea—can heal from minor scratches within a single day. The brain is not one of these fast-healing tissues or organs. Adult brain cells are stable and last for a lifetime barring trauma or disease, whereas some cells lining our guts last only five days and must be continually replaced.
January 8, 2026 — Source

UBC researchers crack code to grow helper t cells from stem cells
For the first time, researchers at the University of British Columbia have demonstrated how to reliably produce an important type of human immune cell-known as helper T cells-from stem cells in a controlled laboratory setting.
January 8, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — January 7th, 2026

Beyond gene scissors: New CRISPR mechanism discovered
A novel CRISPR defense mechanism, unlike known nucleases, specifically destroys transfer ribonucleic acids (tRNA) that are vital for protein production to shut down infected cells.
January 7, 2026 — Source

Childhood deafness: Researchers identify over 200 mutations, including previously unknown variants
Deafness, the most common sensorineural hearing loss at all stages of life, occurs either independently or as part of syndromes associated with other symptoms, such as Usher syndrome type 1. In a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers have uncovered the genetic basis of deafness occurring before the onset of language.
January 7, 2026 — Source

CRISPR Cas12a3: A precise tool to halt viral protein production
Across all domains of life, immune defenses foil invading viruses by making it impossible for the viruses to replicate. Most known CRISPR systems target invading pathogens' DNA and chop it up to disable and modify genes, heading off infections at the (cellular) pass.
January 7, 2026 — Source

CRISPR discovery could lead to single diagnostic test for COVID, flu, RSV
Across all domains of life, immune defenses foil invading viruses by making it impossible for the viruses to replicate. Most known CRISPR systems target invading pathogens' DNA and chop it up to disable and modify genes, heading off infections at the (cellular) pass.
January 7, 2026 — Source

Eating more food preservatives linked to higher risk of type 2 diabetes
Higher consumption of food preservatives, widely used in industrially processed foods and beverages to extend their shelf life, has been linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
January 7, 2026 — Source

Engineered RNA sensor detects and fights coronavirus inside living cells
The technology, called the Viral-Engineered RNA-based Activation System (VERAS), hijacks the virus's own replication machinery to switch on reporter or therapeutic genes precisely in infected cells.
January 7, 2026 — Source

Gene therapy breakthrough could provide hope for millions living with chronic pain
A preclinical study uncovered a new gene therapy that targets pain centers in the brain while eliminating the risk of addiction from narcotics treatments, a breakthrough which could provide hope for the more than 50 million Americans living with chronic pain.
January 7, 2026 — Source or Source

Genetic study reveals how DNA repeats expand with age
An analysis of genetic data from over 900,000 people shows that certain stretches of DNA, made up of short sequences repeated over and over, become longer and more unstable as we age. The study found that common genetic variants can speed up or slow down this process by up to fourfold, and that certain expanded sequences are linked to serious diseases including kidney failure and liver disease.
January 7, 2026 — Source or Source

Genomics uncovers new ways to target chronic childhood disease
Mapping the genomes of the bacteria responsible for yaws, a debilitating childhood disease, has uncovered new insights into how these bacteria re-emerge and evade treatment.
January 7, 2026 — Source

Replenishing mitochondria significantly reduces chronic nerve pain, research shows
For millions living with nerve pain, even a light touch can feel unbearable. Scientists have long suspected that damaged nerve cells falter because their energy factories known as mitochondria don't function properly.
January 7, 2026 — Source or Source

Sulfolobus islandicus: Expanding the genetic toolkit for drug delivery and biotechnology applications
Sulfolobus islandicus, an archaeal model organism, offers unique advantages for metabolic engineering and synthetic biology applications owing to its ability to thrive under low pH and high temperature conditions. Although several genetic tools exist for this organism, the absence of well-defined chromosomal integration sites continues to limit its development as a cellular factory.
January 7, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — January 6th, 2026

DNA Templates for 3D Nanomaterial Design
For scientists to access and control inorganic materials' unique properties, they need to be able to control these materials' three-dimensional (3D) nanoarchitectures. Scientists can use DNA to guide nanoparticles to assemble into larger structures. Researchers used this technique to establish a new way to design 3D frameworks made of inorganic materials. Using DNA as a template, the team fabricated diverse classes of inorganic frameworks. These frameworks were made of metal, metal oxide, and semiconductor materials as well as their combinations.
January 6, 2026 — Source

From pint to plate, scientists brew up a new way to grow meat
Yeast left over from brewing beer can be transformed into edible "scaffolds" for cultivated meat—sometimes known as lab-grown meat—which could offer a more sustainable, cost-effective alternative to current methods, according to a new study from UCL (University College London) researchers.
January 6, 2026 — Source or Source

Shroom3 mutation linked to kidney scarring offers new drug target
Nearly 1 in 7 adults in the United States lives with chronic kidney disease, a condition that often advances quietly until serious damage has occurred. While diabetes and high blood pressure are well-known culprits, researchers have long puzzled over why some kidneys fail faster than others.
January 6, 2026 — Source

TAAR1 mutation impairs brain signaling in schizophrenia
A genetic mutation passed from mother to children in families affected by schizophrenia has now been shown to completely silence a brain receptor that pharmaceutical companies are racing to target with new drugs. Researchers at Flinders University, publishing their peer-reviewed findings in Genomic Psychiatry, demonstrate that this single amino acid change transforms the trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) from a functioning cellular gatekeeper into a molecular dead end.
January 6, 2026 — Source

Unveiling genetic links between schizophrenia and osteoporosis
A comprehensive genetic investigation led by Dr. Feng Liu at Tianjin Medical University General Hospital has uncovered striking molecular connections between schizophrenia and bone health, identifying 195 shared genetic loci that may explain why psychiatric patients face elevated fracture risks. The peer-reviewed research, published in Genomic Psychiatry, analyzed genomic data from over half a million individuals and reveals that these two seemingly unrelated conditions suggest overlapping biological pathways at the molecular level.
January 6, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — January 5th, 2026

Researchers identify hundreds of genes essential for the development of brain cells
An international research team identified hundreds of genes essential for the development of brain cells, including one gene linked to a severe neurodevelopmental disorder not previously described. The study published in Nature Neuroscience offers a new approach to identifying genes involved in neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism.
January 5, 2026 — Source

This CRISPR breakthrough turns genes on without cutting DNA
A new CRISPR breakthrough shows scientists can turn genes back on without cutting DNA, by removing chemical tags that act like molecular anchors. The work confirms these tags actively silence genes, settling a long-running scientific debate. This gentler form of gene editing could offer a safer way to treat Sickle Cell disease by reactivating a fetal blood gene. Researchers say it opens the door to powerful therapies with fewer unintended side effects.
January 5, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — January 2nd, 2026

A "herculean" genetic study just found a new way to treat ADHD
Better focus may come from quieting the brain rather than revving it up.
January 2, 2026 — Source

How the 'guardian of the genome' impacts blood vessel growth
The protein p53, best known as the "guardian of the genome" for its role in preventing cancer, can affect blood vessels in different ways. However, it has not been clear how p53 can slow blood vessel growth in some cases and damage blood vessels in others.
January 2, 2026 — Source

New method can help better assess precision genome editing technology
Scientists and physicians can better assess precision genome editing technology using a new method made public today by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Significant amounts of time and resources spent improving CRISPR gene editing technology focus on identifying small off-target sites that pose a safety risk, which is also technically challenging. St. Jude researchers addressed the problem by creating Circularization for High-throughput Analysis of Nuclease Genome-wide Effects by Sequencing Base Editors (CHANGE-seq-BE), an unbiased, sensitive and resource-efficient method to find these off-target edits. It outperformed conventional approaches and has already been used to support clinical work.
January 2, 2026 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — December 26th, 2025

Why the human brain matures slower than its primate relatives
The human brain is a fascinating and complex organ that supports numerous sophisticated behaviors and abilities that are observed in no other animal species. For centuries, scientists have been trying to understand what is so unique about the human brain and how it develops over the human lifespan.
December 26, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — December 19th, 2025

Discovery of the most intron-rich eukaryotic genome
Researchers at University of Tsukuba have decoded the nuclear genome of Amorphochlora amoebiformis, a unicellular marine alga belonging to the chlorarachniophyte group.
December 19, 2025 — Source

Exploring the connection between gene expression and aging
Northwestern Medicine scientists have discovered how molecular "traffic controllers" in cells influence aging and cellular senescence—a state where cells stop dividing but remain metabolically active. The study, published in Molecular Cell, sheds light on the process of transcribing DNA into RNA, a critical step in gene expression, and how it is tightly regulated and connected to age-related changes.
December 19, 2025 — Source

How ancient viral DNA shapes early embryonic development
A new study from the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences (LMS) in London, UK reveals how ancient viral DNA once written off as "junk" plays a crucial role in the earliest moments of life. The research, published in Science Advances, begins to untangle the role of an ancient viral DNA element called MERVL in mouse embryonic development and provides new insights into a human muscle wasting disease.
December 19, 2025 — Source

Pressing pause: A small genetic stop may have helped complex life evolve
Humans have it. So does Drosophila. But not yeast. That "it" is a small pause at the start of gene activity—a brief molecular halt that may have helped life evolve from simple cells to complex animals.
December 19, 2025 — Source

RNA steps outside the cell to help guide immune responses, study suggests
RNA is usually portrayed as a molecule that works deep inside the cell, helping to turn genetic information into proteins. But new research led by Utrecht University scientist Jack Li shows that RNA also plays an active role on the outside of cells. There, it appears to help immune cells recognize their targets. These results may open new perspectives for understanding, and eventually steering immune responses in diseases such as cancer.
December 19, 2025 — Source

The 98% mystery: Scientists just cracked the code on "junk DNA" linked to Alzheimer's
Researchers have revealed that so-called "junk DNA" contains powerful switches that help control brain cells linked to Alzheimer's disease. By experimentally testing nearly 1,000 DNA switches in human astrocytes, scientists identified around 150 that truly influence gene activity—many tied to known Alzheimer's risk genes. The findings help explain why many disease-linked genetic changes sit outside genes themselves. The resulting dataset is now being used to train AI systems to predict gene control more accurately.
December 19, 2025 — Source

Unexpected allies: DNA packaging aids gene expression
It's a common storytelling trope: the stubborn foe who is eventually revealed to be a much-needed friend. Biology has its own version. Cornell researchers have discovered that DNA packaging structures called nucleosomes, which have traditionally been seen as roadblocks for gene expression, actually help reduce torsional stress in DNA strands and facilitate the decoding of genetic information.
December 19, 2025 — Source

Why Ancestry Is the Best At-Home DNA Testing Kit in 2025
Looking for answers about your ancestry, heritage or medical predispositions? Try our favorite at-home DNA test kit to learn more about your genetics and family history.
December 19, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — December 15th, 2025

Common medicines may influence CRISPR therapy outcomes and precision cancer treatment
In a new study, scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig analyzed the impact of more than 2,000 clinically approved drugs on DNA repair and CRISPR genome editing outcomes. They found compounds that can be used to improve genome editing, molecules that selectively kill cultured cancer cells, and further identified novel roles in DNA repair for two proteins.
December 15, 2025 — Source

Gene therapy for hereditary spastic paraplegia hits proof-of-principle milestone
There is no cure for the rare disease Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP), but researchers from Drexel University's College of Medicine and the UMass Chan Medical School have achieved proof-of-principle success with "silence and replace" gene therapy—an approach that uses a viral vector to silence genes with disease-causing mutations and replace them with healthy genes—to prevent and even reverse disease progression.
December 15, 2025 — Source

How brain cells manage long distance genetic instructions
Scientists found that messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules that carry genetic instructions to the far reaches of neurons in the brain tend to cluster together mostly because they are abundant, not because they move in coordinated groups.
December 15, 2025 — Source

Neurons use simple rules to localize genetic messages, scientists discover
Scientists found that messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules that carry genetic instructions to the far reaches of neurons in the brain tend to cluster together mostly because they are abundant, not because they move in coordinated groups.
December 15, 2025 — Source

New AI tool identifies not just genetic mutations, but the diseases they may cause
Scientists at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have developed a novel artificial intelligence tool that not only identifies disease-causing genetic mutations but also predicts the type of disease those mutations may trigger.
December 15, 2025 — Source

Novel AI tool not only identifies genetic mutations but also predicts the type of disease
Scientists at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have developed a novel artificial intelligence tool that not only identifies disease-causing genetic mutations but also predicts the type of disease those mutations may trigger.
December 15, 2025 — Source

Refining the uncharted landscape of human transcription factors—strategic framework created for future prioritization
The human genome contains approximately 1,600 types of transcription factors responsible for regulating gene activity across more than 400 tissue and cell types. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) is a key approach for mapping how these factors interact with DNA to control gene expression.
December 15, 2025 — Source

Scientists develop a smarter mRNA therapy that knows which cells to target
Researchers developed cSMRTS, an engineered mRNA that preferentially turns on therapeutic genes inside targeted cells, shown in mice, enabling safer, more precise treatments.
December 15, 2025 — Source or Source

Study links genetic variants to risk of blinding eye disease in premature infants
A new study from the University of Oklahoma suggests that small genetic differences in two proteins—previously known for their role in premature infants' lungs—may also influence how their eyes develop, potentially affecting the risk of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
December 15, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — December 12th, 2025

DNA origami lattices on silicon open new possibilities for large-scale nanofabrication
A study used DNA origami to form 2D fishnet structures on silicon, testing growth conditions and advancing DNA-assisted lithography for optical materials.
December 12, 2025 — Source or Source

FDA approves first stem cell therapy for severe aplastic anemia
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Omisirge (omidubicel-onlv) as the first hematopoietic stem cell transplant therapy to treat patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA).
December 12, 2025 — Source or Source

Genomic study reveals how vascular plants adapt to aquatic environments
Aquatic plants are specialized evolutionary groups adapted to life in water. They play critical roles as food and medicinal supplies (e.g., lotus root and foxnut) and industrial raw materials (e.g., reeds), as well as in ecological restoration. While most aquatic lineages have independently evolved from terrestrial ancestors, the genomic dynamics underlying this adaptation remain largely unexplored.
December 12, 2025 — Source

Researchers identify chromatin accessibility changes driving stem cell transformation in MDS
Over the past few decades, advances in hematology have illuminated how a delicate balance between stem cell self-renewal and differentiation sustains healthy blood formation. In myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), however, this balance collapses, leading to abnormal blood cell development and a heightened risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia. Despite major progress in genetics, the molecular events that trigger this transformation within stem cells have remained unclear.
December 12, 2025 — Source

The role of enhancer regions in psychiatric illness: Study explores genetic risk factors
In a study published in Genome Research, a team of researchers, including Cornell College Assistant Professor of Biology Sophie Gillett, looked at regions of human genetic code that are known for harboring risk factors for psychiatric disease.
December 12, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — December 11th, 2025

Researchers discover new protein-RNA interaction with potential to treat tissue scarring
A research team at Florida State University's Institute of Molecular Biophysics and Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry has discovered how a protein found in the human body interacts with RNA in a way that could lead to new treatments for tissue scarring also known as fibrosis.
December 11, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — December 5th, 2025

Experimental RNA treatment shows surprising DNA repair power
A synthetic RNA molecule may help the body repair damaged DNA and heal tissue after heart or autoimmune injury.
December 5, 2025 — Source

Genetic testing reveals often-overlooked fungal infections in California clinics
A new study reveals that a rarely-diagnosed and frequently drug-resistant species, Aspergillus tubingensis, may be one of the most common causes of fungal infections in Southern California.
December 5, 2025 — Source

Genetic variant may explain why some children with myocarditis develop heart failure
According to the study, 34.4% of the children who developed dilated cardiomyopathy after developing myocarditis had a genetic variant that made them more susceptible to this condition. In comparison, only 6.3% of control children had these cardiomyopathy gene variants and this difference was highly significant.
December 5, 2025 — Source

Programmable CRISPR platform can reduce stem cell differentiation from months to weeks
Syntax Bio, a synthetic biology company programming the next generation of cell therapies, has published new research in Science Advances detailing the company's CRISPR-based Cellgorithm technology, which lays the groundwork for programmable control of gene activity in human stem cells and offers an alternative to the slow, variable manual processes researchers use today.
December 5, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — December 3rd, 2025

10-thousand-year-old genomes from southern Africa change picture of human evolution
In southern Africa, a group of people lived in partial isolation for hundreds of thousands of years. This is shown in a new study based on analyses of the genomes of 28 people who lived between 10,200 and 150 years ago in southern Africa. The researchers also found genetic adaptations that likely shaped Homo sapiens as a species.
December 3, 2025 — Source

11 genetic loci that shape impulsive decision-making
A genome-wide analysis shows how our genes influence snap decisions, and why those same genetic patterns are tied to addiction, mood disorders, obesity, and even brain wiring.
December 3, 2025 — Source

Experimental drug repairs DNA damage caused by common diseases
Cedars-Sinai scientists have developed an experimental drug that repairs DNA and serves as a prototype for a new class of medications that fix tissue damage caused by heart attack, inflammatory disease or other conditions.
December 3, 2025 — Source

Human gene maps show widespread gaps in non-European representation
Researchers uncovered thousands of missing transcripts (the RNA molecules that carry a gene's instructions) in people from populations in Africa, Asia and the Americas, possibly including products of entirely new genes that scientists have yet to discover.
December 3, 2025 — Source

Molecular switch links early-life stimulation to lasting memory changes
Researchers have identified a molecular mechanism that helps explain why growing up in a stimulating environment enhances memory. In contrast, a lack of stimulation can impair it. The team from the Institute for Neurosciences (IN), a joint research center of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH), was led by researcher Ángel Barco.
December 3, 2025 — Source

Spatial transcriptomics gains quality control with new open-source repository and protocols
Spatial transcriptomics provides a unique perspective on the genes that cells express and where those cells are located. However, the rapid growth of the technology has come at the cost of standardization and consistency. To address this, the multi-institutional Spatial Touchstone project collected publicly available spatial transcriptomics imaging data and combined it with newly generated, curated datasets from six tissue types.
December 3, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 26th, 2025

Drug-resistant bacteria and genes found to move freely among people, animals and the environment
By analyzing Escherichia coli (E. coli) genomes, researchers have shown that antimicrobial resistant bacteria and the genes that confer resistance move between bacterial hosts and across ecological compartments freely in Eastern Africa. This could help inform future public health interventions to reduce the spread of treatment-resistant infections and help us understand how to tackle the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
November 23, 2025 — Source

How a mitochondrial mutation rewires immune function
Scientists have discovered how a mitochondrial mutation rewires immune function in a model of inherited primary mitochondrial disorders, which often lead to severe disability and death. They have discovered that this single inherited mutation causes whole-body issues in an animal model after its immune response is sparked into action.
November 23, 2025 — Source

Many genes associated with dog behavior influence human personalities, too
But the specific behaviors linked may be completely unrelated.
November 23, 2025 — Source

New mutation hotspot discovered in human genome
Researchers have discovered new regions of the human genome particularly vulnerable to mutations. These altered stretches of DNA can be passed down to future generations and are important for how we study genetics and disease.
November 23, 2025 — Source

New study links inherited mitochondrial DNA mutation to disrupted immune balance
Scientists have discovered how a mitochondrial mutation rewires immune function in a model of inherited primary mitochondrial disorders, which often lead to severe disability and death. They have discovered that this single inherited mutation causes whole-body issues in an animal model after its immune response is sparked into action.
November 23, 2025 — Source

New study shows how DNA is recognized by proteins that control gene expression
How genes are turned on and off is crucial for the body's cells to have different functions. In this process, certain proteins, so-called transcription factors, find and recognize different binding sites on DNA in the body's cells to drive on or off signals. When this recognition goes wrong, it can give rise to many different types of diseases, such as cancer.
November 23, 2025 — Source

Researchers uncover how a key transcription factor reads DNA in human cells
With a new study in the journal Cell, researchers at Stanford University and Stockholm University have contributed to increased knowledge about gene regulation in human cells.
November 23, 2025 — Source

Uncovering a new genetic code in archaea opens doors for bioengineering applications
The genetic code is the recipe for life, and provides the instructions for how to make proteins, generally using just 20 amino acids. But certain groups of microbes have an expanded genetic code, in which one or two additional amino acids are inserted into the protein—a finding that has been leveraged for bioengineering.
November 23, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 23rd, 2025

Scientists capture stunning real-time images of DNA damage and repair
The breakthrough even works in living organisms, opening the door to new ways of mapping DNA damage, studying repair pathways, and improving the precision of early cancer drug testing.
November 23, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 22nd, 2025

Discovery of sequence-driven DNA methylation offers new path for epigenetic engineering
All the cells in an organism have the exact same genetic sequence. What differs across cell types is their epigenetics-meticulously placed chemical tags that influence which genes are expressed in each cell. Mistakes or failures in epigenetic regulation can lead to severe developmental defects in plants and animals alike. This creates a puzzling question: If epigenetic changes regulate our genetics, what is regulating them?
November 22, 2025 — Source

New sequencing method reveals how transposons move and shape the genome
Cornell researchers have found that a new DNA sequencing technology can be used to study how transposons move within and bind to the genome. Transposons play critical roles in immune response, neurological function and genetic evolution, and implications of the finding include agricultural advancements and understanding disease development and treatment.
November 22, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 21st, 2025

Breakthrough medium transforms canine stem cells into beating cardiomyocytes
In research, induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells are derived from skin, urine, or blood samples and developed into other cells, like heart tissue, that researchers want to study. Because of the similarities between certain dog and human diseases, canine iPS cells have potential uses in regenerative medicine and drug discovery.
November 21, 2025 — Source

CRISPR-edited fungus boosts protein production and cuts environmental impact
In a new study publishing November 19 in the Cell Press journal Trends in Biotechnology, researchers used a gene-editing technology called CRISPR to increase a fungus's production efficiency and cut its production-related environmental impact by as much as 61%-all without adding any foreign DNA. The genetically tweaked fungus tastes like meat and is easier to digest than its naturally occurring counterpart.
November 21, 2025 — Source

Genetic events that can trigger leukemia in patients with a rare disorder deciphered
Two parallel and complementary studies conducted by the IDIBELL team led by Dr. Alessandra Giorgetti have succeeded in recreating models of GATA2 deficiency disease, a rare genetic disorder that affects fewer than 1 million people worldwide. Thanks to these new models developed by Dr. Giorgetti's team, we now have a clearer understanding of the molecular process by which the hematopoietic stem cells of these patients become cancerous.
November 21, 2025 — Source

How a consortium is advancing the diagnostics of rare diseases
The National Institutes of Health established the Genomics Research to Elucidate the Genetics of Rare Diseases (GREGoR) Consortium in 2021 with the goal of finding molecular diagnoses for individuals with rare diseases who remain undiagnosed after clinical testing -- to solve the unsolved. Baylor College of Medicine is one of five clinical sites in the consortium.
November 21, 2025 — Source

Many who die by suicide aren't depressed, genetic research suggests
Among friends and family of those who die by suicide, a common refrain is: I didn't know. While some people who die by suicide have prior attempts, about half of people who die by suicide have no documented suicidal thoughts or behaviors, nor do they have known psychiatric conditions associated with suicide risk, like depression. They have no previous clear indicators that they might be at risk at all.
November 21, 2025 — Source

Nanoflowers rejuvenate old and damaged human cells by replacing their mitochondria
Biomedical researchers at Texas A&M University may have discovered a way to stop or even reverse the decline of cellular energy production—a finding that could have revolutionary effects across medicine.
November 21, 2025 — Source

Scientists develop CRISPR PRO-liveFISH for live-cell genome imaging
Although existing CRISPR-Cas-based imaging methods can target endogenous genomic sequences, their applications are limited by system complexity and sensitivity, particularly when imaging non-repetitive loci, performing multi-locus visualization, or working with primary cells.
November 21, 2025 — Source

Unlocking the genome's hidden half with new DNA sequencing technology
Cornell researchers have found that a new DNA sequencing technology can be used to study how transposons move within and bind to the genome. Transposons play critical roles in immune response, neurological function and genetic evolution, and implications of the finding include agricultural advancements and understanding disease development and treatment.
November 21, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 20th, 2025

Genome-scale models can predict how the gut microbiome influences health
The gut microbiome is made up of trillions of microbes that play a vital role in keeping us healthy. A disturbance in the balance of these microbes can contribute to a variety of health conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
November 20, 2025 — Source

Microneedle patch on packaging detects hidden food spoilage
A food grade microneedle sensor made from gelatin and natural pigments detects fish spoilage through clear color changes and smartphone interpretation, offering a simple way to assess freshness inside sealed packaging.
November 20, 2025 — Source

New sensor lets researchers watch DNA repair in real time
A new fluorescent sensor lets scientists track DNA damage and repair in real time inside living cells, advancing cancer research, drug testing and ageing biology.
November 20, 2025 — Source

New type of mitochondrial DNA damage revealed
A previously unknown type of DNA damage in the mitochondria, the tiny power plants inside our cells, could shed light on how our bodies sense and respond to stress. The findings of the UC Riverside-led study are published today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and have potential implications for a range of mitochondrial dysfunction-associated diseases, including cancer and diabetes.
November 20, 2025 — Source

Redheads face impaired wound healing: MC1R dysregulation to blame, but a new treatment might help
Chronic wounds (CWs), like diabetic ulcers or pressure sores, are a major health care challenge, especially in the elderly. These wounds, marked by persistent inflammation, often lead to infection and poor patient outcomes. While inflammation is a key part of the wound healing process, the inflammation exhibited by chronic wounds tends to last longer, inhibiting other healing processes.
November 20, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 14th, 2025

Adaptive tracking theory of molecular evolution challenges mutation neutrality
For a long time, evolutionary biologists have thought that the genetic mutations that drive the evolution of genes and proteins are largely neutral: they're neither good nor bad, but just ordinary enough to slip through the notice of selection.
November 14, 2025 — Source

Changes in a single gene can cause mental illness, study reveals
Until now, researchers assumed that schizophrenia, anxiety disorders or depression arise from an interplay of many different factors, including genetic ones.
November 14, 2025 — Source

Genetic tool reveals chromosome changes linked to pregnancy loss
Pregnancy loss may occur in as many as 25% of all pregnancies. Most of these losses occur in the first trimester, and about half are caused by genetic or chromosomal issues.
November 14, 2025 — Genetic tool reveals chromosome changes linked to pregnancy loss
Pregnancy loss may occur in as many as 25% of all pregnancies. Most of these losses occur in the first trimester, and about half are caused by genetic or chromosomal issues.
November 14, 2025 — Source

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How cells preserve mitochondrial DNA quality across generations
Researchers from Karolinska Institutet have discovered how mammalian cells prevent the gradual buildup of harmful mutations in mitochondrial DNA, the small but vital genome that powers every cell.
November 14, 2025 — Source

Indero announces breakthrough method for early-phase evaluation of topical drugs using quantitative gene expression
Indero is proud to announce the successful completion of an internally funded study that introduces a novel approach to evaluating topical new chemical entities (NCE) in early-phase clinical research. This innovative method leverages quantitative gene expression analysis to assess drug efficacy rapidly and cost effectively.
November 14, 2025 — Source

Overlooked layer of DNA may explain disease risk, severity
Scientists at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) have revealed a previously overlooked layer of genetic variation that could help explain why people experience disease differently, and why some treatments work better for certain populations.
November 14, 2025 — Source

Q&A: Identifying new risk genes for schizophrenia
Schizophrenia, a psychiatric disorder that affects how a person feels, thinks, and behaves, affects roughly 1% of the population (approximately 3.5 million people in the U.S.) and is a leading cause of disability and death. It has a strong genetic component, with an estimated heritability of about 80%. Heritability measures how closely the differences in people's genes account for differences in their manifested traits.
November 14, 2025 — Source

Simultaneous imaging of intracellular DNA and RNA using harmless light
A new imaging method enables simultaneous visualization of intracellular DNA and RNA using infrared to near-infrared light, avoiding cellular damage. This approach allows sensitive detection of all stages of cell death and early cellular damage, with RNA imaging offering higher sensitivity for early changes. The technique supports safer, more precise diagnostics and may facilitate early disease detection and drug screening.
November 14, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 13th, 2025

Decoding new DNA 'letters' to advance medicine and biotechnology
A research team led by the A*STAR Genome Institute of Singapore (A*STAR GIS) have developed a method to accurately and efficiently read DNA containing non-standard bases—a task once thought too complex for conventional DNA sequencers. Their work, published in Nature Communications, combines nanopore sequencing with artificial intelligence (AI) to decode these extra "letters" at high speed and accuracy.
November 13, 2025 — Source

Genes may predict suicide risk in depression
Depression in young adulthood has a stronger hereditary component and is associated with a higher risk of suicide attempts than depression that begins later in life, according to a new study published in Nature Genetics by researchers at Karolinska Institutet, among others.
November 13, 2025 — Source

Genomes of 24,000 previously unknown microbes revealed by new tools
QUT researchers have recovered the genomes of more than 24,000 previously unknown microbial species—some from entirely new branches of life that likely evolved before plants and animals. The microbes are detailed in two studies published in Nature Biotechnology and Nature Methods.
November 13, 2025 — Source

Hitler's DNA reveals possible genetic disorder tied to sexual and social behavior
Adolf Hitler most likely suffered from the genetic condition Kallmann Syndrome that can manifest itself in undescended testicles and a micropenis, researchers and documentary makers said Thursday, following DNA testing of the Nazi dictator's blood.
November 13, 2025 — Source

How chromosomes separate accurately: Molecular 'scissors' caught in action
Cell division is a process of remarkable precision: during each cycle, the genetic material must be evenly distributed between the two daughter cells. To achieve this, duplicated chromosomes, known as sister chromatids, are temporarily linked by cohesin—a ring-shaped protein complex that holds them together until separation.
November 13, 2025 — Source

Largest RNA language model to date offers new way to predict behavior and boost drug discovery
RNA plays a vital role in how our genes are expressed and how diseases develop. Yet, because RNA molecules constantly change shape, understanding how they work has long been a major scientific challenge.
November 13, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 9th, 2025

A simple DNA test could reveal the right antidepressant for you
A DNA test may soon reveal which depression and anxiety drugs will actually work for you.
November 9, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 8th, 2025

James Watson helped crack DNA's code, sparking medical advances and ethical debates
On a foggy Saturday morning in 1953, a tall, skinny 24-year-old man fiddled with shapes he had cut out of cardboard. They represented fragments of a DNA molecule, and young James Watson was trying to figure how they fit together in a way that let DNA do its job as the stuff of genes.
November 8, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 7th, 2025

Alternate proteins from the same gene can contribute differently to health and rare disease
Around 25 million Americans have a rare genetic disease, and many of them struggle with not only a lack of effective treatments, but also a lack of good information about their disease. Clinicians may not know what causes a patient's symptoms, how their disease will progress, or even have a clear diagnosis. Researchers have looked to the human genome for answers, and many disease-causing genetic mutations have been identified, but as many as 70% of patients still lack a clear genetic explanation.
November 7, 2025 — Source

Ancient DNA uncovers unknown Argentina lineage that has persisted for last 8,500 years
An area called the central Southern Cone in South America, which consists of a large part of Argentina, is known to be one of the last global regions to become inhabited by humans.
November 7, 2025 — Source

Comprehensive kinase atlas reveals new insights into cell signaling and disease
The enzyme RNA polymerase II transcribes genes into messenger RNA. This process is guided by modifications to the enzyme's "tail" called phosphorylation patterns. Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital explored these patterns, identifying 117 kinases that could phosphorylate multiple locations within the protein tail. This greatly expands upon the set of kinases previously known to phosphorylate RNA polymerase II.
November 7, 2025 — Source

Evolution of human saliva tracked back to primates
Saliva is a bodily fluid most of us take for granted despite the significant roles it plays: aiding in digestion, maintaining strong teeth and defending against oral disease. However, the evolution of human saliva has been largely unknown—until now, thanks to two University at Buffalo faculty members and two graduate students.
November 7, 2025 — Source

Genomic mapping of resistance mutations in A. baumannii
The bacteria Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is a haunting presence in many hospitals in the United States, where more than one in 100 patients are treated for A. baumannii infections. This species of bacteria is known for its dynamic genome and ability to gain antibiotic resistance.
November 7, 2025 — Source

New technique protects synthetic gene circuits against cell growth dilution
Genetic engineers can design and assemble sophisticated gene circuits to program cells with new functions, but important signaling molecules can become diluted as these cells grow and divide, causing the synthetic gene circuits to lose their new functions.
November 7, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 6th, 2025

Hundreds of genes act differently in the brains of men and women
Now, a growing body of scientific evidence shows hundreds of genes act differently in the brains of biologically male or female humans. What this means isn't yet clear, though some of the genes may be linked to sex-biased brain disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
November 6, 2025 — Source

Scientists just found a hidden genetic flaw that slowly steals strength
Scientists discovered MINA syndrome, a rare genetic disorder caused by a NAMPT protein mutation. This leads to energy deprivation in motor neurons, causing muscle weakness and movement problems.
November 6, 2025 — Source

Scientists map DNA folding at single base-pair resolution in living cells
Scientists from Oxford's Radcliffe Department of Medicine have achieved the most detailed view yet of how DNA folds and functions inside living cells, revealing the physical structures that control when and how genes are switched on.
November 6, 2025 — Source

Two main methods for discovering disease genes reveal distinct aspects of biology
The two main approaches for discovering disease genes reveal distinct aspects of biology, a new study shows. While both methods are widely used, the research found that they identify different genes, with major implications for drug development.
November 6, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — November 5th, 2025

Adipose tissue stem cells show promise in treating osteoporotic vertebral fractures
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become brittle and prone to fractures. Due to the aging of the population, the number of patients in Japan is estimated to exceed 15 million in the near future. Among osteoporosis-related fractures, compression fractures of the spine, known as osteoporotic vertebral fractures, are the most common type of fracture and pose a serious problem, leading to a need for long-term care and a significant decline in quality of life.
November 5, 2025 — Source

SPT Labtech and Alithea Genomics collaborate to automate ultra sensitive single-cell transcriptomic workflows
SPT Labtech and Alithea Genomics collaborated to automate single-cell transcriptomics workflows, integrating Alithea's MERCURIUS FLASH-seq with SPT Labtech's firefly platform.
November 5, 2025 — Source

Two main gene discovery methods reveal complementary aspects of biology
The two main approaches for discovering disease genes reveal distinct aspects of biology, a new study shows. While both methods are widely used, the research found that they identify different genes with major implications for drug development.
November 5, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 31st, 2025

AI accurately forecasts brain immune responses to RNA and DNA nanotherapies
An artificial intelligence model predicts how brain immune cells react to RNA and DNA nanoparticles, helping scientists design safer and more effective nucleic acid therapies faster.
October 31, 2025 — Source

Breakthrough study maps impact of thousands of variants in heart disease gene
An international research consortium co-led by scientists from Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the University of Toronto and University of Pittsburgh has mapped the functional impact of more than 17,000 variants in a major gene associated with the development of premature atherosclerotic heart disease.
October 31, 2025 — Source

DNA copy-number changes help melanoma develop resistance to immunotherapy, study finds
The team found that relapsing melanoma tumors often acquire genomic DNA copy-number variants, which delete or amplify sections of DNA. These variants frequently affect genes that control the cancer cells' ability to self-destruct in response to damage caused by immune attack. The cumulative effect of copy-number changes, often involving multiple cell-death genes, allows cancer cells to survive immune attacks, leading to tumors relapsing or regrowing months or years after the initial therapy-induced tumor shrinkage.
October 31, 2025 — Source

Genes, personality, and family may predict alcohol drinking in teens
Genetic, family, and personality factors are linked to teen alcohol use and related problems. Genetic risk is associated with early alcohol consumption but not with changes over time, while family history and antisocial traits strongly predict drinking problems. Girls show higher alcohol problems than boys at age 16, but this difference disappears after age 18.
October 31, 2025 — Source

Genetic insights into vestibular system damage from ototoxic drugs
The vestibular system is responsible for the sense of balance in the inner ear. Prolonged use of toxic substances, such as certain antibiotics or anticancer drugs, can damage the hair cells that form part of this system, leading to alterations in balance and other motor skills. Now, a team from the University of Barcelona and the Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) has identified the genetic mechanisms involved in the degradation of the vestibular system regarding the damage caused by these ototoxic compounds that affect the vestibule.
October 31, 2025 — Source

Mutated RIG-I receptor causes kidney inflammation through Y-RNA activation
Researchers at the University Hospital Bonn (UKB) and the University of Bonn have discovered how a small, naturally occurring RNA molecule in the kidney activates a mutated immune receptor, triggering a chain reaction. In cooperation with Nanyang Technological University Singapore and the University Hospital Würzburg, among others, the study provides an explanation for how a point mutation in the immune receptor RIG-I transforms the body's defense system into a self-destructive force and causes severe organ-specific autoimmune diseases.
October 31, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 30th, 2025

A faster way to find new medicines—without the limitations of big DNA barcodes
Leiden researchers, led by Sebastian Pomplun, have developed a new method to screen hundreds of thousands of molecules for drug discovery, using mass spectrometry instead of DNA tags. "We wanted to make drug discovery faster and more accessible," said the researcher.
October 30, 2025 — Source

Genetic mechanisms reveal how toxic substances damage balance cells in the inner ear
Genetic mechanisms reveal how toxic substances damage balance cells in the inner ear
October 30, 2025 — Source

Tying protein to fraying DNA solves mystery of illness for patients around the world
New research from the University of Wisconsin--Madison reveals that dysfunction in a protein essential to maintaining stability in our chromosomes may be responsible for serious—and sometimes deadly—diseases.
October 30, 2025 — Source

Water bears survive cosmic radiation with one DNA-protecting protein. Learning how could boost human resilience too
Tardigrades possess a unique protein, Dsup, that binds to and protects DNA from radiation-induced damage. Introducing Dsup into human or plant cells increases their resistance to radiation. This protein shows potential for medical therapies to reduce DNA damage in cancer and cardiovascular disease, and for enhancing crop resilience and astronaut safety in space.
October 30, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 26th, 2025

Ancient DNA reveals the deadly diseases behind Napoleon's defeat
Researchers have uncovered microbial evidence in the remains of Napoleon's soldiers from the 1812 Russian retreat. Genetic analysis revealed pathogens behind paratyphoid and relapsing fever, diseases likely contributing to the army's massive losses. Using advanced DNA sequencing, the team pieced together centuries-old infection clues, connecting historical accounts with modern science. Their work redefines our understanding of how disease shaped history's most infamous retreat.
October 26, 2025 — Source

Genetic underpinnings of substance use disorders in Europe, Africa and America identified, some previously unknown
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are mental health conditions characterized by the compulsive, uncontrolled and deleterious use of alcohol, tobacco, stimulants (e.g., cocaine or methamphetamines), opioids, cannabis and/or various other substances. These disorders are a key health concern worldwide, as they can be highly debilitating and can sometimes even lead to serious diseases, physical disabilities and even death.
October 26, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 25th, 2025

Scientists just made gene editing far more powerful
A breakthrough retron gene-editing system could make universal and efficient gene therapy a reality.
October 25, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 24th, 2025

MIT scientists discover hidden 3D genome loops that survive cell division
Even during cell division's chaos, the genome's hidden 3D architecture endures—and may hold the key to how cells remember who they are.
October 24, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 20th, 2025

Genetic code reveals how mutations disrupt mRNA and cause disease
A genetic code has been identified that explains how mutations disrupt mRNA splicing, leading to disease. Analysis across multiple species, including humans, reveals that mutations affecting splice-sites can impair protein production and cause serious conditions. This insight enables targeted mRNA therapeutics, especially for rare or population-specific genetic diseases.
October 20, 2025 — Source

Microscopic DNA flowers move and think like living organisms
Scientists created shapeshifting DNA robots that react to acidity, opening paths to smart drug delivery, pollution cleanup, and advanced data storage.
October 20, 2025 — Source

Study sheds light on the role of genetics in the body weight
Analysis of over 200,000 Estonians identified genetic variants in MC4R and POMC genes that influence appetite and body weight, with MC4R linked to lower BMI and POMC to higher BMI. Newly implicated genes, ADGRL3 and PTPRT, connect neural function to BMI. These findings highlight the complex genetic basis of obesity and support the development of personalized anti-obesity treatments.
October 20, 2025 — Source

What the US can learn from Europe when it comes to the provision of cell and gene therapy
There are currently no available treatment options for more than 90% of the approximately 7,000 rare diseases identified to date. However, if these conditions result from correctable cellular or genetic defects, cell and gene therapies (CGTs) can significantly improve patients' quality of life and often represent their only hope for betterment of their condition. The catch is that CGTs come at a substantial cost to both payers and patients.
October 20, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 17th, 2025

In a surprising discovery, scientists find tiny loops in the genomes of dividing cells
High-resolution genome mapping reveals that small 3D loops, or microcompartments, connecting regulatory elements and genes persist and even strengthen during mitosis, despite the loss of larger genome structures like A/B compartments and TADs. This persistence may facilitate a transient spike in gene transcription during cell division and suggests that genome structure related to gene regulation is not fully erased during mitosis.
October 17, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 15th, 2025

Epigenetic 'scars': Unveiling how childhood trauma affects our genes
Child maltreatment, which includes abuse and neglect, is one of the most serious public health concerns worldwide. These adversities leave a lasting impact on the emotional well-being, memory, and social development of affected individuals. The problem, however, reaches far beyond its psychological impact, affecting the brain and biological processes through genetic changes, which have remained unclear until now.
October 15, 2025 — Source

Hidden patterns link ribosomal RNAs to genes of the nervous system
New research has uncovered shared patterns between ribosomal RNAs and genes linked to brain disorders, including autism, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and schizophrenia.
October 15, 2025 — Source

Preserving biological specimens for DNA analysis just got easier
Preserving DNA in biological samples has long posed a challenge for researchers, but the process may be about to get a lot easier.
October 15, 2025 — Source

Researchers show benefit of ultra-deep RNA sequencing in Mendelian disorder diagnostics
Ultra-deep RNA sequencing, reaching up to 1 billion reads, significantly improves detection of low-abundance transcripts and rare splicing events compared to standard depths. This enhanced sensitivity enables identification of clinically relevant variants, even in genes with low expression in blood or skin, supporting more accurate Mendelian disorder diagnostics and guiding optimal sequencing depth selection.
October 15, 2025 — Source

Scientists discover gene mutation linked to deafness—and identify possible treatments
Mutations in the CPD gene disrupt arginine and nitric oxide production in inner ear sensory cells, leading to oxidative stress and cell death, which causes congenital sensorineural hearing loss. Arginine supplementation and sildenafil improved cell survival and hearing-related behaviors in models, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies for this rare genetic deafness.
October 15, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 13th, 2025

New method brings growth charts to children with rare genetic condition
A new method, LMSz, enables the creation of growth charts tailored to children with rare genetic conditions, even with limited data. Using information from nearly 600 children with six rare disorders, the approach provides condition-specific growth references, improving clinical decision-making and offering families clearer expectations about their child's development.
October 13, 2025 — Source

New method can create reliable growth charts for children with rare genetic disorders
Growth charts for children with rare genetic disorders - giving healthcare professionals and families clearer guidance on how a child is developing - have been created by an international team, led by the University of Bristol.
October 13, 2025 — Source

SPT Labtech and Agilent introduce automated target enrichment protocols for genomic workflows
SPT Labtech, a pioneer in the design and development of laboratory automation and liquid handling solutions, and Agilent Technologies Inc. ("Agilent"), a global leader in analytical and clinical laboratory technologies, today announced the introduction of automated target enrichment protocols on SPT Labtech's firefly®+ platform. Automating genomic workflows, the optimized Target Enrichment protocols support researchers using Agilent's SureSelect Max DNA Library Prep Kits.
October 13, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 10th, 2025

Genetic study identifies key variants linked to healthy aging and intrinsic capacity
New research from the University of Adelaide has explored the genomic links within the index used to measure healthy aging—intrinsic capacity (IC), paving the way for potential targeted interventions.
October 10, 2025 — Source

MIT's new precision gene editing tool could transform medicine
MIT scientists developed a safer, smarter way to fix broken genes. Their breakthrough could make once-risky gene therapies much more precise and reliable.
October 10, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 8th, 2025

Empowering genomics research with cloud-based innovation
In this interview, NewsMedical speaks with Nripesh Prasad, Vice President of Scientific and Technical Development in Genomics at Discovery Life Sciences, about the organization's transition to a cloud-based platform for managing and scaling its genomics operations.
October 8, 2025 — Source

Late-onset cerebellar ataxia: A genetic avenue uncovered
Could an anomaly in the developing brain explain motor difficulties occurring decades later in people with rare movement disorders?
October 8, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — October 3rd, 2025

Cracking the code: Shared genes connect osteoporosis and rotator cuff tears
Scientists have found a direct link between osteoporosis and rotator cuff tears, two conditions that often develop with age. Using health and genetic data from hundreds of thousands of people, researchers showed that fragile bones increase the risk of painful shoulder injuries, especially in women. They also identified shared genetic variants, offering fresh insight into the biological ties between bone and tendon weakness and pointing toward targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
October 3, 2025 — Source

Genetic map reveals influence of DNA on metabolism
A large-scale genetic map of human metabolism, based on data from 500,000 individuals, identifies genes influencing blood levels of 250 metabolites. Genetic effects on metabolism are consistent across ancestries and sexes, with some genes newly linked to metabolic pathways and disease risk. The findings highlight both genetic and modifiable lifestyle contributions to metabolic health.
October 3, 2025 — Source

Physicists maneuver DNA molecules using electrical fields, offering real-time control
A new device enables precise, real-time manipulation of DNA molecules using finely tuned electric fields, avoiding mechanical contact and potential damage. This approach allows reversible trapping and release of single DNA molecules, facilitating detailed observation of molecular dynamics and potentially accelerating chemical reactions. The technology offers applications in diagnostics, genome mapping, and drug delivery research.
October 3, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — September 29th, 2025

Gene linked to rheumatic disease controls cell movement
DIORA1 (FAM167A), a gene associated with autoimmune rheumatic diseases, regulates cell movement by binding to and modulating MRCK kinases, which control the cell cytoskeleton. Reducing DIORA1 expression in human cells alters gene activity and protein modifications related to motility, increasing cellular invasiveness.
September 29, 2025 — Source

New hope for Huntington's families as gene therapy shows remarkable results
A gene therapy, AMT-130, has shown remarkable results in slowing Huntington's disease progression by 75% in a trial, appearing safe and prompting approval hopes.
September 29, 2025 — Source

New mRNA vaccine stops allergens from causing life-threatening inflammation in mice
A new mRNA vaccine stopped allergens from causing dangerous immune reactions and life-threatening inflammation in mice, according to researchers from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and Cincinnati Children's. The vaccine, outlined in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, may one day be tested and tailored to a variety of seasonal and food allergies.
September 29, 2025 — Source

Scientists reveal functional RNA splitting mechanism behind origin of type V CRISPR systems
The emergence of type V CRISPR-Cas systems was driven by the functional splitting of transposon-derived RNAs into tracrRNA and crRNA, enabling dual-guide RNA mechanisms. This RNA-level innovation, rather than major protein changes, marked the key evolutionary step from TnpB nucleases to Cas12 effectors, providing new principles for engineering compact and versatile genome editing tools.
September 29, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — September 26th, 2025

Human DNA from Mongolian burial sites reveals dynamics of Bronze Age societies
A new study combining archaeological and genetic research offers fresh insights into social organization and population dynamics in the Late Bronze Age (approximately 1500 to 1000 BCE). Conducted by an international team of researchers—including scholars from the Leibniz-Zentrum für Archäologie (LEIZA) in Mainz and the University of Bonn, both in Germany—the study focuses on burial practices in Mongolia.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Mapping 'dark' regions of the genome illuminates how cells respond to their environment
Researchers at Duke University used CRISPR technologies to discover previously unannotated stretches of DNA in the "dark genome" that are responsible for controlling how cells sense and respond to the mechanical properties of their local environment.
September 26, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — September 25th, 2025

First Effective Huntington's Treatment Is Gene Therapy Applied During Brain Surgery
This incredible achievement could change the lives of thousands of sufferers.
September 25, 2025 — Source

Tiny DNA junctions provide feedback to control genetic crossovers
Every new life begins after a genetic shuffle. When organisms make eggs or sperm, maternal and paternal chromosomes pair up and swap pieces of DNA in a process called crossing over. This exchange is essential: without at least one swap per chromosome pair, fertility and healthy chromosome numbers are at risk. At the same time, too many swaps—or too many DNA breaks that initiate them—can harm the genome.
September 25, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — September 22nd, 2025

Compact Cas9d enzyme revealed as promising genome-editing tool
A research team led by Prof. Wang Yanli from the Institute of Biophysics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has revealed the structure and mechanism of a highly active Type II-D Cas9, offering a promising new tool for genome editing.
September 22, 2025 — Source

Single drug provides first evidence of 'nearly universal' pharmacological chaperone for rare disease
A study published in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology is the first time researchers have shown evidence that a single drug, already licensed for medical use, can stabilize nearly all mutated versions of a human protein, regardless of where the mutation is in the sequence.
September 22, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — September 19th, 2025

A molecular atlas of the hippocampus: Mapping RNAs and proteins at synaptic resolution
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research have mapped the molecular landscape of the mouse hippocampus, a region central to learning and memory. By combining RNA and protein profiling with advanced methods to isolate brain regions and synapses, the team identified thousands of molecules with distinct spatial patterns.
September 19, 2025 — Source

Bacterial defense sparks a new path in genome editing
Researchers unveil append editing, a method that attaches chemical tags to DNA, expanding possibilities in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.
September 19, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — September 16th, 2025

CRISPRgenee: New method leads to a better understanding of cell functions
The 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded for the development of CRISPR/Cas9, a method also known as "gene scissors," which enables researchers to better understand how human cells function and stay healthy. Researchers at the University of Stuttgart have further developed CRISPR for this purpose. They present their CRISPR gene and epigenome engineering (CRISPRgenee) method in Cell Reports Methods.
September 16, 2025 — Source or Source

How evolution rewires gene circuits to build new patterns
How do cells know what they should become as the body develops? Biological development depends crucially on spatial patterns: the lines that eventually give rise to segments, organs, or markings like stripes and spots. Yet despite the variation in form, shape and structure in the animal kingdom, the mechanisms that generate these body plans are surprisingly similar across species.
September 16, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — September 9th, 2025

AI tool pinpoints genes and drug combos to restore health in diseased cells
In a move that could reshape drug discovery, researchers at Harvard Medical School have designed an artificial intelligence model capable of identifying treatments that reverse disease states in cells.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Cell nuclei inspire DNA-based computer chips
Scientists show how stem cells process DNA with speed and precision, revealing principles that could lead to programmable DNA-based chips for biotechnology and medicine.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Closing the care gap: Position paper identifies barriers and solutions to global undertreatment of osteoporosis
The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) has issued a landmark Position Paper identifying critical global barriers to osteoporosis care and calling for urgent change to improve access to effective fracture prevention strategies.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Discovery reveals how chromosome ends can be protected
Researchers have uncovered a previously unknown mechanism that safeguards the chromosome ends from being mistakenly repaired by the cell. While DNA repair is vital for survival, attempts to repair the chromosome ends—called telomeres—can have catastrophic outcomes for cells.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Gene tied to rare disorder found crucial for intestinal stem cell regeneration
EPFL scientists have shown that a gene linked to a rare childhood disease is essential for regenerating intestinal stem cells after injury.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Genomic and hormone study finds 22 additional type 2 diabetes-related variants
Type 2 diabetes affects an increasing number of people worldwide, and more often affects men than women. The disease is caused by a mix of genetic and lifestyle factors, but little is known about how someone's environment—both inside and outside the body—interacts with their genes to impact a person's risk of developing the disease.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Molecular biomimetics: The cell nucleus as a model for DNA-based computer chips
In human cells, there are about 20,000 genes on a two-meter DNA strand—finely coiled up in a nucleus about 10 micrometers in diameter. By comparison, this corresponds to a 40-kilometer thread packed into a soccer ball. Despite this cramped space, stem cells manage to find and activate the correct genes in a matter of minutes. Which genes these are differs from cell to cell. Precise activation is crucial as errors in gene selection can lead to disease or cell death.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Researchers uncover a previously unknown mechanism behind chromosome end protection
Researchers have uncovered a previously unknown mechanism that safeguards the chromosome ends from being mistakenly repaired by the cell. While DNA repair is vital for survival, attempts to repair the chromosome ends - called telomeres - can have catastrophic outcomes for cells. The research, published in Nature, increases the understanding of how cancer and certain rare diseases develop.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Scientists develop faster technique to uncover hidden gene switches
Researchers at the Max Delbrück Center have developed a new method to discover how DNA controls genes. Their technique, published in Cell Genomics, can reveal the genetic "switches" that regulate important genes more quickly than existing methods.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Stem cell models reveal how epilepsy genes disrupt different brain regions
For families of children with severe epilepsy, controlling seizures is often just the beginning of their challenges. Even in cases where powerful medications can reduce seizures, many children continue to face difficulties with learning, behavior and sleep that can be just as disruptive to daily life.
September 9, 2025 — Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — September 4th, 2025

DNA analysis shows colorectal cancer has unique microbial fingerprint
Colorectal cancer is unique in having its own microbial "fingerprint," according to new research from the University of East Anglia.
September 4, 2025 — Source

Gene variant slows down removal of debris in the brain, increasing Alzheimer's risk, say researchers
A type of brain cell that plays a vital role in maintaining neural networks and repairing injuries lies at the core of a promising new study on Alzheimer's disease from the USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Center and Research Institute.
September 4, 2025 — Source

Scientists probe powerful molecular messaging system that goes beyond DNA
Scientists are uncovering the secrets of a fast-acting molecular messaging network that strongly influences how people and all organisms adjust and react to the world around them.
September 4, 2025 — Source or Source

Health — DNA — Genetics — September 1st, 2025

Capturing language change through the genes
Throughout human history, there have been many instances where two populations came into contact—especially in the past few thousand years because of large-scale migrations as a consequence of conquests, colonialization, and, more recently, globalization. During these encounters, not only did populations exchange genetic material, but also cultural elements.
September 1, 2025 — Source