Are you ready to dive into some cool updates in the world of genomics!
How do ancient gene sequences affect our genome?
A new study on fish has uncovered how new genes come to be. Scientists found that some genes are formed by reusing pieces of ancient genes and adding fresh parts (from the journal Molecular Biology and Evolution).
Controlling cryptic sequences
A recent study has also discovered "control sites" in our DNA that keep certain hidden (or “cryptic”) sequences from activating. These sites are especially good at blocking old viral sequences from becoming active (Nature Communications).
New gene variants tied to diseases
Researchers have found thousands of variants in the RAD51C gene that increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Clinicians can now access this information to help patients right away (Cell).
Genes linked to anxiety disorders
A massive study, with data from over 1 million people, identified 100 genes connected to anxiety disorders. These genes could be potential drug targets in the future (Nature Genetics).
Developmental disorders and gene variants
In the largest study yet, scientists studied how certain gene variants passed down from both parents (called autosomal recessive variations) might cause developmental disorders. The findings could help doctors make better diagnoses (Nature Genetics).
Genomics goes beyond human health
In biodiversity news, researchers from over 30 countries worked together to create reference genomes for 98 different species in Europe (npj Biodiversity).
Also, a study looking at animals in the Huanan Seafood Market and COVID-19 patients has given us more clues about how the virus started and evolved (Cell).
Other big news in genomics
- Scientists found a group of bacteria that might fight off harmful, antibiotic-resistant germs in the gut. These bacteria, found in healthy people, could help with microbial transplants (Nature).
- Stroke risk is still rising in people with sickle cell disease despite better care, showing we need to learn more about what’s causing it (Blood).
- A twin study revealed that being a picky eater has a lot to do with genetics. Toddlers are influenced by the food at home, but as kids grow older, their personal experiences matter more (The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry).
- Using optical genome mapping, researchers have found a key mechanism behind a common cause of age-related vision loss (eBioMedicine).
That’s all for this week’s Week in Brief!
Vocabulary Tips:
- Genomic: relating to the complete set of DNA in an organism.
- Variants: different versions of a gene that may cause changes in traits or diseases.
- Ancestral gene fragments: pieces of ancient genes passed down through generations.
- Regulation: controlling which genes are active or inactive.