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DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms. Nearly every cell in a person’s body has the same DNA. Most DNA is located in the cell nucleus (where it is called nuclear DNA), but a small amount of DNA can also be found in the mitochondria (where it is called mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA).

Maternal stress and depression alter infant DNA, with potential lifelong impact

Maternal stress and depression during pregnancy and postpartum are linked to DNA methylation changes in infants, potentially affecting their development and long-term health.

23 Oct 2024

Structural biology reveals secrets of DEV phage infection

The viruses that infect bacteria are the most abundant biological entities on the planet. For example, a recent simple study of 92 showerheads and 36 toothbrushes from American bathrooms found more than 600 types of bacterial viruses, commonly called bacteriophages or phages.

22 Oct 2024

New insights into how gene transcription influences genome motion

A team of scientists has discovered surprising connections among gene activity, genome packing, and genome-wide motions, revealing aspects of the genome's organization that directly affect gene regulation and expression.

22 Oct 2024

Discovery of new bacterial toxins opens path to novel infection treatments

Researchers have discovered a new group of bacterial toxins that can kill harmful bacteria and fungi, opening the door to potential new treatments for infections.

22 Oct 2024

New antibody targets cancer-causing HER2 mutations

For some proteins, a single mutation, or change in its DNA instructions, is all it takes to tip the balance between functioning normally and causing cancer.

22 Oct 2024

Novel antibodies show promise for tumor targeting and RAD51 inhibition

A new research paper was published in Oncotarget's Volume 15 on October 1, 2024, entitled, "Next-generation cell-penetrating antibodies for tumor targeting and RAD51 inhibition."

21 Oct 2024

Study reveals complex role of polyploidy in cancer and treatment resistance

Polyploidy is a state where a cell contains more copies of the genetic material than the usual "diploid" cell, which contains two copies.

21 Oct 2024

Genetic variant identified as potential predictor for severe ulcerative colitis

The HLA-DRB1*01:03 genetic variant is associated with severe ulcerative colitis, significantly raising the risk of major surgeries and hospitalizations.

21 Oct 2024

Researchers identify genetic links to brain volume and disorders

In one of the largest-ever studies of DNA and brain volume, researchers have identified 254 genetic variants that shape key structures in the "deep brain," including those that control memory, motor skills, addictive behaviors and more.

21 Oct 2024

Polyploidy can be a double-edged sword in cancer

Polyploidy is a state where a cell contains more copies of the genetic material than the usual "diploid" cell, which contains two copies.

21 Oct 2024

Kumamoto University makes groundbreaking discovery in aging and inflammation

A team at Kumamoto University has made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of aging and inflammation. Japan's aging population is growing at an unprecedented rate, making it crucial to extend healthy lifespans rather than just lifespans.

20 Oct 2024

Ancient DNA reveals insights into starch digestion

If you've ever struggled to reduce your carb intake, ancient DNA might be to blame. It has long been known that humans carry multiple copies of a gene that allows us to begin breaking down complex carbohydrate starch in the mouth, providing the first step in metabolizing starchy foods like bread and pasta.

18 Oct 2024