DNA News and Research

RSS

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).

A more accurate tool for assessing Arsenic toxicity

Public health experts estimate that more than 200 million people worldwide are exposed to arsenic through contaminated drinking water. Scientists know long-term exposure to arsenic is associated with increased risk of chronic illnesses like cancer and cardiovascular disease, but there hasn't been a reliable way to track these exposures and fully understand their effects on the body and the mechanisms behind them.

4 May 2026

New genomic study tracks rare blood disease in children

Aplastic anemia is a rare, life-threatening blood disorder where patients are unable to make enough blood cells due to the immune system's attack on blood stem cells. The condition can progress to myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and leukemia. A study led by scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, with multiple collaborating institutions, used state-of-the-art genomic techniques to profile 619 children and adults with aplastic anemia.

4 May 2026

Cellular aging in immune cells signals early onset of cognitive depression

Blood tests measuring the aging of certain white blood cells can predict cognitive and mood-related symptoms of depression, rather than physical symptoms.

4 May 2026

AAD survey reveals Americans ignore sun risks despite skin cancer concerns

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) today released results from its annual Practice Safe Sun Survey, revealing many Americans still engage in risky sun behaviors driven by misinformation, social media, and persistent tanning myths despite their concerns about the long term aging effects of sun exposure. In recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month (May) and Melanoma Monday® on May 4, the AAD is encouraging the public to practice safe sun to reduce their risk of skin cancer.

4 May 2026

How fast your face ages may predict cancer survival outcomes

The study links facial aging rates to cancer outcomes, suggesting a new prognostic tool that could personalize treatment and enhance patient survival.

1 May 2026

Cell division failure pathway determines fate after genome duplication

A new study shows that how a cell fails to divide after copying its DNA can determine its fate.

30 Apr 2026

Extracellular vesicles from T cells enhance tumor immune response

Activated immune cells secrete tiny capsules bearing DNA that can enter other immune and tumor cells to stimulate the body's defense systems, according to a study led by investigators at Weill Cornell Medicine.

30 Apr 2026

Cryo-electron microscopy offers an unprecedented view of gene transcription

The enzyme RNA polymerase (RNAP) carries out transcription, copying DNA into RNA. It's the first step in gene expression, and a process fundamental to all life.

30 Apr 2026

Liquid biopsy predicts immune response in high-risk breast cancer patients

Immunotherapy has become a standard of care in treating high-risk, early-stage breast cancers, yet it has had limited success in shrinking tumors.

30 Apr 2026

Portable MiniDock MTB delivers tuberculosis results in thirty minutes

Drugs to treat tuberculosis have been around for more than 75 years, yet it remains the world's top infectious disease killer.

30 Apr 2026

Glucose acts as a metabolic signal for myelin development

Researchers at the Advanced Science Research Center at the CUNY Graduate Center (CUNY ASRC) have uncovered a surprising link between low brain sugar levels and the development of myelin - the protective coating that allows nerve cells to communicate rapidly and efficiently.

30 Apr 2026

AI and CRISPR technologies drive proactive health monitoring

JMIR Publications today featured two new stories in its News and Perspectives section, highlighting a shift toward proactive, tech-integrated health monitoring.

30 Apr 2026

Mailed DNA-based test for colorectal cancer screening

The use of mailed FIT-DNA kits in community health centers significantly increases colorectal cancer screening, though follow-up colonoscopy rates remain low.

30 Apr 2026

New genetic risk test estimates inherited risk for cardiovascular conditions

Researchers at Mass General Brigham Heart and Vascular Institute and collaborators have developed and validated a new genetic risk test that can estimate a person's inherited risk for eight common cardiovascular conditions, offering a more comprehensive approach to prevention.

29 Apr 2026

Technique will turbocharge new medicines to combat antimicrobial resistance

...

29 Apr 2026

How cost, access, and awareness barriers are slowing BRCA testing

This study analyzes BRCA testing patterns in U.S. breast cancer patients, highlighting barriers and disparities in access to genetic testing and precision care.

29 Apr 2026

Epigenetic changes reshape Dicer enzyme function in cancer and reproduction

Activation of a specific part of the Dicer enzyme can change its shape in a way that affects its critical role in proper cell division, with implications for both cancer biology and fertility, according to researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

28 Apr 2026

UIC researchers develop anti-cancer therapy inspired by bacteria in tumors

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have developed an anti-cancer therapy inspired by bacteria found in cancer tumors.

28 Apr 2026

Why H2N2 flu is back on the pandemic preparedness radar

A historical review in Vaccine warns that global H2N2 immunity has sharply declined since the 1957 Asian influenza pandemic, leaving most people without H2-specific protection if the virus re-emerges. The authors highlight animal reservoirs, waning birth-cohort immunity, and modern H2 vaccine platforms as key priorities for pandemic preparedness.

28 Apr 2026