Genome

Genome is the total genetic content contained in a haploid set of chromosomes in eukaryotes, in a single chromosome in bacteria, or in the DNA or RNA of viruses.

Low body fat may not lower risk for heart disease and diabetes

Genetic study shows that low body fat may not lower risk for heart disease and diabetes – Researchers revealed that some people with a specific form of the gene are more likely to have lower percent body fat, but also more likely to develop heart disease and type 2 diabetes, because the gene lowers only the “subcutaneous” fat under the skin, but not the more harmful “visceral” fat that surrounds organs. People with this gene variant are less able to store fat safely under the skin and may, therefore, store fat elsewhere in the body, where it may interfere with normal organ function.

Autism linked to hundreds of genetic changes

Yale researchers discover many genetic keys needed to unlock autism – Investigating 1,000 families reveals hundreds of small genetic variations are associated with autism spectrum disorders, according to a multi-site collaborative study led by researchers at Yale University. These genetic findings can be used to begin unraveling the underlying biology of autism.

New strain of MRSA discovered, found in both humans and dairy cows

New strain of MRSA discovered — Antibiotic resistant bacteria found in both humans and dairy cows – Scientists have identified a new strain of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) which occurs both in human and dairy cow populations. The study, led by Dr Mark Holmes at the University of Cambridge, identified the new strain in milk from dairy cows while researching mastitis (a bacterial infection which occurs in the cows’ udders).

Master switch gene for obesity and diabetes discovered

‘Master switch’ gene for obesity and diabetes discovered — Researchers have found that a gene linked to type 2 diabetes and cholesterol levels is in fact a ‘master regulator’ gene, which controls the behavior of other genes found within fat in the body – A team of researchers, led by King’s College London and the University of Oxford, have found that a gene linked to type 2 diabetes and cholesterol levels is in fact a ‘master regulator’ gene, which controls the behaviour of other genes found within fat in the body.

Swiss US team finds indigenous cases of leprosy in Southern US

Swiss-US team finds indigenous cases of leprosy in the Southern United States — Study confirms human contamination through contact with armadillos – Using advanced DNA analysis and extensive field work, an international research team has confirmed the link between leprosy infection in Americans and direct contact with armadillos.

Genes identified causing antimalarial drug resistance

Researchers identify genes causing antimalarial drug resistance – Using a pair of powerful genome-search techniques, researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH), Harvard University, and the Broad Institute have identified several genes that may be implicated in the malaria parasite’s notorious ability to rapidly evade drug treatments.

Gene is mutated in 1 in 3 patients with kidney cancer

Research provides new kidney cancer clues — Gene is mutated in 1 in 3 patients with common form of renal cancer – Researchers have identified a gene that is mutated in one in three patients with the most common form of renal cancer. The identification of a frequently mutated gene will provide new insights into the biology of the disease.

Preventing future bird flu epidemics – GM chickens

GM chickens that don’t transmit bird flu developed – Breakthrough could prevent future bird flu epidemics – Chickens genetically modified to prevent them spreading bird flu have been produced by researchers at the Universities of Cambridge and Edinburgh. They developed a new gene coding that controls bird flu virus progress.

Genetic variants may affect risk of breast cancer

Genetic variants may affect the risk of breast cancer in women with BRCA2 mutations – An international study led by researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center has identified genetic variants in women with BRCA2 mutations that may increase or decrease their risk of developing breast cancer.

Genetic variants increase susceptibility to asthma

Largest genetic study of asthma points towards better treatments — Genetic variants increase susceptibility to asthma – An international study looking at DNA from over 26,000 people has identified several genetic variants that substantially increase susceptibility to asthma in the population.

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