How chlamydia takes up new DNA from host
Molecular biologists have pinpointed a gene that allows chlamydia to take up DNA from its host environment.
Read moreBiochemistry Research
Longtime DNA mystery illuminated by buttons and flies
Biologists have uncovered an important clue in the longtime mystery of how long strands of DNA fold up to squeeze into microscopic cells, with each pair of chromosomes aligned to ensure perfect development.
Read moreChemical evolution — One-pot wonder
Before life, there was RNA: Scientists show how the four different letters of this genetic alphabet could be created from simple precursor molecules on early Earth — under the same environmental conditions.
Read moreHow chromosomes change their shape during cell differentiation
Scientists have provided an explanation of how chromosomes undergo structural changes during cell differentiation.
Read moreGenes play a role in dog breed differences in behavior
Border collies are highly trainable, greyhounds love to chase, and German shepherds make good guard dogs. While the environment plays a role, traits like these are highly heritable, according to a study of 101 dog breeds. The work identifies 131 genetic variants associated with breed differences in behavior.
Read moreDNA metabarcoding useful for analyzing human diet
A new study demonstrates that DNA metabarcoding provides a promising new method for tracking human plant intake, suggesting that similar approaches could be used to characterize the animal and fungal components of human diets. The study demonstrated that dietary plant DNA can be amplified and sequenced from human stool using methods commonly applied to wildlife studies.
Read moreThe cholera bacterium can steal up to 150 genes in one go
Scientists have discovered that predatory bacteria like the cholera pathogen can steal up to 150 genes in one go from their neighbors. The study sheds light on one of the most fundamental mechanisms of horizontal gene transfer.
Read moreThree-dimensional structure of the genome replication machine discovered
Researchers have discovered how the enzyme DNA polymerase delta works to duplicate the genome that cells hand down from one generation to the next.
Read moreHow the influenza virus achieves efficient viral RNA replication
Researchers offer new insights on how subunits of the influenza virus polymerase co-evolve to ensure efficient viral RNA replication.
Read moreMutant cells team up to make an even deadlier blood cancer
Two very different mutations have been identified as unexpected partners in crime for causing the blood cancer acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Expert analysis from CSHL helped reveal how this deadly duo is far more common in AML than thought.
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