Human Features
The GLP tackles innovations in human genetics and biotechnology. We highlight the work of our own writers, as well as that of contributors from around the Web. The GLP does not take a position on genetics-related issues; any opinions expressed belong to the authors.
Categories include:
- CRISPR and gene editing
- Gene therapy
- Stem cell research
- Genetic diseases
- Synthetic biology
- Epigenetics
- Biodrugs (pharmacogenetics)
- Personal genomics
- Ancestry and evolution
- Ethics and regulations
Does the ‘Nordic diet’ reduce stroke risk? Maybe, maybe not
Study gives teeth to claims that the Nordic diet--which limits foods to what people in Denmark, Sweden and other northern ...
Yoga may be good for your mind, body–but what about your genes?
Research suggests that yoga, and similar mindfullness-focused activities, may foster genetic changes that help people cope with stress and avoid ...
Could a Planet of the (Talking) Apes ever really evolve?
War for the Planet of the Apes is the latest entry in the 50-year old franchise. A scientist asks: do ...
Can we trust the eyes of those who witness crimes?
The credibility of eyewitness accounts has taken some hits from DNA evidence-based refutation of trial testimony. But there's more here ...
It’s time to talk about the ethics of CRISPR-edited human embryos
With groundbreaking human gene editing research moving forward, and human enhancement becoming a reality, decisions need to be made about ...
Micro RNA: Genetic suppression might control insect-borne diseases and limit pesticide use
New methods of controlling mosquitos without chemicals include releasing sterile males, spreading confusing pheromones and, most recently, disrupting egg development ...
Three-person IVF as an infertility solution has a long way to go
The procedure is typically targeted at parents who want to avoid passing a potentially fatal mitochondrial disease to their child ...
Could gene editing have saved Charlie Gard?
The British infant died of a mitochondrial disease as news broke that US scientists had successfully edited a human embryo ...
Sports and war: With concussions, there’s little difference between football, fighting
Evidence suggests "early aging" in the brains of troops is a result of experiencing bomb blasts. It may be similar ...
CRISPR revolution: How scientists are turning gene-editing hype into food and medical breakthroughs
The powerful gene-editing tool is becoming ubiquitous, appearing in the media with ever increasing frequency. But it's more than just ...
Have the BRCA mutation? Debating a precautionary mastectomy? Your genes may provide a guide
A new study offers a better understanding of the risks, by age, associated with the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. It ...
Pioneering gene therapy restores vision to people with rare retinal blindness
Spark Therapeutics is moving forward with its treatment for a type of inherited retinal dystrophy. In the wake of the ...
The obesity paradox: Why being fit may be more important than losing weight
Instead of focusing purely on weight, a better approach is one that also considers a person's physical fitness when assessing ...
How can the human race survive? By overcoming biological urge to procreate
Physicist Stephen Hawking adds to a growing chorus of catastrophists in claiming that humans could face extinction in the next ...
Designer babies? US scientists swap DNA in embryos, replacing mutation that causes heart problems
The breakthrough procedure might better be called 'gene correction' rather than gene editing. It could revolutionize genetic disease treatments, but ...
‘We are all mutants’: Why genetic testing struggles to provide answers
Genetic tests often can help us diagnose disorders and determine risk factors for disease. But uncertainties surrounding genetic mutations makes ...
Are our views on religion, astrology and new-age beliefs hardwired?
Our beliefs, including irrational ones such as an embrace of pseudoscience and 'fake news', have been shown to be somewhat ...
Isolated influenza mutations may help predict future global flu trends
A study of flu evolution in four patients with long-term infections revealed mutations that later appeared, independently, around the world ...
How facial recognition software may help identify genetic disorders
The technology might help in diagnosing rare genetic disorders. But the depiction of its promises and challenges by the media ...
Ignore at your own peril: Race plays role in cancer and other health risks
It may be uncomfortable to discuss, but there are genetic and biological differences among races and genders. Ignoring these factors ...
Why identifying ‘autism genes’ is so elusive
Researchers are unlocking the mystery of autism's origin. Yes, it's mostly 'in the genes,' but what that means is one ...
Did life originate on Earth? It’s becoming more difficult to say ‘yes’
Discovery of Earth-sized planets and of microbial fossils as old as 4.5 billion years may shed light on the question ...
Gut feeling: Microbiota could aid fight against depression, high blood pressure and weight gain
The trillions of microorganisms in the gut affect our physical and mental state in myriad ways. Can we influence this ...
Rare genetic diseases can arise from unsuspecting carriers
Discovery of the rare disease -- marked by blindness, deafness, fragile bones and albinism -- could lead to genetic screening ...
Are your food choices killing you?
Scientists, the media and policymakers often make glib connections between certain foods, nutrition and disease. The links are a lot ...
To combat evolution denial, teach kids genetics first
A new study suggests teaching children genetics first may help them better understand how and why humans have evolved ...
Smoking and health: Genetic revolution transforming medical marijuana and tobacco
Our increased understanding of plant genetics has potential to help smokers quit and provide patients with the medicinal benefits of ...
