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
Science explainer: We may not resurrect dinosaurs but other extinct animals likely to be revived
De-extinction is moving closer to reality--maybe not Jurassic World real, but a number of more recent animals may soon be ...
Don’t stop drinking orange juice: Citrus-cancer link overblown
Reporting on a study linking consuming grapefruit and orange juice to melanoma shows how the press can blow new research ...
Can aging be treated with drugs?
Geneticists have found several genes that seem to affect longevity. Are we on the verge of finding "treatments" for aging? ...
Artificial DNA acts just like the real thing. Does that mean we should we make it?
We know we can create 'artificial DNA'. The real questions are: Should we? and To What end? Should there be ...
Epigenetic ‘eraser’ can reset behavior, disease vulnerability and life experiences
Many epigenetic changes that occur in humans in genetic response to the environment are erased within the embryo. Certain diseases, ...
Brain confusion: Why it’s so difficult to find cures for mental disorders
Many mental illnesses still defy treatment. The problem may be that we do not "know" how the brain functions very ...
Precision medicine inches along
More than a decade ago, we sequenced the human genome with hope that disease cures might soon follow. Finding treatment ...
Do you think you have NCGS–gluten sensitivity? Proceed with caution in age of mail order genetic tests
We're in the 23andMe age. People take various genetic tests, but, they're often interpreting vague and out of clinical context ...
Global scientists assess homeopathy-funded Séralini study claiming all GMO tests ‘contaminated’
Scientists from North American and Europe weigh on on the latest Séralini study, published after a two week delay after ...
Chimera alert? Myths and facts of human-non-human animal hybrids in medicine
Science is making leaps and bounds creating part human and part non-human animal tissues and organs. The applications are medical, ...
Teen boy checklist: Graduate high school, freeze sperm, go to college
A UK bioethicist urges young men to freeze sperm so their kids won’t run a higher risk of inheriting genetic ...
Epic FBI DNA database may reveal private health information
Database behind nearly all DNA-based forensic investigations may also have our health information. Or not. Should we be concerned? ...
Headlines tout Jurassic World in offing but scientists, journalists separate fact from fiction
A real-life "Jurassic World" with genetically engineered dinosaurs is an enthralling or frightening scenario — depending upon your perspective — ...
Will genetic cyber-athletes come to dominate sports?
The era of the über-athlete may be nearer than most people think, and it will spark fierce ethical debates. The ...
Mitochondrial medicine: Pushing the limits of resuscitation
Mitochondria are the power plants of the cell. Along with understanding the role of mitochondria in causing damage to the ...
Preventing brain disease by eating brains? Science doesn’t support sensationalized reporting
Is there a genetic cure for dementia? Recent news reports of a mutation that can protect against a deadly form ...
Evidence mounts of ancient Jewish roots of Beta Israel Ethiopian Jewry
Many historians are convinced that Ethiopian Jews are medieval converts from Christianity. But mounting genetic evidence, and new scholarly research, ...
Meet Watchfrogs: GM frogs and fish detect endocrine disrupting chemicals in wastewater
The public brouhaha over the first GM animal designed for human consumption--the AquaBounty salmon-- has thrown a cloud over the ...
Who’s your (ancestral) daddy? Family tree genetics might link everyone to King David
Companies claiming to pinpoint your ancestral village of origin or relationship with famous historical figures are likely telling you the ...
“Pink & Blue” documentary challenges female only myths about breast cancer and BRCA mutations
BRCA mutations have taken a toll on film producer Alan Blassberg and his loved ones, prompting what promises to be ...
DNA, the ‘devious defecator’ and the right to genetic privacy
A poop paternity test may set legal precedents on privacy in the workplace ...
‘My genes made me do it: An excuse for infidelity that your spouse shouldn’t believe
Media have a tendency to hype studies that link individual genes to behavioral effects. Recent news surrounding connections between the ...
Three parent babies: Parent #3’s impact may go beyond mitochondria
New research shows mitochondrial and nuclear DNA interact throughout a person’s lifetime. What does that mean for parents seeking mitochondrial ...
Mysteries of cat, human health revealed through microbiome
Studying the bacteria that live in an on our feline friends maybe a good proxy for humans. They live in ...
Arm chair geneticists looking for enlightenment could provide useful data
People who sequence their genomes don’t hinder public health; they offer an opportunity for free data. We should capitalize on ...
Lifestyle changes can’t alter DNA: Claiming it can is a public disservice
Lifestyle changes have profound effects on human health, more so than most blockbuster drugs. But despite their potency, supplements, exercise ...
“Home brewed morphine” from genetically engineered yeast? What did the media get wrong?
Researchers report creating genetically engineered yeast strains that take us one step closer to producing opiates using microbes. How did ...
