Human Genetics 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
Mutations in the brain
Not all genetic mutations are harmful. New research shows that mutations within neurons may be incredibly common, and even sometimes ...
Genetic clues in mammals could unlock secret to anti-aging
For years, scientists have studied how to combat old age. Now, new research suggests that genetic clues in mammals with ...
Are we headed for universal genome screening at birth?
Nearly all of the 4 million babies born every year in the United States undergo newborn screening for genetic disease ...
Who deserves the Nobel for sequencing the human genome?
There's a political angle to having the 10th anniversary celebration for the human genome in 2013: it implies the NIH ...
Scientists invent new technique for DNA repair
Researchers from the Berkeley Lab have invented a new technique for detecting and repairing errors in the genetic code, which ...
Gene-silencing could suppress genetic defect that causes Down syndrome
A team of researchers has demonstrated that the genetic defect that causes Down syndrome could be suppressed using the gene-silencing ...
Is HIV the hero that’ll help gene therapy rise above the hype?
We're seeing some successes in gene therapy, but cost remains an issue. Could a modified version of HIV save the ...
Project Einstein: Are there genes for mathematical genius?
An entrepreneur in gene-sequencing wants to find out what genes are linked to mathematical ability ...
Genome hacker builds largest-ever family tree
To help scientists investigate inheritance, so-called genome hacker Yaniv Erlich has built family tree with over 13 million people, using ...
Biotech could improve sugarcane farming in India and beyond
According to the director of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, scientists and sugarcane farmers should use the tools of ...
How personal genomics is like Michelangelo’s David
Personal genomics is awash in stories of genetic discoveries that turned out to be weak or wrong, yet the field ...
Genetic modification may help tobacco find new life as health savior and biofuels source
For decades, tobacco has been maligned as a source of diseases. But in recent years, scientists using genetic modification have ...
Scientists find genetic basis for slow metabolism, obesity
For the first time, scientists have identified a genetic mutation associated with two major contributors to obesity: increased appetite and ...
How to create alien life? Use human DNA, of course
Five decades after cracking the genetic code, scientists have discovered how to re-code DNA cells and build new proteins. The ...
Will the public still fear GMOs in 100 years?
Innovations like aviation and vaccines have been huge contributions to modern society, despite initial public opposition. The same could be ...
Promise and peril of synthetic biology
Work in the field of synthetic biology creates a dual use ethical dilemma--the techniques that help us learn to cure ...
Study uses herpes virus to track human migration across the globe
The genomic analysis of different strains of the herpes virus reveals migration patterns of early humans ...
Giant pandas’ genetic diversity helps them adapt to environmental change
Despite the dwindling number of giant pandas, researchers think the species has more genetic diversity than some other endangered animals ...
Gene testing revolution: Disease prediction results skyrocket for whole genome and whole exome sequencing
New research suggests that focusing on the protein-coding region of our DNA that makes up about 1.5 percent of each ...
Using genetics to save the world’s coral reefs from climate change
Similar to how agriculturalists have helped crops adapt to the changing climate, two marine ecologists are working to save the ...
Project BabySeq to test how knowing your genome from birth changes your life
Brigham and Women’s Hospital's Robert Green wants to know how having your complete genome sequenced at birth changes the course ...
New app allows users to access their genetic info from smartphone
A new smartphone app, developed by researchers at Tel Aviv University, will allow individuals who’ve had their genome sequenced to ...
How do traits trickle down from grandparents to grandchildren? Partially by chance.
Personal genome sequencing allows us to take a closer look at inheritance and highlights the situations in which genetic and ...
Does finding cancer mutations lead to cures?
We don't have drugs to treat most cancer mutations. So how does hunting for mutations help? ...
Being a good Samaritan could be influenced by genetics
Everyone knows the biblical parable of the good Samaritan. A new study suggests that a single variation in a specific ...
Craig Venter working on device that could send DNA over the internet
Craig Venter, who created the world’s first synthetic life, is working on a “DNA box” that could transport genetic sequences ...
There’s much more to IQ than biology and DNA
Genetics doesn't matter more than teaching. Nature doesn't matter more than nurture does. They both contribute to intelligence ...
