FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·July 26, 2023·3 min readEarly Odor Detection Loss Linked to Alzheimer’s Gene VariantIndividuals carrying a gene variant associated with Alzheimer's disease, APOE e4, may experience early loss in their ability to detect odors, hinting at future cognitive challenges. The study employed an at-home survey to test over 865 people's sense of smell and cognitive skills at five-year intervals.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·July 25, 2023·5 min readSlowing Down the Clock: Key Discovery in Aging and Chronic InflammationResearchers uncovered a key mechanism of aging - improper calcium signaling in the mitochondria of certain immune cells, leading to chronic inflammation. As we age, these mitochondria in macrophages lose their ability to uptake and utilize calcium, contributing to various age-related conditions.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·July 24, 2023·4 min readProtein Suppression: A Promising Route to Slow Alzheimer’s ProgressionResearchers have made a breakthrough in Alzheimer's disease (AD) research by identifying a protein that could be key in slowing the disease's progression. They found that the protein Slingshot Homolog-1 (SSH1) inhibits the protective biological activity of Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which normally defends the brain against oxidative damage.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·July 22, 2023·4 min readGene Patterns Shaping Our Food Choices RevealedResearchers have identified approximately 500 genes that dictate our dietary preferences. This research highlights the role of genes in sensory pathways, such as taste, smell, and texture, and their ability to alter the brain's reward response.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·July 20, 2023·5 min readZygote Awakening: New Insights into Embryo DevelopmentResearchers reveal how a fertilized egg cell, or zygote, initiates its own genetic program, a process known as zygote genome activation. The research identifies the OBOX gene family as master-regulators, crucial for this activation.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·July 19, 2023·6 min readCOVID-19 Super Dodgers: The Genetic Secret to Asymptomatic Infectionertain individuals carry a unique gene variant that allows them to contract COVID-19 without displaying any symptoms. Dubbed as "super dodgers", these individuals are more than twice as likely to possess a mutation in a gene coding for human leukocyte antigen (HLA), a protein that aids virus-killing T cells to identify and annihilate SARS-CoV-2.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·July 19, 2023·8 min readEpigenetic Marking of Satiety Gene Influences Obesity Risk in WomenResearchers identified an epigenetic factor that influences women's risk of obesity. The study found that the risk of obesity increases by 44% if there are a large number of methyl groups attached to the POMC gene, associated with the feeling of satiety.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·July 18, 2023·3 min readUnlocking the Anti-Aging Potential of Protein in Human CellsResearchers have uncovered an anti-aging function in a protein, ATSF-1, found deep within human cells. This protein controls a delicate balance between the creation and repair of mitochondria, which produce energy and contribute to cell ageing.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·July 18, 2023·8 min readParasitic Worms: Missing Genes and Mind ControlA study uncovers a bizarre trait in hairworms, a type of parasitic worm known for manipulating their host's behavior. The research found hairworms lacking about 30% of the expected genes, mainly responsible for developing cilia.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·July 17, 2023·5 min readNeuronal Plasticity Genes Linked to Alcohol Use DisordersA new study discovered a link between alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and alteration of a group of genes known to influence neuronal plasticity and pain perceptions. The team used three distinct animal models to identify the genes responsible for drinking behaviors.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·July 15, 2023·6 min readUnborn Babies ‘Remote-Control’ Moms for Nutrition via Paternal GeneResearchers discovered that unborn babies utilize a paternal gene to manipulate their mother's metabolism, securing more nutrients during pregnancy. This "remote control" triggers a maternal-fetal tug of war over resources.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·July 14, 2023·5 min readPedaling to Halt Parkinson’s: Intensive Exercise’s Genetic Role in Disease ProgressionA new study demonstrates intensive exercise could decelerate the progression of Parkinson's disease by influencing brain plasticity. The research uncovers a novel mechanism underlying the positive effects of exercise, pinpointing its connection to motor control improvements.Read More
