Genetics is the study of genes, which are the basic units of inheritance that contain the blueprint for life, from determining the way that organisms look to every physiological process that occurs within them. Advances in genetics have come a long way since the discovery of the double helix of DNA in 1953. Scientists can now sequence the entire genetic code of thousands of people on a large scale to pinpoint genes that are associated with specific diseases and flag them as targets for drug development. Likewise, enzymes from bacteria can be used to modify genes for a plethora of purposes, including healthcare and farming.
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The rare genetic disease that gives babies hard 'scales'
The genetic disease harlequin ichthyosis affects the transport of fats within the skin, resulting in hard, scalelike plaques and an array of other symptoms.
Race and genetics do not line up well, new study confirms
A new study finds the genetic backgrounds of people in the U.S. are "highly complex" and may differ from their self-defined racial or ethnic groups.
How much of your disease risk is genetic? It's complicated.
Opinion Environmental factors such as lifestyle and the medications you take influence the effects your genes have on your body — and can clarify how diseases develop.
US baby receives first-ever customized CRISPR treatment for genetic disease
A baby known as KJ is the first person in the world to receive a customized CRISPR therapy designed to fix a specific mutation.
New CRISPR alternative can 'install' whole genes, paving the way to treatment for many genetic disorders
A new gene editor takes advantage of CRISPR-associated proteins to insert whole genes into the genome, scientists report.
Immune system genes are linked to bigger brains and longer lifespans in mammals
The genomes of long-living, big-brained mammal species reveal that they carry more copies of immunity genes. Experts speculate that these genes may affect longevity.
Unique genes pinpointed in legendary 'women of the sea' in South Korea
A new study explores the physiology of Jeju Haenyeo, the famous female freedivers in South Korea.
The rare genetic disorder that forces people to avoid sunlight
People with xeroderma pigmentosum can severely burn within minutes of being in the sun and are thousands of times more likely to develop skin cancer than others.
