DNA and Genes
Latest about Genetics

POLG diseases: Rare genetic conditions that starve cells of energy and afflicted the late Prince of Luxembourg
By Emily Cooke published
POLG-related diseases disrupt the function of the mitochondria, or "powerhouses" of the cell — starving them of energy.

East Asians who can digest lactose can thank Neanderthal genes
By Emily Cooke published
Unique versions of the lactase gene found in the genomes of East Asian people may have increased in prevalence within the population over time because they bolstered immune responses against pathogens, new data reveal.

The rare genetic disorder that causes severe itchiness and liver failure
By Emily Cooke published
Patients with PFIC develop liver failure as a result of a buildup of a digestive fluid known as bile.

Norrie disease: The rare genetic disorder that makes people go blind and deaf
By Emily Cooke published
Only around 500 cases of Norrie disease, a genetic condition, have been reported worldwide.

'Speech gene' seen only in modern humans may have helped us evolve to talk
By Emily Cooke published
A specific gene variant seen in people is likely one of many that contributed to the development of language in modern humans, scientists say. And it changes how mice squeak.

Scientists just rewrote our understanding of epigenetics
By Jennifer Zieba published
DNA and RNA epigenetics, once thought to be separate, have now been found to work together to fine-tune gene expression.

Massive study of 3 million people reveals genetic 'hotspots' linked to bipolar disorder
By Sibani Ram published
A new study has greatly expanded the number of gene variants thought to be tied to bipolar disorder.

People with this rare genetic condition can't repair damage to their DNA
By Emily Cooke published
LIG4 syndrome is an exceptionally rare disorder caused by a genetic mutation that prevents the body from repairing damaged DNA.

IVF may raise risk of certain disorders in babies — and epigenetic 'signatures' in the placenta could explain why
By Jennifer Zieba published
Researchers identified genes that could explain why some assisted reproductive technologies, like IVF, carry a higher risk of growth and metabolic issues in offspring.
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