Deepak Adhikari is a freelance journalist based in Kathmandu, Nepal. He was the editor of Nepal Check, a fact-checking platform in Nepal. From March 2020 to July 2022, he was the editor of South Asia Check, Nepal's pioneering fact-checking outlet. 

His areas of work include Nepal's politics, ...

Fertility is compromised after oocyte-specific deletion of Katanin A-subunit, Katna1, but not Katnal1

22 Oct 2023  |  www.biorxiv.org  |  English  |  Genetics

Katanins, microtubule severing enzymes, are crucial in cell cycle stages. Using the Zp3-CreLox approach, researchers deleted katanin A1 (Katna1) and katanin A-like 1 (Katnal1) in mouse oocytes. Katnal1 deletion did not affect female fertility, but Katna1 deletion led to a 50% fertility reduction. Katna1-/- oocytes showed normal MI spindle morphology but altered MII spindle morphology, reducing fertilization rates. Katna1+/- embryos developed normally to the blastocyst stage, while Katna1-/- oocytes had reduced blastocyst formation, cell number, and increased nuclear size. The paternal allele's ability to rescue preimplantation development indicates fertility issues arise during the egg to embryo transition before embryonic genome activation.

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Genetics Fertility Cell Biology

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Freelance writer specialising in marine science, marine technology, policy, environment, conservation, and sustainability, I can help with your research, outreach, and communication needs.

Businesses, NGOs, government entities, research institutes, stakeholder groups, and others hire me to help ...

How nutritious is fecal matter? It partly depends on genetics

01 Oct 2023  |  Canadian Science Publishing  |  English  |  Genetics

Fish play a crucial ecological role by excreting nutrients that stimulate plant growth. A study by researchers Stéphanie Guernon, Matthew Yates, Dylan Fraser, and Alison Derry, published in the Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, reveals that genetic differences within brook trout populations in Newfoundland influence the nutrient levels in their fecal matter. The study found that trout from shallower streams excrete more nitrogen per gram than those from deeper streams, likely due to genetic factors. Additionally, the shallow-stream populations contribute more nitrogen to their ecosystems due to their higher population density.

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Genetics Ecology Aquatic Sciences

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Renan Barbosa is a journalist based in São Paulo, Brazil.

Dynamics of CAG repeat expansions in spinocerebellar ataxia types 2 and 3: A mathematical model approach

09 Sept 2023  |  Frontiers  |  English  |  Genetics

The article presents a study on the dynamics of CAG repeat expansions (CAGexp) associated with neurological diseases, specifically focusing on spinocerebellar ataxia types 2 (SCA2) and 3 (SCA3/MJD). The study uses a mathematical model to simulate the transmission of these genetic mutations over generations, considering factors such as anticipation, fitness, and allelic segregation. The model predicts that SCA2 lineages are likely to be eliminated within a median of 10 generations, while SCA3/MJD lineages may persist for much longer, potentially indefinitely, due to factors like favorable fitness and segregation distortion. The study also discusses the differences in the biological context of ATXN2 and ATXN3 genes, which are related to SCA2 and SCA3/MJD, respectively. The findings suggest that the maintenance of SCA2 in populations is likely due to de novo expansions, whereas SCA3/MJD may be preserved due to selective forces. The model's predictions align with empirical data, providing a coherent explanation for the long-term presence of these diseases in human populations.

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Population Genetics Genetics Neurological Diseases Spinocerebellar Ataxia Mathematical Modeling

Daniel Brown is a experienced journalist based in Paris, France. For the last 30 years he has traveled the world reporting in cultural, political and sporting fields, essentially in English and French. His features and reports regularly feature in publications in England and the US, and he has been ...

Wen is a documentary filmmaker and journalist based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. She has over ten years experience working as a producer, director, writer, videographer and editor in various formats: TV broadcast, digital platform and feature documentaries. She has worked on documentaries for Netflix,...

First Asp-2078-Gly Mutation Conferring Resistance to Different ACCase Inhibitors in a Polypogon fugax Population from China

28 Dec 2023  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Plant Genetics

A population of Asia minor bluegrass (Polypogon fugax) in China has developed resistance to multiple acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase) inhibitors due to an Asp-2078-Gly mutation. This mutation was found in 93.75% of the resistant population, indicating a strong correlation with herbicide resistance. The study highlights the need for diverse weed management practices to prevent further resistance development. The research also developed a new method for detecting this mutation efficiently.

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Plant Genetics Herbicide Resistance Weed Management

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Una Cilic is a multimedia journalist, currently based in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

International Day of Non-Violence

02 Oct 2023  |  www.slobodnaevropa.org  |  Bosnian  |  Genetics Congress

The text highlights several events: the start of the third congress of geneticists in Bosnia and Herzegovina, an international summit on climate and energy in Madrid, the International Day of Non-Violence, and a performance of 'Othello and Alice in Bed' as part of the Mess Festival.

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Genetics Congress International Day of Non-Violence Climate Summit Festival

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Hello, I am a freelance journalist based in Montevideo, Uruguay. I have worked for a number of news publications across three continents. Though I specialize in print and online journalism, I can also produce professional-level broadcast packages for television and radio.

Researchers Identify Olive Genes Associated with Fruit Weight

01 Oct 2023  |  Olive Oil Times  |  English  |  Genetics

Researchers in Spain have identified nine genes significantly correlated with olive fruit weight, a crucial trait for cultivation. The study, involving the University of Jaén and Ifapa, used genome-wide association analysis on 50 olive specimens, revealing genetic markers linked to fruit size. This advancement, funded by the Discover Foundation, aims to enhance breeding programs and improve olive cultivation. Future research will focus on identifying genes influencing polyphenol production to boost the organoleptic value and health benefits of olives.

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Genetics Agriculture Olive Cultivation

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Salvatore Esposito is a videographer, video editor and photographer based in London, United Kingdom.

Experienced videographer, video editor, and graphic designer with a proven track record in film production. Proficient in color correction and passionate about design. Effective communicator and ...

Allelic Variations in Vernalization (Vrn) Genes in Triticum spp.

17 Feb 2024  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Genetics

The article reviews the current knowledge of allelic variations in Vrn genes, which play a crucial role in wheat's transition from vegetative to reproductive growth. It examines the functional and structural aspects of Vrn alleles across different ploidy levels and highlights the complexity of their structural forms and nomenclature issues. The review emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues for harmonizing research efforts and enhancing understanding of Vrn gene function and evolution. It also discusses the potential of genomic and transcriptome sequences, bioinformatics, and computational biology in manipulating flowering time to improve wheat productivity.

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Genetics Plant Breeding Agricultural Science Molecular Biology

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Editorial and commerical photographer based in Edinburgh, United Kingdom. I tell stories for customers and help brands look their best.

Large-scale multitrait genome-wide association analyses identify hundreds of glaucoma risk loci

02 Oct 2023  |  Nature  |  English  |  Genetics

The study conducted large-scale multitrait genome-wide association analyses to identify hundreds of risk loci for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). The research included populations of European, Asian, and African ancestries and utilized data from various biobanks and genetic studies. The findings revealed 263 loci in the European ancestry population and 312 loci in a multiancestry meta-analysis, with many loci being novel. The study also identified potential drug targets for POAG, emphasizing the importance of genetic evidence in drug development. The research highlighted the genetic correlation between POAG and immune-related diseases, suggesting potential new therapeutic strategies.

Tags:

Genetics Glaucoma Genome-Wide Association Studies

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Staff Reporter Daily Pine Abbottabad Pakistan.Ex General Secretary Press Club Havelian Abottabad,District Correspondent(NNI) and also Columnist.

Genome-Wide Bioinformatics Analysis of SWEET Gene Family and Expression Verification of Candidate PaSWEET Genes in Potentilla anserina

30 Jan 2024  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Plant Genetics

The study identifies and analyzes 23 SWEET gene family members in the Potentilla anserina genome, categorizing them into four subfamilies. The research explores the genes' physicochemical properties, chromosomal localization, phylogenetic comparisons, and expression patterns in various tissues. Key findings include the high expression of PaSWEET7, PaSWEET9, and PaSWEET12 in swollen tubers, suggesting their role in tuber growth and development. The study provides a foundation for future research on SWEET genes and their potential in enhancing the molecular breeding of Potentilla anserina.

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Plant Genetics Genomics Biotechnology

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Benjamin Jacobs is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

Genome-wide association study of thyroid-stimulating hormone highlights new genes, pathways and associations with thyroid disease

23 Oct 2023  |  www.nature.com  |  English  |  Genetics

A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) was conducted using data from UK Biobank, EXCEED, Estonian Biobank, and Genes & Health, including a total sample size of 343,604 individuals. The study identified 260 independent sentinel variants associated with TSH at 156 unique genomic loci, with 158 being novel. These variants explain 22.8% of the TSH variance and 35.1% of the heritability previously estimated. The study also identified 112 putative causal genes for TSH-associated variants, with 76 genes not previously implicated in TSH levels. Pathway analysis highlighted signal transduction, particularly G protein and cAMP signaling, and new pathways such as VEGF hypoxia and angiogenesis. The study developed pathway-specific genetic risk scores (GRS) for TSH levels and demonstrated their relevance to thyroid diseases. A polygenic score (PGS) for TSH was constructed and shown to be associated with TSH levels across all ethnic groups in UK Biobank and with thyroid disease in European and South Asian ancestries. The study suggests the potential utility of genetic information in future case-finding strategies for thyroid disease.

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Genetics Thyroid Disease Genome-Wide Association Study

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Abhaya Raj Joshi is a journalist based in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Seeking environmental DNA in Himalayan rivers: Q&A with Adarsh Man Sherchan

01 Jun 2023  |  Mongabay Environmental News  |  English  |  Conservation Genetics

Adarsh Man Sherchan, a conservation geneticist in Nepal, discusses the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) for aquatic biodiversity assessments in the country's rivers, particularly in the context of hydropower plant development. Sherchan, who graduated from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and worked with the Center for Molecular Dynamics Nepal, highlights the challenges of collecting eDNA samples from unpredictable Himalayan rivers and the importance of safety during fieldwork. The interview also touches on the process of eDNA extraction and the role of taxonomists in filtering data noise during sequencing.

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Conservation Genetics Environmental Science Hydropower

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Shajid Khan is a journalist based in Guwahati India.His works  have appeared in The New York Times,The Telegraph,FirstPost Sabrang India,Counter currents.org . His areas of interest include issues of human rights,wildlife,conflict reporting,social issues.

Assam: Hen gives birth to chicks without laying, hatching eggs!

03 Oct 2023  |  NORTHEAST NOW  |  English  |  Genetics

In a rare incident in Jangalpara village, Assam, a hen gave birth to four chicks without laying any eggs. The hen, a Vanaraja breed developed by ICAR – Directorate of Poultry Research, delivered the chicks at Dipak Saharia's home. The phenomenon, which drew many visitors, was explained by experts as possibly due to genetic reasons, with the hatching process occurring inside the hen's reproductive system. Two of the chicks survived, while two died shortly after birth.

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Genetics Unusual Animal Behavior

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Tracy Lee is a multimedia journalist based in New York, United States of America. She has previously worked as a breaking news reporter in New York City, UN Headquarters and Brazil's Rio. She was most recently a breaking news reporter for Newsweek. In 2018, Tracy Lee finished a documentary episode ...

Brn3b regulates the formation of fear-related midbrain circuits and defensive responses to visual threat

05 Oct 2023  |  journals.plos.org  |  English  |  Genetics

The study investigates the role of the transcription factor Brn3b in the development and function of midbrain circuits responsible for defensive responses to visual threats. It reveals that Brn3b is crucial for the survival of specific neurons in the superior colliculus (SC) and their projections to the lateral posterior nucleus (LP) of the thalamus. Conditional deletion of Brn3b results in decreased axonal projections to the LP and reduced expression of the neuropeptide Tac2 in the deep SC and periaqueductal gray (PAG). This leads to diminished freezing responses to visual threats, which can be rescued by overexpressing Tac2. The findings highlight the molecular mechanisms underlying fear-related behaviors and suggest potential targets for treating fear-related psychiatric conditions.

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Genetics Neuroscience Behavioral Science

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Tao Li is a journalist based in Washington, United States of America.

Fine Mapping and Candidate Gene Analysis of the Gv1 Locus Controlling Green-Peel Color in Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)

04 Aug 2023  |  www.mdpi.com  |  English  |  Genetics

The study maps the Gv1 locus responsible for green-peel color in eggplant and identifies SmAPRR2-like as the candidate gene. Using whole genome re-sequencing and bulked segregant analysis, the Gv1 gene was narrowed down to a 173.2 kb interval on chromosome 8. The research provides markers for marker-assisted selection breeding and insights into the molecular mechanism of chlorophyll biosynthesis in eggplant fruit.

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Genetics Agricultural Science Plant Biology

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Sarah MacDonald is a journalist based in Saskatoon, Canada.

The genetics of non

14 Mar 2024  |  www.abc.net.au  |  English  |  Genetics

Data from over 8,000 mothers of twins from the US, UK, Netherlands, Iceland, and Australia have identified seven genetic markers associated with twinning. The research, conducted by the Queensland Institute of Medical Research, was discussed by lead author Professor Nick Martin. Saliva samples were key in this genetic study.

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Genetics Twins Medical Research

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I am a documentary filmmaker, photographer, multimedia journalist and conservation storyteller currently based and registered for business in Suva, Fiji. I specialise in impactful storytelling related to social justice, human rights, climate change, climate resilience, environmental conservation, ...

The Immortal Jellyfish: A Peek into the Potential Secrets of Biological Immortality

05 Apr 2023  |  Hindustan Times  |  English  |  Genetics

The article discusses the unique biological phenomenon of the 'immortal jellyfish' (Turritopsis dohrnii), which can reverse its ageing process and revert to a juvenile form under stress. Scientists, including Maria Pascual-Torner and Víctor Quesada from the University of Oviedo, have studied these jellyfish and recently mapped their genome, publishing their findings in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The research indicates that there is no single gene responsible for this immortality, but rather a complex interplay of genes that contribute to DNA protection and repair, telomere protection, and cellular transformation. The study opens up questions about the mechanisms of immortality and its rarity in biology, as well as the potential for genetic changes over multiple regeneration cycles. The author, Anirban Mahapatra, is a scientist and author, and he suggests that further research could explore genetic variations in jellyfish over generations.

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Genetics Science & Environment Biology Marine Life

Marian Männi is an award-winning journalist editor, and producer. She has mostly worked with Estonian and English language media. Marian is an avid fighter for justice and human rights. Marian has worked with Greenpeace, Reporters Without Borders and Transparency International. She co-founded the ...

DNA study looks at how height and fertility are connected

01 Oct 2023  |  news.err.ee  |  English  |  Genetics

Liisa Loog, an evolutionary geneticist and anthropologist, is investigating the connection between height and fertility using ancient and modern DNA data. Her research, conducted at the University of Tartu, reveals that genetic traits related to reproduction and height are interconnected and influenced by environmental factors. Estonia's comprehensive biobank and the UK Biobank provide valuable data for her study. Loog aims to understand the biological mechanisms behind these traits to offer better health advice and design environments that promote long-term health and fertility.

Tags:

Genetics Fertility Anthropology

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Tom Melville is a mutli-media and broadcast journalist based in Tunis, Tunisia.

DNA Analysis reveals secrets of Iceman ancestry

17 Aug 2023  |  www.abc.net.au  |  English  |  Genetics

Researchers using DNA analysis have discovered that Otzi the Iceman, a 5300-year-old Italian mummy, has ancestry tracing back to Anatolia in modern-day Turkey, rather than Sardinia and Eurasian Steppe Herders as previously believed. This suggests Otzi could be an early link between farmers and hunter-gatherers.

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Genetics Archaeology

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I work as a reporter for Mancunian Matters, a Manchester based news site.

I'm available for radio/Skype interviews.

I can write copy on various topics.

GATA2 mitotic bookmarking is required for definitive haematopoiesis

05 Oct 2023  |  Nature  |  English  |  Genetics

GATA2, a hemogenic transcription factor, remains bound to chromatin throughout mitosis, independently of cellular context or protein levels, and bookmarks key hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) regulators. The study demonstrates that GATA2's mitotic retention is crucial for definitive haematopoiesis, as its degradation during the M-G1 transition leads to embryonic lethality and impaired hematopoietic development. The research highlights the importance of GATA2's C-terminal zinc finger (C-ZF) domain for DNA binding and mitotic retention, and shows that GATA2 cooperates with other hematopoietic regulators during mitosis. The findings underscore the critical role of GATA2 in maintaining hematopoietic lineage commitment and blood specification during embryonic development.

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Genetics Haematopoiesis Cell Biology

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Quentin Richard is a journalist based in Paris, France.

With expertise in research, field interviews, shooting, audio capture, and video editing, I offer a valuable advantage when quick turnaround is vital. I excel in collaborating with other talented professionals to deliver exceptional results....

The oncometabolite D-2-hydroxyglutarate promotes DNA hypermethylation at lineage-specific enhancers controlling microglial activation in IDHmut gliomas

23 Aug 2024  |  www.biorxiv.org  |  English  |  Genetics

Tumor-associated macrophages and microglia in IDH-mutant gliomas exhibit DNA hypermethylation at distal enhancers, impairing transcription factor binding and reducing inflammatory and glycolytic metabolism programs. D-2-hydroxyglutarate (D-2HG) exposure inhibits TET-mediated demethylation, altering microglial responses and enhancing oxidative phosphorylation. Depletion of D-2HG in a glioma patient restored microglial reactivity, suggesting oncometabolites disrupt immune cell function in the tumor microenvironment.

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Genetics Cancer Research Immunology

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Alison Roberts is a journalist based in Lisbon, Portugal. Currently freelance correspondent for BBC News, she also contributes to National Public Radio (US), CBC (Canada) and other English-language services, as well as Portugal's national news agency Lusa. Edited Time Out Guides since 1999 and ...

Journalist interested in human rights and International news.
Coverage of Ukrainian crisis in 2014 from Kiev and Crimea.
Reporting conditions of Syrian and Palestinian refugee camps in Jordan. Investigation about violation of human rights towards Kurds in Southeastern Turkey. Feature Photo ...

Can Triploid Genetics Be The Game Changer For The Cannabis Industry?

15 Feb 2024  |  Forbes  |  English  |  Genetics

The cultivation of triploid genetics in cannabis promises higher THC levels, larger yields, faster growth, and seedless flowers, potentially revolutionizing the industry. Triploid cannabis, characterized by having three chromosomes, offers benefits such as increased yield, potency, and sustainability. However, environmental concerns and the need for further research on long-term impacts remain. Experts like Benjamin Lind and Sarah Carter highlight both the potential and the challenges of adopting triploid cannabis cultivation.

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Genetics Cannabis Industry Agriculture

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