Check out the latest Genomics Week in Brief – full of intriguing news and research from the genomics space!
Top stories from the past week:
- A new study has identified hundreds of genetic variants linked to autism spectrum disorder in East African families (Cell Genomics).
- A team of researchers have designed bioactive degraders to tackle harmful MYC mutations in cancer (Nature).
- An artificial intelligence model has identified specific amino acids that can aid delivery of drugs to the eye (Nature Communications).
- Subunits of the SWI/SNF complex can ‘bookmark’ aspects of cellular identity, allowing cells – including cancerous ones – to remember which type of cell they should become after replication (Nature).
- Using a multi-omics approach, researchers identified changes that impact the readability of transposable elements linked to flu severity (Cell Genomics).
- A cleft lip or palate is caused by a combination of genetic factors and environmental risks during pregnancy (Nature Communications).
- A genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s may place you at risk of epilepsy, according to a recent study (Neurology).
- A transcriptomic study has identified epigenetic changes in fibroblasts that contribute to COPD, subsequently opening up a potential therapeutic avenue (The EMBO Journal).
- New research suggests that the act of ‘second-guessing’ decisions is a genetically hardwired behaviour (iScience).
- Researchers have used a mouse model to assess how mutations in the KIF5A gene may contribute to ALS (Neurobiology of Disease).
- Scientists have classified bladder cancer into distinct subtypes, which respond differently to treatments (Science Translational Medicine).
- Alterations to a serotonin receptor have been identified as a factor in SIDS (Journal of Neuropathology & Experimental Neurology).
- A study has revealed how the epigenetic landscape of cells allows certain transcription factors to access tightly wound DNA (Nature).
- Researchers have engineered bacteria to produce a rare amino acid that can impact the immune system (Nature Chemical Biology).
In other news:
- The NHS has announced the introduction of ‘blood group genotyping’, a service to match patients in need of blood transfusions with suitable donors (NHS).
- The UK government announced £103 million of funding for top UK science and research institutions to improve the nation’s research infrastructure (UK Government).
- New studies in mice have revealed that oxygen restriction could aid longevity (Harvard University).
- Electronic brain implants have allowed a formerly paralysed man to walk again, just by thinking about the actions (BBC).
- Artificial intelligence has aided in the discovery of a new antibiotic that can defeat deadly ‘superbugs’ (BBC).
- MHRA and Genomics England have announced the launch of the ‘Yellow Card Biobank’. It will contain genetic data and operate in conjunction with the Yellow Card scheme for reporting side effects (UK Government).
