Latest science news in Biology & Nature
Pluripotent and differentiated human cells reside in decidedly different epigenomic landscapes
Human embryonic stem cells possess remarkable properties of self-renewal and pluripotency, the ability to become almost any kind of cell within the body. And yet they share the same genome...
New tool enables wider analyses of genome 'deep sequencing'
A new web-based algorithm allows scientists to plumb the unprecedented depths of the data provided by new "deep-sequencing" techniques to reveal a pantheon of control regions for nearly any gene.
New genes linked to osteoporosis
MONTREAL, May 5 (UPI) -- An international team of scientists, including some from Canada, has linked 20 genes with osteoporosis, including 13 never before associated with the disease.
Private clinics get mixed diagnosis
The viability of Alberta's health-care delivery model is under scrutiny as a Calgary-based private clinic faces bankruptcy.
Living woolly mammoth protein created
A Canadian-led team of researchers has made a living blood protein using DNA recovered from preserved woolly mammoth bones.
Researchers Find First Evidence of DNA Swapping Between Insects and Mammals
The Triatomine Rhodnius prolixus Dr. Erwin Huebner, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada Think all of your genetic material came straight down to you from further up your family tree? A team of researchers...
Groundbreaking new understanding of stem cells: Findings may improve ability to manipulate cell fate and promote healing
In findings that could one day lead to new therapies, researchers have described some striking differences between the biochemistry of stem cells versus mature cells.
Pitt pharmacologists go on a molecular fishing trip and hook prize catch
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine went on a molecular fishing trip and netted a catch of new mediators that not only can explain how omega-3 fatty...
'Junk DNA' drives cancer growth
Researchers from the University of Leeds, UK, the Charite University Medical School and the Max Delbrueck Centre for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in Berlin, Germany, have discovered a new driving force...
Study adds to evidence that autism has genetic basis
Although there is no known cause of autism, studies have shown that mutations in several genes are associated with the developmental brain disorder. New research has uncovered two additional genes...
Oil slick threatens birds and marine animals
Its long, brown neck held firmly in a blue towel, the northern gannet struggled for freedom, unaware of how very lucky it is to have been found swimming in a...
Why genius isn't in the genes
The belief that a genius is the product of genetic make-up is as pervasive as it is wrong, according to David ShenkTalent is like the marksman who hits the target others cannot...
'The mushrooms - familiar or dangerous' - a new showcase in the exhibitions of the NMNHS
A new showcase, 'The mushrooms - familiar or dangerous,' can be seen in the exhibitions on the fourth floor at the National Museum of Natural History, Sofia. Briefly presented is...
Sheltered Inlets, Hanging in the Balance
Sheltered inlets, nurseries to so much wildlife, are among the most delicate ecosystems and deeply affected by oil.
Get your lower body in shape for summer
Here's a simple yet challenging way to firm and tighten your buttocks and thighs. If you start to incorporate this move into your exercise routine now, you can help get...
DNA referees
Scientists are just beginning to understand the effect lifestyle choices and other environmental factors have on altering gene behavior, a rapidly emerging field called epigenetics. ...
Satellites, DNA and dolphins
Using DNA samples and images from Earth-orbiting satellites, conservationists from Columbia University, the Wildlife Conservation Society, the American Museum of Natural History, and Fundacion AquaMarina, are gathering new insights about...
Unmasking anthrax for immune destruction
Anthrax-causing bacteria can be engineered to shed their invisibility cloaks, making it easier for the immune system to eradicate it, according to a new study published in Microbiology. The work...
The Brain's Molecular Software
If you ever looked at the inside of a computer, you would find intricate wirings and connections. But the computer is essentially useless until you’ve downloaded all the necessary software...
Scientists race to create cat-level artificial brain
Pentagon-backed scientists aim to create a human-like machine, at some point. But they are starting out with the goal of crafting artificial intelligence on the level of a cat's brain....
Spill Central at University of Miami
MIAMI - As Florida Governor Charlie Crist declared a state of emergency in parts of the Panhandle today, scientists at the Center for Southeastern Tropical Advanced Remote Sensing (CSTARS) at...
Can Microbes Save The Gulf Beaches? The Challenges Are Myriad
At this point it's unclear how much of an environmental threat oil spreading from...
Genome tests offer crystal ball to future
PALO ALTO, Calif., April 30 (UPI) -- A genome report soon will cost no more than $1,000, enabling more people to learn about the health risks encoded in their...
ScienceShot: How Lazy Crabs Become Marathon Runners Overnight
Dramatic shift in gene expression helps crustaceans make 5-kilometer trek
Aphids Pilfered Red Genes From Fungus
Aphids can be a gardener’s nightmare. But they may be an evolutionary biologist’s dream. Because they’re pioneers in the history of life on earth. For one thing, they’re now the...
Podcast: Grieving Chimps, Elephant Alarm Calls, Dark Matter 'Footballs,' and More
Listen to a roundup of some of our favorite stories from the week
Production fish need a tranquil start to avoid malformation
For production fish, a serene start to life raises their chances for normal development. This is the main conclusion of a major research project on malformations in cod and salmon....
Main malaria mosquito thrives in salty waters too
The main mosquito species responsible for the spread of malaria in Sri Lanka has now been found to be able to breed in brackish water.