Genetics

Life

Vagina bacteria make molecules that could be drugs

Microbes on the human body are capable of producing thousands of small molecules that hold potential as drugs.

Genetics

Molecular biologist honors ancient bones

After deciphering an ancient skeleton’s genetic secrets, molecular biologist Sarah Anzick helped reinter the remains.

Earth

Feedback

Readers discuss Tibetan genetics, how Saharan dust built the Bahamas and why people don't like being left alone with their thoughts.

Genetics

A story about why people get fat may be just that

In this issue, reporters look at efforts to find the genes that could be responsible for the obesity crisis and how evolution acts on diseases such as Ebola and tuberculosis.

Genetics

Ancient famine-fighting genes can’t explain obesity

Scientists question the long-standing notion that adaptation — specifically the evolution of genes that encourage humans to hold on to fat so they can survive times of famine — has driven the obesity crisis.

Genetics

Source of coffee’s kick found in its genetic code

Coffee doubled up on caffeine-making genes. Those genes evolved independently from similar ones found in tea and chocolate plants.

Materials Science

Silkworms spin spider-strong threads

Silkworms with a spider protein make silk tough enough to be woven into clothing.

Health & Medicine

Tiny mites are probably crawling all over your face

Two skin mites, relatives of spiders, might populate the faces of all adult humans, according to a DNA survey.

Genetics

Ebola genome clarifies origins of West African outbreak

Genetic analyses suggest that a single infected person sparked the ongoing Ebola epidemic in West Africa.

Animals

Antarctic midge sports tiniest insect genome

Antarctic midge‘s genetic minimalism achieved by skipping a lot of repetitive stretches.

Genetics

Long before Columbus, seals brought tuberculosis to South America

Evidence from the skeletons of ancient Peruvians shows that seals may have brought tuberculosis across an ocean from Africa.

Genetics

Debate rages over mouse studies’ relevance to humans

Last year, researchers said rodents are not good mimics of human inflammation; a new study says the reverse.