Genetics

Plants

Lone survivor of ancient flowers is gluttonous gene consumer

The rare Amborella shrub has engulfed whole genomes from other species.

Microbes

MRSA strain swiped skin bacteria genes to survive

A common strain of the dangerous microbe may be a wolf in sheep's clothing.

Genetics

You are what your dad ate, perhaps

Your development is affected by what your mother ate while she was pregnant with you. Is it also affected by what your father ate? A new study suggests that folate deficiency in dads can affect their offspring through epigenetic changes.

Genetics

Evolution of venom, binge eating seen in snake DNA

Python and cobra genes evolved quickly to enable hunting strategies.

Neuroscience

Fear can be inherited

Parents’ and even grandparents’ experiences echo in offspring, a study of mice finds.

Genetics

DNA changes may show how whales adapted to water

Comparing the genetic material of whales has revealed DNA changes that may have helped the animals adapt to aquatic environments.

Neuroscience

Gene that boosts Alzheimer’s risk might protect against it too

Carrying certain genetic versions of apolipoprotein E is a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. A new study looks at the effects of different types of APOE on the major markers of Alzheimer’s in mice and shows that all forms are not equal.

Genetics

Ancient Siberian bones clarify Native American origins

Some New World ancestors came from western Eurasia, not East Asia.

Genetics

Sexy male mice have competitive moms

Moms allowed to compete for mates produce sons that make sexy pheromones, live hard and die young. How? Epigenetics.

Humans

Humans’ music and genes may have evolved together

Music may be a tool scientists can use to trace human migrations.

Genetics

Dogs’ origins lie in Europe

First domesticated canines did not live in China or Middle East, a study of mitochondrial DNA finds.

Genetics

Genetic difference in blood clotting may underlie racial health disparity

Finding could help explain difference between blacks and whites in heart attack survival.