evolutionary genomics

Rather than introducing small chunks of DNA as other viruses do, some giant viruses can contribute more than 1 million base pairs to a host’s genome, broadening the ways in which viruses may shape eukaryote evolution.

An analysis of the genomes of people from 50 ethnolinguistic groups in Africa spots 62 genes under positive selection and 3 million more genetic variants than previously documented.

Analyses of more than 300 ancient human genomes show that Hepatitis B virus has infected humans for at least 4,500 years and has much older origins than modern viral genomes would suggest.

A new study reveals how Neanderthal DNA in the genomes of present-day British people influences their traits.

Emerging infections provide clues about how pathogens might evolve when farm animals are protected from infection.

Tracking the myxoma virus in the wild rabbit populations of Australia has yielded insight into how pathogens and their hosts evolve.

Biologists’ walk in the woods sparks the creation of a masterful fruit fly field guide. 

A genomic analysis of “Klosneuviruses” suggests that they evolved from small viruses that accumulated genetic material over time, but not all virologists are convinced. 

Researchers discover that short pieces of DNA harboring oncogenes are relatively widespread in cancer.

The emergence of blood abnormalities, an adult ability to digest milk, and changes in our physical appearance point to the continued evolution of the human race.

Ancient DNA in the genomes of modern humans influences a range of physiological traits.

Domestication may have saved pumpkins, gourds, and squash as seed dispersers like the mastodon went extinct. 

John Henry Holland, who developed genetic algorithms, has passed away. He was 86.

Female fruit flies challenged with infection during their lifetimes have offspring with greater genetic diversity.

Duplication of copy number variants may be the source of greatest diversity among people, researchers find.

Mammalian Y chromosome genes with important functions are transferred to autosomal chromosomes more often than previously thought, a study shows.

What researchers are learning as they sequence, map, and decode species’ genomes

Color vision as we know it resulted from one fortuitous genetic event after another.

In addition to serving as a set of instructions to build an individual, the genome can influence neighboring organisms and, potentially, entire ecosystems.