RNA sequencing

RNA sequencing technology lags far behind researchers’ ability to decode and understand DNA. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted this dangerous shortcoming.

Influenza RNA sequences from three sets of lungs preserved in formalin since 1918 provide new insights into the deadly pandemic.

In mice, epigenetic marks made on histones during infancy influence depression-like behavior during adulthood. A drug that reverses the genomic tags appears to undo the damage.

The presence of a particular set of RNAs in the blood forewarns of an onset of severe symptoms and points to the cells involved.

Plants, fungi, and bacteria likely contributed to insect diversity.

Cardiomyocytes made from iPSCs aboard the International Space Station had upregulated mitochondrial functioning.

Suppressing the natural age-related increase in neuronal excitation lengthens the lives of worms, and there are indications that the same may be true for mice and humans.

Conflicting results on the existence of new neurons in adults have researchers designing new ways to identify and count neuronal progenitors—and finally get to the bottom of neurogenesis.

New ways to search for druggable RNAs and matching small molecules

An RNA analysis of human brain cells reveals gene expression changes in cortical neurons and microglia linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The PsychENCODE project delves into the DNA, RNA, and protein changes related to brain development and neuropsychiatric disorders, but researchers caution it’s just a first step toward treatment.

A small pilot study suggests the approach can identify effective treatments already approved for other cancers.

Combining data from the genetic testing techniques can guide patient care, scientists say.