The story behind the mumps outbreaks of 2016-17

Studying the mumps virus genomes in 2016 and 2017 filled in gaps about how the disease was spreading in Massachusetts and elsewhere in the U.S.

Karen Zusi • harvard
Feb. 11, 2020 • ~8 min

Genome ‘atlas’ pinpoints driver mutations that cancers share

A new "atlas" of whole cancer genomes reveals connections among cancers. The work, from more than 700 scientists, could lead to better treatment.

Holly Watkins-U. Melbourne • futurity
Feb. 6, 2020 • ~6 min

Basmati rice genome could pinpoint valuable traits

Researchers have assembled the complete genome of two varieties of basmati rice, one of which is drought-tolerant and resistant to bacterial disease.

Rachel Harrison-NYU • futurity
Feb. 5, 2020 • ~4 min

Big step toward identifying all cancer-causing genetic mutations

An international team of 1,300 scientists has generated the most complete cancer genome map to date, bringing researchers closer to identifying all major cancer-causing genetic mutations.

Stephanie McPherson • harvard
Feb. 5, 2020 • ~12 min

Modern tomatoes are very different from their wild ancestors – and we found missing links in their evolution

Through genetic detective work, scientists have identified missing links in the tomato’s evolution from a wild blueberry-sized fruit in South America to the larger modern tomato of today.

Ana Caicedo, Associate Professor of Biology, University of Massachusetts Amherst • conversation
Jan. 30, 2020 • ~6 min

Salamander’s genome may unravel regeneration mystery

The axolotl salamander can regrow lost limbs and parts of its brain or heart. Figuring out its huge genome may pave the way for human tissue regeneration.

Bill Hathaway-Yale • futurity
Jan. 28, 2020 • ~2 min

Quinoa’s flowering genes could make it easier to grow

Quinoa's history has led to varieties that need specific growing conditions. Research on the plant's flowering genes could make things easier for farmers.

Nerissa Hannink-Melbourne • futurity
Jan. 23, 2020 • ~5 min

Team sequences genome of elusive giant squid

Scientists have sequenced the entire genome of the giant squid, a 10-armed invertebrate believed to grow up to 42 feet and weigh close to 2,000 pounds.

Anders Buch-Larsen-Copenhagen • futurity
Jan. 16, 2020 • ~4 min

Indian cobra genome could lead to better anti-venom

"For the first time, we now have a full list of venom-relevant toxin genes of the Indian cobra." The genome sequencing could lead to new anti-venom.

National University of Singapore • futurity
Jan. 7, 2020 • ~2 min

Water lily genome holds clues to flower plant evolution

The genome sequence of a water lily sheds light on the early evolution of angiosperms, the group of all flowering plants.

Sam Sholtis-Penn State • futurity
Jan. 3, 2020 • ~5 min

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