Epigenetic modifications

Animal Development: Embryonic Development and Morphogenesis

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Animal development, also known as embryonic development, encompasses the complex processes through which a single fertilized egg cell transforms into a multicellular organism with distinct tissues, organs, and body structures. This intricate journey involves cellular differentiation, tissue organization, morphogenetic movements, and regulatory mechanisms that orchestrate the formation of body axes, germ layers, organ systems, and … Read more

Neuroplasticity: Brain’s Ability to Change and Adapt

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Neuroplasticity, also known as brain plasticity or neural plasticity, is a fundamental property of the brain that refers to its ability to change and adapt throughout life in response to experiences, learning, environmental stimuli, injury, and disease. This remarkable capacity for structural and functional reorganization enables the brain to modify neural pathways, establish new connections, … Read more

Developmental Biology: Processes from Fertilization to Organism Formation

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Developmental biology is a fascinating field that explores the processes governing the growth, differentiation, and organization of cells into complex multicellular organisms. From the moment of fertilization, when a sperm cell fuses with an egg cell, to the formation of fully functional organs and tissues, developmental biology seeks to unravel the intricate molecular, cellular, and … Read more

Genomics: Mapping Genomes and Genetic Variation

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Genomics is a field of biology that focuses on the study of genomes, which are the complete sets of genetic material (DNA) present in an organism. Genomics encompasses a wide range of disciplines, techniques, and methodologies aimed at mapping genomes, analyzing genetic variation, understanding gene function, and elucidating the genetic basis of traits, diseases, and … Read more

Genetics of Cancer: Causes and Treatments

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Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation. It can affect virtually any part of the body and is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The genetics of cancer play a crucial role in understanding its causes, development, progression, and potential treatments. Genetic Basis of … Read more

Genetics: Inheritance and Molecular Basis of Life

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Genetics, the study of heredity and the molecular basis of life, represents a cornerstone of modern biology with profound implications for understanding biological diversity, human health, evolution, and biotechnological applications. At the core of genetics lies the exploration of genetic inheritance, the transmission of traits from parents to offspring, and the molecular mechanisms governing genetic … Read more

Cryo-EM structures elucidate parental histone transfer during DNA replication

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A research team has recently made a significant breakthrough in understanding how the DNA copying machine helps pass on epigenetic information to maintain gene traits at each cell division. Understanding how this coupled mechanism could lead to new treatments for cancer and other epigenetic diseases by targeting specific changes in gene activity. Their findings have recently been … Read more

What is the difference between DNA and RNA?

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DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) and RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) are two fundamental molecules essential for life as we know it. While they share similarities in their chemical composition and play crucial roles in genetic processes, they also exhibit distinct differences that are essential for understanding the complexity of biological systems. DNA, famously known as the “molecule of … Read more

Process of transcription in molecular biology

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The process of transcription is a fundamental molecular mechanism that plays a central role in the flow of genetic information within living cells. Transcription is the synthesis of RNA from a DNA template, and it is a crucial step in gene expression. This intricate process involves a series of molecular events that ensure the accurate … Read more

Molecular biology

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Molecular biology is a branch of biology that explores the structure, function, and interactions of molecules that make up the essential components of living organisms. It delves into the molecular mechanisms underlying various biological processes, including DNA replication, transcription, translation, and cellular signaling. At its core, molecular biology seeks to understand the molecular basis of … Read more

Genomic DNA

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Genomic DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the hereditary material found within the nucleus of a cell and carries the genetic instructions for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known living organisms. Understanding the structure and function of genomic DNA is fundamental to unraveling the mysteries of genetics, inheritance, and the diversity of life … Read more

Nuclear gene

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Nuclear genes are the genes located within the cell nucleus of eukaryotic organisms, encompassing a vast array of genetic information that governs the development, function, and regulation of the organism. These genes are housed in the nuclear genome, distinct from genes found in other cellular compartments, such as mitochondria or chloroplasts. Understanding nuclear genes is … Read more

What is a gene?

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A gene is a fundamental unit of heredity, a segment of DNA that contains the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. These instructions govern the development, functioning, and characteristics of living organisms, from single-celled bacteria to complex multicellular beings like humans. The study of genes and their transmission from one generation to the next … Read more

What is DNA?

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Deoxyribonucleic acid, commonly known as DNA, is a molecule that serves as the fundamental building block of life. Its intricate structure and vital functions form the basis of genetic information storage, transmission, and expression in all living organisms. Understanding the nature of DNA involves exploring its composition, the double-helical structure, and its role as the … Read more

Scientists discover how pioneer transcription factors access tightly wound DNA

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DNA, like a tightly wrapped thread around a spool, is packaged into nucleosomes by wrapping around histones. Researchers at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital have been investigating how pioneer transcription factors, a type of transcription factor, gain access to DNA even when it is tightly wound. Their study, published in Nature, provides insights into how … Read more