Lifeboat Foundation

Even in this “age of the genome,” much about genes remains shrouded in mystery. This is especially true for “cryptic mutations”—mutated genes that are hidden, and have unexpected effects on traits that are only revealed when combined with other mutations. Learning from one infamous cryptic mutation in particular, researchers from CSHL share important lessons for breeding or gene editing in crops.

This story starts with the Campbell Soup Company and a field of tomatoes in the mid 20th century. One particular tomato plant had an unexpected beneficial trait: the fruits separated from the vine right where the green cap and stem touch the rest of the fruit. It turned out that this spontaneous natural mutant was ideal for large-scale production.

Continue reading “Cryptic mutation is cautionary tale for crop gene editing” »

#Interesting #opinion This was brought up a decade ago, yet he was never asked to alter his genetics to make it fair for others. Is the current case one of discrimination? The recent work on the Chinese CRISPER babies showed that it augmented their ability. Will CRISPER babies also have in the future to “Change Their Genetics” to compete in sports if deemed unfair advantage?

Powerful gene-editing tools have the potential to heal—or to harm. Now there’s a race to develop the antidote to the next bioweapon.

It turns out the capacity for offspring to benefit from their parents’ experiences doesn’t just happen with fish. Munday tells me about Daphnia, often called water fleas, that are found in freshwater lakes, ponds, and puddles. The tiny crustacean can hatch with either a round head or a pointed head. If it shares the water with predators such as fish or midges or other insects, spikes and spines help lessen the likelihood of being eaten. For many species of juvenile water flea…

Insights into epigenetics and inheritance show that some organisms can adapt to a changing world.

CRISPR’d crops could help us address both hunger and obesity.

David Sinclair is a Professor in the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School and co-Director of the Paul Glenn Centre for the Biological Mechanisms of Ageing.

Today we hear from a scientist at the cutting edge of longevity research as Professor Sinclair gives us a fascinating insight into the world of anti-ageing.

Continue reading “PROFESSOR DAVID SINCLAIR | Can Humans Live For 1000 Years? | Modern Wisdom Podcast #066” »

The lionfish is an invasive species that is currently wreaking havoc in the warm waters of the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and the US southwestern Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts. But where did they come from and what makes this normally docile hunter suddenly turn vicious in its new home? To answer these questions, North Carolina State University initiated a study of lionfish genetics to learn more about their origins and how to control them.