DNA and Genes
Latest about Genetics
![Medical illustration of blue neurons against a black background. Signaling between the neurons is shown as "lit-up" glowing portions that are red or yellow in color.](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HnfbZc2No55PgtjXhBWigD-320-80.jpg)
Some people recover from ALS — now, we might know why
By Emily Cooke published
A rare gene variant may explain why a subset of patients with ALS recover from the deadly disease.
![A conceptual 3D illustration showing a strand of DNA being cut with large scissors](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/55t3oEXoFbTmFeHN5jWYt8-320-80.jpg)
How does CRISPR work?
By Kamal Nahas last updated
CRISPR is a versatile tool for editing genomes and has recently been approved as a gene therapy treatment for certain blood disorders.
![An artist's rendering of two strands of DNA, one blue and one pink, with tiny X and Y chromosomes in the background](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fgQyf7S8t6nBnod9h7KLym-320-80.jpg)
Why genetic testing can't always reveal the sex of a baby
By Maggie Ruderman, Kimberly Zayhowski published
Gender and sex are more complicated than X and Y chromosomes.
![Slightly blurred photo shows a person in blue pajamas holding a white comforter and moving their legs around, as if restless](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WCtd7sWCqtPnUTTHvdtBV-320-80.jpg)
Restless legs syndrome tied to 140 'hotspots' in the genome
By Emily Cooke published
A new study has identified more than 140 novel genetic risk factors associated with the development of restless legs syndrome.
![Colorful illustration of three illuminated DNA molecules against a black background](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7Rd4sKSCrUjyN54LBtFCMi-320-80.jpg)
'Fossil viruses' embedded in the human genome linked to psychiatric disorders
By Sahana Sitaraman published
Certain stretches of ancient viral DNA in the human genome may increase the chances of developing three neuropsychiatric disorders.
![Medical illustration of a single strand of messenger RNA in pink. The molecule is slightly twisted and extends across the width of the image. The background is blurred but is a mixture of blue, pink, purple and green colors.](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YcEMshpwY8rsdev3ZZHDKB-320-80.jpg)
New genetic cause of intellectual disability potentially uncovered in 'junk DNA'
By Emily Cooke published
Mutations in "junk DNA" could be responsible for rare genetic cases of intellectual disability, new research hints.
![Photo of a silverback gorilla walking on all fours in a field in front of trees, looking into the camera.](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4DrGG3iNfUDrGnWNjqTJfA-320-80.jpg)
The same genetic mutations behind gorillas' small penises may hinder fertility in men
By Nicola Williams published
Scientists have used the gorilla genome to probe for previously unknown genes that may contribute to infertility in men.
![Illustration of a DNA double helix against a blue background. Two other helices can be seen blurred in the background](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7ymq6eMwFjEM8BhcJ5qBvM-320-80.png)
10 unexpected ways Neanderthal DNA affects our health
By Emily Cooke published
Around 2% of the genomes of modern Eurasians contains Neanderthal DNA. Here's how it affects our health.
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