Sunday, January 26, 2025
Gene Mixing in Rare Birch Trees: Conservation vs./& Adaptation
Scientists study the genes of endangered species to help protect them. Betula microphylla is a rare tree in Northwest China that grows near two other birch species, B. tianshanica and B. pendula. Researchers wanted to find out if B. microphylla is genetically unique or if its genes have mixed with the other species.
They used DNA analysis on 135 trees, including 87 new samples, to examine the genetic relationships. The results showed three main genetic groups for each species, but B. microphylla had genes mixed (or "introgressed") from B. tianshanica and B. pendula. This gene mixing was confirmed by additional tests, which found 378 genes in the mixed regions, including eight linked to surviving tough environments.
To protect B. microphylla, scientists recommend strategies to prevent it from being overwhelmed by genes from B. pendula. They also suggest creating conservation areas and protecting B. tianshanica, as it may be closely related to B. microphylla.
Labels: conservation
Saturday, January 25, 2025
How Viruses Change Cells: A Look Inside
Life of a virology professor. It is always fascinating to see the physiological changes in cells after they are virus infected. My lab is 1) identifying how gammaherpesviruses (which cause cancer) change host cell metabolism and 2) identifying anti-metabolism drugs that can be used as antivirals. 🧪
— Tracie Delgado (@traciedelgado.bsky.social) January 25, 2025 at 8:47 AM
