Global network formed to investigate coronaviruses |
A new international network brings together researchers in animal and human coronaviruses to further understanding in a range of fields, such as disease transmission and immunity. The network aims to enhance knowledge of this important virus family, to inform response strategies for future outbreaks. The UK International Coronavirus Network (UK-ICN) will facilitate collaborative research and a long term approach across human and animal health. Read more |
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DNA variations linked to severe Covid-19 risk |
Specific variations in DNA are associated with patients developing the most severe form of Covid-19. Factors such as smoking and high body mass index also cause patients to suffer from acute disease, scientists reported. The findings partially explain why some people become seriously ill with Covid-19 and could provide targets for future therapies using repurposed drugs. The study was led by the Covid-19 Host Genetics Initiative, a collaboration involving more than 3,300 researchers and 61 studies from 25 countries, including the Roslin Institute. Read more | | |
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Major DNA region linked to disease resistance in tilapia |
A specific region in the genome of Nile tilapia – a key aquaculture species that is worth nearly $10 billion globally – has a major effect on mortality levels during an outbreak of Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV), a study led by Roslin and WorldFish has found. Fish with specific genetic variants in this region were substantially less likely to die in an outbreak of the virus than fish without these variants. Survival rates improved by approximately one-third. By selecting parent fish for breeding based on these variants, tilapia strains with innate resistance can be developed. Read more | | |
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Environment drives DNA changes in Ethiopian chickens |
The DNA of Ethiopian chickens has changed to help them adapt to local climates, a study has found. Regions of their genetic code are found to be associated with adaptation to environmental stresses. For instance, changes in DNA allow chickens living at high altitude to be more resilient to low oxygen levels and cold temperatures than those surviving in lower elevation regions. Read more | | |
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Sustainable farming in low-income countries |
Livestock farming is fundamental to many livelihoods in low- and middle-income countries, where the challenges and motivations of smallholder farmers in how best to feed, care for and profit from their livestock vary from those of high-income countries. Insights into genetics, the application of gene technologies in well-designed breeding programmes, basic and creative interventions, and data can deliver great benefits. Read our blog | | |
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Professor Mick Watson on the livestock microbiome |
In an interview, Professor Watson speaks about the challenges of applying bioinformatics to make sense of genes, the value of networking, and the allure of funding free of politics. Read more | | |
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Dr Tom Burdon on studying livestock in a dish |
In an interview, Dr Burdon speaks about understanding different immune responses in wild and commercial pigs, and being driven by a sense of adventure in research. Read more | | |
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