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Type 2 diabetes has been described as a geneticist's nightmare. Following a recent spate of impressive results from genome-wide association studies, the author looks at how they have advanced our understanding of this disease and informed future use of this approach towards identifying genetic variants in general.
The authors use the well-studied example of Decapentaplegic (DPP) to illustrate key aspects of the morphogen concept. They discuss the well-established role of DPP in pattern formation as well as models for its less understood role in growth regulation.
The authors argue that a new approach, the functional synthesis, which combines evolutionary analyses of gene sequences with molecular biology experiments, opens new avenues to the study of the evolution of gene function and provides answers to some long-standing questions about evolutionary processes.
Most of the differences between males and females are due to differences in expression levels of certain genes. These genes have several interesting properties, such as rapid sequence evolution and an odd distribution across the genome.
Integrating physical and genetic interaction data is essential if we are to fully understand cellular networks. The classification of interactions beyond the simple physical versus genetic divide promises to accelerate progress, as illustrated by recent successes in network integration.
Numerous inherited diseases, with a surprisingly diverse range of phenotypes, are being found to arise from mutations that affect translation. Studies of these diseases are beginning to provide new insights into the functions of the protein synthesis machinery and its regulators.
Ability to effectively communicate one's research is a vital and highly transferable skill. It is therefore important that young scientists have opportunities to present their doctoral research to large general audiences.
