DNA

Jon Zehr discovered genetic evidence of a previously unknown nitrogen-fixing bacteria in seawater samples, but the organism remained invisible under microscopes. The bacteria's existence challenged biological norms, as nitrogen-fixing enzymes typically break down in oxygen-rich environments.

Prosecutors showed a video of Tyler Robinson in court after he turned himself in for the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. The defense challenged DNA evidence linking Robinson to the murder weapon, while the roommate and romantic partner of Robinson, Lance Twiggs, provided statements under immunity.

Tyler Robinson's lawyers are challenging DNA evidence found on a towel that wrapped a rifle linked to the Charlie Kirk murder. The case centers on whether the DNA evidence is valid in connecting Robinson to the crime.

Tyler Robinson and Lance Twiggs' DNA were allegedly found on a towel and screwdriver linked to Charlie Kirk's assassination. Robinson, accused of fatally shooting Kirk during a Turning Point USA event, is facing charges including aggravated murder, while Twiggs, whose DNA also appears on the evidence, is cooperating with investigators.

Anthropologists used DNA to identify the remains of a Revolutionary War soldier who died in 1780 at the Battle of Camden, allowing his relatives to learn his name.

Scientists have built a synthetic cell from scratch that can feed, grow, copy its DNA, and divide, marking a world-first breakthrough. The organism demonstrates key biological functions essential for life.

Detectives used DNA to trace relatives of a suspected double rapist linked to two attacks on women four years apart. The suspect is accused of attacking a stranger in each case.

Ali Khameni's body is likely in cold storage as Iran prepares a historic funeral for the Supreme Leader killed in Operation Epic Fury. Khamenei was killed by a bunker-penetration strike, and others killed with him were recovered weeks later and identified by DNA.

Investigators are searching the sewers beneath the decrepit Philadelphia home of Eugene Horsch, 44, for DNA, chemicals used to dissolve bodies, and evidence of a drug lab.

The article explains how cells divide by doubling their DNA, condensing it into chromosomes, disassembling the nucleus, and splitting into two daughter cells. This process highlights the dynamic restructuring of cellular components during division.

A study reveals that genetics influence who is most likely to experience a relationship breakdown, suggesting that DNA may play a role in romantic instability.

Caltech researchers discovered a chemical reaction involving benzene and hydrogen cyanide that could explain the formation of DNA and RNA nucleobases on early Earth and potentially Mars. The study suggests sunlight and asteroid impacts may have driven this pathway, offering a simpler explanation than previous theories.

The article discusses how the physical complexity of the human genome may challenge AI's ability to interpret DNA as a straightforward blueprint or code. It highlights that while DNA has been viewed as a genetic database containing life's secrets, its tangled physicality could confound computational analysis.

DNA from 2,000-year-old grape seeds found in Tuscany's ancient wells reveals that Roman-era vineyards in Chianti produced white fruit, forming part of the empire's agricultural network. This discovery provides the most extensive genetic history of grapevines from a single site and links ancient practices to modern winemaking.

Fossilized feces from ancient ground squirrels contained remains of mammoths, bison, and big cats. These findings include some of the oldest DNA ever reconstructed, suggesting the squirrels scavenged carcasses during the Pleistocene era.

DNA evidence suggests Eric Wallace is the victim in a 2018 Llano County cold case, which investigators now link to a missing man reported in 2017. Authorities are pursuing new leads and requesting records to confirm the identification.

A 26-year-old mystery involving a skeleton found in a tent was solved using DNA identification techniques. The discovery took place in Olympic National Park in Washington state.

Patty Morin, mother of Rachel Morin, shared how a detective's advice to 'have hope' helped her during her daughter's eight-month murder investigation, which led to the arrest of Victor Martinez-Hernandez. She now offers similar encouragement to the family of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, whose abduction remains unsolved, as investigators work on DNA samples with potential delays.

Paul Quinn, 52, was jailed for 24 years for a 2003 Salford rape after DNA evidence linked him to the crime. Andrew Malkinson was previously wrongfully imprisoned for the same attack, marking one of Britain's worst miscarriages of justice.

A bacterial protein has been found to copy DNA in a way that differs from the universal method used by all other cells. Scientists observed this unique process, which challenges existing understanding of DNA replication.

Scientists used DNA from historic museum specimens to solve the mystery of the Seychelles’ vanished crocodiles, revealing they were not a unique species but an isolated population of saltwater crocodiles that likely drifted thousands of kilometers across the Indian Ocean.

New Scientist recommends Turi King's book 'The Secrets of Our DNA', which explores topics like using DNA to clear murder convictions and identify a monarch's remains. Michael Le Page describes the book as an 'insider's must-read' and expresses fascination with its content.

Scientists are discovering that while vitamin B12 is essential for DNA repair and blood cell production, extremely high levels from long-term supplements may be linked to certain cancers or worse cancer outcomes, complicating its previously held 'more is better' reputation.

DNA analysis has identified the remains of lost Franklin Expedition members, nearly two centuries after their 19th-century voyage to the Canadian Arctic ended in disaster. The research sheds light on the fate of the ill-fated Arctic expedition.

Scientists in Australia are using DNA techniques to help save the critically endangered Gilbert's potoroo, with fewer than 150 left in the wild. They analyze DNA in the animals' scat to uncover clues about the fungi they depend on for survival. This could help conservationists identify safer habitats and establish backup populations.

Airborne DNA can provide insights when analyzed with the right techniques, according to a study published in Nature. The study highlights the potential of airborne DNA in yielding valuable information. This breakthrough can lead to new discoveries in various fields.

DNA-folding changes can block the production of self-directed antibodies. This is due to DNA rearrangements in immune-system B cells, which generate diverse antibody-encoding genes. The process helps avoid producing antibodies that target the body's own tissues.

UC Santa Barbara scientists have developed a liquid battery that stores solar energy in molecules, inspired by DNA and photochromic sunglasses. The material can hold energy for years and has higher energy density than lithium-ion batteries, potentially eliminating the need for traditional electrical grids or bulky batteries.

New DNA analysis of Christopher Columbus reveals his origins, rewriting history. The study sheds light on the explorer's ancestry. This discovery provides new insights into Columbus' past.

A new DNA analysis of Christopher Columbus has revealed the truth about his origins, rewriting history. The study sheds light on the explorer's ancestry. This discovery is a significant breakthrough in understanding Columbus' heritage.

Scientists discovered a hidden deep-sea world off the coast of Western Australia, uncovering 226 species including bizarre marine life and signs of the giant squid. The discovery was made by analyzing DNA traces in seawater from depths exceeding 4 kilometers. This find may include unknown species to science.

Scientists are using floating genetic material in the air to gain insights into ecosystem health and identify pathogens before they cause harm. This could also help detect invasive species. The research is published in Nature.

Scientists discovered a bizarre genetic code in a microscopic pond organism that rewrites how genes signal their end, challenging long-held assumptions about genetic translation. This discovery was made using a new single-cell DNA sequencing method. The finding hints that nature may be more flexible and mysterious than previously thought.

A new twin study suggests genes play a bigger role in future success than upbringing, with IQ strongly predicting education, career, and income. Genetic differences led to divergent life outcomes even among twins raised together. The findings imply life outcomes may be more hardwired than expected.

Trafficked pangolins can be traced to their source by DNA, even to a specific forest. A method reveals that some local wild-meat markets share the same supply chains as global smuggling operations. This breakthrough can help combat wildlife trafficking.

The human genome has been found to encode a new category of molecule, which may be useful targets for future drugs. This discovery could lead to breakthroughs in medical treatment. The new molecules have potential applications in various fields.

Penn researchers have developed a new AI method to solve inverse equations, making calculations more stable and less computationally demanding. This breakthrough could transform fields like genetics and disease research. The method introduces mollifier layers to smooth noisy data.

CRISPR-Cas12a2 enables RNA-triggered killing of eukaryotic cells through DNA shredding, allowing selective elimination of virus-infected or mutation-bearing cells. This technology has potential applications in gene expression and cell targeting. The research was published in Nature on May 6, 2026.

A missing man's remains are suspected to be inside a retrieved crocodile, with DNA tests underway for confirmation. The retrieval was conducted by an officer who stuck to their plan. The incident involves a human fatality and a wild animal.

Powerful tools are accelerating the identification of DNA sequences that control gene expression, revealing the hidden grammar of the regulatory genome. This is giving scientists the means to rewrite it. The assays are helping to identify the 'control knobs' of the genome.