First life on Earth may actually have been built from both RNA and DNA
Key building blocks of DNA and RNA can be made from the same raw materials. This finding suggests that instead of one or the other kick-starting life on Earth, both...
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Thirty years of DNA forensics: How DNA has revolutionized criminal investigations
DNA profiling methods have become faster, more sensitive, and more user-friendly since the first murderer was caught with help from genetic evidence The name Colin Pitchfork might not be as recognizable as...
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Your risk of severe COVID-19 may be affected by blood type, new genetic analysis suggests
People with blood type O may have a reduced risk of developing severe symptoms Genes associated with certain blood types may increase the risk of severe COVID-19 infections, leading to...
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What is RNA?
More than just DNA's lesser-known cousin, RNA plays a central role in turning genetic information into your body's proteins. This remarkable molecule also carries the genetic instructions for many viruses,...
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Will You Catch the Flu? The Answer Could Be in Your Blood
During last winter's severe flu season, you may have found yourself worrying about whether you'd catch the notorious virus. But what if there was a way to predict whether you'd get...
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In the fight against coronavirus, antivirals are as important as a vaccine. Here’s where the science is up to
While many scientists are working on developing a coronavirus vaccine, others are busy testing antiviral drugs. Vaccines are generally only effective when administered prior to infection, but antiviral agents are...
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The road to COVID-19 testing: The role of a Canadian biotech pioneer
Canadians are updated daily on the multi-faceted devastation caused by SARS-CoV-2 and on the results of COVID-19 testing from across the country. Few people may be aware that these tests...
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Combating COVID-19 with Cell-Free Expression
Imagine the ability to rewire, reshape, and use parts of a living system to build something new. It is not science fiction, nor is it Frankenstein’s monster. It is synthetic...
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The COVID-19 virus can spread through the air – here’s what it’ll take to detect the airborne particles
A growing body of research shows that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, can spread from person to person through the air. Indoor spaces with poor ventilation in areas where...
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