A new study published online this week in Nature Genetics reports the discovery of novel host targets of HIV infection identified from a high-throughput CRISPR/Cas9-based screen. This screen was performed in CD4 + T-cells and was designed to find candidate genes required for successful HIV infection, but whose inactivation did not affect cell viability. In this way, potential drug targets for anti-HIV therapy could be discovered. Read more
Pollinators are attracted to flowers based on certain characteristics, including color, scent and morphology. Evolutionary changes in these traits correlate with changes in pollinator-plant relationships, and pollinator syndromes, or suites of floral characteristics that influence pollinator identity, can differ greatly between even closely related species. Thus, characterizing the molecular basis that underlies shifts in pollinator syndromes can lead to the discovery of speciation genes, as well as to a greater understanding of evolutionary trajectories and timelines that define the species. Read more
The American Society of Human Genetics convened for their 65th annual meeting last week in Baltimore. Over 6000 scientists and clinicians, joined by counselors, educators and patients, gathered to present, discuss and debate the latest developments in genetics research. We at Nature Genetics were fortunate enough to be in attendance and we wish to share some thoughts about this exciting and thought-provoking conference. Read more
