genetic code

"Everything is private information, stored on your computer or a computer you designate," says George Church, genetics professor at Harvard Medical School, about the approach of Nebula Genomics.

Startup Offers To Sequence Your Genome Free Of Charge, Then Let You Profit From It

2:06pm November 15, 2018

by Richard Harris

A full genome sequence costs about $1,000. But Nebula Genomics expects that companies and researchers would defray the cost in exchange for key medical information about the person involved.

Researchers made an important discovery in the Denisova Cave in southern Siberia.

Ancient Bone Reveals Surprising Sex Lives Of Neanderthals

10:35am August 23, 2018

by Laurel Wamsley

Genomic sequencing reveals new evidence of interbreeding among different groups of our ancient relatives. A scientist calls the find "almost too lucky to be true."

Queue Listen Now

A sample of saliva can unlock details about a person's genetic makeup.

Health & Safety

POLL: Genealogical Curiosity Is A Top Reason For DNA Tests; Privacy A Concern

1:44pm June 01, 2018

by Scott Hensley

We asked Americans about genetic testing in the latest NPR-Truven Health Analytics Health Poll. People were generally OK with sharing the information with relatives and doctors, but not employers.

Colored transmission electron micrograph of a section through an Escherichia coli bacterium. This rod-shaped bacterium moves via its hair-like flagellae (yellow).

Biologists Trace Genetic Roots Of Evolution, One Cell At A Time

2:29pm March 15, 2018

by Nell Greenfieldboyce

E.coli bacteria, each cell trapped in a tiny tube, are giving researchers the chance to study the pace and effects of single genetic mutations. Most mutations, the scientists find, aren't harmful.

Colored scanning electron micrograph of baker's yeast, conventionally grown in the lab. So far, researchers have been able to synthesize six of the yeast's 16 chromosomes from scratch, and think they may be able to complete all 16 by 2018.

Scientists Closer To Creating A Fully Synthetic Yeast Genome

2:03pm March 09, 2017

by Rob Stein

An international consortium of researchers has synthesized about a third of the genetic code of baker's yeast. It's an important milestone in science's quest to create complex "synthetic life."

Queue Listen Now