Ancient Bone Reveals Surprising Sex Lives Of Neanderthals
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."
genetics
A Science Writer Explores The 'Perversions And Potential' Of Genetic Tests
Carl Zimmer wondered what secrets lurked in his genetic code — so he decided to have his genome sequenced. He writes about the implications of the study of genetics in She Has Her Mother's Laugh.
How Prized Bull Semen And DNA Testing Are Reshaping America's Beef Herd
Cattle ranchers know that making the best steak starts with the genetic makeup of the herd. Now those genetics have taken a historic leap thanks to new, predictive DNA technology.
In Hunt For Golden State Killer, Investigators Uploaded His DNA To Genealogy Site
After failing to find a match within criminal databases, law enforcement uploaded the killer's DNA profile to a no-frills website used to trace ancestry. The tactic has spurred privacy concerns.
Why Males Are Biology's Riskier Sex
New data have confirmed major differences in mutation rates between the sexes — showing that children inherit more mutations from their dads than from their moms, says guest commentator Robert Martin.
Why Dogs Have Floppy Ears: An Animated Tale
Why do dogs look different from wolves? The question bedeviled Charles Darwin. Now scientists have a fascinating theory that links droopy ears and splotchy coats with domestication.
The Genetic Divide Between NYC's Uptown And Downtown Rats
Fordham University graduate student Matthew Combs studies the DNA of New York City's rats. He found that rats living uptown are genetically distinct from rats living downtown.
You Can Get Your DNA Tested At An NFL Game. Should You?
Companies distributing genetic tests at pro sports events say they can help people make the most of exercise and nutrition. But regulators say some are medical tests that could land people in trouble.
Scientists Work To Overcome Legacy Of Tuskegee Study, Henrietta Lacks
An influential Harlem church is trying to help the National Institutes of Health overcome reluctance by some African-Americans to participate in a medical study of 1 million diverse Americans.
Neanderthal Genes Help Shape How Many Modern Humans Look
Calling someone a Neanderthal because of his coarse manners or brutish looks may seem like fun. But be careful. Neanderthal DNA persists inside many of us.