Saturday, August 29, 2009

TREE paper countering Patterson et al



original Patterson et al nature paper HERE

more interesting candidate genes: size, longevity, behavioral stereotypes


This dog study is > a year old, but I only just discovered it:

Candidate genes associated with size, longevity, and behavioral stereotypes of dogs (New Scientist seems esp interested in high strung chihuahuas)


Friday, August 28, 2009

adaptive coloration in deer mice


Another cool study from the Hoekstra lab: A single amino acid deletion influencing (or linked to something influencing) agouti expression in Nebraska deer mice.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Linus Pauling quote

"The way to get good ideas is to get lots of ideas, and throw the bad ones away"

genetics of dog hair (length and curl)


new Science Express paper from Ostrander lab: Variation in dog coat phenotypes largely due to mutations at just 3 genes (RSPO2, FGF5, and KRT71).
This is exciting -- for several reasons!

here is an NPR snippet about the article (thanks for tip, Monica):

Friday, August 21, 2009

hamadryas genome


wow, I didn't realize a draft assembly (almost 6x) of the hamadryas genome is already out.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

DNA from difficult samples


new way to extract DNA from poor / contaminated samples:
Won't work with the QIAcube, but something to keep in mind...

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

sleep genes


I think I might have fixed the links problem...

I'll test it with this science article (tip from Jason) on the DEC2 gene and the evolution of sleep
-- surely some diurnal vs cathemeral vs nocturnal projects there...

Link's don't work?

Hm.

Times story:

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/08/06/the-pain-of-being-a-redhead/

Study page:

http://jada.ada.org/cgi/content/abstract/140/7/896

Redheaded pain

I'm sure you've all seen this, but:



MC1R mutation may lead to increased pain sensitivity as well as red hair. My question: is it the MC1R, or is it some other associated gene/linkage?

I now feel even worse for red colobus monkeys.

Gary

Study:

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

CI Primate field guides


Exciting-- In addition to the Lemurs of Madagascar, CI now has a range of pocket field guides with illustrations by Stephen Nash. And they are affordable - $7.95 each including shipping!

http://www.primate-sg.org/field.guides.htm