DNA

January 17, 2019

DNA’s on/off switch

DNA-binding “switches” represent a fundamentally new method of communication between DNA-processing enzymes, Vanderbilt researchers propose.

By Bill Snyder
January 3, 2019

Vanderbilt experts discuss potential of universal genetic database to balance privacy, law enforcement concerns

The pivotal role that long distance familial genetic searches played in the apprehension of the notorious Golden State Killer — and as a tool in dozens more cases since — has led experts from Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center to make a provocative proposal about how investigative use of DNA should be regulated.

By Holly Fletcher
July 19, 2018

New player in DNA damage repair

New findings open opportunities to understand mechanisms of DNA repair for a toxic form of DNA damage.

By Leigh MacMillan
Deciphering DNA code
March 15, 2018

Study spots undiagnosed genetic diseases in EHR

Patients diagnosed with heart failure, stroke, infertility and kidney failure could actually be suffering from rare and undiagnosed genetic diseases.

By Craig Boerner
September 29, 2017

Novel insights to antibiotic targets

New mechanistic details about the DNA-unwinding activity of antibacterial protein targets could lead to the design of better antibiotic medicines.

By Leigh MacMillan
February 23, 2017

Team identifies ‘switch’ involved in DNA replication  

DNA replication is an extraordinarily complex multi-step process that makes copies of the body’s genetic blueprint. It is necessary for growth and essential to life. Now researchers at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and Vanderbilt University have found evidence that one of those steps may involve the telephone-like transmission of electrical signals regulated by a chemical “switch.”

By Bill Snyder
January 24, 2017

Saliva test for obesity risk

“Epigenetic signatures” in DNA may present an opportunity for prevention of or early intervention in childhood obesity.
By Bill Snyder
October 7, 2016

Rheumatoid subtypes explored by PheWAS

A computer-based method pioneered at Vanderbilt is being used to compare subtypes of rheumatoid arthritis.
By Paul Govern
April 15, 2016

Mechanism of a DNA repair protein

Vanderbilt investigators have discovered details about the mechanism of an important DNA repair protein that maintains genome stability.
By Sanjay Mishra
January 22, 2016

Faulty building blocks in DNA

An enzyme that builds DNA is able to insert the wrong building blocks, which could generate mutations.
By Bill Snyder
November 12, 2015

Study helps clarify components of DNA ‘copy machine’

Vanderbilt investigators have generated a “parts list” for the molecular machinery that duplicates DNA each time a cell divides. The research has implications for cancer therapies that target components of this machinery.
By Leigh MacMillan
October 29, 2015

New class of DNA repair enzyme discovered

A new class of DNA repair enzyme has been discovered which demonstrates that a much broader range of damage can be removed from the double helix in ways that biologists did not think were possible.
By Leigh MacMillan
May 23, 2014

Repair protein’s DNA recognition motif

Insights into the workings of DNA damage response proteins such as SMARCAL1 could suggest new ways to improve genome integrity and prevent cancer.
By Leigh MacMillan
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