Check out the July issue of GENETICS by looking at the highlights or the full table of contents!

ISSUE HIGHLIGHTS

The nucleoporin Nup2 contains a meiotic-autonomous region that promotes the dynamic chromosome events of meiosis, pp. 1319-1337

Daniel B. Chu, Tatiana Gromova, Trent A. C. Newman, and Sean M. Burgess

Chromosomes are organized in the nucleus to accommodate multiple functions. Chu et al. show a functional link between a nuclear pore complex protein, Nup2, and chromosome dynamics during meiosis. They identified a 125-amino acid chromosome-binding domain that is necessary and sufficient for Nup2’s meiotic function, thus behaving as a meiotic autonomous region (MAR). Synthetic genetic interactions with other meiosis-specific genes suggest that there are least two different levels of meiotic chromosome organization necessary to withstand this dynamic life cycle stage.

Neutral competition for Drosophila follicle and cyst stem cell niches requires vesicle trafficking genes, pp. 1417-1428

Matthew S. Cook, Coralie Cazin, Marc Amoyel, Shinya Yamamoto, Erika Bach, and Todd Nystul

Stem cell niche competition a common but poorly understood process. One impediment to understanding is a lack of useful niche competition alleles. In a forward genetic screen, Cook et al. discovered that mutations in vesicle trafficking genes reduce niche competition. In the ovary, alleles that cause mild defects in trafficking have a dramatic effect, suggesting that niche competition is very sensitive to impaired vesicle trafficking. Additionally, they identified several candidate niche competition alleles in other genes useful for future study.

Improving response in genomic selection with a population-based selection strategy: optimal population value selection, pp. 1675-1682

Matthew Goiffon, Aaron Kusmec, Lizhi Wang, Guiping Hu, and Patrick S. Schnable

Goiffon et al. introduce the optimal population value (OPV) as a new metric for genomic selection. OPV is based on the maximum possible haploid value in a population sub-set. Instead of evaluating the breeding merit of individuals, the proposed method evaluates the breeding merit of a set of individuals together. Simulation experiments using empirical maize data showed OPV outperformed other approaches. This suggests a new paradigm for selection methods in which an individual’s value is dependent upon complementarity with others.

Inferring the joint demographic history of multiple populations: beyond the diffusion approximation, pp. 1549-1567

Julien Jouganous, Will Long, Aaron P Ragsdale, and Simon Gravel

Patterns of genetic variation across populations are influenced by mutation, selection, genetic drift, and migrations. Building models of evolution helps understand how. This article proposes an approach to simulate allele frequency evolution in multiple populations when all these factors are involved. It is a discrete alternative to the classical diffusion approximation, and compares favorably in computational performance, yet is easier to generalize. Jouganous et al. use it to refine models of the Out-of-Africa event using 1000 Genomes Project data.

Pervasive behavioral effects of microRNA regulation in Drosophila, pp. 1535-1548

Joao Picao-Osorio, Ines Lago-Baldaia, Pedro Patraquim, and Claudio R. Alonso

Picao-Osorio et al. reveal pervasive effects of microRNA regulation on complex locomotor behaviors in Drosophila larvae: over 40% of microRNAs display behavioral phenotypes when mutated. This is the first time microRNA regulation has been implicated at this scale in behavior in animals. These findings enhance our understanding of the molecular basis of behavior and reveal novel and pervasive roles of microRNAs. The data suggests that microRNAs might play similar roles in other species, including humans.

Building ultra-high-density linkage maps based on efficient filtering of trustable markers, pp. 1285-1295

Yefim I. Ronin, David I. Mester, Dina G. Minkov, Eduard Akhunov, and Abraham B. Korol

This study concerns building high-density genetic maps in situations with intrachromosomal recombination rate heterogeneity and differences in genotyping errors and missing data. Ronin et al. propose an algorithm for detecting quality markers based on information hidden in the structure of the multidimensional marker space, including the sizes of groups of co-segregating (twin) markers. Using this information for pre-mapping filtering together with previously developed algorithms enables building high quality genetic maps with realistic map lengths and reliable marker order.

A neurotransmitter atlas of the Caenorhabditis elegans male nervous system reveals sexually dimorphic neurotransmitter usage, pp. 1251-1269

Esther Serrano-Saiz, Laura Pereira, Marie Gendrel, Ulkar Aghayeva, Abhishek Battacharya, Kelly Howell, L. Rene Garcia, and Oliver Hobert

In this study, Serrano-Saiz et al. map the neurotransmitter identity of neurons in the Caenorhabditis elegans male nervous system, thereby providing an entry point for future developmental and functional studies of sexual dimorphisms in the nervous system.

The RNAi inheritance machinery of Caenorhabditis elegans, pp. 1403-1416

George Spracklin, Brandon Fields, Gang Wan, Diveena Becker, Ashley Wallig, Aditi Shukla, and Scott Kennedy

dsRNA-mediated gene silencing is heritable in Caenorhabditis elegans, termed RNAi inheritance. Spracklin et al. describe the results of a forward genetic screen identifying factors required for RNAi inheritance. The screen identified six RNAi inheritance factors and that one of these factors, HRDE-2, promotes RNAi inheritance by facilitating small RNA binding to the Argonaute protein HRDE-1. All six RNAi inheritance factors are required for germline immortality, suggesting that transgenerational epigenetic inheritance systems promote germ cell health during normal growth and reproduction.

View all posts by Editorial Staff »

Read more in

  • Collage of 2021 Rosalind Franklin Award recipients

    Where are they now? Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award recipients share updates on their research

    Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award applications are open–make sure you submit your application or nomination of a colleague by September 30, 2024.

  • University of Minnesota researchers map genome of the last living wild horse species

    The study, published in G3: Genes|Genomes|Genetics, is part of larger conservation efforts to save Przewalski’s horse.

  • Congratulations to the Spring 2024 DeLill Nasser Awardees!

    GSA is pleased to announce the recipients of the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics for Spring 2024! Given twice a year to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, DeLill Nasser Awards support attendance at meetings and laboratory courses. The award is named in honor of DeLill Nasser, a long-time GSA supporter and National Science Foundation…

  • Carolyn Damilola headshot

    Carolyn Damilola: an NFS Rising Scientist on a lifelong quest to learn more

    Carolyn Damilola is an NFS Rising Scientist from Nigeria doing respiratory system research and paving the way for scientists from underrepresented communities through mentorship.

  • Text over a blue background image: Apply for up to $2,000 for your project from the Starter Culture Microgrant Program.

    What does a good microgrant proposal look like?

    Members of the Microgrant Review Committee share their tips for a successful proposal.

  • A blurred image of a human face is shown against a dark background.

    The first piece of the facial recognition puzzle

    New research in GENETICS gives a first peek at the molecular pathway involved in recognizing faces.

  • New Senior Editor Amy MacQueen joins GENETICS

    A new senior editor is joining GENETICS in the Genome Integrity and Transmission section. We’re excited to welcome Amy MacQueen to the editorial team.

  • Close up of an adult zebrafish with blue and white stripes in an aquarium with red lighting.

    Block party on the zebrafish sex chromosome

    Research in G3 identifies a gene regulatory block of the zebrafish genome responsible for overseeing the maternal-to-zygotic-transition.

  • Lemna Minor, the common duckweed

    Unraveling the mysteries of duckweed: epigenetic insights from Spirodela polyrhiza

    Research published in G3 offers insight into the impact of DNA methylation on clonal propagation in asexually reproducing plants.

  • Luciano Marraffini headshot

    A microbiologist’s quest to understand CRISPR in bacterial self-defense

    2024 Genetics Society of America Medal recipient Luciano Marraffini determined how CRISPR-Cas systems destroy genetic targets with precision, paving the way for gene editing technology development.

  • Elaine Ostrander headshot

    Unlocking mysteries of trait and disease heritability in dogs

    2024 Edward Novitski Prize recipient Elaine Ostrander, a pioneer of the domestic dog model, discovered numerous genes affecting dog size, morphology, behavior, and disease susceptibility—many of which have relevance in humans.

  • NSF-funded BIO-LEAPS Grant to Support Culture Change in Genetics

    GSA and collaborators Personal Genetics Education & Dialogue and Reclaiming STEM Institute launch NSF-funded BIO-LEAPS project to support culture change in genetics 

    We are thrilled to announce that the Genetics Society of America (GSA) is collaborating with the Personal Genetics Education & Dialogue (PGED) based in the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School, and the Reclaiming STEM Institute (RSI) on a Leading Culture Change Through Professional Societies of Biology (BIO-LEAPS) grant from the U.S. National Science…

  • Daman Saluja: Navigating Science and Policy in India

    In the Paths to Science Policy series, we talk to individuals who have a passion for science policy and are active in advocacy through their various roles and careers. The series aims to inform and guide early career scientists interested in science policy. This series is brought to you by the GSA Early Care­er Scientist…

  • Deborah Andrew headshot

    A fly geneticist’s journey into discovering rules of organ development

    2024 George W. Beadle Award recipient Deborah Andrew discovered new genes and pathways in Drosophila salivary gland organogenesis. Now, her work can help optimize cell secretion in therapeutic applications and fight malaria.

  • Małgorzata Gazda's headshot

    Małgorzata Gazda: How receiving the DeLill Nasser Award helped her land her dream job

    Have you ever experienced an event that changes the course of your life, or in this case, your career? Małgorzata (Gosia) Gazda is Assistant Professor at the University of Montreal and in 2022, she received the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics, which she used to attend and present at the 2022 Population,…

  • Hongyu Zhao joins GENETICS as new Senior Editor

    A new senior editor is joining GENETICS in the Statistical Genetics and Genomics section. We’re excited to welcome Hongyu Zhao to the editorial team.

  • Julio Molina Pineda at TAGC 2024

    GSA Member Julio Molina Pineda Receives DeLill Nasser Award, Shines at TAGC 2024 

    “At any career stage, the GSA membership is an amazing investment for any genetics professional!” Julio Molina Pineda is a PhD Candidate in Cell and Molecular Biology and a Research Assistant at the University of Arkansas, and a Doctoral Academy Fellow at the Lewis Lab. In 2023, Julio was awarded the DeLill Nasser Award for…

  • Ed Grell at his dissecting microscope using ether to anesthetize his flies.

    In Memoriam: Ellsworth Herman Grell (1932–2023), a pioneer of Drosophila genome engineering and annotation

    Ellsworth (Ed) Grell blessed the Drosophila community through three enduring legacies: as a pioneer of chromosome mechanics, as a primary organizer and synthesizer of genetic knowledge in Drosophila, and as a graceful mentor to those fortunate to have known him personally. Ed grew up in rural Nebraska, completed his undergraduate studies at Iowa State, and…

  • Congratulations to the #Fungal24 Poster Award winners!

    We are pleased to announce the recipients of the GSA Poster Awards for posters presented at the 32nd Fungal Genetics Conference! Undergraduate and graduate student members of GSA were eligible for the awards, and a hard-working team of judges made the determinations. Congratulations to all! Felicia Ebot Ojong, The University of Georgia My research is focused…

  • Poster presentation tips for TAGC 2024

    You’ve been selected to present a poster at The Allied Genetics Conference 2024 in March—you’ve celebrated, made plans to attend, now what? This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your research and engage with fellow members of the genetics community, so you want to make sure you’re prepared. We wanted to offer you some tips…

  • Maximize your TAGC 2024 experience 

    A guide to all that National Harbor & DC have to offer Are you joining us for The Allied Genetics Conference 2024 in March? Make the most of your #TAGC24 experience in National Harbor! We know the science will keep you busy, but you deserve to unwind and have some fun, so we’ve curated a…

  • Early Career Leadership Spotlight: Sarah Petrosky

    We’re taking time to get to know the members of the GSA’s Early Career Scientist Committees. Join us to learn more about our early career scientist advocates. Sarah PetroskyMultimedia SubcommitteeUniversity of Pittsburgh Research Interest I am interested in understanding adaptation that has been happening recently in populations by dissecting the ways that genes underlying an adaptation…

  • TAGC 2024 Early Career Award Winners

    GSA is pleased to announce the winners of the early career awards presented at The Allied Genetics Conference 2024. These awards are specific to particular TAGC communities and recognize early career scientists’ outstanding work on their respective research organisms. The awardees will present their talks in keynote sessions at TAGC 2024.  Don’t miss the opportunity…

  • Preeminent geneticists recognized with revamped GSA Awards

    In 2022, GSA’s Board of Directors launched an audit to review the five major awards conferred by the Society. Today, we are thrilled to announce the recipients of the reimagined GSA Awards, including the new Genetics Society of America Early Career Medal. The scientists honored this year are recognized by their peers for their outstanding…

  • Fly Board funds outreach programs to spread the word about Drosophila research

    In 2020, the Fly Board voted to use part of its reserve fund to support efforts to increase trainee participation as well as equity and diversity in the Drosophila community. An awards committee decides how the money will be spent each year, and from 2020–2022, the committee posted a very broad call for applications from…

  • New members of the GSA Board of Directors: 2024–2026

    We are pleased to announce the election of four new leaders to the GSA Board of Directors: 2024 Vice President/2025 President Brenda Andrews Professor, University of Toronto It’s an honor to continue my association with the Society by serving as Vice President of the Board of Directors. I have broad knowledge of the ongoing activities…

  • The Fly Meeting is one-of-a-kind! Dros 2025 organizers share their excitement

    The 66th Annual Drosophila Research Conference promises to be a meeting rich with the latest in Drosophila research as well as opportunities to advance your career and connect with a global community of 1,400+ scientists. The organizers Todd Nystul, Michelle Bland, Leila Rieder, Amanda Crocker, and Justin Crocker are hard at work, planning a conference…

  • Early Career Leadership Spotlight: Olufemi Osonowo

    We’re taking time to get to know the members of the GSA’s Early Career Scientist Committees. Join us to learn more about our early career scientist advocates. Olufemi Adekunle OsonowoCareer Development SubcommitteeDalhousie University Research Interest Metabolomics and genomics are two distinct but complimentary approaches that offer valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of complex traits, such…

  • Early Career Leadership Spotlight: Hector Mendoza

    We’re taking time to get to know the members of the GSA’s Early Career Scientist Committees. Join us to learn more about our early career scientist advocates. Hector MendozaCommunication and Outreach SubcommitteeUniversity of Michigan Research Interest My research goals converge around the evolution of sexual reproduction. During my doctoral program, I investigated mitochondrial inheritance, a mechanism…