Do humans have zombie DNA?

“Owners and occupants of earlier dates, From graves forgotten stretch their dusty hands, And hold in mortmain still their old estates.” – From Haunted Houses by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow In the world of Game of...

What is the difference between early- and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease?

In 1901, 51-year-old Auguste Deter sat in her room, anxiously looking around. Her new doctor, Alois Alzheimer, was asking her to identify mundane objects–but for some reason she couldn’t remember which ones she had already...

Does DNA affect accents or perfect pitch?

When many members of a family have similar traits—like freckles, accents, or curly hair—one can’t help but wonder if these traits are genetic. Take perfect pitch, for example: Some families just seem to have a...

Is DNA to blame for seasonal allergies and ACHOO syndrome?

Sometimes, the sneeze will hit you before you even know it’s happening. Your face crinkles, your head cocks back, and you propel particles from your nose at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour. Such a...

What if Ned Stark read about hairy ears and bushy eyebrows?

You could see the wheels turning in Ned Stark’s mind as he slowly read out Baratheon name after Baratheon name, each followed by the phrase “black of hair.” Then, he read the name Joffrey Baratheon:...

How one gene may contribute to late-onset Alzheimer’s development

In a hurry? Here’s what you need to know: Alzheimer’s is a disease where someone’s ability to remember and process everyday tasks declines with age Evidence suggests the APOE gene may have a significant role...

The genetics of ancient Africa and a mysterious human population

In a hurry? Here’s what you need to know: Homo sapiens first appeared nearly 200,000 years ago in Africa At that time, we weren’t the only humans around Other human groups—like Neanderthals—may have assimilated with...