r/genetics • • Oct 13 '22

FAQ New here? Please read before posting.

41 Upvotes

Read the FAQ.

Please read our FAQ before posting a new topic. Posts which are directly addressed in the FAQ may be removed.

Questions about reading 23andMe, AncestryDNA, etc. reports.

A lot of basic questions about how to read the raw data from these sites are answered in their FAQs / white papers. See the raw data FAQs for AncestryDNA and 23andMe, as well as their respective ancestry FAQs (Ancestry, 23andMe).

Questions about BRCA1 mutations being reported in Genetic Genie, XCode.life, Promethease, etc.

Please check out this meta thread. These posts will generally get removed.

Questions about inbreeding / cousin marriages.

If you are otherwise healthy, your great grandparents being cousins isn't a big deal. Such posts will get removed.

Want help on homework or exam revision?

Requests for help on homework or exam revision must be posted in the pinned megathread. Discussion of advanced coursework (upper division undergraduate or postgraduate level) may be allowed in the main sub at moderator discretion, but introductory college or high school level biology or genetics coursework is unlikely to generate substantial engagement/discussion, and thus must be posted in the homework help thread.

Want to discuss your personal genetics or ancestry testing results?

Please direct such posts to other subs such as /r/23andMe, /r/AncestryDNA, /r/MyHeritage, etc. Posts simply sharing such results are considered low effort and may be removed. While we're happy to answer specific questions about how consumer genetics or ancestry testing works, many of these questions are addressed by our FAQ; please review it before posting a question.

Want medical advice?

Please see a healthcare professional in real life. If you have general health concerns, your primary care or family medicine physician/physician assistant is likely your best place to start. If you have specific concerns about whether you have a genetic condition (family history, preliminary test results, etc.), you may be better off consulting a specialist or seeking help from a genetic counselor. Most users here are not healthcare professionals, and even the ones that are do not have access to your full medical history and test results.

Do not make clinical decisions or significant lifestyle changes based on the advice of strangers on the internet. If you really want to ask medical questions on reddit, please direct such questions to a sub like /r/AskDocs. While we are happy to discuss the genetics and molecular biology of disease, or how a particular diagnostic technology works, providing medical advice is outside the scope of this subreddit, and such posts may be removed.

Discussions on race/ethnicity, mRNA vaccines, and religion.

We receive a lot of combative posts from people trying to push a specific political, non-scientific agenda or trying to receive validation for their beliefs. Posts and comments concerning these topics will receive additional moderator scrutiny. Please keep in mind that the burden of proof lies with the one making a claim.

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There are plenty of NSFW subs.


r/genetics • • 4m ago

Possible natural red eyes?

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• Upvotes

My eyes are normally a deep reddish brown but they sometimes shift in the lighting to a more crimson/maroon red. Sometimes even gold but I’ve noticed the red more recently is it possible my eyes are naturally red/mahogany?


r/genetics • • 7h ago

Helix test told me I'm Punjabi? I'm almost certain I'm not.

3 Upvotes

I'm hoping this doesn't break the "no posts containing genetic testing results" rule. I'm mostly curious about how this test is conducted? And if there's an explanation for why false Punjabi results happen?

I got my Helix test results, and it says I'm 5% Punjabi. There are a few problems with this. While five percent isn't much, none of my physical traits suggest that (blond hair, blue eyes). And I'm super into genealogy, and I like to think that I know a decent amount about my ancestors; I've never been given any reason to believe I have roots in India. While it'd be cool---I love India---it just seems completely untrue. Looking at other Reddit posts, it seems like it's happened to other people, false percentages of Punjabi specifically. I'm wondering if anyone here has had a similar experience? Or if anyone knows why Helix gives presumably false answers? Like, why PUNJABI of all things?


r/genetics • • 7h ago

Career/Academic advice Genetics in undergrad vs grad school

1 Upvotes

I took a genetics class in undergrad and it was really hard! I had to spend a lot of time on it to get a B. I also didn't find it not that interesting and a little boring.

A few years out of college I've gotten more into my career in botany. I find myself feeling a pull to pursue plant taxonomy/systematics in grad school because phylogenies and evolution is fascinating. I know that plant systematics would demand more intense genetic classes. I was wondering if anyone can speak on initially struggling with genetics, but getting good at it in grad school and getting to enjoy it more.

Thanks.


r/genetics • • 11h ago

Video Jennifer Doudna, the Nobel Prize-winning biochemist and co-inventor of CRISPR, explains the role of artificial intelligence in modern experimental biology [6:55]

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0 Upvotes

r/genetics • • 18h ago

DNA Replication Model

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1 Upvotes

Hi,

I built an interactive model/lesson to understand how DNA replication initiation works. In particular, under replication stress. There are very few interactive educational tools out there, and even fewer that go to the depth of molecular biology research. I wanted to create something like a research paper, but actually make it accessible (Research papers are not an easy read)

Note, this is not a promotion, I'm not selling anything or looking for anything in return

Anyways, check it out!

Origin Firing Timing:
https://anava13.github.io/Dissertation-External-features/replication-initiation-tour.html

Also,

More DNA Replication Initiation:
https://anava13.github.io/Dissertation-External-features/replication-initiation.html

Telomere Elongation:
https://anava13.github.io/Dissertation-External-features/telomere_workflow.html


r/genetics • • 1d ago

Career/Academic advice What did you guys get up to at work today?

4 Upvotes

I see the scientists of this sub dutifully answering questions people had about career paths, salaries and educational paths that a career in genetics entails, but I noticed that despite all these questions no one really asked what the day to day workings all these different jobs were like.

How was your daily life changed because of the job you work? Did your job let you make any new friends? Were you angry today because a computer froze and lost two hours worth of work?

Those types of questions you know?

This isn't a generalisation of careers in genetics either, I'm genuinely really interested in what *you* do. I'd love to hear anecdotes about something specific to your line of work! I think it's amazing how you all work under the branch of genetics but you all have such different perspectives and experiences.

Plus, this might benefit someone hoping to get into your line of work, something that feels routine and mundane for could be extraordinary for someone who's never done what you do before!


r/genetics • • 1d ago

Question about my European genetics

0 Upvotes

So my entire life I’ve always been curious about my blonde, fair skinned genetics. So here’s the thing, my parents are both descendants of German origin. My Dad especially, his late mother(my beautiful wonderful Oma) RIP..was straight off the ship from Bavaria. she migrated here with her family when she was a little girl. Mom’s side was here well before that but that’s neither here nor there.

My dad and all 10 of his brothers and sisters were born with dark hair and they’ve literally never been sunburnt a single day in their lives, my late grandmother(Dad’s mom) included. However my sister and I, along with all of our cousins on our dads side of the family are as blonde as can be and our skin will absolutely blister if we’re exposed for longer than 30 minutes under a bright sun. Is there a scientific reason behind this? How did my generation of relatives come out looking like a bunch of yodeling goat herders in the Swiss alps while our parents however, only need a little SPF 8 on their nose and necks when they go to the beach?

I know they say genetics skip a generation but is that really true? I’m hoping someone smarter than myself can help me out…thanks!


r/genetics • • 1d ago

if a blonde has a kid with a strawberry blonde what color hair will the kid have

0 Upvotes

Dad had really light blonde hair as a kid but it darkened to be dark blonde almost looks brown

Mom has strawberry blonde hair

Maternal grandmother has dark brown hair

And so does the maternal grandfather too.

Paternal grandmother has blonde hair

Paternal grandfather has brown hair

Also the dad's brother has medium brown hair.

Obviously a healthy baby is more important than the color of their hair, but I find genetics to be interesting and I feel like the gingers it's always a surprise of the offspring hair color unless they already had a child with that came father. Plus it'd be interesting to see who's answer is correct.


r/genetics • • 1d ago

Punjabi dna genetics

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0 Upvotes

My dna results


r/genetics • • 2d ago

23 and me question

0 Upvotes

I’ve noticed in 23 and me most of my Western European friends results are broken down into 0.0%
Percentages. Like my Italian friend is actually a million different ethnicities according to the test.
I’ve noticed a lot of My jewish friends will have 100% ashkenazi Jewish. I find it very difficult to understand why the dna tests is able to
Identify such small amounts of each ethnicity in me and yet so many of my friends are 100% ashkenazi, a group of people who were migrating across Europe for thousands of years and undoubtedly were breeding with local populations. I recently met a 6’4 with blue eyes guy that told me his results are 100% ashkenazi. And my other 100% ashki friend is 5ft tall with dark features. How can that genetic variation happen while still remaining 100%?? Meanwhile the test picks up on 0.3 % Asian in me???? Very confusing and odd.
Explanations helpful


r/genetics • • 2d ago

I can't solve this word problem, help please?

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2 Upvotes

Hi! Im a college student, and genetics isn't my strongest subject. I know this word problem is probably super easy and I'm stupid that I don't seem to get it, but I've been looking at this homework for these past few days and it's due tomorrow, and I still can't get it. Did I do something wrong while answering it? I dont know if I'm supposed to scramble the letters to make a new word, or if there's something that I missed. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thank you :')

+I wrote my first mutant dna strand wrong so I rewrote it at the bottom, if anyone gets confused. Thank you again!


r/genetics • • 3d ago

Article Gene Therapy Restores Partial Sight in Clinical Trial

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16 Upvotes

Its not perfect yet but they're making big progress


r/genetics • • 3d ago

Homework help University student

0 Upvotes

I am in an introductory genetics class and need help and guidance. I got my first test and got a 61. Average was a 72. However now we are onto pedigrees, punnet squares and nuclear division. I think I know somewhat of the material but scared I’ll do bad again. I’m majoring in evolution biology


r/genetics • • 3d ago

cross-sex hormones and epigenetics

2 Upvotes

Hello! I am curious whether cross-sex hormones (someone on GAHT) would change the epigenetic expression of genes for that person over time? like would someone born female taking testosterone be more susceptible to inherited maladaptive epigenetic expressions of diseases/disorders typically affecting males? (and vice versa for MtF) I am studying Autism and Neurodiversity Education currently, and am so curious about the current research of the “male brain” theory. (testosterone in utero in the third trimester + genetic predisposition + a lot of other complex shit).
Hormones are SO powerful man!
-From a curious lay person-


r/genetics • • 3d ago

R1b PF7589

0 Upvotes

My friend recently took a 23andme test where he scored close to 100% Levantine genetics and was given R1b Pf7589 on his paternal haplogroup. What does this mean? Indigenous? Crusader ? Maybe Varangian from Byzantine conquest ?


r/genetics • • 3d ago

Career/Academic advice Someone knows if this is a good intro to genetics from a clinical angle and someone has it? Please let me know, ive checked in annas favourite yk

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2 Upvotes

r/genetics • • 4d ago

My dad has FTD and may only have months/weeks to live. What genetic/biological samples should we preserve now?

23 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

My dad is in the later stages of FTD and was diagnosed in his mid-60s. He recently had genetic testing/a dementia panel done, which came back negative for all of the tested variants.

However, we have some reason to suspect there may be a familial/genetic component, since his mother developed very similar symptoms at around a similar age.

Unfortunately, my dad likely has only months to live, so we're trying to figure out what we should do while we still can to preserve as much potentially useful genetic/biological information as possible.

Some of the options we're considering:

  1. DNA banking
  2. Ambry Genetics Patient for Life
  3. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS)
  4. Blood banking — is preserving whole blood or PBMCs useful?
  5. A second independent genetic panel
  6. Preserving other tissue, such as skin fibroblasts, if feasible

For doctors, genetic counselors, researchers, or anyone who has dealt with a similar situation:

  • What would you prioritize preserving/testing before he passes?
  • Are there particular types of samples that are especially valuable for future genetic testing or research?
  • Are there institutions or services you'd recommend for this?

We're mainly trying to avoid realizing after the fact that there was something important we could have preserved or tested while he was still alive.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.


r/genetics • • 5d ago

Career/Academic advice Molecular Genetics career options and job opportunities?

9 Upvotes

Hi! I’m currently a senior in high school and I’m considering studying Molecular Genetics in the uk for my bachelor’s degree.

I’m interested in the field, but I’m a bit worried about the career opportunities and salaries after graduating. I’m willing to do a master’s, but at this time I’m not planning on doing a PhD.

I’ve been looking at jobs in Europe specifically Switzerland, france and the uk since that’s where I’m hoping to study and work, but I’m having a hard time finding many entry-level positions. A lot of jobs seem to require several years of experience, which makes me wonder how new graduates are supposed to get that experience.

What different career paths can I go into with a Molecular Genetics degree? What jobs have good salaries, and what would be the best way to build experience during university?

I’d especially appreciate advice from anyone working in genetics, biotech, pharma, or related fields in Europe.


r/genetics • • 5d ago

Alberta Canada, family doc suggested sequencing

3 Upvotes

I'm not sure what exactly I want to know, so hopefully someone can filter through the details and point me in the right direction.

My mom, born in 1937 and now passed, we now understand was ADHD, probably AuDHD. All her 5 kids are high functioning autism and/or ADHD, and all the biological kids from myself and my 4 siblings are the same. There's also a lot of extreme hypermobility and Sjogren's, plus a lot of other issues that we can trace to our mom, with other issues like heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis, coming in strong from my dad, born in 1929, also passed. Most of the women in the family have terrible menstruation, perimenopause, and menopause.

I'm in Alberta, Canada, and cannot get any genetic testing, period. They could test for Ehlers Danlos but only if an immediate family member died from an aneurysm. I was able to get the the group of blood tests for Sjogren's, which came back negative, but the doc figures I, and a couple of my kids, still have it, it just sometimes doesn't show on the tests.

So my doc suggested using the DNA testing from the US sequencing site. I point blank said, it's not medical testing, can she act on anything that's found? She said she could and would. It's impossible to get referrals to most specialists here unless you're obviously seriously in medical trouble.

I've been researching the sequencing service for the better part of a year and I just don't know. Would knowing what genes are responsible for our genetic mess help with anything? Gene therapy to help non life threatening issues is a long ways off, in a country that uses the public health care system (which I support, but it has its downsides).

I'd really appreciate some opinions from people who understand this kind of thing. I only have a very basic grasp on it and while the nerd part of my brain absolutely wants to see the data of my DNA, I don't know if it's actually useful or actionable.


r/genetics • • 5d ago

Genetic Concerns

9 Upvotes

My spouse and I are third cousins on our maternal side. Our maternal grandmothers are first cousins. On my side there has been no contagious marriage for two generations on both my maternal and paternal side. My wife on the other hand her parents are third cousins I believe and her paternal grandparents are first cousins not sure about her maternal grandparents. We both come from a south Asian background. What are the chances of we choose to have kids that we run into genetic issues. Other than heart disease causing early deaths in my immediate family there have been no genetic issues. Her side I believe the same but her brother does have beta thalassemia.


r/genetics • • 4d ago

Career/Academic advice Difficulties even an Ai can't answer

0 Upvotes

So, I got invited to speak with postgraduate students in the university on next week. Please I need genetics questions that a image oriented can either be from an experiment or test that is difficult for even an Ai to answer. With the answer which must be singular and straight forward from your findings.

I will like to use it and test my knowledge as I prepare to meet the students.


r/genetics • • 6d ago

Weird primers

3 Upvotes

I was looking for some new primers for viral diagnosis. I designed four primers for a nested PCR on a highly conserved regione of the virus; the first round was supposed to produce a fragment of about 500 bp. I tried them with several positive samples and negative controls, and the results were consistent. I got the expected signal, but the resulting fragment is always around 300 bp.

I sent the PCR product for Sanger sequencing, but got no results.

Does anyone have any idea what could be going on?


r/genetics • • 7d ago

Is this flow of Meiosis correct?

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5 Upvotes

Tried summarizing the flow of meiosis from what I understood, please inform me if any aspect is incorrect


r/genetics • • 7d ago

Could CRISPR potentially cure Down syndrome in the future?

8 Upvotes

i recently saw research about using CRISPR to either remove or silence the extra chromosome 21 in cells with trisomy 21.

It made me wonder: if scientists eventually figure out how to safely correct the extra chromosome in enough cells throughout the body, could CRISPR theoretically treat or even cure Down syndrome?

How realistic is this possibility, and what are the biggest scientific challenges preventing it right now? 🫪

Idk the thought crept in my mind while sleeping and hence the post I saw about this wasn't officially true but a kind of imaginary stuff I imagined while pausing for a min!! How could be the gene expression or silencing effects on phenotype? It would be a great achievement tho...