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The reduction in individual and mean population fitness induced by novel deleterious genetic variation is known as the genetic load. Bertorelle et al. review the definition of the genetic load and its components as well as the impact of whole-genome sequencing on the theoretical and applied study of the genetic load.
In this Review, Ding, Sharon and Bar-Joseph discuss how dynamic features can be incorporated into single-cell transcriptomics studies, using both experimental and computational strategies to provide biological insights.
Cell fusion models containing genomes from different cell types or species in a single nucleus offer unique research benefits. Here, Pavlovic et al. advocate against describing such models as hybrids and propose a new nomenclature for interspecies cell fusions that lacks reproductive connotations.
Large-scale genetic datasets and deep learning approaches are being used to model the structures of proteins or protein complexes. This Review describes approaches based on coevolution, deep mutational scanning and genome-scale genetic or chemical–genetic interaction mapping and their application and integration to inform structural modelling.
Synthetic RNA devices integrate sensing, processing and actuation of signals into defined, programmable functions to control cell behaviour. This Review discusses the emerging applications of RNA devices in biomedical research and biomanufacturing, as well as progress in creating new ligand sensors and new mechanisms of action with engineered RNAs.
RNA therapies can be used to manipulate gene expression or produce therapeutic proteins. Here, the authors describe the growing number of RNA therapies and their molecular mechanisms of action. They also discuss the path from preclinical drug delivery research to clinical approval of these drugs.
In this Review, Fitz-James and Cavalli discuss the diverse and often multilayered mechanisms by which transgenerational epigenetic inheritance can occur in different species.
