Research Progress
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Fragile by Birth: First High-Resolution ERFS Map Reveals Why Human Stem Cells Break at Specific SpotsLong-term culture of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) often induces chromosomal abnormalities, which limits their clinical use. However, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Early replication fragile sites (ERFSs) are genomic loci susceptible to breakage in early S-phase and serve as hotspots for chromosomal rearrangements, with established links to carcinogenesis. To map ERFSs in hESCs, we established the early S-phase synchronization protocols and identified ERFSs. These ERFSs are enriched in GC content and short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs) and are frequently located in promoters or enhancers of genes involved in pluripotency, proliferation, and genomic stability. ERFSs also overlap with regions associated with copy number variants (CNVs) and single nucleotide variants (SNVs) linked to cancers. Furthermore, we found that chromatin accessibility contributes to ERFS formation. Collectively, these findings provide a key resource for advancing ERFS research, offering insights into the phenotypic and genomic alterations observed in long-term hESC cultures.Jun 18, 2026 -
Two New Bat Species Discovered in Southwest ChinaThis discovery enriches Chinas bat species recordsand provides critical insights into the biogeographic patterns and evolutionary history of bats in Southwest China—a recognized global biodiversity hotspot.Jun 04, 2026 -
Multi-Enzyme Nanoplatform Offers New Hope for Precision Cancer TherapyText-decoration:underline}A collaborative research team led by CAS Member Zhang Yaping at KIZ has developed an innovative multi-enzyme-mimicking nanoplatformcapable of inducing multiple programmed cell death pathways simultaneously for enhanced tumor treatment.Jun 02, 2026 -
Multi-Gene Synergy Drives Alzheimer's Disease PathologyShow concurrent downregulation in AD patients and mouse models-Multi-gene knockdown synergistically disrupts mitochondrial complex I function and activates caspase-7-mediated apoptosis-Treatment with apoptosis inhibitor Q-VD-OPh reduced A β plaque burden and improved learning/memory in APP/PS1 miceClinical Implications:This research provides a new paradigm for understanding complex genetic networks in AD and identifies caspase-7-mediated apoptosis as a potential therapeutic target for multi-gene network-based combination therapies.Jun 01, 2026 -
Comprehensive Biodiversity Series Documents Gaoligong Mountains' Ecological TreasuresWith 60+species having type localities in Gaoligong Mountains-Insects:500 common agricultural/forestry speciesScientific Value:This landmark publication synthesizes decades of systematic research since the 1950s and provides critical scientific support for establishing Gaoligong Mountains National Park.May 22, 2026 -
Ancient DNA Reveals Population History Across Wallace's LineResearch Breakthrough:-Obtained ancient genomesfrom Loyang Mendale cave in North Sumatra-Two-stage model proposed:Early Holocene deep divergence followed by multiple migrations during Neolithic expansion-Wallaces Line served as a long-term barrier not only for flora/fauna but also for human populationsKey Findings:-Western Indonesian populations show closer affinity to Mainland Southeast Asian hunter-gatherers-Eastern populations share more genetic connections with Papuan-related groups-Austronesian expansion introduced East Asian ancestry and agricultural practices but did not erase pre-existing regional differencesGlobal Significance:This research provides crucial evidence for understanding Austronesian origins.May 18, 2026 -
A New Species of Mustura Discovered from the Chindwin–Irrawaddy River Basin, MyanmarThe Project of Financial Funds of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs:Investigation of Fishery Resources and Habitat in the Pearl River Basin.Jan 13, 2026 -
40-Hz Auditory Stimulation Shows Long-Term Efficacy in Aged Monkeys, Offering Potential for Non-Invasive Alzheimer’s Therapy
A research team from the Kunming Institute of Zoologyof the Chinese Academy of Sciences has demonstrated for the first time in non-human primates that auditory stimulation at 40 Hz significantly elevates β-amyloid levels in the cerebrospinal fluidof aged rhesus monkeys.Jan 06, 2026 -
eDNA Breakthrough Enables Unprecedented Biodiversity Monitoring in Chinese MountainsA groundbreaking study led by Prof. Douglas W. Yu at the Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, has ushered in a new era for biodiversity monitoring in complex mountain ecosystems.Jan 06, 2026 -
New Study Reveals the Mechanism of Lactoferrin-Mediated Regulation of Perinatal CoagulationA research team led by Prof. LAI Ren from the Kunming Institute of Zoology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has found that estrogen significantly upregulates lactoferrin, which in turn enhances the activity of coagulation Factor XIa (FXIa), thereby promoting thrombin generation and thrombus formation. This study was recently published in Blood.Jan 06, 2026