genetics
Neanderthal gene ‘caused up to a million Covid deaths’

Neanderthal gene ‘caused up to a million Covid deaths’
Genetic tweak found in one in six Britons means cells in the lungs are slower to launch defences
10 Jun 2022
Whole genome sequencing of newborn babies explained

Whole genome sequencing of newborn babies explained
Proponents want UK-wide screening programme to help identify babies at risk of serious illnesses
5 Jul 2021
Genetic reset ‘could lead to 1,000-year-old humans’

Genetic reset ‘could lead to 1,000-year-old humans’
And other stories from the stranger side of life
9 Jun 2021
Coronavirus: who are the ‘super-survivors’?

Coronavirus: who are the ‘super-survivors’?
Centenarians part of a ‘special group’ who are more likely to survive coronavirus
17 Apr 2020
Where was the Garden of Eden? DNA has the answer

Where was the Garden of Eden? DNA has the answer
Researchers say they have located the origin of modern humans in southern Africa
29 Oct 2019
Are left-handed people genetically smarter?

Are left-handed people genetically smarter?
Variants in newly identified gene show differences in brain structure which could result in better verbal skills
6 Sep 2019
‘Gay gene’ debunked by scientists 

‘Gay gene’ debunked by scientists
Largest study of its kind finds sexual preferences are influenced by complex mix of genes, environment and life experiences
30 Aug 2019

Enjoy a different view
Keep an open mind with The Week magazine. Subscribe today and your first 6 issues are completely free.
China confirms gene-edited babies

China confirms gene-edited babies
Investigators say Dr He Jiankui acted alone and faces death penalty
22 Jan 2019
How the shape of your skull can reveal Neanderthal DNA

How the shape of your skull can reveal Neanderthal DNA
Scientists uncover traces of Neanderthal genes linked with ‘less round brains’ in modern humans
14 Dec 2018
World’s first genetically altered babies born in China

World’s first genetically altered babies born in China
If true, breakthrough ‘would be profound leap of science and ethics’ despite condemnation from medical profession
27 Nov 2018
Stephen Hawking predicted race of superhumans

Stephen Hawking predicted race of superhumans
Late physicist feared abuse of genetic modification technology may lead to two-tiered society
15 Oct 2018
Designer babies: the arguments for and against

Designer babies: the arguments for and against
Debate intensifies as UK ethics body gives go-ahead to gene editing for non-medical reasons
17 Jul 2018
Why are scientists genetically editing pigs?

Why are scientists genetically editing pigs?
Breakthrough in making the animals resistant to disease poses ethical and legal dilemma
21 Jun 2018
Genetic profiling: A fast-track ticket to optimal health 

Genetic profiling: A fast-track ticket to optimal health
iamYiam founder Lorena Puica explains why she left a high-flying career in investment management to launch an innovative health service
18 Apr 2017
Major blood cancer is actually 11 distinct diseases

Major blood cancer is actually 11 distinct diseases
Discovery could help patients with acute myeloid leukaemia receive far more tailored treatment
9 Jun 2016
Scientists take 'very positive step' towards cancer vaccine

Scientists take 'very positive step' towards cancer vaccine
Genetic breakthrough sees patients' immune systems tricked into attacking tumours
2 Jun 2016
Da Vinci code: DNA could solve mystery of Leonardo's grave

Da Vinci code: DNA could solve mystery of Leonardo's grave
Remains could unlock a wealth of information about painter's life – and show us how he really looked
6 May 2016
'Youth' gene may explain why some people age well

'Youth' gene may explain why some people age well
Gene linked to pale skin and red hair can have an effect on how old you look, say scientists
29 Apr 2016