Genetics

The science does not support the idea that we can alter a child's DNA to ensure certain health and intelligence outcomes.

In just over 40 years, we've gone from simple modifications to the development of a gene drive that could eradicate an entire species.

We are on the brink of being able to genetically engineer an extinction. Should we?

The Joseph DeAngelo case has raised concerns about the privacy of data produced by consumer genetic tests. But really, law enforcement should be using DNA evidence more often.

Children suffering from Rett Syndrome may have found hope in a drug combination that could potentially reverse disease symptoms by adjusting natural cellular functions.

Good science can combat misinformation, but it won't resolve public debates over homosexuality.

If the new rule goes through as planned, companies such as 23andMe would have to undergo FDA review just once.

Turns out, our ancient ancestors' consumption of fermented fruits created a genetic mutation that be the cause of alcoholism in people today.

Biomedical researchers can see a future where genetic tests are used to treat and prevent many diseases before major symptoms even present themselves. But that future won't be possible without strong insurance protections for pre-existing conditions.

Jennifer Latson's debut illustrates a boy's coming-of-age, complicated by a genetic disorder that strips peoples' social inhibitions.

Consumer genetic tests like 23andMe aren't medical devices, and the FDA shouldn't regulate them like blood-sugar meters or pregnancy tests.

A study of Neanderthal genes demonstrates the research power of electronic health records.

Scientists find that, compared to our closest primate relatives, the landscape of the human brain is exceptionally sensitive to external influences.

As we wrote earlier this year, the technology can be used in a plethora of positive ways, but there is far from a legal consensus.

The disease model of addiction offers addicts several ways forward—including getting drunk to beat alcoholism.

To better understand endangered species, study their genetics.

Genetic tests are becoming increasingly common, but a major medical organization argues that we should be cautious about testing children.

Genetic studies of living Native Americans and ancient remains are revising our theories about America’s first inhabitants.

A study finds a new link between mutations and intellectual disability, but that doesn’t mean we should ignore non-genetic factors.

At least knowing where the slaughter is happening means officials know where to try to stop it.

A study suggests that schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and creativity might share some common genetic roots.

A few weird possible explanations for a weird case.

Researchers are finding many genes unique to our species, but so far they reveal little about our most human traits.

Genetically engineered babies raise a host of disturbing, science fiction-worthy ethical questions, but we have a more mundane and much more urgent issue to consider: safety.