Leave No Stone Unturned

Geneticists have discovered that even the tiniest changes in a few yeast genes can affect traits – a discovery that may apply to higher organisms as well. You can’t just look at candidate genes – that is, genes that are known to have a specific function – says USU researcher Paul Cliften. Rather, every gene, at the molecular level, may have the potential to influence inherited traits. 

 

From “Seeing traits, close-up,” by Nicole Johnston, The Scientist, November 7, 2005. For more information, contact Paul Cliften, assistant professor, Biology Department, College of Science, Utah State University, 435-797-7627.