#Genetics

A large international genetic study released today strengthens the view that biology plays a meaningful role in who uses cannabis and who may develop problematic use. Researchers analyzed genetic data from more than 130,000 participants to identify regions of the genome associated with cannabis use and how often people use the drug. The work points to two specific genes, CADM2 and GRM3, as being related to lifetime cannabis use and frequency of use, respectively. Beyond those findings, the study reports dozens of additional gene signals and a broad pattern of genetic overlap with traits tied to psychiatric health, cognition, and physical well-being. The central message is clear: genetics helps shape early cannabis-related behaviors, which may influence who ends up facing cannabis use disorder, even as environment, policy, and personal choices steer the ultimate outcomes.

In a landmark global analysis, researchers report that women bear a larger genetic burden for major depressive disorder than men. The findings come from the largest sex-stratified genome-wide analyses to date and suggest that the genetic architecture of depression differs by sex, with implications for how Thai clinicians, policymakers, and families think about prevention, screening, and treatment. For Thai readers, this breathes new life into conversations about how biology, culture, and environment interact to shape mental health — and why one-size-fits-all approaches to depression care may not be enough.

A landmark Nature Genetics study reshapes how we understand autism spectrum disorder by identifying four distinct subtypes. Analyzing data from more than 5,000 children in the SPARK cohort, researchers found that autism comprises separate developmental and genetic pathways. The findings offer Thai families new possibilities for personalized support and evidence-based interventions, aligned with Thailand’s growing emphasis on inclusive education and healthcare.

Autism has long been viewed as a single spectrum with varying severity. The new research shows four subtypes with unique symptom patterns, timelines, and genetic profiles. Using advanced modeling, the study evaluated hundreds of behavioral and developmental traits, expanding beyond traditional criteria. This approach provides a more nuanced framework for diagnosis and intervention that resonates with Thai clinicians adapting to diverse patient needs.

A groundbreaking genetic study has revealed that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is made up of at least four scientifically distinct subtypes, each with its own unique symptom pattern, developmental trajectory, and genetic profile, according to research published in Nature Genetics and highlighted by Psychology Today (). This new framework changes how autism is understood and may pave the way for more personalized support and interventions—an important message for Thai parents, educators, and health professionals seeking clarity amidst the complexity of ASD.

A groundbreaking new study is raising the possibility that humans harbor genetic “superpowers” linked to hibernation, offering hope for advancing treatments against obesity, diabetes, and neurological damage. Researchers believe that genes regulating hibernation—long thought unique to animals like bears and ground squirrels—are present and functional in the human genome, potentially unlocking revolutionary tools for medicine and health maintenance (livescience.com).

This revelation stems from a pair of studies published in the prestigious journal Science, where geneticists at the University of Utah showed that genes regulating core features of hibernation exist in both hibernating mammals and people. If harnessed, this dormant genetic code could help control metabolism, defend the brain against damage, and spark new advances in treating metabolic disorders. For Thai readers, this research signals potential new strategies in national health campaigns battling non-communicable diseases like type 2 diabetes and obesity, two of Thailand’s most urgent public health issues.

Deep within every Thai citizen’s DNA lies a remarkable genetic legacy from humanity’s distant past—hibernation genes that once allowed our ancestors to survive harsh environmental conditions through dramatic metabolic adjustments. Revolutionary research published in the journal Science reveals these dormant genetic programs may hold the key to combating Thailand’s escalating diabetes and obesity epidemics while offering unprecedented insights into human metabolic resilience.

Scientists at the University of Utah have identified conserved genetic elements that regulate hibernation-like metabolic states across mammalian species, including humans. These “hibernation hub genes” control processes that allow animals to bulk up rapidly, enter profound metabolic dormancy, resist neurological damage during blood flow disruptions, and emerge healthy after months of minimal activity. Most remarkably, these same genetic pathways exist within human genomes, potentially accessible through targeted therapeutic interventions.

A groundbreaking discovery suggests that dormant hibernation genes, inherited from our distant ancestors, could hold keys to combating Thailand’s rising diabetes and obesity rates. New research indicates these genetic programs exist in human genomes and might be harnessed through targeted therapies to improve metabolic health.

Researchers at a leading university identified conserved genetic elements that regulate hibernation-like metabolic states across mammals, including humans. These so-called hibernation hub genes influence how bodies store energy, recover from metabolic stress, and regulate appetite. Importantly, the same genetic pathways appear to be present in humans, offering potential avenues for treatment that avoid drastic dormancy states.

Groundbreaking international research unveils the strongest scientific evidence yet that human genes and biological sex fundamentally determine how individuals experience and interpret smells, opening revolutionary possibilities for personalized medicine and deeper understanding of neurological health. The landmark study, conducted by University of Leipzig researchers and published in Nature Communications, identified ten distinct genomic regions directly connected to specific odor detection abilities, with seven representing entirely new scientific discoveries. Most remarkably, three of these genetic regions demonstrate sex-specific activation patterns influenced by hormone fluctuations, explaining why scent perception can shift dramatically during menstruation, pregnancy, and other life transitions.

A landmark international study provides the strongest evidence to date that human genetics and biological sex influence how people perceive and interpret smells. Conducted by researchers at the University of Leipzig and published in Nature Communications, the work maps ten genomic regions linked to specific odor detection, with seven representing newly identified genetic factors. Notably, three regions show sex-specific activation tied to hormone changes, helping explain scent perception shifts during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and other life stages.

A landmark international study has uncovered the strongest evidence yet that our genes—along with biological sex—shape how we experience smells, opening new possibilities for understanding brain health and personalized medicine. The research, conducted by the University of Leipzig and published on July 30, 2025, in Nature Communications, identified ten distinct regions of the human genome connected to the ability to detect specific odors. Remarkably, seven of these genetic links had never before been documented, while three regions proved sensitive to sex-specific factors such as hormones, helping explain why smell perception can shift during life events like menstruation or pregnancy.

A landmark study published in Science suggests humans may carry dormant genetic switches inspired by hibernating mammals. When activated, these switches could alter how the body handles metabolism, muscle maintenance, and brain protection. For Thailand, where chronic diseases burden aging populations, the research points to potential therapies that aim at root causes rather than symptom management.

In Thailand’s context, the rapid rise of type 2 diabetes and neurodegenerative conditions threatens families and the health system. Experts say activating human regulatory DNA could unlock new treatments that boost metabolic health, protect brain function, and improve quality of life for millions of Thais living with metabolic syndrome and dementia risk. This aligns with Thailand’s emphasis on practical, science-led healthcare improvements that benefit everyday life.

Revolutionary scientific discoveries published in the prestigious journal Science reveal that humans possess dormant genetic “superpowers” inherited from hibernating mammals that could fundamentally transform treatment approaches for chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease—conditions that disproportionately affect Thailand’s aging population and strain the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. This groundbreaking research from University of Utah scientists identifies specific DNA regulatory regions that enable hibernating animals to recover completely from months of physical decline, with these same genetic elements present and potentially activatable in human genomes, opening unprecedented pathways for therapeutic interventions.

The concept of humans carrying dormant genetic “superpowers” for healing may seem like science fiction, but emerging research suggests it’s closer to reality than once believed. In a pair of groundbreaking studies published July 31, 2025, in the journal Science, researchers at the University of Utah have identified specific DNA regions in hibernating mammals that underlie their remarkable resilience—allowing them to recover from months of physical decline without lasting harm. Even more promising, these same genetic elements may be present and potentially activatable in the human genome, opening new pathways for treatments of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease (Gizmodo; MedicalXpress).

A decade-long study suggests that regular walking can meaningfully slow cognitive decline, especially for individuals with higher genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Presented at the 2025 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, the research followed nearly 3,000 adults aged 70 to 79. Participants who maintained or increased daily walking performed better on processing speed and executive tasks than those who were sedentary. The findings imply that small daily activity gains can matter for brain health.

A decade-long study has brought comforting news for older adults wary of Alzheimer’s disease: taking regular walks could significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline, especially for those with a genetic predisposition to the condition. Presented at the 2025 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, this large-scale study tracked nearly 3,000 participants aged 70 to 79 over ten years, finding that those who maintained or increased their daily walking habits experienced notable improvements in processing speed and executive function compared to those who remained sedentary or reduced activity levels (CNN).

A new wave of technological advances promises parents a chance to have “high-quality” families by screening embryos for optimal genetic health, but current research and social debate show that the quest for genetic perfection may come at significant ethical, cultural, and emotional costs. As genetic screening companies like Orchid promote the ability to select embryos free from a wide array of health risks, a chorus of bioethicists, parents, and social critics warn that this trend risks making children into consumer products and overlooks the unpredictability—and inherent value—of imperfect human lives (The Dispatch).

Recent advances in genetic screening give parents the option to choose embryos based on health profiles. While this could reduce certain illnesses, experts warn that chasing genetic perfection may bring ethical, cultural, and emotional costs for families and society. In Thailand, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is increasingly offered as an add-on in IVF, shifting the conversation from possibility to broader questions about value, diversity, and compassion.

Thailand stands at a crossroads of medical tourism and evolving social norms around family and reproduction. Policymakers and communities must weigh technological capability against cultural values, social equity, and acceptance of difference.

A landmark international study challenges the idea that mental illness runs mainly through families. Led by researchers in Denmark, the analysis used health records for more than 3 million people and found that most serious conditions—such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression—occur in individuals without close family history. The Lancet Psychiatry published the findings, which emphasize environmental factors and random variation as substantial contributors. The result has clear implications for Thailand’s evolving approach to mental health care.

In a landmark study challenging widespread beliefs about heredity and mental health, researchers have found that the majority of cases of serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression arise in individuals with no close family history of these conditions. The research, covering data from over 3 million people, calls for a shift in how mental health is understood and addressed both globally and within Thailand’s evolving mental health landscape (Neuroscience News).

Cilantro, known as phak chee in Thai, brightens tom yum, elevates larb, and finishes many street-side soups. A small but vocal segment of diners finds its flavor soapy. New research shows this aversion is genetic, not simply a personal preference, offering a fresh lens on how Thais experience food.

In Thai cuisine, cilantro’s citrusy zing is celebrated for lifting dishes from sour to savory. Yet the soapy bitterness has puzzled cooks and diners for years. Research indicates that genetic differences influence how cilantro tastes to different people.

For many Thais, cilantro (known locally as phak chee) is inseparable from everyday cuisine — sprinkled on tom yum, incorporated into larb, or simply used as a fresh garnish on soups and street-side noodles. Yet, a curious minority recoil at its presence, describing its taste as reminiscent of soap. Recent research confirms this odd aversion is grounded in genetics rather than culinary preference, reshaping our understanding of food appreciation in Thailand and globally.

A new study in a leading science journal challenges the idea that a baby’s sex is purely by chance. Analyzing more than 146,000 pregnancies from over 58,000 women across six decades, researchers found that some families are more likely to have multiple children of the same sex. This finding invites Thai readers to reconsider long-held family narratives about gender balance.

The core message is striking: the odds of a child being a boy or a girl in a family resemble a weighted coin flip rather than a flawless one. Genetic factors and maternal age appear to tilt the balance. Traditionally, many believed each pregnancy had a perfect 50-50 chance, but the new evidence points to non-random tendencies. For Thai families, this prompts reflection on cultural stories about gender that have guided generations.

A groundbreaking new study published in Science Advances has upended the commonly held belief that the sex of a baby is purely a matter of chance, revealing that birth sex patterns within families may follow unique, weighted probabilities. This research—based on more than 146,000 pregnancies from over 58,000 women across nearly six decades—suggests that some families have a higher likelihood of producing multiple children of the same sex, offering fresh insight into age-old questions about why some parents end up with, for instance, “all girls” or “all boys” (Washington Post).

A wave of new scientific discoveries is poised to transform how autism is diagnosed, with the latest research pointing to a likely surge in cases—especially among groups historically overlooked by current diagnostic methods. Researchers from Princeton University and the Simons Foundation have identified four genetically distinct autism subtypes, a landmark achievement that could finally explain why some children go undiagnosed for years and why girls and children with subtler symptoms are more likely to be missed. This genetic blueprint promises not only earlier and more accurate identification, but also the possibility of personalized interventions and the reduction of stigma for affected individuals and families. The findings, published in a recent issue of Nature Genetics, signal a seismic shift in understanding and managing autism, with major implications for diagnostics and treatment worldwide—including in Thailand, where autism remains widely misunderstood and underdiagnosed.