Bt maize (video)

Researchers have used bird and turtle DNA to extrapolate the chromosome structure of their common ancestor that lived around 260 million years ago – 20 million years before the dinosaurs first emerged. They were then able to trace the evolution of avian and non-avian dinosaur DNA through to the present day.

An international study has identified 133 genetic variants that could help predict the risk of developing glaucoma, the world’s leading cause of incurable blindness. The findings are an advance in the fight to tackle the incurable, degenerative condition, which has virtually no symptoms in the early stages, and could lead to a genetic-based screening program.

A researcher is developing tools that allow foragers to collect data on environmental conditions while they hunt for fungi. Designs include a walking stick that stores samples of dirt and a glove that takes soil moisture readings when you dip your fingers into the earth.