A new survey appearing in Science Advances indicates that support among US adults for the agricultural use of gene drives depends largely on the species being targeted and the ability to control the drive. A total of 1,018 individuals were informed about potential risks, benefits, and two previously researched applications for gene drives, then questioned about their support the technology. Greater support was shown for limited gene drives, as well as ones that focus on non-native species. One-fifth of respondents who seek out non-GMO labeled food were about 7.6 percent more likely to oppose gene drives, although about half still support limited gene drives on non-native species. Over 62 percent of respondents said they trust US universities and the Department of Agriculture to research gene drives, while the private sector and Department of Defense viewed as more untrustworthy.
Using data from large-scale RNA sequencing studies, a research team has identified the gene TCF4 as a master regulator in schizophrenia. As described in Science Advances, the scientists identified five potential master regulators of the disorder using RNA-seq data generated by the CommonMind Consortium and from studies in cultured neuronal cells from nasal cavity tissue, homing in on TCF4. Additional testing confirmed the gene's likely contribution to schizophrenia susceptibility at early stages of brain development.