The findings challenge the widely accepted theory of brain plasticity.

The complex 3D shapes of brains, lungs, eyes, hands, and other vital bodily structures emerge from the way in which flat 2D sheets of cells fold during embryonic development. Now, researchers at Columbia Engineering have developed a novel way to use light to influence an animal's own proteins in order to control folding in live embryos.

The move raised concerns about harmful mutations and genetic swamping — or loss of unique traits. However, a recent study co-authored by UCF Assistant Professor of Biology and Genomics and Bioinformatics faculty cluster member Robert Fitak, found that since the introduction, genetic variation has significantly improved; unique traits have been retained; and harmful mutations, while still present, are largely masked by the restored genetic variation.

Sweat does more than just cool down an overheating body. Measuring the chemical makeup of an individual’s sweat — specifically the levels of chloride, a chemical component of salt — can serve as an early warning system to help inform the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease that damages the lungs and digestive system.