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Genetics
Autism could be in the genes
Researchers at King's College London have found that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is more heritable than recent studies have suggested, with genetic influences on the disorder estimated to fall between 74-98%.
Look to the genes in gut microbiome – study
Recent studies have linked the gut microbiome to obesity. But Gladstone Institutes scientists have found no significant relationship between body mass index and gut microbe types and postulate that it is the genetics of the bacteria that is important.
New genetic variants found in breast cancer
A worldwide study of the DNA of 100,000 women has discovered two new genetic variants associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.
Gene associated with lung cancer discovered
Researchers of the Genetic Epidemiology of Lung Cancer Consortium, have identified the PARK2 gene mutation as being associated with lung cancer, implicating it as a genetic susceptibility factor for the disease.
Cats – human's ally in the battle to fight disease
Researchers have launched a genome sequencing project called 99 Lives, which should provide data that could generate new medicines for treating cats and humans for some diseases to which both are susceptible, such as asthma, diabetes and some forms of blindness.
Human protein interactive map launched
The Human Protein Atlas, a major multinational research project, recently launched an open source tissue-based interactive map of the human protein. The first major analysis gives a detailed picture of the proteins that are linked to cancer, the number of proteins in the bloodstream, and the targets for all approved drugs on the market.
Gene helps muscle to repair itself
In a first proof of concept study, researchers, have successfully improved the ability of muscle to repair itself by artificially increasing levels of the BMI1 gene in the muscle-specific stem cells of mice with muscular dystrophy.
Environment plays 'starring role' in immunity
A study of twins at Stanford University shows that environment, more than heredity, plays the starring role in determining the state of the immune system, especially, as one ages.
Gene promotes pancreatic cancer growth
University of Michigan researchers found the ATDC gene promotes cancer growth and spread, helping to explain why pancreatic cancer is so lethal, with fewer than a third of patients surviving even early stage disease.
Gene fault may encourage formation of blood clots
Researchers have identified a gene that may put people at greater risk of strokes and heart attacks. BBC News reports they say the gene...
Genetic discovery could help predict cardiac arrhythmias
Two international research studies, both led by investigators affiliated with Massachusetts General Hospital and the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, have uncovered new...
Having children later can increase lifespan
The genes that allow some women to naturally have children later in life also make it likely these women will live a longer life....
Two proteins needed to stimulate Metadherin gene
A study led by Princeton University researchers has revealed that the gene Metadherin – which is implicated in promoting the spread of breast cancer...
Gene mutation could protect against heart attack
Two major studies by leading research groups published independently identified mutations in a single gene that protect against heart attacks by keeping levels of...
Greenland gene mutation discovery will shed light on type 2 diabetes
A genetic susceptibility that gives a tenfold increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes has been discovered. And BBC News reports, Danish scientists say...
Virus-fighting genes can cause cancer
HPV (human papillomavirus) infection is widely known to induce cancer. But new research has found that many of the mutations that cause virally-induced cancer...
Environmental influences important aspect of ASD
Research by scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University may help explain how some cases of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can...
Common pain conditions share a genetic element
Four common chronic pain conditions share a genetic element, suggesting they could – at least in part – be inherited diseases, reports BBC News....
Stomach gene discovery has implications for cancer treatment
Genetic scientists have developed a technology that shows how genes in healthy stomach cells are altered when they become cancerous, offering the prospect of...