Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine discovered that a virus related to mononucleosis and Kaposi's sarcoma can injure arteries in mice, suggesting a possible link between viruses and vascular diseases. The study found lesions resembling early stages of human vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis.
Researchers discovered a new tumor suppressor gene, BAP1, which regulates BRCA1 activity and is associated with breast and lung cancer. The study reveals that BAP1 mutations can lead to the development of non-small-cell lung cancers.
A twin study found that genetic factors play a significant role in determining alcohol dependence risk in women, contradicting the long-held assumption that environment influences alcoholism more in women. Women with an alcoholic identical twin sister are six times more likely to be alcohol dependent.
Researchers found that a widely used anti-depressant can alter personality traits in healthy individuals, making them more easy-going and cooperative. The study, led by UCSF researchers, suggests that psychopharmaceuticals may affect different aspects of normal personality through distinct neural pathways.
Researchers found that high concentrations of nitric oxide in osteoclasts prevent excessive bone resorption, a process linked to diseases like osteoporosis. This discovery may lead to new strategies for preventing bone loss and potentially treating inflammatory conditions.