Science News for September 21, 2003

Research shows therapeutic cloning can cure Parkinson's-like disease in mice

Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have successfully differentiated stem cells into genetically matched dopamine neurons, mimicking normal brain cell development. The breakthrough could lead to new treatments for Parkinson's-like disease in humans.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateSep 21, 2003

Cellular problem discovered behind syndrome of obesity, learning disabilities

A research team at Johns Hopkins Medicine has identified a potential new contributor to obesity and learning disabilities, faulty cilia, in the rare genetic disorder Bardet-Biedl syndrome. Cilia play key roles in mammalian development, but defects have never been directly linked to this condition before.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature·DateSep 21, 2003