A study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals how a single disrupted gene can cause Angelman syndrome, a form of severe mental retardation. The researchers found that brain cells in mice with the condition lacked ability to strengthen or weaken connections, but that sensory deprivation could recover plasticity.
A UNC-Duke study found that impaired brain plasticity in mice with Angelman syndrome is linked to severe cognitive deficits. The researchers discovered a latent ability for brain cells to express plasticity, which could lead to new treatments or a cure for the disorder.
A team of scientists has proposed six 'rules of thumb' to help save the world's imperiled coral reefs. The key to saving threatened coral ecosystems is maintaining links between reefs, allowing larvae to flow between them and re-stock depleted areas.
A comprehensive international study has identified eight previously unknown genes affecting blood pressure in healthy individuals. The study, involving 34,433 Europeans, mapped the human genome using hundreds of thousands of genetic markers and found associations with several genes regulating salt metabolism and smooth muscle signaling.
A team of researchers has identified three genes containing common mutations that are associated with altered kidney disease risk. The UMOD gene produces Tamm-Horsfall protein, which is normally present in healthy individuals' urine, but its relationship to chronic kidney disease risk was not known previously.
A Phase III trial found that adding casopitant mesylate to a conventional two-drug regimen significantly reduced chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting events. The study showed that 86% of patients achieved complete response with the new regimen compared to 66% with the placebo.
Researchers found that eliminating the gene for cyclophilin A from mice prevented the development of abdominal aortic aneurysm and atherosclerosis. The study suggests that targeting cyclophilin A could potentially address both conditions, which are linked by shared biochemical pathways.
A large-scale genome-wide association study identified eight key genes associated with high blood pressure, including ATP2B1, CACNB2, and CYP17A1. The research provides new insights into blood pressure regulation and may lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine identified common genetic changes associated with blood pressure and hypertension, including ATP2B1 and SH2B3. The study may lead to advances in hypertension therapy and the formation of early detection systems.
Researchers identify protein-protein interaction as a key factor in vision loss among people with genetic diseases, including Bardet-Biedl Syndrome. The study provides a blueprint for unraveling variations in other genetic diseases.
A global research collaboration has identified eight DNA regions associated with blood pressure and hypertension, six of which have never been linked to the condition before. The study found that genetic variants in these regions may hold promise for new treatments or even prevention.
Scientists have discovered a new type of non-blinking nanocrystal that can emit light continuously. The discovery, published in Nature, may lead to more affordable and versatile lasers, brighter LED lighting, and improved biological markers.