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Science News for June 26, 2011


Hitting moving RNA drug targets

Researchers at University of Michigan developed a new way to search for drugs that target RNA, a molecule essential to retroviruses like HIV. They successfully predicted the binding of six new small molecules to HIV's genetic material and demonstrated their efficacy in inhibiting viral replication.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 26, 2011

Genetic study shows that low body fat may not lower risk for heart disease and diabetes

A recent genetic study found a link between a specific gene variant and lower body fat percentage, yet an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The researchers discovered that this gene only affects the subcutaneous fat under the skin, which may store fat elsewhere in the body, increasing organ function interference.

Premature aging caused by some HIV drugs, study shows

Researchers found that patients treated with antiretroviral drugs, particularly NRTIs, develop damaged mitochondria similar to those of aged individuals. This damage accelerates the accumulation of errors in mitochondrial DNA, leading to premature aging. The study highlights the need to repair or stall this damage and explores the pote...

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 26, 2011