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Science News for August 11, 2013


Advanced technology reveals new epilepsy genes

A global study using exome sequencing identified new genetic mutations causing severe childhood epilepsies, revealing common pathways to target the condition with drugs and therapies. The findings could lead to fast-tracking discoveries of genetic causes and improving treatment options for devastating childhood epilepsies.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature·DateAug 11, 2013

X-linked MeCP2 is first reported to be a new target for treating Parkinson's disease

A new study published in Neural Regeneration Research suggests that X-linked methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) may be a promising therapeutic target for treating Parkinson's disease. Researchers found that overexpressing MeCP2 in damaged human cells reduced apoptosis and increased tyrosine hydroxylase levels, indicating potential be...

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateAug 11, 2013

Rethinking 'The Code'

The study reveals that the protein complex Mll2 is responsible for implementing activating histone marks on 'poised' genes, but its loss has little effect on developmental gene activation during differentiation. This suggests a more complex understanding of histone modification patterns in embryonic and cancer cells.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateAug 11, 2013

Genetic mutations linked to Parkinson's disease

A study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals that genetic mutations linked to Parkinson's disease can cause problems with mitophagy, a process essential for eliminating damaged cells. The research suggests that targeting this pathway could lead to the development of more effective drug treatments.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 11, 2013