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Science News Archive July 2017 - Page 19


Page 19 of 37

Why do BRCA1 mutations cause predominantly breast and ovarian cancer?

Researchers from UT Health San Antonio found that BRCA1 mutation carriers experience higher gene expression-related stress in luminal epithelial cells, which are more prone to breast tumors. This stress is also associated with estrogen-responsive genes in the breasts and ovaries, a key site for cancer predisposition.

Study: Omega-3 fatty acids fight inflammation via cannabinoids

Researchers found an enzymatic pathway that converts omega-3-derived endocannabinoids into potent anti-inflammatory molecules, which bind to receptors in the immune system. This discovery demonstrates how omega-3 fatty acids can produce medicinal qualities similar to marijuana without a psychotropic effect.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 18, 2017

CNIC scientists find the key to improved cancer immunotherapy

Researchers found that generating an optimal immune response against cancer requires the cooperation of two types of memory T cells: those that circulate in the blood and those that reside in tissues. This discovery has the potential to improve current cancer immunotherapy strategies, especially in preventing metastasis.

Canada should continue with separate medical stream after cannabis is legalized for recreational use

A commentary in CMAJ argues that a two-streamed structure is necessary to keep patients safe and support research into the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids. This structure would provide incentives for research, educational resources for healthcare practitioners, and reduce risk to patients.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 17, 2017

Tracking the mechanisms of artery formation

Researchers found that a receptor called Notch is crucial in the process of artery formation, directing sprouting cells into developing arteries. The study provides new insights into how vascular networks are established and may lead to identifying new therapeutic approaches to stimulate growth of new arteries after organ injury.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJul 17, 2017

Mutation speeds up sperm of zebra finches

Researchers found that a mutation causing an inversion on the Z chromosome increases sperm velocity and morphology, leading to higher fertilization rates and reproductive success. This study provides insight into the evolutionary mechanisms underlying infertility in zebra finches.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 17, 2017

Two new genes linked to Alzheimer's risk

Researchers at Cardiff University have discovered two new genes that increase a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The findings build on previous research identifying 24 susceptibility genes and provide insights into the mechanisms underlying the disease.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 17, 2017

Climate impacts of super-giant oilfields go up with age, Stanford scientists say

A new Stanford study reveals that as super-giant oilfields age, the energy required to operate them increases, leading to higher greenhouse gas emissions. The researchers developed a software tool to accurately calculate these emissions, finding that some oilfields see a doubling of emissions per barrel over a 25-year operating period.

'No solid evidence' for biopesticide-diarrhea link

A recent review by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) incorrectly linked Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a highly effective biopesticide, to diarrhoea in humans. However, Dr Ben Raymond of the University of Exeter disputes these findings, citing recent evidence that supports Bt bacteria as "very safe for humans".

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFEMS Microbiology Ecology·DateJul 17, 2017

Researchers at IRB Barcelona discover a crucial gene involved in the development of the placenta

The study reveals that TLK2 is vital for placenta and embryo viability in mice, with implications for human intellectual disabilities. The researchers found that mutations in the TLK2 gene may cause impaired placental function, leading to insufficient oxygen during development and potential neurological disorders.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·DateJul 17, 2017