Researchers at TGen have found a way to identify possible suspects using small amounts of DNA, even in complex mixes. This breakthrough could help police investigate crimes more effectively and potentially lead to new cost-effective methods for analyzing DNA evidence.
A genome-wide study has identified a new gene on chromosome 20 that influences a person's risk of developing melanoma. This finding holds implications for the general population, with the associated genetic variations being found in 16% of people who are at nearly double the increased risk of developing the disease.
Two new therapies have shown promising results in treating basal cell carcinoma and pancreatic cancer. A novel molecule, GDC-0449, has been found to shrink tumors with limited side effects, while a combination of two drugs has shown significant clinical benefit in over 80% of pancreatic cancer patients.
Researchers have validated the association between CNTNAP2 and autistic behaviors in the general population, validating an earlier finding. This discovery highlights the potential of small science approaches and may lead to early diagnostic tests for autism.
Researchers identified a genetic variant of the DAB2IP gene associated with an increased risk of advanced prostate cancer. The finding may lead to better risk assessment and personalized treatment options for men diagnosed with prostate cancer.
A novel mutation of the AKT1 gene has been found in breast, colorectal, and ovarian cancers, which may contribute to tumor cell proliferation. The mutation is believed to play a role in making cells resistant to certain therapies.
A study has identified a common gene, GAB2, that appears to increase a person's risk for developing Alzheimer's disease. The researchers found that the healthy form of the GAB2 gene may protect brain cells from developing tangles, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.
A subset of endometrial cancers has been found to have previously unrecognized alterations in the FGFR2 gene, resulting in uncontrolled cell division. This discovery could accelerate the development of new treatments for endometrial cancer by targeting drugs already in clinical trials.
The Helios Scholars Program at the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) provides stipend funding and mentorship to 50 qualified students from diverse backgrounds. The eight-week program aims to develop foundational skills in science and prepare students for careers in the field.
A study has identified a human 'memory gene' called Kibra that plays a significant role in memory performance. The research, conducted by the Translational Genomics Research Institute and other institutions, found a strong association between Kibra and improved memory function.
A new childhood-onset epilepsy disorder, cortical dysplasia-focal epilepsy syndrome (CDFE), has been identified in a group of Old Order Amish children. The disorder is caused by a genetic mutation in the CASPR2 protein, which plays a crucial role in maintaining physical contacts between neurons and neighboring glial cells.
The MammaPrint test uses gene expression profiling to assess recurrence risk in breast cancer patients, providing valuable assistance for oncologists. Approximately 70% of breast cancer patients are stage I and II, with nearly 50% under age 60.
The study uses nearly 1000 SNPs to define the genetic and evolutionary types of several anthrax isolates, providing a critical step toward future detection of this potential public threat. The results also establish a model for other biothreat pathogens and common public health-related diseases.
A large family-based study identified specific genes associated with increased prostate cancer susceptibility, highlighting the potential for early detection and targeted surveillance. The study's findings also revealed that prostate cancers in genetically predisposed individuals tend to be more aggressive and fatal.
Researchers have discovered a new gene, EphB2, that plays a critical role in regulating tissue organization and maintaining normal cell behavior. The study found that this gene is inactivated in prostate cancer cells, leading to disorganization and tumor growth.
A team of researchers has identified a gene linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), revealing a genetic basis for the syndrome. The gene, TSPYL, is expressed in both the brainstem and testes, and its alteration can cause sudden death in infants.