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U of Alberta researchers find mechanism that could prevent or treat deadly peroxisome diseases

Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified a universal mechanism that ensures peroxisomes transfer into cells after division, potentially leading to prevention or treatment of deadly disorders. The discovery has implications for screening carriers and could help babies born with peroxisome disorders survive longer.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 7, 2010

Super-sleepers could help super-sizers!

A team of scientists has discovered that burrowing frogs can survive for years without food or water by changing their cell metabolism to maximize energy efficiency. This radical adaptation could have significant medical applications, particularly in treating energy-related disorders like obesity.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 2009

Stress may make you itch

Researchers found that stress activates immune cells, which initiate and perpetuate skin diseases. Blocking specific proteins prevented the increase in white blood cells, suggesting a key role for ICAM-1/LFA-1 interactions.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 27, 2008

How genetic malfunction causes a form of retardation

A study published in Neuron reveals that genetic mutations in SHP-2 lead to an imbalance in brain cell development, resulting in mental retardation. The researchers found that the mutation causes neurons to overgrow and inhibits glial cell formation, disrupting neural balance.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateApr 18, 2007

New insight into Huntington's disease pathology

Studies in mice with genetically engineered mutant huntingtin protein found that widespread production led to locomotor problems, neurodegeneration, and abnormal brain connections. Conversely, restricted production showed little difference from normal mice, suggesting cellular interactions play a significant role in HD pathogenesis.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateMay 4, 2005

UT Southwestern researchers cite recent advances in underlying causes of rare body-fat disorders

Researchers at UT Southwestern have made significant progress in understanding lipodystrophies, rare disorders characterized by partial or total loss of fat tissues. Recent studies have identified gene mutations and novel therapeutic approaches for these patients, which may also be applicable to obese individuals with abnormal fat dist...

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 17, 2004