Articles tagged with Genetic Disorders
A study on Rett syndrome found that small molecule inhibitors reactivated the inactive X-linked MECP2 gene, rectifying morphological defects in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons. The treatment has potential therapeutic applications for the neurodevelopmental disorder.
Researchers successfully used CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing to restore normal levels of the AAT enzyme in mouse models of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. The approach showed promise for treating patients with this genetic disorder.
Researchers identified four TRAF7 mutations in seven patients with a similar multisystem disorder, associated with developmental delay, congenital heart defects and limb anomalies. The mutations reduced ERK1/2 pathway activity, suggesting a possible genetic link to the condition.
The study analyzed over 900,000 genomes to identify genetic overlap among psychiatric diseases and personality traits. Schizophrenia was found to correlate with most psychiatric disorders, while anorexia nervosa, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and autism spectrum disorder demonstrated significant overlap.
Researchers found substantial overlaps in genetic risk for psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and schizophrenia. In contrast, neurological disorders showed limited evidence of common genetic risk factors, suggesting greater diagnostic specificity.
A new study found that psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder have similar genetic patterns, which may not be reflected in current diagnostic categories. The research suggests that a single mechanism regulating concentration could drive both ADHD and schizophrenia.
A study on a Quebec family with an unusual gene has provided novel insight into how the human brain is built. The research found altered connectivity between dopamine-producing cells and their target sites in the brain, which may link to lower impulsivity traits and reduced likelihood of smoking.
The CRISPR Journal announces its third issue with novel techniques for long DNA delivery, correction of recessive genetic defects using endogenous repair, base editing quantification software, leveling the CRISPR playing field through accessible plasmid repositories, and insights into CRISPR's future by Editor-in-Chief Rodolphe Barrangou
Whole genome sequencing (WGS) has the potential to provide early diagnoses for neonates with genetic disorders, leading to changes in medical care and reduced healthcare costs. In a study of over 340 patients, rWGS yielded a diagnosis in 34% of cases, with significant changes in management observed in 67% of those diagnosed.
Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute discovered that a small region of non-coding DNA, enhancer 13, boosts SOX9 protein production to trigger testes development in male mice. This finding could help explain why some humans with XY chromosomes develop female sex organs due to missing genetic material.
A new study identified genetic missense mutations that contribute to disease risk in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The framework successfully prioritized these mutations, which are more likely to occur in autistic children than their siblings.
Researchers found that genes associated with schizophrenia alter early brain development indirectly by influencing placenta health, leading to a fivefold increased risk of developing the disorder. The study also discovered a sex bias in schizophrenia incidence, with males more likely to be affected due to the placenta's role.
Researchers have identified a new inherited neurodevelopmental disease caused by a recessive mutation in the CAMK2A gene, leading to slow growth, seizures, and learning difficulties. The disorder is also linked to other neurological conditions such as epilepsy and autism.
A recent study published in Nature Communications has found that ebselen can correct many of the toxic characteristics of a protein causing some cases of hereditary motor neurone disease (MND). The drug-molecule can restore important steps in the SOD1 assembly process, potentially preventing neuronal cell death.
Researchers have developed a CRISPR-based treatment that can restore retinal function in mice afflicted with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease. The 'ablate-and-replace' strategy allows for the precise removal and replacement of the faulty gene, enabling faster and less expensive treatment options for dominant disorders.
A recent clinical study found that most parents-to-be want access to information from preconception carrier screening, including genetic variants associated with common disorders. However, the interpretation of these variants remains a significant challenge due to limited knowledge about their effects on health.
Researchers generated an atlas of the human genome using human embryonic stem cells, identifying essential genes for growth and survival. The study also analyzed the role of cancer-causing genes in early development and growth.
A recent study identified rare inherited variants in non-coding DNA as a contributor to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These variants disrupt neighboring DNA control elements that regulate gene expression. The findings suggest that the inherited genetic contribution from mothers and fathers may be qualitatively different.
Researchers at OIST Graduate University found rapamycin can 'cure' cells with genetic defects, restoring normal cell function. The study identified 12 genes responsible for temperature-triggered defects in fission yeast cells.
Researchers engineered a donor cornea with genes that inhibit vascularization, reducing the risk of tissue rejection in high-risk patients. The study shows promising results for gene therapy in preventing corneal graft rejection.
Researchers have identified the genetic basis of melorheostosis, a rare bone disorder characterized by excess bone formation resembling dripping candle wax. The study found that mutations in the MAP2K1 gene were responsible for the condition, offering potential treatment targets and insights into bone development.
Dr. Judith G. Hall, a pioneering geneticist, has been awarded the David L. Rimoin Lifetime Achievement Award for her groundbreaking research and teaching on human growth and connective tissue disorders. She is recognized for helping establish medical genetics as an accredited clinical specialty.
Researchers have identified genetic links between ALS and frontotemporal dementia, suggesting that treatments for one may also work for the other. The study found common genetic variations associated with both disorders, including those near the MAPT gene and BNIP1.
A recent study developed a model to predict the effect of genetic variants on cognitive traits, opening the way for better interpretation of genetic analyzes and early care for children at risk. The discovery paves the way for clinicians to estimate cognitive impact of rare genetic variants.
Researchers discover bassoon gene mutations associated with a rare brain disorder, PSP-like symptoms, and cognitive decline. The study highlights the importance of analyzing BSN gene mutations in patients with neurological disorders.
Researchers found that genetic changes outside of genes, specifically regulatory elements, can cause rare developmental disorders. This discovery is a positive step towards providing an explanation for children with undiagnosed neurodevelopmental disorders, and could lead to diagnoses and treatment options for thousands of families.
A study by McMaster University researchers has pinpointed a gene responsible for neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism. The study found that alterations of the thousand and one amino-acid kinase 2 (TAOK2) gene play a direct role in these disorders.
Researchers have discovered 50 new gene regions increasing schizophrenia risk, including genes previously associated with intellectual disability and autism. These findings shed light on the disorder's complex genetics, suggesting subtle genetic variants can contribute to its development.
Researchers have developed a safer and more specific CRISPR/Cas9 system to treat Huntington's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder caused by a defective gene. The new technique successfully inactivates the mutant gene and reduces toxic protein synthesis, offering hope for a potential cure.
Researchers have uncovered key events in familial frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) linked to PGRN gene mutations. They discovered that tau phosphorylation drives synapse loss and communication disruption, providing a new avenue for treatment targeting tau phosphorylation.
The inaugural issue of The CRISPR Journal features a range of articles on CRISPR biology, technology, and genome editing. Research highlights include progress in treating genetic diseases, such as hereditary blindness and Batten disease, using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing.
A UCLA-led study has found significant overlap in gene expression patterns among autism, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder, with distinct differences also observed. Researchers have identified a molecular pathological signature for these disorders, providing a large step forward in understanding their underlying causes.
Researchers found that androgens increase cell spread and prevent death, potentially predisposing boys to autism. The study identified key genes regulated by testosterone that contribute to the risk of autism.
The Vilcek Prize in Biomedical Science is awarded to Alexander Rudensky for his work on regulatory T cells and their role in cancer treatment. Two younger immigrants, Polina Anikeeva and Sergiu P. Pasca, receive $50,000 prizes for their promising contributions to biomedical engineering and brain disease research.
Researchers at UConn Health have reversed Prader-Willi syndrome in lab-grown brain cells by targeting the ZNF274 protein, which silences many genes. The breakthrough provides clues for treating this genetic disorder and offers new hope for patients with life-threatening childhood obesity.
Researchers identified unique epigenetic signatures for nine neurodevelopmental disorders, enabling better diagnosis with minimal clinical overlap. The signatures can be used to screen for multiple syndromes simultaneously and distinguish between similar cases.
Researchers found a significant increase in lifetime prevalence of mood disorders among individuals with focal epilepsy, but not generalized epilepsy. The study suggests a shared genetic susceptibility to these conditions, specifically expressed in people with focal epilepsy.
A new study suggests a shared genetic susceptibility between epilepsy and mood disorders, particularly in individuals with focal epilepsy. The study found a significant increase in lifetime prevalence of mood disorders among people with focal epilepsy compared to those with generalized epilepsy.
Scientists at Bielefeld University confirm the presence of a previously unknown genetic defect 'MPS III-E' causing progressive blindness and inner ear hearing impairment in patients. Biochemical studies revealed that the disorder is caused by an enzyme deficiency, which can be treated with biotechnological enzyme replacement therapy.
Researchers discovered that the stress gene NR4A1 adjusts energy output and synapse number of prefrontal cortex neurons in response to stress. Chronic stress may interfere with normal brain circuit function through this gene's impact on cellular connectivity, but altering its expression protects PFC cells from synaptic loss.
Researchers identified shared immunity-related pathways involved in advanced stages of inherited blindness, hinting at potential therapeutic strategies. The study's findings also reveal similarities with common vision disorders like diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration.
A novel genetic study aims to identify unique genetic signatures of patients at risk for opioid addiction, enabling tailored treatment approaches. The research will also inform the development of an 'addiction risk score' to guide clinicians in prescription decisions.
Early evidence suggests that a gene therapy developed at St. Jude improves immune systems in infants as young as 2 months old with XSCID, offering broad protection and reducing the need for protective isolation. The treatment has been shown to be well-tolerated and effective in restoring immune function.
Mental illnesses like depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD affect nearly 1 in 5 adults in the US. Psychologist Lee Anna Clark proposes revisiting diagnostic manuals to address complex factors causing these conditions. The phenomenon of mental illness is multi-determined and less categorical than previously thought.
A research team has quantified blind spots in protein function, revealing that 30% of proteins with unknown functions are enzymes. This discovery has significant implications for understanding rare genetic diseases and could lead to a better insight into the onset and triggers of inherited metabolic diseases.
A new study using pluripotent stem cell technology reveals that having too much or too little of the CHRNA7 gene can lead to similar biological effects in brain cells. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric disorders and offers a potential avenue for treatment.
A study has found a connection between genetic mutations in lysosomal storage disorders and an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Researchers analyzed the largest available Parkinson's disease genetic dataset, discovering that nearly half of those with the disease carried damaging mutations in these genes.
Researchers have tested a potential new drug, NitroSynapsin, in a mouse model of an autism disorder and found it largely corrected electrical, behavioral and brain abnormalities. The candidate drug is intended to restore the signaling imbalance found in virtually all forms of autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers found that a genetic variant in the dopamine receptor gene delayed maturation of a brain region involved in reward planning in boys, but not girls. In girls, the opposite effect was seen, with the same variant delaying cortical maturation while promoting healthy development in boys.
Geneticists at Emory University School of Medicine have discovered a mysterious DNA modification in animals, specifically adenine methylation, which increases four-fold under conditions of stress in the brain. This epigenetic modification may play a role in neuropsychiatric disorders.
Researchers have made the largest study on genetic patterns and molecular changes in specific tissues, showing tens of thousands of variants with detectable effects. The studies also identified rare genetic variants contributing to extreme changes in cellular markers.
Researchers found a direct connection between deletions in two genes in the 16p11.2 region of human chromosome 16 and certain brain and body traits, including seizures, hyperactivity, and obesity. The study suggests that multiple genes interact to produce various characteristics.
Researchers developed higher resolution genetic diagnostic tools to identify genetic anomalies in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The study linked novel DLG2 promoters and coding exons to developmental delay and intellectual disability, providing a potential pathogenic role in these conditions.
A new study successfully uses a shortened version of the CEP290 gene to treat Leber congenital amaurosis type 10, a rare genetic disorder causing blindness. The treatment shows significant improvement in photoreceptor survival and function.
Researchers have developed a new CRISPR delivery system, CRISPR-Gold, that can repair the mutation causing Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The system achieves an 18-times-higher correction rate and improves muscle strength and agility in mice.
A genetic variant associated with multiple psychiatric disorders is linked to changes in a brain network that may increase an individual's risk of developing bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. The variant affects the expression of the SNAP25 protein, impacting information processing between brain regions involved in regulating emotions.
Researchers developed a new mouse model lacking the Upf3b gene to study its underlying role in intellectual disabilities and neurodevelopmental disorders. The study found that Upf3b-deficient mice exhibited defects in neural stem cell specialization, dendrite formation, and sensory processing.
A new analysis estimates that genetic factors account for 83% of the risk for autism spectrum disorder, while nonshared environmental influences contribute 17%. This estimate is higher than previous twin studies but more accurate than a lower estimate using traditional methods.
Researchers have identified networks of genes related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that may also be involved in cancer, potentially leading to new treatment options. The study used a computational technique to account for gene interactions, revealing genes that could affect similar pathways.
Researchers at Rutgers University created brain cells from blood samples of individuals in a three-generation family with Tourette syndrome. The study found that a mutation in the PNKD gene is likely the cause of the disorder, which affects one in every 100-150 people in the US.