Articles tagged with Genetic Disorders
Tetrabenazine has been shown to decrease involuntary movement by 25% and improve patient outcomes. The medication targets the excessive movements caused by the disease's mutant protein, providing relief for patients with tasks such as eating and walking.
Researchers identified a new gene associated with Charcot-Marie Tooth disease, a rare inherited neurological disorder. This discovery may lead to better understanding of how nerves function and improved diagnostic possibilities for CMT sufferers.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a method using carbon nanotubes to detect single DNA base mutations. The technique produces sensor results comparable to state-of-the-art optical techniques and has several advantages over existing methods, including cost, time, and simplicity.
U of MN researchers identified the specific mutation causing Spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 (SCA5), a dominant gene disorder. The discovery enables genetic testing for patients at risk, providing improved diagnoses and insight into neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers have identified a key gene involved in Meckel-Gruber syndrome type 3 (MKS3), a rare form of polycystic kidney disease. The discovery provides a breakthrough in understanding the disorder and developing new therapies.
A team of scientists from the University of New South Wales has identified a gene called FAT that is associated with an increased risk of bipolar disorder. The discovery was made using a multi-faceted approach that included studying families, patients, and therapeutic drug mouse models.
Researchers have successfully treated hereditary spastic paraplegia by delivering a normal paraplegin protein to spinal motor neurons via gene therapy. This approach improved motor function in mice and holds promise for treating other forms of peripheral nerve damage caused by genetic mutations.
A recent NIH study found a strong association between progressive aphasia syndrome and a specific prion gene variant, suggesting that the disease may be linked to genetic variations in the prion protein. The findings have significant implications for understanding the causes of this rare neurological disorder.
Research found a significant association between a COMT gene variant and antisocial behavior in children with ADHD or hyperkinetic disorder. Low birth weight was also associated with antisocial behavior, highlighting the importance of prenatal risk factors.
Researchers at Yale have identified a genetic link to Tourette's Syndrome in a rare DNA sequence mutation. The study found an abnormal DNA sequence in one family and identical, very rare changes in two unrelated individuals, suggesting the gene plays a role in regulating gene expression through microRNAs.
Researchers develop gene therapy that increases atrial natriuretic peptide production to control blood pressure without severely reducing it. The therapy successfully maintained healthy blood pressure levels for 125 days in mice.
A study has identified a genetic mutation in the SEPT9 gene as the cause of HNA, a chronic pain syndrome characterized by recurring episodes of severe pain. The mutation affects protein filaments that provide internal scaffolding for cells, leading to abnormal cell division and nerve disorders.
Hereditary Neuralgic Amyotrophy is characterized by repeated attacks of pain and paralysis in the affected area, often accompanied by facial features. Researchers have identified a genetic defect in the Septin 9 protein as the underlying cause of the disorder.
Researchers show that CD32 isoforms have differential contributions to dendritic cell activation, with ligation of CD32a inducing maturation and ligation of CD32b inhibiting it. Intravenous immune globulin selectively shifts Fc-gamma receptor expression to a CD32b-dominated profile, explaining its anti-inflammatory properties.
Researchers have identified the Dido gene as a potential tumor suppressor involved in myeloproliferative diseases. The study found that 100% of patients with these diseases had Dido expression abnormalities, suggesting a link between the gene and the development of MDS/MPD.
Researchers identified a new gene, BRIP1, associated with Fanconi anemia's hallmark chromosomal instability. The protein BACH1 helps DNA unwind for repair, and BRIP1 mutations disrupt this process.
Researchers discovered specific mutations in the TACI gene that are associated with common variable immunodeficiency and IgA deficiency. These genetic defects impair the immune system's ability to fight infections, increasing the risk of recurrent illnesses and autoimmune diseases.
A recent study found that children who experience a low response to alcohol are at higher risk of developing alcohol dependence. The research also suggests that genetics play a significant role in the development of this trait.
A new study published in the Archives of Neurology found that using Lorenzo's Oil can prevent the onset of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) in a majority of young boys. The treatment, which involves daily oral doses of olive oil and rapeseed oil, showed a significant preventive effect in nearly three-fourths of patients.
Researchers discovered that specific DNA sequences, known as AluYb elements, played a crucial role in human evolution by secretly spawning hyperactive copies. These elements are responsible for the development of genetic disorders such as hemophilia and some cancers.
A recent study by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology found that while Beckwith-Widermann syndrome had a significant risk for children conceived through ART, no significantly higher rates of other disorders were observed in children born after ART apart from BWS. The researchers also identified a possible mechanis...
Research identifies genetic linkages associated with bipolar disorder, including a possible connection to autoimmune thyroiditis. The findings suggest that identifying these genetic markers could help develop more effective treatments or prevent the disorder in at-risk individuals.
A new study found that healthy individuals carrying a specific variant of the dopamine transporter gene have significantly higher levels of dopamine transporter in their brains. The results suggest that this variation may influence concentrations of extracellular dopamine and are relevant to conditions such as substance abuse, tobacco ...
Lafora disease is characterized by abnormal glycogen metabolism, with the accumulation of starch-/glycogen-like granules in most tissues. Researchers at UCSD have identified malin's role in the disease, revealing a testable model for its molecular mechanism.
The Rush University Medical Center has been designated as the first HDSA Center of Excellence in Illinois, providing a range of medical and social services to Huntington's disease patients. The center will also explore the creation of a regional network of care providers, including end-of-life care.
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine have found that the liver is the main source of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or 'good' cholesterol. This discovery could lead to new treatments for raising HDL levels, particularly in individuals with less severe cholesterol disorders.
A US-India research team has completed an analysis of the X chromosome, identifying 43 new gene structures that encode proteins. The study, published in Nature Genetics, used a novel approach that compared human and mouse protein sequences to reveal previously unknown genes linked to X-linked mental retardation syndromes.
Scientists find that a region near the head of the ataxin-3 protein counterbalances toxicity caused by excessive polyglutamine repeats, potentially offering a therapeutic solution for Machado-Joseph disease and related disorders. The study suggests that removing or altering this region can accelerate disease progression.
Researchers identified a common genetic mutation, JAK2, in patients with polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia, and myeloid metaplasia with myelofibrosis. The study used high-throughput DNA sequencing analysis to compare blood and mouth-swab samples from 164 PV patients, 115 ET patients, and 46 MMM patients.
The study found that one gene, Eda, controls the armor-plating trait in stickleback fish, which evolved rapidly after ocean fish colonized new environments. This suggests that evolution can occur quickly with just a few genes changing slightly, allowing newcomers to adapt and populate new habitats.
Scientists have identified several genes that appear to be switched on by lithium, which may lead to the development of more effective treatments for bipolar disorder. The study found that one gene, GPR88, is associated with a rat model of mania and codes for an orphan receptor that could potentially target dopamine signaling.
A new diagnostic test is being developed to target a range of blood disorders by detecting a single point mutation in the JAK2 gene. The mutation was found in virtually all patients with polycythaemia vera, as well as half of those with essential thrombocythaemia and idiopathic myelofibrosis.
Researchers have identified abnormal brain tissue associated with cognitive impairments in children with chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. The study found structural abnormalities in the posterior parietal lobe, a critical area for visual-spatial and numerical processing.
The 21st-century model of healthcare focuses on the family before and after genetic testing, clustering genomic disorders based on similar patterns of psychosocial demands. This approach incorporates key disease variables to inform effective treatment interventions.
Researchers developed a new technique to detect fetal single gene disorders using analysis of circulatory fetal DNA in maternal plasma. The approach has been shown to be accurate and cost-effective, making it suitable for screening at-risk pregnancies in developing countries.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified a gene defect that causes Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a prevalent and inherited nerve disorder. The discovery provides new insights into the nervous system and may lead to the development of targeted therapies for this debilitating disease.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified a new form of muscular dystrophy in adults, linked to specific gene mutations that can be targeted for treatment. The study combines laboratory and clinical data to provide a deeper understanding of the disease process and its genetic basis.
A gene that causes severe fat deficiency is also found to promote obesity in mice, according to new research. The protein affects body weight by altering fat storage and metabolism, with excess levels leading to increased body weight and changes in energy expenditure.
A new genetic mutation on the LRRK2 gene is responsible for 5% of inherited Parkinson's disease cases, with patients having longer disease duration but less severe symptoms. The discovery has a broad implication for genetic screening for the disease, highlighting the need to include studies of the LRRK2 gene in future testing.
Scientists studying prion diseases in mice found that preventing cell death does not stop the progression of neurological symptoms. Damage to synapses, critical for nerve cell communication, is instead linked to the disease.
A unique three-year project found that genetic screening can lead to uncertainty and anxiety among individuals at risk, while those with symptoms face difficulties in diagnosis and treatment. Researchers call for urgent attention from health policymakers to address these issues and ensure accessible care.
A study found that individuals with the G variant of the OPRM1 gene have a greater likelihood of experiencing stronger subjective feelings from alcohol and a higher risk of developing alcohol-use disorders. This genetic difference affects how the brain responds to endogenous opiates, influencing motivation and reinforcement.
Researchers found a mutation in the LRRK2 gene that plays a central role in developing Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. The discovery has major implications for understanding mechanisms of these diseases and potentially leading to curative treatments.
A new gene therapy has successfully corrected the genetic defect responsible for Fabry disease in mice, producing a sustained level of enzyme activity and reducing fat buildup in target organs. The treatment, administered shortly after birth, could potentially lead to a one-time treatment option for humans.
Researchers discovered a complete deficiency in the CD3 epsilon chain of the T cell receptor causes SCID, leading to normal B cells but no T cells development. The absence of this chain blocks T cell development at a specific stage in the thymus.
Researchers will pinpoint the genetic cause of Thiel-Behnke, a rare corneal dystrophy, using a $1.1 million NEI grant. The study aims to improve diagnosis and treatment options for other types of corneal dystrophies.
Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine discovered the AHI1 gene mutation responsible for Joubert Syndrome, characterized by excessive brain folds. The study also identified a potential link between the disorder and common childhood brain abnormalities like autism.
Researchers create strategy to trick ATM gene into overlooking premature termination codons, restoring full-length protein production and alleviating symptoms. The treatment uses aminoglycosides to make PTCs invisible to the cell's machinery, showing promise for halting disease progression and cancer risk in A-T patients.
A study at Duke University Medical Center discovered the cln3 protein transports a vital lipid that is essential for normal cell function. The breakdown of this system leads to uncontrolled apoptosis in Batten disease, but the protein also plays a role in cancer, Alzheimer's, and AIDS.
A genetic disorder, Williams syndrome, has been studied using brain imaging techniques to understand its impact on genes and cognition. The research found that the disorder affects the dorsal pathway of the visual cortex, leading to difficulties in visuospatial construction.
Scientists identify ZIC1 and ZIC4 genes linked to Dandy-Walker, a condition affecting the cerebellum. The discovery may lead to prenatal diagnosis and better understanding of autism.
A new study identifies a genetic link between schizophrenia and the GRM3 gene, which regulates glutamate in brain synapses. People with the 'A' variant have lower levels of glutamate and poorer cognitive function compared to those with the 'G' variant.
The American Academy of Neurology has updated its diagnostic standard for headaches, adding new subtypes and disorders. The revised criteria provide a clearer framework for diagnosing and treating various types of primary and secondary headaches.
A study by Tufts University researcher Catherine Freudenreich reveals that cells with certain DNA mutations may activate a surveillance system to repair damaged DNA, leading to cell death. The findings could lead to advances in treating diseases such as Huntington's disease and muscular dystrophy.
Researchers found six different mutations in the ATP1A3 gene, which can cause permanent tremors and loss of muscle control. The mutations disrupt the protein's ability to pump sodium and potassium across neurons, leading to neuronal death.
Researchers developed a genetic model for familial spastic paraparesis, identifying the role of spastin in nerve communication. The study found that pharmacological treatments can restore normal nerve function by stabilizing microtubule activity.
Researchers have identified a major pathway leading to chromosomal and nuclear abnormalities in preimplantation embryos. Abnormal spindles during cell division can lead to chromosomal chaos, affecting embryo development and implantation rates.
Researchers at the Hebrew University have identified the earliest evidence of a hereditary genetic disorder, amelogenesis imperfecta, in a 1.5 million-year-old Homo erectus child from Ethiopia. The disease affects tooth enamel structure and mineral content, leading to rapid wear and chipping.
Researchers investigate the role of mutated a-actinin-4 in FSGS, a leading cause of progressive kidney failure. The study reveals two possible mechanisms: aggregation and rapid degradation, which can injure kidney cells, highlighting potential therapeutic targets.
Scientists have identified genetic mutations in heat shock proteins linked to Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a debilitating disorder affecting peripheral nerves. The study's findings hold promise for developing new therapies and improving diagnosis.