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New way to turn genes on

Researchers at MIT have successfully turned on any desired gene in living cells using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. This breakthrough enables scientists to study gene function and identify genes involved in diseases, such as melanoma. The new method has also been used to screen for genes that confer resistance to cancer drugs.

New approach for treating ALS

Researchers have uncovered a mechanism that explains why many ALS drugs fail as the disease progresses: the brain's pumps become more active and remove both toxins and medicine. Blocking these pumps improves drug efficacy in mouse models.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateNov 20, 2014

Findings point to an 'off switch' for drug resistance in cancer

Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered a mechanism for cancer cells to become resistant to chemotherapy, which may lead to a new approach to treating cancer. The study found that variations in breast cancer cells' RNA enable the cancer to evolve and adapt more quickly than previously thought.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 20, 2014

Estrogen increases cannabis sensitivity

A new study from Washington State University found that estrogen levels significantly increase tolerance to THC in female rats, making them more vulnerable to negative side effects. The research suggests that women are at higher risk of experiencing anxiety, paranoia, and addiction when using cannabis.

SourceWashington State University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateSep 3, 2014

Moffitt researchers develop new way to combat drug resistance for melanoma patients

Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute developed a liquid chromatography-multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry assay to analyze biomarkers in blood and tissue, helping identify therapeutic targets for melanoma treatment. The study identified alterations in cell signaling pathways in drug-resistant cells.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateJun 30, 2014

Toward a better drug against malaria

Researchers from the University of Freiburg have made significant progress in understanding how the antimalarial drug atovaquone works. By analyzing its molecular structure, they have identified key binding sites and revealed the underlying mechanism of resistance to mutations. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more ef...

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2014