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Does freeze-thawing and IV delivery affect the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stromal cells?

A study found that freeze-thawing and intravenous infusion affect mesenchymal stromal cell gene expression, which may impact their therapeutic use in reducing inflammatory responses. The lung microenvironment also influences MSC gene expression, highlighting the need for careful characterization.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateMay 2, 2016

Who gets hooked on drugs? Rat study finds genetic markers that influence addiction

A new rat study reveals genetic differences in the brain's pleasure receptor and epigenetic tags that affect cocaine addiction and relapse. The findings suggest inherited traits and epigenetics play a role in addiction vulnerability, with some rats more likely to seek out cocaine repeatedly due to genetic markers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2016

Discovered: How to unlock inaccessible genes

A team of international scientists has identified a mechanism for chromatin-remodeller enzymes to regulate gene expression in embryonic stem cells. By mapping the location of these enzymes across the genome, researchers found that they bind to specific nucleosomes before gene sequences, controlling access to critical DNA regions.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateJan 29, 2016

DNA imprinting defects associated with childhood osteosarcoma development and progression

A new study from the University of Minnesota Academic Health Center found DNA imprinting defects in children with osteosarcoma and their parents. The researchers suggest that these defects may be a cause of the disease's pathobiology, and could lead to targeted treatments using DNA- and chromatin-modifying drugs.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Academic Health Center·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateJan 26, 2016

Our epigenome is influenced by our habitat and lifestyle

Researchers found that moving from forest to urban habitats affects epigenetic patterns of the immune response, while historical lifestyles impact development and physical characteristics. These findings suggest a significant influence of environment on epigenetics and potential risks for autoimmune diseases.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2015

Blocking a gene reduces fat

Researchers at the University of Montreal successfully block apoC-III gene expression, demonstrating significant decreases in triglyceride levels. This breakthrough could lead to precise interventions for severe hypertriglyceridemia, reducing cardiovascular risks.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 29, 2015

Discovery could improve in vitro fertilization success rates for women around the world

Researchers discovered that chromosomal abnormalities in human embryos can be predicted within the first 30 hours of development. This finding could improve IVF success rates, which have hovered around 30-35 percent worldwide. By analyzing a single cell level, they identified 12 genes that are activated prior to the first cell division.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2015

'Most attractive' male birds don't have the best genes

A study by University College London researchers discovered that male birds with physical ornaments tend to have genomes with mildly negative mutations. This leads to reduced fitness in their descendants. The study focused on the Galloanserae bird group, analyzing genetic material from various species.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 23, 2015

Anorexia nervosa

A study led by Dr. Howard Steiger found that individuals with anorexia nervosa exhibit disorder-relevant alterations in DNA methylation, affecting emotional reactions, physiological functions, and behaviors. Early treatment is crucial to prevent chronicity of the illness.

SourceDouglas Mental Health University Institute·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateFeb 7, 2015

Hidden cell types revealed

A new statistical method for RNA-seq analysis has identified and corrected for hidden structure between cells, revealing new subtypes that may have distinct functions. This breakthrough allows researchers to create more accurate gene-expression profiles and explore cell types in cancers and diseases.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 19, 2015

Breakthrough in managing yellow fever disease

Researchers have determined that the yellow fever virus replicates primarily in the liver, causing significant damage to liver cells. This knowledge could help identify an earlier clinical outcome measure of disease severity, enabling doctors to provide more aggressive supportive care for patients.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateNov 20, 2014