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Transcriptomics identifies genes and signaling pathways that may regulate neurodegeneration

A recent study published in Experimental Biology and Medicine identified over 4,000 genes with altered expression in dying neurons, including those involved in cell death, survival regulation, and oxidative phosphorylation. This breakthrough opens doors to future research on novel players regulating neuronal survival and death.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2015

Discovery of a gene responsible for familial scoliosis

A variation in the POC5 gene was found to be associated with familial scoliosis in a large French family study. The gene encodes for a centrosomal protein involved in microtubule-organising centres and cellular polarity, leading to rotational deformations similar to those observed in scoliosis patients.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 2, 2015

Alcohol abuse linked to newly identified gene network

A study published in Molecular Psychiatry has identified a network of genes associated with alcohol dependence. The researchers found that certain sets of genes were co-expressed together in individuals who consumed the most alcohol, but not in non-alcoholics. This discovery could lead to better screenings and treatments for alcoholism.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 2, 2014

Autism's genetic architecture comes into focus

A groundbreaking study has identified over two dozen high-confidence autism genes, shedding light on the disorder's genetic architecture. The research also reveals a difference in genetic basis between 'higher-IQ' and 'lower-IQ' autism, with implications for early interventions.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalNature·DateOct 29, 2014

Discovery of a bud-break gene could lead to trees adapted for a changing climate

Scientists have identified a master regulator in poplar trees that controls the timing of bud break, which could lead to breeding plants better adapted for warmer climates. The discovery enables the engineering of adaptability into trees, potentially improving their ability to cope with changing environmental conditions.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2014

Gene behind unhealthy adipose tissue identified

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet identified the EBF1 gene driving unhealthy adipose tissue development, associated with increased risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. The study found that individuals with large fat cells had lower EBF1 expression, altered lipid mobilization, and insulin resistance.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 22, 2014

Mass. General study identifies genes uniquely expressed by the brain's immune cells

A new sequencing method identified a set of genes used by microglia to sense their environment, called the 'sensome'. As aging increases, microglia's expression of neuroprotective genes becomes more active while toxic actions are downregulated. This discovery may lead to better understanding and treatments for neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 14, 2013