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Researchers identify ALS gene mutation

A new gene mutation has been identified as a common cause of inherited ALS, affecting motor neurons in the central nervous system. This discovery is part of a national study led by Northwestern University, aiming to understand the triggers of motor neuron death and develop new treatments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

Hope for restoring injured nerves

Scientists at the University of Utah identified a worm gene crucial for damaged nerve cells to regenerate and showed that over-activating it can speed up nerve regeneration. The study's findings offer hope for new treatments for nerves injured by trauma or disease.

Genetic variation may lead to early cardiovascular disease

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have found a genetic variation in the neuropeptide Y gene that increases susceptibility to early coronary artery disease. The study found six related variations in the gene associated with transmission from generation to generation and association across a population of patients.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 2, 2009

Brown chemist finds gray mold's killer gene

Researchers have identified a set of genes responsible for producing the deadly toxin botrydial in gray mold, and found that shutting off this gene can stop toxin production. The discovery offers hope for finding natural ways to eliminate gray mold without using expensive fungicides.

SourceBrown University·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateDec 1, 2008

Corn researchers discover novel gene shut-off mechanisms

A team of scientists has discovered unusual differences in the natural mechanisms that turn off genes in corn, providing new insight into how the crop protects itself from damage. The research found an extra layer of protective small RNAs in corn, which play a key role in repressing repetitive sequences, including mobile DNA elements.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 2008

Novel marker of colon cancer

Researchers have discovered a novel marker for colon cancer, revealing differentially expressed genes that can help identify diagnostic and therapeutic targets. The study's findings provide new insights into the progression of colon cancer and may lead to improved patient outcomes.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateOct 23, 2008

Drought tolerance in potatoes

Researchers have identified approximately 2000 genes that contribute to the increased drought tolerance of two Andean potato clones. The study found up-regulated genes involved in osmotic adjustment, detoxification, and cell communication and signaling, as well as increased solute concentrations to induce water uptake from drying soils.

Moran Eye Center researchers find gene linked to severe diabetic eye and kidney diseases

A study published in Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences identifies the erythropoietin (EPO) gene as a contributor to increased risk of severe diabetic eye and kidney diseases. The research highlights the importance of considering blunting EPO's effects in future therapeutic strategies, such as anti-VEGF therapy.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 2008

A new method to identify mutated genes in human diseases

Researchers have developed a new method to identify mutated genes in human diseases by analyzing gene expression data. The study identified candidate genes for 81 diseases, including epilepsy and muscular dystrophy, paving the way for a better understanding of disease mechanisms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 27, 2008

Genes that protect against atherosclerosis identified

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a network of genes that lower blood cholesterol levels and prevent the development of atherosclerotic plaques. The findings suggest that targeting these genes could be an effective way to combat atherosclerosis, the main cause of myocardial infarction and stroke.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 14, 2008

DNA 'barcode' identified for plants

A unique DNA gene, matK, has been identified as a potential 'barcode' for plants, allowing for easy identification and cataloging of different species. This discovery could lead to new methods for identifying plant ingredients in traditional medicines and monitoring endangered species.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2008

Assembling the jigsaw puzzle of drug addiction

A comprehensive gene atlas has been created to understand drug addiction, revealing five molecular pathways common to four different addictive substances. The atlas is based on an integrative meta-analysis of scientific literature and provides a more complete picture of the genetic factors underlying addiction.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 4, 2008

Fundamental discovery by Einstein researchers reveals how fat is stored in cells

Scientists at Einstein College of Medicine identified two genes crucial for packaging fat into lipid droplets. Overexpressing these genes led to a significant increase in lipid droplet formation, while suppressing one of the genes resulted in a drastic reduction. This discovery could lead to new strategies for treating obesity and rela...

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2007

MIT IDs binocular vision gene

Researchers from the Picower Institute at MIT have identified the gene Ten_m3 as crucial for creating matched projections from both eyes in the brain. In mice with this gene knocked out, visual deficits persisted even when one eye was covered, but blocking the output of one eye restored vision.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 13, 2007