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HPV testing followed by cytology and repeat HPV testing may improve cervical cancer screening

A new study suggests that combining HPV DNA testing with cytology and repeat HPV testing can increase cervical cancer screening detection rates without a substantial increase in false-positive tests. This approach resulted in a 30% higher detection rate compared to cytology alone, while doubling the number of required tests.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 13, 2009

World's earliest nuclear family found

Researchers found evidence of a mother, father, and two sons aged 8-9 and 4-5 years buried face-to-face with arms interlinked. The graves also showed signs of violent raids and injuries, indicating a tragic event in prehistoric Central Europe.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2008

Mouse genes guide search for human anxiety disorder genes

A new genetic association study found associations between six mouse genes and specific human anxiety disorders, including social phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. The study suggests that these genes may play a role in predisposing individuals to developing an anxiety disorder.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 23, 2008

Using living cells as nanotechnology factories

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a method to produce complex DNA nanostructures inside living cells, using the cell's copy machine to replicate millions of copies. This breakthrough could enable the scaling up of DNA nanotechnology and open up new possibilities for synthetic biology applications.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 8, 2008

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends high-intensity behavioral counseling for all sexually active individuals at increased risk for STIs. The new stool DNA test is twice as effective at detecting colon cancer and polyps than previous tests, showing promise for improved screening effectiveness.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 6, 2008

Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News reports on growing role of molecular diagnostics

Molecular diagnostic products are based on cutting-edge research in genomics and proteomics, enabling early detection of cancer and optimizing drug therapy. Companies like Roche, Myriad Genetics, and Genomic Health are well-positioned for future growth with their genetic tests and companion diagnostics.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Engineering & Biotechnology News·DateOct 3, 2008

Model highlights benefits and risks of cervical cancer screening methods

A computer model analysis suggests that different cervical cancer prevention approaches offer varying trade-offs between minimizing cancer risk and false-positive test results. Combined cytologic and HPV testing leads to more referrals for colposcopy than other strategies, with a three-fold difference in referrals for the least and mos...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateSep 22, 2008

Physical activity associated with reduced risk for obesity in genetically predisposed

A study of 704 Amish adults found that those with low physical activity levels had a stronger association between FTO gene variants and increased BMI. Physical activity levels above average were shown to offset the genetic predisposition to obesity, suggesting personalized lifestyle recommendations may be effective in preventing weight...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateSep 8, 2008

What is a gene?

A study analyzing 300 newspaper articles reveals five main 'gene frames' used by media, from deterministic to evolutionary and playful metaphors. The findings aim to provide a tool for scientists and journalists to better communicate genetics to the public.

SourceEMBO·JournalEMBO Reports·DateSep 5, 2008

Diversity among parasitic wasps is even greater than suspected

Researchers have discovered that the diversity of parasitic wasps is even higher than initially suspected, with 313 provisional species identified through a combination of ecological and genetic data. The new analysis sheds light on a group of insects that are already known for their staggering diversity, with estimates suggesting that...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2008

The 21st century tomato

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the complex metabolic networks involved in tomato fruit development. By analyzing over 1200 quantitative metabolic loci (QMLs), scientists identified associations between metabolites and genes that regulate fruit metabolism. This knowledge can be used to alter metabolic pathwa...

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

A genetic study of Latin Americans sheds light on a troubled history

A recent molecular analysis of ancestry across Latin America has revealed a marked differentiation between regions, demonstrating a 'genetic continuity' between pre-and post Columbian populations. The research shows that mostly Native and African women and European men contributed genes to the subsequent generations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 20, 2008

New technique puts DNA profiling of E. coli on fast track

Scientists at Michigan State University have developed a new genetic technique that allows for rapid analysis of E. coli bacteria using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). This breakthrough enables the identification of specific bacterial groups and their associated toxins, which can help predict disease outbreaks.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2008

HOXA11 shows its strength in the pelvis

The study found that mice lacking HOXA11 had no uterosacral ligaments, highlighting the gene's importance in their development. In women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP), decreased HOXA11 expression was linked to weakened connective tissue and increased levels of a degradation mediator.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 14, 2008