Research on inherited diseases and their causes. Covers RNA therapies, hidden diabetes subtypes, pulmonary disease, and prenatal genetic testing.
The US Multisociety Task Force on Colorectal Cancer recommends genetic evaluation and personalized surveillance plans for patients with hamartomatous polyps. Genetic testing is critical in cancer prevention, allowing for tailored cancer surveillance to prevent progression and save lives.
Scientists have successfully developed a gene-editing platform called TALED that can perform A-to-G base conversion in mitochondria, the final missing piece of the puzzle in gene-editing technology. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating previously incurable genetic diseases caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA.
Researchers found plasma neurofilament light levels were elevated in all types of frontotemporal dementia, and in people who had mutations but hadn't shown symptoms yet. Higher levels of the protein were associated with greater disease severity and increased just before symptom onset.
A study by Osaka University researchers reveals patients waited years for diagnosis of rare diseases like hereditary angioedema. Long diagnostic delays can be fatal, and raising awareness is key to improving treatment.
A study published in Nature Communications found that BMP9 treatment restored capillary density and improved alveolarization in mice with ACDMPV. The treatment showed promise for improving care for BPD and CDH, two conditions that also affect lung development.
Researchers developed mitapivat to target pyruvate kinase deficiency, a rare genetic condition leading to hemolytic anemia. The Phase 3 clinical trial showed significant improvements in hemoglobin levels and quality of life for patients with the disorder.
A new series of expert reviews explores less common causes of bone loss, including pregnancy-associated osteoporosis and anorexia nervosa-related osteoporosis. The reviews provide comprehensive information on these unusual conditions and their impact on bone health.
CHOP researchers have developed a targeted treatment that controls blood sugar in patients with hyperinsulinism, a genetic disease. The study found exendin-(9-39) reduces likelihood of fasting hypoglycemia by 76% and protein-induced hypoglycemia by 82%
Researchers used CRISPR gene editing to understand how deletions in one area of the genome affect nearby genes. They found that deleting a small region led to increased foetal globin expression and reduced adult globin levels, suggesting a key mechanism for asymptomatic patients with sickle cell disease.
Researchers found that mice with the Val89 gene variant exhibit attention deficit disorder-like problems, including diminished cognitive performance and increased vulnerability to distraction. The study provides direct evidence of the genetic variant's effects on acetylcholine availability and its resulting cognitive impacts.
Australian researchers have discovered a new neurodevelopmental disorder linked to the tumor suppressor gene FBXW7. The condition causes mild to severe developmental delay, intellectual disability, and other symptoms, with genetic variations in this gene found in 28 individuals from 32 families worldwide.
A study published in Ophthalmology identified the genetic spectrum behind foveal hypoplasia, a rare condition affecting vision development. The research combined data from over 900 cases across the globe and revealed relationships between genetic defects and the degree of arrested foveal development.
A recent study published in Molecular Therapy Nucleic Acids found that the molecule urocortin-2 may regulate recovery processes after a heart attack by modulating miR-29a. Treatment with urocortin-2 could favor patient recovery by regulating apoptosis and fibrosis.
The new guidelines recommend genetic testing for patients with inherited cardiac diseases and their relatives, particularly in conditions like long QT syndrome. Genetic counselling is also essential, as a diagnosis can have life-changing consequences, including impact on insurance and employment opportunities.
A genetic disease in children, CHARGE syndrome causes intellectual disability, attention deficit disorder, and autism. The INRS team is studying the gene's impact on brain development to identify potential treatments.
The T2T consortium's completed human genome has shown significant improvements in DNA sequencing accuracy, correcting tens of thousands of errors and revealing millions of genetic variations. This new reference genome can support the analysis of over 200 genes of medical relevance, potentially propelling research into genetic disorders.
A recent brain imaging study has found evidence of weakening connections between key brain areas in adolescents at high genetic risk of developing bipolar disorder. This study suggests that early intervention strategies may be effective in preventing the progression towards major changes in the brain.
A team of scientists discovered that a disrupted circadian clock gene may contribute to the development of autism spectrum disorder. The study found that deleting the Bmal1 gene in mice led to autistic-like behaviors and cerebellar dysfunction, which were alleviated by mTORC1 inhibition.
The IOF Skeletal Rare Diseases Academy has awarded grants to six young researchers for their outstanding work on rare skeletal disorders. The awards recognize the importance of advancing knowledge and diagnosis for these conditions.
The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center has received a five-year, $1.87 million NIH grant to investigate the role of vitamin A depletion in Alzheimer's disease. The research aims to test the hypothesis that a lack of antioxidant all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) promotes reactive oxygen species toxicity.
A recent study found that stimulating reactive astrocytes promotes the elimination of toxic protein aggregates in Huntington's disease. This cooperative mechanism between neurons and astrocytes holds promise for potential treatments.
A new study confirms that abnormalities in the GDF15 gene are involved in hyperemesis gravidarum, a condition causing severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. The discovery may lead to targeted treatments and improved care for women with HG.
Researchers at Clemson University have identified a genetic variation associated with congenital idiopathic megaesophagus (CIM) in German shepherd dogs, which is often fatal if left untreated. A genetic test using melanin-concentrating hormone receptor 2 and dog's sex can predict the risk of CIM with 75% accuracy.
Scientists developed a novel approach to securely share and analyze genomic data, enabling a more nuanced understanding of heritable diseases like cancer. This 'federated analysis' method allows researchers to analyze large amounts of genomic and clinical data without compromising patient privacy.
Researchers identified a mechanism that helps explain how certain kinds of genetic disorders are transmitted from mother to child. The study showed that mutant mtDNA builds up in the final stages of egg formation and can impair mitochondrial function, leading to disease.
The March issues of American Psychiatric Association journals focus on the genomics of psychopathology, exploring its relationship with various mental illnesses. Research highlights unique genetic patterns among individuals who die by suicide using violent means.
A world-first discovery has identified a genetic mutation responsible for a lymphatic disorder that may cause stillbirth or severe chronic disease in affected children. The mutation, MDFIC, controls the growth and development of lymphatic vessels in the fetus, leading to fluid accumulation in critical organs.
Researchers developed a new method for generating network layouts that allow for visualizing different information in two- and three-dimensional virtual space. This facilitates the exploration of complex protein interactions and provides more versatile, comprehensible representations of networks.
Scientists found a protective gene that counters a deleterious mutation causing atrial septal defects, allowing some people with the mutation to thrive. The discovery provides valuable clinical information for families affected by congenital heart disease.
Researchers at UC Davis MIND Institute found a novel gene linked to autism spectrum disorder in newborns. The study analyzed DNA methylation signatures in the placenta, which reflected fetal brain development and early autism diagnosis.
Researchers at Fralin Biomedical Research Institute determine CASK gene disorder is caused by damage to neurons, not abnormal brain development. The finding has potential to inform treatment strategies for this rare genetic disease.
Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University have identified the molecular mechanism behind an important form of RNA modification, which can lead to genetic disorders. The discovery could pave the way for targeted RNA modifications and gene therapies.
Researchers at Lancaster University have identified a genetic change that impacts insulin signaling and glucose metabolism in the brain, which may lead to effective drug treatments for autism. The study found that individuals with a specific DNA deletion are more likely to develop neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism.
Researchers developed an AI system called GestaltMatcher that uses facial characteristics to detect rare diseases with high accuracy. The system considers similarities between patients and can even suggest diagnoses for previously unknown diseases.
A team of scientists has identified hundreds of new genomic loci associated with brain structure, shedding light on how the human brain is shaped. The study used genetically informed brain atlases to uncover the largest number of genetic variants linked to cortex size and thickness.
A new DNA benchmark, developed by NIST and collaborators, enables more accurate detection of genetic variants linked to diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy. The benchmark, based on HiFi sequencing technology, helps labs and clinics sequence genes with high accuracy, critical for disease diagnosis and treatment.
Biomedical engineers at Duke University have developed a gene therapy that helps heart muscle cells electrically activate in live mice. The approach features engineered bacterial genes that code for sodium ion channels, which could lead to therapies to treat electrical heart diseases and disorders.
Researchers have developed a method to assess drug potential for rare disorders by profiling FDA-approved drugs. The study identified NMD modulators that could potentially treat hundreds of disorders associated with nonsense-mediated RNA decay.
A University of Maryland School of Medicine study finds that a common ADHD medication, lisdexamfetamine, reduces symptoms of a rare genetic movement disorder in children, including collapsing episodes and improvements in speech and concentration. The treatment may also shed light on the mechanisms behind other neuromuscular diseases.
A cross-disciplinary team identified a previously unknown genetic cause of interstitial lung disease in a 2-year-old child, revealing a variant in the RAB5B gene that causes surfactant dysfunction. The discovery may lead to finding answers for other patients with similar conditions.
Gene-environment interactions play a crucial role in the development of autism symptoms, according to a new study by UNIGE researchers. By inhibiting Trpv4 and inducing massive inflammation, scientists observed neuronal hyperexcitability, which disrupted communication channels and led to social avoidance behaviors.
Researchers report successful treatment of two young infants with PROS using breast cancer drug alpelisib, inducing rapid and significant clinical improvement in symptoms. The treatment was well-tolerated and showed promising results, supporting the use of low-dose alpelisib in these patients.
A new test has been developed to screen for three rare genetic disorders - Prader Willi, Angelman, and Dup15q syndromes - in newborns. The test uses Methylation Specific-Quantitative Melt Analysis (MS-QMA) and showed high accuracy in distinguishing between those with the disorders and those without.
Researchers developed a non-muscle targeted gene therapy that enhances muscle fiber repair and improves muscle function in LGMD 2B patients. The treatment, administered via a single injection, reduces muscle degeneration and restores myofiber size and muscle strength.
A UMass Chan clinical trial demonstrates the safety and efficacy of an antisense oligonucleotide in suppressing mutant C9ORF72, a common cause of familial ALS. The treatment led to reduced levels of neurotoxins and stable or improved ALS functional scores.
Research by University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio scientists found that mice missing one copy of the Tbx1 gene exhibit slower cognitive processing. The gene's deletion led to diminished myelin insulation around nerves, impacting signal conduction between brain regions.
Scientists have discovered a brain protein, CNTNAP2, that quiets overactive brain cells and is at abnormally low levels in children with autism. The protein can be detected in cerebrospinal fluid, making it a potential biomarker for diagnosing autism and treating epilepsy.
Researchers are exploring how an engineered adeno-associated virus (AAV) can compensate for missing protein or swap out genetic mutations that cause vision problems. AAV has been found to be beneficial and is being used as a tool to deliver genes that work as they should.
The Nixon Visions Foundation has given a significant gift to support studies of the PRPH2 gene linked to macular dystrophy and boost stem cell research aimed at developing early diagnosis and a cure for this devastating genetic eye disease. Researchers hope to make a tremendous impact on people with this inherited eye disease.
A new consensus statement provides recommendations for the diagnosis, management, and care of individuals with achondroplasia across all life stages. The guidelines aim to improve clinical outcomes and quality of life for those affected by this genetic disorder.
A study published in PNAS found that individuals with severe schizophrenia have a higher number of rare mutations than those with typical forms of the illness. This discovery could lead to more precise treatments for this chronic disease, which affects over 3 million Americans.
Researchers from UNIGE found that a single missing genetic switch can lead to clubfoot and other malformations by disrupting cellular activation. The study highlights the crucial role of genetic switches in developmental disorders, suggesting that flaws in these mechanisms may be responsible for numerous malformations.
A new study by researchers at Mount Sinai found that a specific gene, HHIP, helps regulate the development of the coronal suture, a fibrous joint that connects the front and middle bone plates. The study showed that embryos with a missing HHIP gene had misshapen skulls and fewer mesenchymal cells separating the bones.
A NIH study has identified a molecular link between a gene mutation and late-onset retinal degeneration, a rare eye disease. The researchers found that the diabetes drug metformin and gene therapy may be effective treatments for the condition, which can cause abnormal blood vessel growth and deposits of apolipoprotein E.
Researchers have found consistent patterns in GABAergic neuron development between humans and mice, shedding light on the causes of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and schizophrenia. The study uses single-cell RNA sequencing to create detailed maps of gene expression during human brain development.
Scientists have identified a mechanism contributing to the tissue phenotypes of PMM2-CDG, a congenital disorder of glycosylation. Using a zebrafish model, researchers found that defects in N-cadherin processing lead to craniofacial and motility abnormalities.
A special form of four-stranded DNA has been found to interact with the gene that causes Cockayne Syndrome when faulty. G-quadruplexes, which form knot-like structures in DNA, specifically bind to a protein called CSB, affecting its function and potentially leading to premature ageing.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered that manipulating certain nerve cells may trigger the formation of new heart muscle cells, restoring heart function after heart attacks. The study found that removing specific genes associated with circadian rhythms increased neonatal heart size and cardiomyocyte numbers by up to 10%.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have developed a method to precisely and rapidly correct genetic alterations in cultured patient cells. The new technique combines two Nobel Prize-winning approaches to produce genetically corrected autologous pluripotent stem cells, paving the way for potential therapeutic applications.
Researchers genetically mapped the cell types of the mouse iris, revealing four new cell types and mapping genetic changes that occur when the iris dilates. This research may help connect genetic similarities between mice and humans, offering clues for developing new diagnostic tests and treatments for eye diseases.