Articles tagged with Genetic Disorders
A study found that naltrexone increased the urge to drink in individuals with a positive family history, suggesting genetic factors at play. The OPRM1 gene was identified as a key genetic moderator of naltrexone's effects on alcohol cue reactivity.
A study published in Neurology reports four cases of MECP2 gene mutations in infant males with progressive encephalopathy, challenging the assumption that these mutations are always lethal before birth. The researchers encourage neonatologists and pediatricians to consider MECP2 as a possible cause of severe neurological abnormalities.
Researchers found that prosopagnosia, or face blindness, can be inherited and affects the ability to recognize familiar faces. Those with the disorder use various strategies to cope, including recognizing people by voice or clothing, and often go unnoticed by physicians other than neurologists.
Researchers have identified a set of 16 genes that can reliably distinguish carriers of recessive genetic disorders from non-carriers. These genes can be used to develop clinical tests to identify carriers of diseases such as Nijmegen breakage syndrome, which exhibit distinct gene expression patterns compared to controls.
Researchers found that valproate increased strength and improved function in adult patients with type III/IV spinal muscular atrophy. The study's lead author notes that further trials are needed to establish valproate as a treatment of choice for this condition.
A recent study discovered the PLA2G6 gene, linked to neuroaxonal dystrophies, may shed light on nerve cell degeneration in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The discovery has implications for understanding brain iron accumulation and potential treatments.
A study found that severe congenital neutropenia, a genetic disorder, was transmitted through sperm donation in five children conceived via IVF or donor insemination. The authors conclude that potential mothers should be properly counseled and informed about the risks of genetic disorders transmission.
ENDEAVOUR gathers genetic data from various databases and integrates it into a mathematical model to identify genes connected to diseases. The program has been tested in the laboratory and proven its validity for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease, leukemia, colon cancer, and Parkinson's disease.
Researchers discovered a novel gene linked to juvenile spinal muscular atrophy with rigidity and dyskinesia (JSRD), characterized by cerebellar defects, poor balance, and mental retardation. The CEP290 gene may control cell division in the cerebellum during human development.
Researchers have created genetically modified 'prosthetic' retinal cells that restore visual responses in mice with photoreceptor degeneration. The approach targets the cellular level and avoids complications associated with traditional methods, offering a potential breakthrough in treating complete blindness caused by inherited diseases.
Researchers found a common serotonin transporter promoter gain-of-function variant linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The study suggests improved screening, treatment, and medication development for OCD.
In the Middle East, public education is crucial for reducing genetic diseases linked to close-kin marriage. The WHO defines close-kin marriage as one between individuals who are second cousins or more closely related.
Research suggests that X-linked genes determine sex differences in disease, with males more vulnerable to deleterious mutations due to having only one copy of the gene. Females, on the other hand, have a backup copy, allowing them to mitigate the effect of mutations and expressing genes in a mixture of cells.
A study of 31 pathological gamblers and their relatives found a genetic link to the disorder. The research suggests that family members share genes that increase the likelihood of impulsive behavior.
Researchers found KCNC3 gene mutations in two families, one with adult-onset ataxia and the other with childhood-onset ataxia and mild mental retardation. These findings suggest that potassium channel abnormalities may contribute to a wide variety of neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers analyzed over 25,000 protein-protein interactions to dispel old notions of what's important about them. The study identified 36 previously unknown interactions and showed that proteins encoded by genes mutated in inherited disorders interact with known disorder-causing proteins.
Researchers found that the SRY gene plays a crucial role in regulating dopamine-producing brain cells, which malfunction in Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that men are more susceptible to the disease due to lower levels of this gene, while women may have an alternative protective mechanism involving estrogens.
Defibrillator therapy found to be beneficial in reducing the risk of sudden cardiac death and prolonging life among patients with high-risk genetic cardiac disorders. The treatment is associated with significant cost savings, ranging from $15,000 to $20,000 per quality-adjusted-life-year saved.
Tetrabenazine has been shown to decrease involuntary movement by 25% and improve patient outcomes. The medication targets the excessive movements caused by the disease's mutant protein, providing relief for patients with tasks such as eating and walking.
Researchers identified a new gene associated with Charcot-Marie Tooth disease, a rare inherited neurological disorder. This discovery may lead to better understanding of how nerves function and improved diagnostic possibilities for CMT sufferers.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a method using carbon nanotubes to detect single DNA base mutations. The technique produces sensor results comparable to state-of-the-art optical techniques and has several advantages over existing methods, including cost, time, and simplicity.
U of MN researchers identified the specific mutation causing Spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 (SCA5), a dominant gene disorder. The discovery enables genetic testing for patients at risk, providing improved diagnoses and insight into neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers have identified a key gene involved in Meckel-Gruber syndrome type 3 (MKS3), a rare form of polycystic kidney disease. The discovery provides a breakthrough in understanding the disorder and developing new therapies.
A team of scientists from the University of New South Wales has identified a gene called FAT that is associated with an increased risk of bipolar disorder. The discovery was made using a multi-faceted approach that included studying families, patients, and therapeutic drug mouse models.
Researchers have successfully treated hereditary spastic paraplegia by delivering a normal paraplegin protein to spinal motor neurons via gene therapy. This approach improved motor function in mice and holds promise for treating other forms of peripheral nerve damage caused by genetic mutations.
A recent NIH study found a strong association between progressive aphasia syndrome and a specific prion gene variant, suggesting that the disease may be linked to genetic variations in the prion protein. The findings have significant implications for understanding the causes of this rare neurological disorder.
Research found a significant association between a COMT gene variant and antisocial behavior in children with ADHD or hyperkinetic disorder. Low birth weight was also associated with antisocial behavior, highlighting the importance of prenatal risk factors.
Researchers at Yale have identified a genetic link to Tourette's Syndrome in a rare DNA sequence mutation. The study found an abnormal DNA sequence in one family and identical, very rare changes in two unrelated individuals, suggesting the gene plays a role in regulating gene expression through microRNAs.
Researchers develop gene therapy that increases atrial natriuretic peptide production to control blood pressure without severely reducing it. The therapy successfully maintained healthy blood pressure levels for 125 days in mice.
A study has identified a genetic mutation in the SEPT9 gene as the cause of HNA, a chronic pain syndrome characterized by recurring episodes of severe pain. The mutation affects protein filaments that provide internal scaffolding for cells, leading to abnormal cell division and nerve disorders.
Hereditary Neuralgic Amyotrophy is characterized by repeated attacks of pain and paralysis in the affected area, often accompanied by facial features. Researchers have identified a genetic defect in the Septin 9 protein as the underlying cause of the disorder.
Researchers show that CD32 isoforms have differential contributions to dendritic cell activation, with ligation of CD32a inducing maturation and ligation of CD32b inhibiting it. Intravenous immune globulin selectively shifts Fc-gamma receptor expression to a CD32b-dominated profile, explaining its anti-inflammatory properties.
Researchers have identified the Dido gene as a potential tumor suppressor involved in myeloproliferative diseases. The study found that 100% of patients with these diseases had Dido expression abnormalities, suggesting a link between the gene and the development of MDS/MPD.
Researchers identified a new gene, BRIP1, associated with Fanconi anemia's hallmark chromosomal instability. The protein BACH1 helps DNA unwind for repair, and BRIP1 mutations disrupt this process.
Researchers discovered specific mutations in the TACI gene that are associated with common variable immunodeficiency and IgA deficiency. These genetic defects impair the immune system's ability to fight infections, increasing the risk of recurrent illnesses and autoimmune diseases.
A recent study found that children who experience a low response to alcohol are at higher risk of developing alcohol dependence. The research also suggests that genetics play a significant role in the development of this trait.
A new study published in the Archives of Neurology found that using Lorenzo's Oil can prevent the onset of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) in a majority of young boys. The treatment, which involves daily oral doses of olive oil and rapeseed oil, showed a significant preventive effect in nearly three-fourths of patients.
Researchers discovered that specific DNA sequences, known as AluYb elements, played a crucial role in human evolution by secretly spawning hyperactive copies. These elements are responsible for the development of genetic disorders such as hemophilia and some cancers.
A recent study by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology found that while Beckwith-Widermann syndrome had a significant risk for children conceived through ART, no significantly higher rates of other disorders were observed in children born after ART apart from BWS. The researchers also identified a possible mechanis...
Research identifies genetic linkages associated with bipolar disorder, including a possible connection to autoimmune thyroiditis. The findings suggest that identifying these genetic markers could help develop more effective treatments or prevent the disorder in at-risk individuals.
A new study found that healthy individuals carrying a specific variant of the dopamine transporter gene have significantly higher levels of dopamine transporter in their brains. The results suggest that this variation may influence concentrations of extracellular dopamine and are relevant to conditions such as substance abuse, tobacco ...
Lafora disease is characterized by abnormal glycogen metabolism, with the accumulation of starch-/glycogen-like granules in most tissues. Researchers at UCSD have identified malin's role in the disease, revealing a testable model for its molecular mechanism.
The Rush University Medical Center has been designated as the first HDSA Center of Excellence in Illinois, providing a range of medical and social services to Huntington's disease patients. The center will also explore the creation of a regional network of care providers, including end-of-life care.
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine have found that the liver is the main source of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or 'good' cholesterol. This discovery could lead to new treatments for raising HDL levels, particularly in individuals with less severe cholesterol disorders.
A US-India research team has completed an analysis of the X chromosome, identifying 43 new gene structures that encode proteins. The study, published in Nature Genetics, used a novel approach that compared human and mouse protein sequences to reveal previously unknown genes linked to X-linked mental retardation syndromes.
Scientists find that a region near the head of the ataxin-3 protein counterbalances toxicity caused by excessive polyglutamine repeats, potentially offering a therapeutic solution for Machado-Joseph disease and related disorders. The study suggests that removing or altering this region can accelerate disease progression.
Researchers identified a common genetic mutation, JAK2, in patients with polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia, and myeloid metaplasia with myelofibrosis. The study used high-throughput DNA sequencing analysis to compare blood and mouth-swab samples from 164 PV patients, 115 ET patients, and 46 MMM patients.
The study found that one gene, Eda, controls the armor-plating trait in stickleback fish, which evolved rapidly after ocean fish colonized new environments. This suggests that evolution can occur quickly with just a few genes changing slightly, allowing newcomers to adapt and populate new habitats.
Scientists have identified several genes that appear to be switched on by lithium, which may lead to the development of more effective treatments for bipolar disorder. The study found that one gene, GPR88, is associated with a rat model of mania and codes for an orphan receptor that could potentially target dopamine signaling.
A new diagnostic test is being developed to target a range of blood disorders by detecting a single point mutation in the JAK2 gene. The mutation was found in virtually all patients with polycythaemia vera, as well as half of those with essential thrombocythaemia and idiopathic myelofibrosis.
Researchers have identified abnormal brain tissue associated with cognitive impairments in children with chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. The study found structural abnormalities in the posterior parietal lobe, a critical area for visual-spatial and numerical processing.
The 21st-century model of healthcare focuses on the family before and after genetic testing, clustering genomic disorders based on similar patterns of psychosocial demands. This approach incorporates key disease variables to inform effective treatment interventions.
Researchers developed a new technique to detect fetal single gene disorders using analysis of circulatory fetal DNA in maternal plasma. The approach has been shown to be accurate and cost-effective, making it suitable for screening at-risk pregnancies in developing countries.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified a gene defect that causes Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a prevalent and inherited nerve disorder. The discovery provides new insights into the nervous system and may lead to the development of targeted therapies for this debilitating disease.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified a new form of muscular dystrophy in adults, linked to specific gene mutations that can be targeted for treatment. The study combines laboratory and clinical data to provide a deeper understanding of the disease process and its genetic basis.
A gene that causes severe fat deficiency is also found to promote obesity in mice, according to new research. The protein affects body weight by altering fat storage and metabolism, with excess levels leading to increased body weight and changes in energy expenditure.
A new genetic mutation on the LRRK2 gene is responsible for 5% of inherited Parkinson's disease cases, with patients having longer disease duration but less severe symptoms. The discovery has a broad implication for genetic screening for the disease, highlighting the need to include studies of the LRRK2 gene in future testing.
Scientists studying prion diseases in mice found that preventing cell death does not stop the progression of neurological symptoms. Damage to synapses, critical for nerve cell communication, is instead linked to the disease.
A unique three-year project found that genetic screening can lead to uncertainty and anxiety among individuals at risk, while those with symptoms face difficulties in diagnosis and treatment. Researchers call for urgent attention from health policymakers to address these issues and ensure accessible care.
A study found that individuals with the G variant of the OPRM1 gene have a greater likelihood of experiencing stronger subjective feelings from alcohol and a higher risk of developing alcohol-use disorders. This genetic difference affects how the brain responds to endogenous opiates, influencing motivation and reinforcement.