Research on inherited diseases and their causes. Covers RNA therapies, hidden diabetes subtypes, pulmonary disease, and prenatal genetic testing.
A new study identifies a genetic link between schizophrenia and the GRM3 gene, which regulates glutamate in brain synapses. People with the 'A' variant have lower levels of glutamate and poorer cognitive function compared to those with the 'G' variant.
The American Academy of Neurology has updated its diagnostic standard for headaches, adding new subtypes and disorders. The revised criteria provide a clearer framework for diagnosing and treating various types of primary and secondary headaches.
A study by Tufts University researcher Catherine Freudenreich reveals that cells with certain DNA mutations may activate a surveillance system to repair damaged DNA, leading to cell death. The findings could lead to advances in treating diseases such as Huntington's disease and muscular dystrophy.
Researchers found six different mutations in the ATP1A3 gene, which can cause permanent tremors and loss of muscle control. The mutations disrupt the protein's ability to pump sodium and potassium across neurons, leading to neuronal death.
Researchers developed a genetic model for familial spastic paraparesis, identifying the role of spastin in nerve communication. The study found that pharmacological treatments can restore normal nerve function by stabilizing microtubule activity.
Researchers have identified a major pathway leading to chromosomal and nuclear abnormalities in preimplantation embryos. Abnormal spindles during cell division can lead to chromosomal chaos, affecting embryo development and implantation rates.
Researchers at the Hebrew University have identified the earliest evidence of a hereditary genetic disorder, amelogenesis imperfecta, in a 1.5 million-year-old Homo erectus child from Ethiopia. The disease affects tooth enamel structure and mineral content, leading to rapid wear and chipping.
Researchers investigate the role of mutated a-actinin-4 in FSGS, a leading cause of progressive kidney failure. The study reveals two possible mechanisms: aggregation and rapid degradation, which can injure kidney cells, highlighting potential therapeutic targets.
Scientists have identified genetic mutations in heat shock proteins linked to Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a debilitating disorder affecting peripheral nerves. The study's findings hold promise for developing new therapies and improving diagnosis.
A researcher has identified a genetic abnormality affecting American DFNA9 syndrome patients also present in Dutch families, including BOR syndrome, leading to valuable insights into the progression of diseases. The discovery highlights the importance of gene matching research for identifying new candidate genes.
Researchers have detected a Senataxin gene mutation that may contribute to the degeneration of motor neuron cells in a rare form of ALS. This discovery opens up avenues of investigation for understanding and treating other forms of motor neuron diseases.
Defects in mitofusin 2, a critical mitochondrial fusion gene, underlie CMT type 2A. Gene therapy may alleviate symptoms by restoring lost gene function.
Scientists have discovered a key relationship between two inherited eye disorders, Norrie disease and FEVR, linked to blood vessel malformation and activation of the Wnt pathway. The study sheds light on potential treatments for these conditions and raises questions about specialized vascular development systems in other tissues.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have discovered a gene link between juvenile polyposis and high blood pressure syndrome. The study suggests that patients with the intestinal disorder should undergo genetic screening for vascular defects, as they are at risk of experiencing severe nosebleeds or strokes.
A study found that individuals with panic disorder have reduced expression of the 5-HT1A receptor protein, which regulates serotonin synthesis and release. This reduction is associated with decreased function in brain areas critical for anxiety regulation.
A study found that genetic variation can influence motivation to drink alcohol, particularly to alleviate social anxiety and improve mood. This can lead to enhanced behaviors that increase the risk for alcoholism. The study suggests a link between genetic factors and drinking motives, providing insight into the biology of alcoholism.
Researchers discovered a gene, CREST, crucial for normal brain connections formed in response to sensory experiences. The study revealed that mice lacking the CREST gene develop abnormally in response to calcium ions and experience learning disorders.
Two Vanderbilt researchers have received NAAR fellowships to develop new tools for identifying and understanding the genetic causes of autism. Lynnette Henderson is working on extending Stone's Screening Tool for Autism in Two-year-olds, while Jacob McCauley will conduct a genetic analysis of serotonergic and GABA-ergic genes.
Researchers have discovered a new gene, malcavernin, associated with the brain disorder CCM, which can be used to diagnose and treat the condition. The discovery provides hope for early detection and monitoring of the disease in families at risk.
A study found that children identified by newborn screening required hospitalization at a lower rate than those clinically identified, and mothers experienced lower stress in the screened group. However, false-positive results were associated with increased risk of hospitalization and parental stress.
A recent study identified distinct genes linked to late-onset Alzheimer's disease in families with average age at onset of 80 years or older. The researchers also found a region on chromosome 2 associated with early-onset Alzheimer's disease between ages 50 and 60.
Researchers identified a mutation in the human serotonin transporter gene, hSERT, associated with OCD, which may result from a genetic double hit increasing serotonin transport and leading to treatment resistance. The study provides insights into transporter function and potential tests for identifying and treating mental illness.
Linda Brzustowicz will lead research on hereditary patterns of autistic behaviors, analyzing 'trio' samples from autistic individuals and their parents to define genes linked to the disorder. The study aims to better understand, treat, and potentially prevent autism.
Scientists have discovered two mutations in the ATCAY gene, responsible for Cayman ataxia in humans and similar neurological disorders in mice. The study provides a breakthrough in understanding rare genetic diseases and may lead to diagnostic tests and treatments.
Studies suggest schizophrenia and bipolar disorder have reduced expression of genes responsible for myelin development in brain cells, potentially linked to environmental issues or infections. This discovery may enable early treatment before symptoms emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood.
Research suggests that schizophrenia and bipolar disorder share similar genetic causes, with key oligodendrocyte-related and myelin-related genes showing reduced expression in patients. This finding has implications for understanding the underlying mechanisms of these complex mental health conditions.
Researchers identified a genetic region on chromosome 11 associated with eye and kidney problems in individuals with Joubert syndrome. The study provides hope for developing a genetic screening test to inform parents about the risk of passing the condition to future children.
A genetic dictionary has been developed to understand the role of newly identified genes and their functions, which can aid in identifying unknown genes involved in cell division and cancer. The dictionary is based on gene activity data from four organisms and provides a context for understanding genetic words.
A study at the Salk Institute found that children with Williams syndrome exhibit unique social behavior patterns, including high scores on tests measuring social interactions. Genetic screening revealed that one gene may be responsible for this hyper-sociability in some individuals, suggesting a potential genetic link to the disorder.
Researchers discover key mechanism underlying Hirschsprung disease by identifying genes that control neural crest stem cell migration. The findings may lead to potential correction of the disease through transplantation of neural stem cells.
Neurons in the striatum, responsible for emotions and movement, are selectively killed in Huntington's disease due to abnormally high calcium levels caused by mutant huntingtin protein. This discovery opens new areas for treatment of the disease.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center have identified 19 genetic loci associated with depressive disorders, which may lead to more effective treatments. The study also found that individuals with these genes had a significantly reduced lifespan, particularly in children.
A mutation in the GRK3 gene, specifically in the promoter region, is linked to bipolar disorder in up to 10% of cases. The study suggests that this mutation causes individuals to become hypersensitive to dopamine, leading to mood extremes characteristic of the disease.
A gene defect in Ro protein causes a lupus-like disorder by exposing defective ribonucleoproteins to the immune system, triggering autoantibody production. The study suggests that Ro normally plays a protective role by hiding defective complexes from the immune system.
A study has identified a genetic mutation in MCFD2 that causes a rare bleeding disorder by disrupting the transport of clotting factors V and VIII. The researchers propose a new therapeutic target, suggesting a potential alternative to existing anticoagulants.
Researchers discovered the GARS gene responsible for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2D and distal spinal muscular atrophy type V, providing insights into neurological diseases. The study may lead to new treatment approaches and a better understanding of peripheral nerve diseases.
A study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics has identified two overlapping genes on chromosome 13 as increasing susceptibility to bipolar disorder, affecting 2 million Americans. The same gene complex is also linked to an increased risk for schizophrenia.
Researchers studied 65 families with bipolar disorder and found strong genetic 'linkage' to specific regions on chromosomes 13 and 22, suggesting common genes contributing to both bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. These overlap genes may explain why the same anti-psychotic medications are effective treatments for both diseases.
A new gene, Otopetrin 1, has been identified as contributing to the loss of balance. The gene helps regulate otoconia, which detect gravity and maintain balance. Mutations in this gene can lead to balance disorders, but understanding its development may help stimulate otoconia regeneration.
Researchers at Michigan State University have identified a gene responsible for Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS), a rare genetic disorder. The discovery suggests that primarily one gene contributes to the phenotype, rather than multiple genes as previously thought.
Researchers at the Salk Institute found a genetic connection between organophosphate exposure and ADHD-like behavior, as well as symptoms similar to Gulf War syndrome. Mice exposed to organophosphates showed a 40% decrease in the NTE enzyme, leading to behavioral changes and neurological problems.
A host gene variant on chromosome 6 has been identified as making people more vulnerable to leprosy. Researchers used genome scanning to analyze DNA samples from nearly 100 families and confirmed the findings in an additional 200 families.
UT Southwestern researchers have identified a gene called twist that regulates muscle development in fruit flies and found it to be crucial in preventing cachexia in mice. The study suggests that the gene down-regulates proinflammatory cytokines, which are involved in various diseases including cancer, arthritis, and asthma.
Researchers discovered a gene mutation associated with a form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, affecting approximately 1 in 2,000 people. The LITAF gene mutation was found in families with a history of the disease, suggesting its potential as a molecular marker for diagnosis.
Researchers have identified the KCNQ1 gene as the primary cause of familial atrial fibrillation, a condition affecting nearly one in 20 individuals over 65. The mutation leads to excessive potassium channel activity, disrupting normal heart rhythms and increasing the risk of heart failure.
Scientists at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have discovered a new role for the BLM gene in repairing DNA breaks, which can lead to cancer. The study found that the BLM gene is essential for maintaining genome stability and preventing chromosome rearrangements similar to those seen in follicular lymphoma.
Researchers at UNC used antisense oligonucleotides to target RNA splicing pathways implicated in cancer and genetic diseases. The technique successfully sensitized cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiation, offering a potential breakthrough for targeted therapy.
A new testing method for Huntington's disease (HSS) has been discovered by researchers at Oregon Health & Science University and UCSF. The test uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify the 'eye of the tiger sign' in patients with PANK2 mutations, a gene linked to HSS and Parkinson's disease.
A multicenter study identified a positive association between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and a serotonergic receptor gene variant. This genetic phenotype may represent an early onset risk factor for the disorder, suggesting age of onset should be considered in molecular genetic studies.
Pittsburgh researchers identify a genetic change in the UMOD gene responsible for two juvenile onset renal diseases, FJHN and MCKD2. The discovery enables testing of clinically unaffected family members, allowing for early intervention and potential prevention of kidney disease progression.
A study found a common genetic link between depression and cardiovascular disease, with increased frequency of specific gene variants in patients with severe depression. The combined presence of ACE-D and G-ß3-T alleles was associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular disorders and depression.
Scientists have identified small non-messenger RNA molecules, known as smnRNA, in genes associated with behavioral disorders. These findings suggest a new class of gene activity and regulation, potentially linked to conditions like Prader-Willi syndrome.
The National Institutes of Health's NIAMS has funded eight research projects to better understand and treat heritable disorders of connective tissue. These conditions, such as osteogenesis imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, affect millions of Americans and have few effective treatments.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia achieved immune tolerance in mice through prenatal stem cell transplants, enabling donor cells to multiply without toxic side effects. The technique could greatly broaden the use of cell and organ transplants for genetic diseases detected before birth.
A recent study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found a specific gene on chromosome 2q33-35 linked to depressive disorders in women, with no correlation in men. The CREB1 gene encodes a regulatory protein involved in brain function and plasticity.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have identified a novel gene mutation causing Huntington's Disease-like 2 (HDL2), a condition identical to Huntington's but caused by a different mutation. The discovery provides a window into the mechanisms of brain cell death and could shed light on other neurodegenerative disorders.
A study published in Molecular Psychiatry found a link between a genetic variant of the serotonin receptor gene and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The research suggests that individuals with this variant may be more susceptible to developing OCD, potentially leading to earlier identification and treatment.
A study led by Mark T. Keating found that 13.2% of African-Americans carry an altered form of the SCN5A gene, linked to prolonged contraction of heart muscle cells and arrhythmia risk. The variant can be detected through simple tests, allowing for preventive measures such as avoiding certain medications and monitoring potassium levels.
This month's TLN discusses the role of genetic risk factors in sleep disorders, including narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. The study highlights the importance of investigating the effects of mobile phone use on human populations to better understand the complex mechanisms regulating sleep.
Scientists have identified a gene involved in autoimmune disease using molecular techniques on mouse models. The research aims to develop more specific treatments by understanding the role of histamine receptors in autoimmune disease.