Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers have reported encouraging evidence of an effective new gene therapy to treat multiple sulfatase deficiency. The ex vivo gene therapy improved sulfatase production and reduced symptoms associated with the disease in preclinical models.
Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a method to chemically alter siRNAs, reducing off-target effects and improving the safety of siRNA drugs for genetic therapy. By modifying the seed region of siRNAs with formamide, they achieved suppression of off-target effects with higher efficiency than existing chemical modifications.
Researchers at the University of Hawaii have developed a new gene editing technology that can efficiently deliver healthy genes to the body. This method addresses limitations of current methods and has shown success rates of up to 96%, potentially leading to faster and more affordable treatments for various genetic diseases.
Researchers used genetic method Mendelian randomization to show high levels of fasting insulin cause reduction in Lp(a), rather than the other way around. Low Lp(a) is unlikely to be a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, independent of pre-existing hyperinsulinaemia and insulin resistance.
A multi-university research team led by University of Virginia engineering professor Gustavo K. Rohde has developed a system that can accurately spot genetic markers of autism in brain images. The system uses generative computer modeling technique called transport-based morphometry, which reveals brain structure patterns that predict v...
Silent gene mutations may have significant consequences beyond their own gene, according to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Researchers found that synonymous mutations in one gene can increase the production of a neighboring gene by recruiting RNA polymerase to cryptic transcription sites.
A study published at Uppsala University found that chronic cough is hereditary, with a 50% increased risk for offspring if one parent has the condition. The research also revealed differences in care between regions and highlights the need for better guidelines.
A study published in Nature Communications implicates the gene CHCHD2 in Huntington's disease progression and identifies it as a potential therapeutic target. The researchers found that mutations in the HTT gene affect CHCHD2, which is involved in maintaining mitochondrial function.
A computational model can predict which drugs will be most effective in treating diseases caused by mutations that bring protein synthesis to a halt. The predictive model, RTDetective, accelerates the design, development, and efficacy of clinical trials for genetic disorders and cancers.
Researchers have identified two proteins, PARP1 and histone H1.2, that interact with an ALS-causing mutant FUS protein, leading to pathological changes. Inhibiting these proteins may be a possible therapeutic target for familial ALS cases caused by mutations in the FUS gene.
Researchers discovered that Huntington's disease protein aggregates cause breaks in the nuclear envelope, leading to DNA damage and misregulation of neuronal genes. The study suggests a common mechanism for neurodegenerative diseases involving nuclear aggregate-induced ruptures.
Researchers at Edith Cowan University have uncovered a significant genetic connection between Alzheimer's disease and several coronary artery disease-related disorders, offering opportunities to improve health outcomes. The study found that some of the same genes played a role in or are associated across these conditions.
A study published in Cardiovascular Research Journal found that a gene deficiency in patients with atrial fibrillation leads to reduced energy production in heart cells. PITX2-deficient cardiac cells have smaller and less efficient mitochondria, pushing the heart into an oxygen-deficient stress state.
A Rutgers study found that the genetic makeup of adolescent peers can have long-term consequences for an individual's risk of developing substance use disorders, depression, and anxiety. The study used Swedish national data to assess peer social genetic effects for several psychiatric disorders.
Researchers have identified nearly 300 common and over 20 rare genetic variants as significant risk factors for schizophrenia. The study emphasizes the role of multiple genes rather than single-gene causation, revealing complexity in the mechanisms underlying the disorder.
Researchers at Lawson Health Research Institute have made a world-first discovery using advanced technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to accurately diagnose rare diseases and prenatal exposure-related birth abnormalities. They used EpiSign technology, which measures a patient's epigenome, to identify patients affected by recurre...
The PD GENEration study has found that 13% of participants have a genetic form of Parkinson's disease, significantly higher than previous estimates. The study, which reached its goal of 15,000 participants ahead of schedule, provides insights into the genetics of the disease and its potential for precision medicine.
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center discovered a new treatment approach that improved survival rates for patients with B-cell precursor leukemia by nearly 60%. The study found that adding blinatumomab to chemotherapy reduced the risk of leukemia recurrence and death.
Researchers found that mutations in the TLR7 gene significantly increase the risk of severe COVID-19, as well as changes in the TBK1, INFAR1, and IFIH1 genes. The study also suggests gender-specific differences in how genetic factors influence disease progression.
A new genetic test has identified a mutation causing progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in English Shepherd Dogs, allowing breeders to eliminate the disease from their population. The test is available for purchase and will help prevent the disease from being passed on to puppies.
Researchers highlight DDX41's distinct contribution to myeloid neoplasms with germline predisposition. The discovery sheds light on unique pathogenesis and disease phenotype associated with DDX41 variants.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals that current genetic screening protocols fail to detect notable numbers of people carrying hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome and Lynch syndrome mutations. The study identified 550 carriers of these mutations, with half being previously unaware of their risk.
Researchers developed a new NIPT-based method that reveals 33 pathogenic copy number variations (CNVs) in the Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) gene. This study provides valuable insights into the frequency and spectrum of maternal CNV carriers in the Chinese population.
Researchers at UW Medicine have developed a new gene therapy that delivers protein packets to replace defective genes in muscles, halting disease progression and reversing pathology. The therapy uses adeno-associated viral vectors and aims to restore normal muscle health, with human trials expected to begin in two years.
LMU researchers have developed strategies to repair mutated proteins that cause an inherited stroke disorder called CARASIL. The team used a combination of in-vitro and in-vivo methods to restore the function of the protease HTRA1, which plays a crucial role in maintaining equilibrium in the extracellular matrix.
Researchers discovered a new genetic cause of inherited Parkinson's disease, the CARS E795V mutation, which affects protein function and leads to neurological symptoms. The study found that this rare mutation is responsible for the condition in nine individuals from four families.
A new study by UCLA Health reveals racial disparities in Huntington's disease diagnoses, with Black patients receiving diagnoses one year later than White patients. The study analyzed nearly 5,000 patient data points and found that these disparities may exacerbate underrepresentation of minority groups in clinical trials.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have identified a small molecule that could potentially treat Angelman syndrome by 'turning on' the dormant paternally-inherited UBE3A gene copy. The compound, (S)-PHA533533, has shown excellent uptake in developing brains and bioavailability, making it a promising lead for gene therapy.
Scientists have mapped over 5,000 genetic variants in the 'tumour protection' gene BAP1 that significantly increase cancer risk. These variants can be used to develop new treatments, including IGF-1 inhibitors, to slow down or prevent cancer progression.
Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered a critical link between the heart and brain in KBG syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder. The study found that mutations in the ANKRD11 gene impact both brain development and heart defects.
A breakthrough in chrysanthemum breeding uses CRISPR/Cas9 to enhance disease resistance and genetic research. The study establishes a reliable gene-editing system for chrysanthemums, which promises to advance genetic research and improve the breeding of ornamental plants.
A CHARMed collaboration has created a set of molecular tools called CHARMs that can turn off disease-causing genes, including those coding for the prion protein. The tools have shown promise in silencing the prion protein gene and improving or eliminating disease symptoms in animals.
A first-of-its-kind study compared preventative therapy efficacy between two groups: gene therapy alone and in combination with risdiplam or nusinersen. Dual therapy showed promise in independent sitting outcomes, but not in walking age or muscle disease progression prevention.
Researchers at U of T have harnessed CRISPR to efficiently and precisely control RNA splicing, enabling the systematic interrogation of gene functions and correction of splicing deficiencies in diseases. This new tool allows for targeted activation or repression of alternative exons with high specificity.
Researchers have developed three new cellular models of myotonic dystrophy type 1 that accurately represent the clinical diversity of the disease. The models show great heterogeneity in genetic expansion and molecular alterations, making them suitable for studying pathophysiology and testing therapeutic options.
A new study found that physical activity and cognitive training can improve life satisfaction and mood for adults with Down’s syndrome. The Mindsets study involved 83 participants who were assigned to one of four groups for an eight-week period, including a control group, light physical exercise, or BrainHQ activities.
A retrospective study of 202 participants found that only 83 presymptomatic carriers underwent predictive testing, highlighting limitations in current genetic testing methods. The researchers advocate for a comprehensive clinical approach combining genetic counseling, predictive testing, and monitoring, as well as psychosocial support.
Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University used long-read RNA sequencing to decode genetic intricacies and disease links. The study identified novel isoforms, cell-type-specific splicing patterns, and disease-linked transcripts associated with immune-related diseases.
A study using induced pluripotent stem cells has revealed that inflammation triggered by retrotransposons and interferon signaling causes atherosclerosis in Werner syndrome patients. The researchers propose targeting the interferon signaling pathway as a potential treatment for reducing stroke and heart attacks.
A recent study by Tokyo Medical and Dental University researchers suggests that a specific variant of the CARD9 gene prevalent across northern China, Korea, and Japan may have originated from a common ancestor. The c.820dup variant was found to be relatively common in China and has been estimated to be between 2,000 and 4,000 years old...
Research finds that Huntington’s disease damages microscopic blood vessels in the brain, affecting coordination between neuronal activity and oxygenation. The study uses non-invasive measurement techniques to monitor disease progression and evaluate potential treatments.
Research suggests that altered lipid signaling in brain cells contributes to mental disorders, with specific inhibitors showing promise in rebalancing this mechanism. The study found similar changes in both human patients and healthy relatives, as well as mice with genetic disorders, opening up new treatment opportunities.
Researchers discovered that PMP22 duplication disrupts lipid metabolism and plasma membrane organization in developing Schwann cells, leading to myelin degradation and nerve damage. Targeting dysregulated lipid pathways may reverse some detrimental effects of CMT1A.
Researchers identified a genetic cause of intellectual disability, caused by mutations in the non-coding gene RNU4-2, which affects tens of thousands of people worldwide. The discovery is significant, as it represents one of the most common single-gene genetic causes of neurodevelopmental disorders.
A new study from the University of Lausanne reveals that both high and low levels of the AFF3 protein can lead to severe intellectual deficits and developmental disorders. The research, led by Alexandre Reymond, identifies a critical role for the gene in development and highlights the importance of precise dosage.
A genomic study uncovers germline ARID1B and mitochondrial variants that may drive pediatric chordoma genesis, a rare and aggressive bone tumor. The study found aberrant indels and haywire mitochondria in 22% of pediatric chordoma samples.
Researchers found that a drug approved to treat autoimmune diseases and cancers alleviated symptoms of APS-1, a rare genetic syndrome caused by elevated interferon-gamma. Ruxolitinib, a Janus kinase inhibitor, normalized IFN-gamma responses and reduced AP-1-related symptoms in study participants.
The study reveals that FLVCR1 and FLVCR2 transport choline and ethanolamine across cellular membranes, supporting cell growth and stability. This discovery contributes to understanding rare diseases and developing new therapies for patients suffering from severe neurological and muscular disorders.
A recent study has cataloged gene-isoform variation in the developing human brain, providing crucial insights into neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. The research found thousands of isoform switches that occur during brain development, implicating previously uncharacterized RNA-binding proteins.
Researchers evaluated anemia cases using stringent clinical and laboratory criteria, identifying rare congenital sideroblastic anemias and nonsideroblastic iron defects with pathogenic gene mutations. This study highlights the importance of active screening and awareness for these conditions in the Indian subcontinent.
Researchers at Clemson University discovered that certain Neanderthal-derived genetic variations are more common in people with autism than in the general population. These findings suggest long-term effects of ancient human hybridization on brain organization and function, potentially leading to earlier diagnostics.
The Gilbert Family Foundation has invested $21 million in grants to launch the Next-Generation NF1 Models Initiative, a research program focused on developing advanced models of the NF1 disease. The initiative aims to accelerate the discovery of treatments that address both symptoms and underlying causes of neurofibromatosis.
Three FAU researchers have received $1M in FDOH grants to develop innovative approaches against Alzheimer's disease. Mare Cudic aims to explore the link between glycosylation and neuroinflammation, while Ruth Tappen develops an online screening tool for older drivers with cognitive decline.
Researchers at the University of Trento have identified a collection of molecular tools to rewrite DNA, including a compact Cas9 enzyme from the human microbiome. The discovery has potential for gene therapy applications and could speed up the development of therapies for genetic diseases.
Scientists have identified the genetic mutation that causes SCA4, a progressive neurological disorder. The mutated gene ZFHX3 leads to impaired protein recycling in nerve cells, causing symptoms such as difficulty walking and balancing. This discovery opens the door to potential treatments for both SCA4 and another related form of ataxia.
A groundbreaking study reveals an unsuspected role of the SNUPN gene in muscle cell function, identifying it as the causative factor for a debilitating muscular dystrophy. Researchers found that alterations in the Snurportin-1 protein encoded by the SNUPN gene disrupts muscle cell integrity and function.
Researchers developed a gene-based therapy that restored typical cellular function in organoids created from cells of people with Timothy syndrome. The treatment used antisense oligonucleotides to decrease the use of mutated exon 8A and increase reliance on non-affected exon 8, restoring normal calcium channel functioning.
Researchers have found that genetic mutations are not essential for cancer onset, and instead, epigenetic dysregulation plays a crucial role. Epigenetic changes can cause gene expression to be altered, leading to tumour formation even after the signal has been restored.
A new Spanish study provides the first stratification of the risk of developing dilated cardiomyopathy among symptom-free genetic carriers. Researchers found that nearly 11% of genetic carriers developed the disease within a median follow-up period of 37 months.
Researchers at Kobe University discovered a new gene, FDFT1, responsible for porokeratosis by identifying epigenetic silencing. Patients with localized lesions didn't have inherited damaged copies, leading to a hypothesis that epigenetic changes are the first hit. The findings have implications for treatment and counseling.