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Genetic data from ‘biobanks’ may help improve prediction of effectiveness, side effects of common medications, study finds

A new framework developed by UCLA researchers suggests that genetic data from large libraries of sequenced human genomes can improve the predictive power of genetics in determining how well a patient will respond to commonly prescribed medications and the severity of any side effects. The study, which analyzed data from over 342,000 pe...

The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) releases highly anticipated evidence-based clinical guideline for phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency

The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics has published a new evidence-based clinical guideline for phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency diagnosis and management. The guideline provides recommendations for treatment, implementation considerations, research priorities, and economic considerations to improve patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·JournalGenetics in Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 4, 2024

Bringing genomics into public policy requires greater awareness, professional training, and investment

The WHO's Technical Advisory Group on Genomics published an article outlining challenges and actions to promote the use of genomics in public health. The group aims to increase awareness and provide technical guidance to accelerate access to genetic technologies, enabling preventive measures and targeted treatment for various diseases.

Interdisciplinary collaboration uses machine learning to uncover unknown patterns in genome organization

University of Toronto researchers developed a new computational method to study genome organization, uncovering previously unknown patterns in human chromosomes. The method uses machine learning to analyze high-throughput chromosome conformation capture data and sheds light on chromosomal re-organization leading to disease development.

Study reveals how deadly brain tumor evades treatment; identifies potential new treatment strategy

A new study from UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center introduces a combined genetic and functional profiling approach to predict how glioblastoma will respond to therapy. The approach helps identify new ways to target and treat the tumors more effectively, including using an experimental drug called ABBV-155.

Cancer genetic risk assessment guidelines expand to meet growing understanding of hereditary risk

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network has updated its guidelines for genetic/familial high-risk assessment, incorporating the latest scientific research and expert recommendations to enhance screening practices and treatment options. The expanded guidelines cover various cancer types and provide guidance on genetic testing, heredit...

Use of “genetic scissors” carries risks

The CRISPR tool was successfully used to correct a genetic defect in cells affected by chronic granulomatous disease. However, the repair process also introduced new genetic defects, highlighting the need for caution when using CRISPR technology in clinical settings.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2024

Houston Methodist researchers shed light on increased rates of severe human infections caused by Streptococcus subspecies

Researchers at Houston Methodist have identified a new strain of bacteria, Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis (SDSE), linked to increasingly severe human infections. The study used integrative analysis to investigate the genome, transcriptome, and virulence of SDSE strains, shedding light on their molecular pathogenesis.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2024

New method to analyze complex genetic data could be the key to tackling rare diseases

A new genetic analysis method called Genomic Informational Theory (GIFT) has been developed to extract more precise data than previously used methods. GIFT is capable of analyzing large datasets and extracting novel information that was previously unavailable through genome-wide association studies (GWASs).

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalPhysiological Genomics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 30, 2024

Research heralds new era for genetics

The study analyzed the genetic profiles of 80,000 people and found that repeat expansion disorders (REDs) are common across different populations. The findings suggest a significant shift in how we think about genetic testing, profiling, and counseling for these conditions.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 1, 2024

New vaccine created by Mizzou researchers protects cattle from deadly tick-borne disease

A new vaccine created by Mizzou researchers protects cattle from bovine anaplasmosis, a devastating tick-borne disease causing hundreds of millions of dollars in economic losses. The vaccine has been proven to give immunized cattle protection for at least a month and is being discussed with industry partners for future distribution.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalVaccine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2024

UVA research cracks the autism code, making the neurodivergent brain visible

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...

Genetic ‘episignatures’ guide researchers in identifying causes of unsolved epileptic neurological disorders

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered DNA methylation patterns that help identify the root cause of developmental and epileptic encephalopathies, a condition affecting 1 in 590 children. The findings provide a new tool for diagnosing children with DEE and could lead to more effective treatments.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 2024

Published research from the Parkinson’s Foundation shows genetic variants are more common in people with Parkinson’s disease than originally thought

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.

SourceParkinson's Foundation·JournalBrain·TypeObservational study·DateJul 29, 2024

'Gene misbehavior' widespread in healthy people

A recent study found that 'gene misbehaviour' is a common phenomenon in the healthy human population, with over half of inactive genes showing misexpression. The researchers used advanced techniques to analyze blood samples from 4,568 healthy individuals and identified mechanisms behind these gene activity errors.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateJul 24, 2024

Researchers evaluate the benefit of dual therapy for children at risk for spinal muscular atrophy

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.

SourceClinic for Special Children·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 25, 2024

Pacific Northwest Research Institute uncovers hidden DNA mechanisms of rare genetic diseases

Researchers at PNRI reveal how specific DNA rearrangements called inverted triplications contribute to the development of various genetic diseases. These complex rearrangements are caused by segments of DNA switching templates during the repair process, leading to disruptions in normal gene function and contributing to genetic disorders.

SourcePacific Northwest Research Institute·JournalCell Genomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024

Doctors advise caution as energy drinks may trigger life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias in patients with genetic heart diseases

A study published in Heart Rhythm examined the potential dangers of energy drink consumption in patients with genetic heart diseases. The research found a temporal relationship between energy drink consumption and sudden cardiac arrest events, but caution is advised due to the small relative risk.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeart Rhythm·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 6, 2024

Treatment-resistant depression linked to body mass index: Study

A recent study has found a significant link between treatment-resistant depression and body mass index, suggesting new avenues for treatment development. The research identified genes clustered on different chromosomes that correlated with the likelihood of receiving electroconvulsive therapy, an effective treatment for severe depression.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMay 15, 2024

Variations in telomere lengthening genes may predispose some people to papillary thyroid cancer

Researchers found a correlation between genetic variations in three telomere-related genes and an increased risk of developing papillary thyroid cancer. The study suggests that individuals with these variants may benefit from closer monitoring for secondary cancers, and highlights the role of long telomeres in cancer development.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 13, 2024

New genetic mutation identified for congenital thyroid condition

A team of researchers from the University of Chicago has identified a genetic mutation in a non-coding region of DNA that alters thyroid hormone regulation, leading to a rare form of congenital thyroid abnormality. This discovery sheds light on a previously unexplained phenomenon and may lead to new treatments for individuals with this...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

After 25 years, researchers uncover genetic cause of rare neurological disease

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.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2024

Cause of rare genetic condition discovered

Researchers have identified a rare genetic condition, Glutamine Synthetase Stabilization Disorder, which causes seizures and delayed development. The study found that genetic variants increase the stability of an enzyme producing glutamine, disrupting brain development.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 14, 2024

Inherited predisposition for higher muscle strength may protect against common morbidities

A large-scale study found that individuals with a genetic predisposition for higher muscle strength have a slightly lower risk for common noncommunicable diseases and premature mortality. This is attributed to their intrinsic ability to resist pathological changes during aging, rather than recovery from acute adversity.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·DateApr 12, 2024

Access to genomic medicine illustrates precision medicine’s delicate future

A new study found that access to genomic testing for cancer is limited by factors such as test availability, patient information, and insurance coverage in both Japan and Switzerland. Despite universal insurance coverage, barriers persist due to differences in hospital accessibility, language barriers, and varying levels of reimbursement.

SourceOsaka University·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·TypeCase study·DateApr 8, 2024