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Genetic screening no better than traditional risk factors for predicting type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that genetic screening for type 2 diabetes is not significantly better than traditional risk factors such as weight, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. The study identified 18 gene variants associated with increased risk, but the value of genetic screening improved as more risk genes were discovered.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 19, 2008

Outwitting pesky parasites

Scientists identified molecular markers linked to two root-knot nematode resistance genes, enabling breeders to efficiently screen for resistant plants. This breakthrough allows for faster and cost-effective development of root-knot resistant soybean crops.

SourceCrop Science Society of America·JournalThe Plant Genome·DateJul 15, 2007

Pre-implantation genetic screening reduces both ongoing pregnancy and live birth rates in over 35s

Preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) does not increase ongoing pregnancy or live birth rates in women over 35 undergoing IVF. The technique's effectiveness has been called into question due to various limitations, including the potential for biopsy errors and chromosomal analysis biases.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 4, 2007

Fruit fly's beating heart helps identify human heart disease genes

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have developed a method to visualize the heartbeat of fruit flies, enabling them to identify genetic mutations associated with human heart disease. The team inserted a mutated gene into the fly genome and observed its effects, revealing similarities with human dilated cardiomyopathy.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2006

New screening method may speed hunt for disease-causing genes

Researchers have developed a new genetic screening method that narrows the pool of candidate genes from thousands to fewer than 100, potentially saving time and money. The technique uses a combination of quantitative trait locus mapping and microarray technology to identify genes with differential expression, which are more likely to b...

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 2002

New screening technique may speed hunt for genes

Scientists have developed a new genetic screening technique that narrows the pool of candidate genes from thousands to fewer than 100, potentially speeding up the search for genes responsible for inherited traits. The method combines two established techniques and has been tested on fruit flies, with promising results.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 2002

Gene study to unlock causes of stroke

Researchers will examine genetic factors that might predispose people to ischaemic stroke, using a novel molecular strategy and data from 500 patients. The study aims to identify genes involved in stroke and develop new treatments, which could increase protection against subsequent strokes.

Long-QT syndrome

A Mayo Clinic study found that a genetic defect known as long-QT syndrome may be the cause of many unexplained drownings. The research identified a genetic mutation in a 19-year-old woman who died after a near-drowning, and subsequent testing revealed that her mother and sister also had inherited the condition.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 6, 1999