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Identification of genetic risk factors for stroke

A new study has identified two genes, FOXC1 and PITX2, that underlie the development of cerebral small-vessel disease (CSVD), a risk factor for stroke. The study found that patients with mutations in these genes exhibited signs of CSVD, while zebrafish models with reduced Foxc1 levels mimicked symptoms of CSVD.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 24, 2014

International study identifies new genetic variants indicating risk for prostate cancer

A global study of over 87,000 individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds has discovered 23 new genetic factors that contribute to the development of prostate cancer. The research, led by Keck School of Medicine at USC, provides valuable insights into the causes of this disease and may lead to better prevention strategies.

Chrono, the last piece of the circadian clock puzzle?

A new circadian gene named Chrono has been discovered to function as a transcriptional repressor of the negative feedback loop in the mammalian clock. Mice lacking this gene exhibit longer circadian cycles, highlighting its importance in regulating daily rhythms.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 15, 2014

Genes bring music to your ears

Researchers analyzed the genomes of 767 individuals for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) to identify genetic loci related to musical aptitude. The study found associations with genes involved in inner-ear development, auditory pathways, and emotional processing.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 12, 2014

Obesity in Samoa: A global harbinger?

A recent study found that Samoa's adult population is almost three-quarters obese, with type 2 diabetes rates over one in five. The island's unique genetic profile and environmental factors are being investigated to understand the causes of this obesity crisis. This phenomenon may serve as a harbinger for global health difficulties.

Mechanism affecting risk of prostate cancer is found

A research group at Biocenter Oulu in Finland has identified a mechanism related to a transcription factor that binds strongly onto a particular SNP variant, initiating a genetic programme enhancing prostate cancer proliferation and metastasis. The study used DNA samples from tens of thousands of prostate cancer patients and healthy me...

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 13, 2014

Genetic analysis reveals insights into the genetic architecture of OCD, Tourette syndrome

A recent study published in PLOS Genetics has shed new light on the genetic causes of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and Tourette syndrome (TS). The research team found that OCD heritability is concentrated in chromosome 15, while TS heritability is spread across multiple chromosomes. The study's findings have significant implicat...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 24, 2013