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Gut microbiome influences ALS outcomes

Researchers identified a new gut-brain connection in ALS, finding that altering the gut microbiome can prevent or improve disease symptoms in mice with a common genetic mutation. The study suggests that the gut microbiome may influence disease severity and could be a target for therapy.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateMay 13, 2020

Lipid metabolism controls brain development

A recent study by University of Zurich researchers has identified a key mechanism controlling brain development and cognitive function. The study found that a lipid metabolism enzyme, fatty acid synthase (FASN), regulates the lifelong activity of brain stem cells, leading to reduced division and learning deficits.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 7, 2020

How do zebrafish get their stripes? New data analysis tool could provide an answer

A new data analysis tool has been developed to study the formation of zebrafish stripes, enabling scientists to objectively test ideas about how patterns are formed. The algorithm uses topological data analysis to quantify attributes of shapes and patterns, providing a more objective approach to understanding developmental processes.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2020

Human language most likely evolved gradually

Researchers question the idea that human language arose instantaneously through a single gene mutation, proposing instead a gradual evolution through accumulation of smaller biological changes. They argue that the cognitive operation Merge, key to human language, evolved gradually over time.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 12, 2020

Finding genetic cancer risks

Researchers identified germline mutations in the MBD4 gene as a driver of somatic mutations in cancer genomes, accelerating the clock-like mutational process. This discovery has significant implications for understanding cancer development and may lead to personalized screening and early intervention strategies.

Faster heartbeat helps deer mice to survive at high altitudes

Researchers discovered a genetic variant in the Epas1 gene that enables high-altitude deer mice to survive by increasing their heart rate in response to low oxygen levels. This adaptation is also found in Tibetans living at high altitudes, suggesting potential benefits for long-term survival.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 30, 2019

Accurate detection of low-level somatic mutation in intractable epilepsy

Researchers developed an advanced method to detect low-level somatic mutations in intractable epilepsy with 100% accuracy, surpassing conventional sequencing analysis which stands at 30%. The study used deep sequencing replicates of major focal epilepsy genes and identified mutations in approximately 5% of patients.

Finding a cause of neurodevelopmental disorders

Researchers identified the molecular mechanism linking a protein mutation with abnormal nervous system development in neurodevelopmental disorders. A complex of proteins called the SWI/SNF complex was found to be affected, leading to changes in gene expression and brain development.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 30, 2019

Saving Beethoven

Researchers at Harvard Medical School developed a precise gene-editing tool to target the faulty Tmc1 gene in Beethoven mice, achieving an unprecedented level of accuracy. The treatment successfully preserved hearing in mice with hereditary deafness, paving the way for potential treatments of other dominantly inherited genetic diseases.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 3, 2019