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Type A and can’t handle it?

Researchers identified Kir6.2 as a protective mechanism against stress in the heart, which helps maintain equilibrium under peak workloads. The study found that mice lacking this protein experienced severe cardiac distress and died, while those with it survived stress tests.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 27, 2002

One gene, two important proteins

Researchers found that a single fly gene encodes two proteins with opposing actions: one inhibits the other's activity. This discovery provides insight into complex biological phenomena and may lead to novel treatments for human cancers, particularly those with overactive STAT proteins. The study highlights the importance of considerin...

SourceRockefeller University·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 14, 2002

Enzyme could aid cancer fight

Researchers have found that a gene repair mechanism called MBD4 enzyme can reduce gene mutations in mice, which are up to three times more common without the enzyme. This discovery may aid in understanding how cancer develops and finding new treatments.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience·DateJul 18, 2002

'Sloppy genes' behave like their neighbours

Researchers found over 200 groups of adjacent and similarly expressed genes in Drosophila melanogaster, accounting for approximately 20% of the genome. The 'sloppy' regulation may reflect chromatin's packaging and influence gene expression more by accident than design.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biology·DateJun 18, 2002

Gene linked to infertility in mice

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a gene linked to male infertility in mice, which may also be associated with human infertility. The study found that the miwi gene plays an essential role in sperm production and its deficiency can lead to complete sterility in mice.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 6, 2002

Gene mutation influences filtering of blood by kidneys

A study using mice found that mutations in the Lmx1b gene cause a reduction in two proteins necessary for mature podocytes to function properly. This disruption leads to immature podocytes and impaired kidney filtering, increasing the risk of kidney problems associated with nail-patella syndrome.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 18, 2002

Tidying up transcription factors

Researchers James E. Darnell and Ali H. Brivanlou propose a reclassification of all known transcription factors, grouping them by their behavior rather than physical structure. This framework aims to provide a better understanding of how cells 'read' genetic instructions and may lead to new drug therapies for diseases such as cancer an...

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateJan 31, 2002

The genetics behind hair loss

Researchers have determined the function of the Hairless protein, revealing its role in regulating gene expression dependent on the thyroid hormone receptor. The discovery provides molecular insight into congenital hair loss disorders and represents a stepping stone for designing therapeutic agents.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 14, 2001