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UrduGenetic counselors are experts in genetics and how it impacts our health and development. Learn more about who they are, what they do and how they may help you and your family….
Tag: Genetics
New roles in infectious process for molecule that inhibits flu
Researchers have identified new roles for a protein long known to protect against severe flu infection – among them, raising the minimum number of viral particles needed to cause sickness.
Linking data on genetics, traits and environment gives crop breeders a wider lens
The interplay between the genetic makeup of crops and the conditions in which they grow is difficult to untangle. A research team led by an Iowa State University professor aims to help breeders analyze the interactions to make crops more resilient and productive.
Discovery of Critical Iron-Transport Protein in Malaria Parasites Could Lead to Faster-Acting Medications
New research from University of Utah Health has identified a promising target for new antimalarial drugs: a protein called DMT1, which allows single-celled malaria parasites to use iron. Preventing DMT1 activity causes parasites to die unusually quickly.
UC San Diego Awarded $8 Million to Uncover Genetic Foundations of Substance Use Disorders
UC San Diego has received a five-year, $8 Million grant to support a NIDA P30 Center to investigate the genetics, genomics, and epigenetics behind substance use disorders.
Prabir Roy-Chaudhury, MD, PhD, FASN, to Become Next President of the American Society of Nephrology
Dr. Roy-Chaudhury will head up an organization—with nearly 21,000 health professionals representing 140 countries—dedicated to leading the fight against kidney diseases.
Preclinical Studies Test Novel Gene Therapy for Treating IgA Nephropathy
IgA nephropathy is an autoimmune kidney disease, and complement, a component of the innate immune system, plays a role in the condition’s pathogenesis. Investigators have developed and tested a novel gene therapy that enters kidney cells and enables them to block complement activation. The research will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2024 October 23– 27.
Trial Assesses Antibody Therapy for Chronic Active Antibody-Mediated Kidney Transplant Rejection
Chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (caAMR) is a common cause of allograft loss after transplantation, with no approved therapies. Clazakizumab, a monoclonal antibody that targets the inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6), stabilized kidney transplant recipients’ kidney function in a phase 2 trial. Investigators now have data from a phase 3 trial with clazakizumab. The findings from the Phase 3 IMAGINE trial, the largest placebo-controlled study in kidney transplant recipients with caAMR, will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2024 October 23– 27.
Researchers Test Imlifidase Enzyme Versus Plasma Exchange in Removing Donor-Specific Antibodies in Kidney Transplant Rejection Trial
For kidney transplant recipients experiencing antibody-mediated rejection, the current standard of care involves removing donor-specific antibodies (DSAs) through plasmapheresis (PLEX)—a procedure that removes antibodies from the plasma portion of the blood. Results from a recent clinical trial reveal that an investigational drug called imlifidase, which cleaves and inactivates the type of antibodies that include DSAs, is more effective than PLEX. The research will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2024 October 23–27.
Do Certain Diabetes Drugs Increase the Risk of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Taking Anti-Cancer Therapies?
Glucagon-like peptide-1-receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) are medications that are increasingly prescribed for patients with type 2 diabetes and congestive heart failure. Reports of GLP-1RA–associated acute kidney injury (AKI) have emerged, but the risk of GLP-1RA–associated AKI among patients on anti-cancer drugs is unclear. Surprisingly, new research suggests that taking GLP-1RA is not associated with an increased risk of AKI in patients receiving anti-cancer therapies. The findings will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2024 October 23– 27.
Global, National, and Regional Trends in the Burden of Chronic Kidney Disease among Women
A recent analysis reveals that the number of chronic kidney disease (CKD) cases in women around the globe nearly tripled in the past three decades. Also, type 2 diabetes and hypertension were the leading causes of CKD-related deaths in women. The research will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2024 October 23– 27.
How the Novel Antibody Felzartamab Impacts IgA Nephropathy
IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is an autoimmune kidney disease driven by immune cells that express a protein called CD38 on their surface. A recent Phase 2 trial revealed that felzartamab, an investigational anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, helps to reduce proteinuria and maintain patients’ kidney function. Investigators evaluated the molecular mechanisms underlying felzartamab’s potential efficacy in IgAN. The findings will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2024 October 23– 27.
Heart and Kidney Outcomes After Canagliflozin Treatment in Older Adults
Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors reduce the risk of cardiovascular and kidney outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes, but it is unclear whether their effects differ based on patients’ age. A recent analysis of clinical trial data reveals that the SGLT2 inhibitor canagliflozin benefited patients across all age categories. The findings will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2024 October 23 – 27.
Researchers Integrate Multiple Protein Markers to Predict Health Outcomes in Individuals with Chronic Kidney Disease
Prior efforts to identify novel kidney biomarkers as risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression have typically evaluated proteins individually, which limits their prognostic power. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases’ (NIDDK’s) CKD Biomarkers Consortium of investigators recently developed and tested novel dimensions of kidney health by combining a set of 17 urine and plasma biomarkers that had been individually associated with CKD progression. The research will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2024 October 23– 27.
The Clinical Significance of Microvascular Inflammation after Kidney Transplantation
Investigators recently uncovered key insights into newly defined rejection entities in kidney transplantation that may offer improved patient risk categorization post-transplant. The research will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2024 October 23– 27.
New AI tool predicts protein-protein interaction mutations in hundreds of diseases
Scientists from Cleveland Clinic and Cornell University have designed a publicly-available software and web database to break down barriers to identifying key protein-protein interactions to treat with medication.
Only Two Weeks Remain Until the ASHG 2024 Annual Meeting
The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) Annual Meeting will bring together the largest gathering of human geneticists in the world in Denver, Colorado on November 5-9.
Yale School of Medicine Professors Elected to National Academy of Medicine
Yale School of Medicine professors Erol Fikrig, MD, and Haifan Lin, PhD, have been elected to the National Academy of Medicine.
UNC School of Medicine Researchers Take on Chronic Skin Condition
Researchers at the UNC School of Medicine were awarded $2.3 million from the National Institute of Arthritis, Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases to study the genetic basis of a chronic skin condition called hidradenitis suppurativa.
Researchers Create New System to Decode Genetic Risk for Psychiatric Disorders
The lab of Jason Stein, PhD, associate professor of genetics and member of the UNC Neuroscience Center, has created a controlled model system that could help researchers know more about the genetic variants that increase one’s risk for developing a psychiatric disorder.
Inherited Changes in BRCA Genes Linked to Increased Risk of Multiple Myeloma
A significant number of multiple myeloma patients may have an inherited but previously unrecognized risk of developing the disease, a new study led by Roswell Park Chief of Clinical Genomics Kenan Onel, MD, PhD, reveals.
Illinois scientists to test modernized genetic model for optimized crop breeding
The National Science Foundation (NSF) has funded University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign research that aims to connect the dots between quantitative and molecular genetics and improve crop breeding.
Genomic treasure trove: Vernicia montana’s DNA unearths new breeding horizons
A pioneering study has unveiled the genetic blueprint of Vernicia montana, a plant renowned for its high-value tung oil and ornamental beauty. The research decodes its chromosome-level genome, providing unparalleled insights into its evolution and setting the stage for advanced molecular breeding and sex identification methods.
Bulwark of blooms: the lily’s secret armor against plant pathogens
A cutting-edge study reveals the biochemical defense system of the wild lily, Lilium regale, which demonstrates remarkable resistance against Fusarium wilt—a major threat to the floriculture industry. The research uncovers the lily’s robust defense mechanisms, spotlighting the critical role of phenylpropanoid metabolism and the regulatory influence of specific transcription factors. These findings offer valuable insights for developing crops with enhanced disease resistance.
Your Best Friend From High School? Here’s Why Their Genes Mattered
Peer social genetic effects – the influence of a social partner’s genotype on the observable traits of another – influence risk for addiction and psychiatric disorders later in life, a Rutgers researcher finds
What Researchers Know about the Genetic Complexity of Schizophrenia, To Date
A new review article written by researchers at the UNC School of Medicine and the Karolinska Institutet, outline the genetic, neurobiological, and environmental foundations that contribute to the development of schizophrenia.
Stroke recovery: it’s in the genes
New research led by UCLA Health has found that specific genes may be related to the trajectory of recovery for stroke survivors, providing doctors insights useful for developing targeted therapies.
Virginia Tech researchers find potential method to control mosquito populations through genetic breeding
Virginia Tech researchers have found a new way to identify genetic targets useful for control of mosquito populations, potentially offering an alternative to insecticides.
Genetic Study Highlights Importance of Diversity in Understanding Health Disparities
The majority of genetic studies focus on people of European descent, which limits the understanding of how genes influence health in other populations.
Insight into one of life’s earliest ancestors revealed in new study
An international team of researchers led by the University of Bristol has shed light on Earth’s earliest ecosystem, showing that within a few hundred million years of planetary formation, life on Earth was already flourishing.
From kale to carotenoid powerhouse: a breakthrough in plant nutrition
A recent study has identified a crucial regulatory mechanism in Chinese kale, potentially revolutionizing its nutritional profile. By manipulating the BoaBZR1.1 transcription factor, researchers significantly enhanced carotenoid levels, crucial antioxidants for human health. This advancement opens pathways for improving vegetable nutrition through genetic engineering.
Flavonoid fortune: citrus genes llluminate path to nutrient richness
Scientists have unlocked the genetic secrets behind the biosynthesis of flavonoid glycosides in citrus, a breakthrough that could fortify the nutritional potency and disease resistance of these fruits. This discovery refines our grasp of the genetic orchestration of these beneficial compounds, setting the stage for an upgrade in citrus nutrition and health.
Not So Selfish After All: Viruses Use Freeloading Genes as Weapons
Certain pieces of DNA have been labeled as “selfish genetic elements” due to notions that they don’t contribute to a host organism’s survival. Instead, researchers have now discovered that these elements have been weaponized and play a crucial role by cutting off a competitor’s ability to reproduce.
A genetic predisposition to alcohol use is not the same as a genetic destiny for alcohol misuse
There is a clear relationship between alcohol and neurodegeneration; for example, an alcohol use disorder correlates with a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease. It is unclear, however, whether individual differences in brain structure and connectivity are risk factors for, or consequences of, alcohol use. New research exploring this relationship will be shared on Wednesday, 26 June 2024 at the 47th annual scientific meeting of the Research Society on Alcohol (RSA) in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Biotech entrepreneur donates $50 million to UC Irvine School of Biological Sciences
The University of California, Irvine has received a $50 million donation from Orange County biotech entrepreneur Charlie Dunlop for the School of Biological Sciences. Dean Frank LaFerla announced the gift before thousands of graduating students, faculty and family supporters at today’s school commencement, where Dunlop was the featured speaker.
New AI Tool Finds Rare Variants Linked to Heart Disease in 17 Genes
Using an advanced artificial intelligence tool, researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have identified rare coding variants in 17 genes that shed light on the molecular basis of coronary artery disease (CAD), the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The discoveries, detailed in the June 11 online issue of Nature Genetics, reveal genetic factors impacting heart disease that open new avenues for targeted treatments and personalized approaches to cardiovascular care. The investigators used an in silico, or computer-derived, score for coronary artery disease (ISCAD) that holistically represents CAD, as described in a previous paper by the team in The Lancet. The ISCAD score incorporates hundreds of different clinical features from the electronic health record, including vital signs, laboratory test results, medications, symptoms, and diagnoses. To build the score, they trained machine learning models on the electronic health records of 604,914 individuals
Scientists identify gene that could lead to resilient ‘pixie’ corn
A widely found gene in plants has been newly identified as a key transporter of a hormone that influences the size of corn. The discovery offers plant breeders a new tool to develop desirable dwarf varieties that could enhance the crop’s resilience and profitability.
Ohalo™ Announces the Discovery of Boosted Breeding™
Ohalo™ announced today the discovery of Boosted Breeding™, an entirely new plant breeding technology that will revolutionize agriculture and sustainably improve crop productivity.
Peach Perfection: Advanced Gene Networks Reveal Fruit Traits
A study has tapped into the peach genome, creating large-scale gene coexpression networks (GCNs) that predict gene functions and streamline the peach breeding process. This innovative approach addresses the complex task of identifying genes linked to desirable breeding traits in peaches.
Mount Sinai Study Identifies Genetic Link Between Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Parkinson’s Disease
Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have made a significant discovery, identifying genetic connections between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Published in Genome Medicine on May 13, their study highlights the potential for joint therapeutic strategies to target these two challenging disorders.
After 25 Years, Researchers Uncover Genetic Cause of Rare Neurological Disease
Spinocerebellar ataxia 4 is a devastating progressive movement disorder. A multinational study has now conclusively identified the genetic difference that causes the disease, bringing answers to families and opening the door to future treatments.
Automated machine learning robot unlocks new potential for genetics research
University of Minnesota Twin Cities researchers have constructed a robot that uses machine learning to fully automate a complicated microinjection process used in genetic research.
Orchid Welcomes Distinguished Clinical and Genetics Leaders to its Advisory Boards
Orchid, a reproductive technology company offering the world’s only commercially available whole genome embryo screening, today announced Dr. Amber Cooper, Dr. Roohi Jeelani, and Jerry Lanchbury, Ph.D as new members joining their Medical and Scientific Advisory Board.
Genetic variations may predispose people to Parkinson’s disease following long-term pesticide exposure, study finds
A new UCLA Health study found certain genetic variants could help explain how long-term pesticide exposure could increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease.
Mountain chickadees have remarkable memories. A new study explains why
Mountain chickadees have among the best spatial memory in the animal kingdom. New research identifies the genes at play and offers insight into how a shifting climate may impact the evolution of this unique skill.
Electronic Health Records Unlock Genetics of Tobacco Use Disorder
By utilizing the power of electronic medical records, researchers from UC San Diego are uncovering the genetics of tobacco use, which would help scientists discover new ways to stop occasional tobacco use from evolving into tobacco use disorder.
Polyploidy in vegetables: Unveiling genetic secrets for crop evolution and breeding success
A research team has elucidated the role of polyploidy in the evolution and breeding of vegetable crops, leveraging advanced sequencing technologies to dissect the genetic and epigenetic nuances of polyploids.
UC Irvine-led research team builds first tandem repeat expansions genetic reference maps
A research team led by the University of California, Irvine has built the first genetic reference maps for short lengths of DNA repeated multiple times which are known to cause more than 50 lethal human diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington’s disease and multiple cancers.
A Deep Dive Into the Genetics of Alcohol Consumption
Some people have genes that protect them from alcohol abuse. An examination of databases at 23andMe reveal that those same alcohol-protective variants have associations with conditions and behaviors that may have nothing to do with alcohol.
Unraveling Ethylene’s Role in Carnation Postharvest Life: Insights into Varietal Sensitivity and Genetic Regulation
Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) is a flower widely cultivated for its appealing apperance and frangance.