news archive genetic news - September 18, 2008

September 18, 2008

your information resource in human molecular genetics

-	Twin Studies Point to Genetic Variability Among Different Populations Twin studies from eight populations show that genetic mechanisms for height, weight and BMI are more variable than researchers previously suspected.
-	The Tuberculosis Bacterium's Stealthy Ways Mycobacterium tuberculosis -- the bacterium that causes most cases of tuberculosis -- spreads infection by blocking a naturally triggered immune response that would cause the infected cells to die.
-	Coping with Immune Cell Death Researchers have discovered a 'sensor' molecule that alerts the immune system to the presence of necrotic cells.
-	Risk Factor for Common Kidney Disease Scientists have identified the first common genetic variants that increase risk of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).
-	Susceptibility to Bladder Cancer Researchers have found a genetic variant associated with increased risk of urinary bladder cancer.
-	Enzyme Associated with Vitamin B12 Levels Scientists have identified the first genetic variants that contribute to variation in levels of vitamin B12.
-	New Approach for Leukaemia Treatment? Drugs that block the action of an enzyme called glycogen synthase kinase (GSK3) may prove useful in treating a particular type of poor prognosis leukaemia.
-	Invasion Proteins Target Placenta Researchers may have figured out how a disease-causing bacteria crosses the placenta from mother to baby.
-	New Colon Tumour Gene Gives Fresh Therapeutic Lead Cancer researchers have identified a gene that promotes the growth of colon cancers, potentially creating a new avenue for treating many cases of the disease.