news archive genetic news - September 17, 2009

September 17, 2009

your information resource in human molecular genetics

-	Itching to Quit Nicotine activates a channel known to be involved in inflammatory responses.
-	Channels for Stroke Treatment Nerve cell death and memory deficits in a rat model of stroke can be prevented by the suppression of a certain ion channel.
-	Hepatitis C Treatment Response Genetic variation in an interferon gene is associated with treatment response in individuals with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV).
-	Susceptibility to ALS Two new genetic associations to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, are reported.
-	Three New Targets in Alzheimer's Disease Three new genetic associations to late onset Alzheimer's disease are reported in two papers.
-	Holding Off HIV Scientists have discovered a new strategy to inhibit HIV entry into host cells.
-	Small Drug Blocks Cancer-Related Pathway A small molecule that blocks the activity of a signalling pathway implicated in many cancers is revealed.
-	Colourful Gene Therapy Researchers have given colour-blind monkeys the ability to see in full colour.
-	A Prostate Stem Cell Linked to Cancer Prostate cancer could be caused by the aberrant activity of a newly identified stem cell type.