Summary: A recent review outlines the genetic complexity of schizophrenia, highlighting nearly 300 common genetic variants and over 20 rare variants linked to the disorder. Researchers emphasize that schizophrenia’s genetic…
Tag: Genetics
Research shows genetic variants are more common in people with Parkinson’s disease than previously thought
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Investigators in the Parkinson’s Foundation-backed PD GENEration study—which reached its goal of 15,000 participants ahead of schedule this spring—found that 13% of participants have a genetic…
Umbilical Cord Blood Test Could Predict Autism Risk
Summary: A recent study suggests that measuring specific fatty acid metabolites in newborn blood could predict autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk. Researchers found that higher levels of certain metabolites were…
Gene therapy discovery triggers hope for glaucoma patients
Modulation of tau expression in C57BL/6 mice retinas. Credit: Acta Neuropathologica Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1186/s40478-024-01804-0 The protein tau is essential to the function of cells in the brain and central…
Adjusting Proteins Increases Ozempic’s Effectiveness
Summary: Adjusting melanocortin proteins in the brain enhances the effectiveness of GLP-1 diabetes and weight-loss drugs. By inhibiting MC3R or activating MC4R, mice showed increased sensitivity to these drugs, leading…
Study Reveals Structure of Alzheimer’s Molecules in Human Brain
Summary: In a groundbreaking study, scientists have determined the structure of molecules within a human brain affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Using cryo-electron tomography and fluorescence microscopy, researchers created 3D maps…
Researchers map the effects of all potential changes in key cancer gene
Function scores capture fitness effects mediated at both the transcript and protein 457 level. Credit: Megan Buckley et al Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have mapped all the possible…
Oxytocin’s Link to Obesity and Postnatal Depression
Summary: A new study has identified the TRPC5 gene as a cause of obesity, behavioral issues, and postnatal depression. Researchers found that missing or impaired TRPC5 genes disrupt oxytocin neurons,…
Kidneys from Black donors are more likely to be thrown away − a bioethicist explains why
As one of the leading causes of death in the U.S., kidney disease is a serious public health problem. The disease is particularly severe among Black Americans, who are three…
Genetic testing cannot reveal the gender of your baby − two genetic counselors explain the complexities of sex and gender
Gender reveal parties are best known as celebrations involving pink and blue, cake and confetti, and the occasional wildfire. Along with being social media hits, gender reveals are a testament…
