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Although common obesity has a strong genetic component, there has been little success in the discovery of the underlying genetic causes. This has now changed, as two independent studies demonstrate strong association between variants in a gene called FTO and obesity.
A new study reports that specific combinations of killer immunoglobulin-like receptor and HLA-B alleles influence AIDS progression and plasma HIV RNA levels in HIV-infected individuals. These results suggest that natural killer cells have an important role in recognizing and limiting HIV infection.
The p53-inducible small subunit of ribonucleotide reductase (p53R2) was originally assumed to be involved in DNA repair. A new study finds mutations in the gene encoding p53R2 (RRM2B) in individuals with severe mitochondrial DNA depletion in muscle, demonstrating its central role in mitochondrial DNA synthesis.
Spontaneous, replication-induced DNA breaks are likely to be a primary source of chromosomal rearrangements typical of cancer, but it is unknown how often these breaks occur in normal cells. A new study suggests that they are exceedingly rare but probably up to 100-fold more potent in causing genome instability than previously estimated.
The fusion of myoblasts into myofibers has been studied extensively in Drosophila, but it is not known if the same mechanisms operate in vertebrates. A new study suggests an unanticipated degree of similarity in zebrafish.
Barcelona has long been known for its innovation, from the architectural genius of Gaudí to the culinary creations of its world-famous chefs. In recent years, it has reinvigorated Spanish science with the establishment of new, progressive research institutions. From 5 to 7 October 2006, Barcelona was host to a conference focusing on a new approach to human disease.
Human cancers are characterized by widespread reduction in microRNA gene expression, but what role does this have in the pathobiology of the disease? A new study proves that reduction in microRNA expression does indeed promote tumorigenesis, changing the way we think about cancer.
The genetic basis of aggression may be conserved from lobsters to humans. A new study uses the genetics of Drosophila melanogaster to explore the underlying neurochemical mechanisms.
Three new reports leverage genome-wide studies to localize and replicate multiple independent variants strongly associated with prostate cancer on chromosome 8q24. These findings provide a significant advance toward deciphering the genetic basis of this disease, although further work is needed to clarify the biological mechanisms underlying these associations.
Understanding the molecular genetic mechanisms governing agronomic traits such as grain yield is important for genetics as well as agriculture. A newly discovered quantitative trait locus, GW2, which encodes a new RING-type E3 ubiquitin ligase, has been found to regulate rice grain width. This insight should prove useful for improving the yield of staple grains.
