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Dietary caloric restriction is the only intervention conclusively shown to slow ageing, delay the onset of age-related diseases, maintain function and extend both median and maximal life span in mammals.
The existence of a placental clock controlling the term of pregnancy has long been hypothesized. Now scientists may have uncovered what makes it tick (pages 460–463).
Antisense oligonucleotides can have dramatic effects, but a recent paper suggests that the mechanism isn't always based on nucleotide sequence interactions.
Recent work suggests that the molecular basis for one form of limb-girdle muscular dystrophy is neither a single gene nor many genes: Enter the digenic model.
The discovery of a gene associated with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) was only the first step toward understanding the disease. Now researchers are determining what the gene' product normally does (pages 359–364).
The realization that a mutation in a haemoglobin gene is at the root of sickle cell anaemia and the discovery of an effective treatment are separated by years. But sickle cell research is a model for how different paths of inquiry can come together with good result.
A previously undescribed tissue connection may provide an explanation for some forms of tension headache. It also proves that common beliefs aboutanatomical research reaching its limits are unfounded.
Genetic testing for cancer predisposition is available now, but demand for testing is difficult to predict given the complex issues faced by candidates for testing.
The generation of cytotoxic T lymphocyte response may be an essential part of an effective immune response to HIV infection. It may also do more harm than good (pages 330–336).
Despite the prevalence of Hodgkin's disease and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, the specific causes are poorly understood. A recent study makes the strongest case to date for a genetic link.
Animal models of AIDS continue to surprise researchers with results that can be difficult to explain. However, most researchers still believe that animal models are essential to progress in understanding the disease. But which animal model is best? (pages 321–329)
Ribozymes can inhibit gene expression in a sequence-specific manner by catalysing cleavage of target messenger RNAs. They can also be used to for DIY (do-it-yourself) surgery on defective RNAs. The potential therapeutic applications of these ribozyme properties were discussed at a recent meeting.
Recent publication of the results of the Postmenopausal Estrogen/Progestin Interventions (PEPI) Trial has led to the Woman's Health Initiative(WHI) to rethink the protocols for its own large trial.
It is unclear whether modified immunoglobulins are at least partially responsible for rheumatoid arthritis (pages 237–243) or only an effect of the disease.
