Gene :: Human and chimp genes 6% unique
Approximately six per cent of human and chimp genes are unique to those species, report scientists from the University of Bristol and three other institutions.
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Prostate Cancer :: Prostate cancer treatment costly $42,570
A new study reveals that the cumulative cost of prostate cancer is, on average, $42,570 over five years. Watchful waiting was the least expensive treatment while radiation and androgen deprivation therapy were the most expensive.
Colorectal Cancer :: Colorectal cancer survival rates in African-Americans
A study reveals that differences in utilization of screening tests and surgical treatment may contribute to poorer colorectal cancer survival rates in African-Americans.
Aging :: Exercise enhances seniors’ physical, mental functioning
For older Americans, reversal of the brain shrinkage that occurs as people age is just one benefit of greater physical activity, according to research published in the latest issue of the Journal of Gerontology — Medical Sciences (Vol. 61A, No. 11). In a special section devoted to exercising and aging, this edition of the journal features five separate reports on the topic.
Contraception :: Male contraception pill from sperm’s tail protein
In a study recently published online by Developmental Biology, members of Dr. John Herr’s laboratory at the University of Virginia Health System report the discovery of a new protein within a sperm’s tail that could prove a key target for male contraceptive drugs.
Obesity :: Common microbes living in the gut contribute to obesity
A link between obesity and the microbial communities living in our guts is suggested by new research at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. The findings indicate that our gut microbes are biomarkers, mediators and potential therapeutic targets in the war against the worldwide obesity epidemic.
Gene :: Novel genes critical in organ development
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have identified a group of novel genes that are critical in organ development.
Gene :: How blood flow dictates gene expression
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have pinpointed a key regulatory protein that translates blood flow into gene expression. The investigators showed that in a model of mouse embryonic development a transcription factor called Klf2, which resides in cells that line blood vessels, is activated by rapid, pulsed blood flow. Understanding Klf2’s role in blood vessel and muscle biology could help with fighting atherosclerosis.
Restless Legs Syndrome :: Requip, ropinirole treatment for restless legs syndrome
Newly approved medications for restless leg syndrome may only be effective for a time, suggest movement disorder neurologists from the University of Rochester Medical Center. If taken too long, in some cases the drugs can actually backfire, causing symptoms to worsen. Rochester specials suggest that treatment that rotates through different types of medications may be needed for many patients.
Schizophrenia :: Schizophrenia’s protein biomarkers found in body tissue
A new study suggests biochemical changes associated with schizophrenia aren’t limited to the central nervous system and that the disease could have more encompassing effects throughout the body than previously thought. The findings, scheduled for publication in the next issue of the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Proteome Research, could lead to better diagnostic testing for the disease and help explain why those afflicted with it are more prone to other chronic health problems.