Genetics
Genome Canada has provided $53 million for 12 genomic and proteomic research projects. Canadian and international partners provided another $59 million in funding for scientific work. Report
Scientists have identified eight mutations linked to high blood pressure, which could help guide new drug development. Report
Removing a single protein prevents early damage in blood vessels from triggering a later-stage, frequently lethal complication of atherosclerosis, according to research published online in the journal Nature Medicine. By eliminating the gene for a signaling protein called cyclophilin A from a strain of mice, researchers were able to provide complete protection against abdominal aortic aneurysm. Release
Experiments on mice conducted by scientists at Duke University Medical Center and the University of North Carolina have significant insights into how a single disrupted gene can cause a form of severe mental retardation, Angelman syndrome. Release
Scientists have found a genetic marker linked to the risk of acetaminophen-induced liver injury, using a strategy that will help develop safer drugs in the future. Release
Stem cell research
Pharma giant Pfizer has struck a deal to license ESC patents from the University of Wisconsin-Madison for the development of new therapies. Report
In a new study, a team of Japanese researchers describe a way to eliminate the problem of tumor growth by co-transplanting bone marrow stem cells along with embryonic stem cells while treating a spinal cord injury. Release
Cancer Research
A new study from the University of Michigan concludes that a large percentage of researchers involved in cancer trials had a potential conflict of interest arising from their financial ties to drug companies. Report
Researchers have concluded that patients run a high risk of getting a false positive from a cancer screening test. Story