Stem Cell Research
U.K. researchers say that their work on human/animal hybrid clones is grinding to a halt as research funding dries up. The scientists say the funding crisis has been triggered by other scientists who are morally opposed to mixing human and animal cells in embryos for research purposes. Report
Stanford researchers have isolated stem cells from the testes, offering a new source for potent cells that could be used to create a variety of tissues. Story
A member of the California stem cell agency has been warned for making an improper attempt to influence funding for the Burnham Institute. Report
Bioheart is planning to begin clinical trials in Europe to test its cell therapy for heart failure. Story
Genetics
A new research program at the Mayo Clinic has shown that women who inherited two copies of a variant in the PCDH11X gene, found on the X chromosome, are at considerably greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. This is the first gender-linked gene tied to Alzheimer's. Release
Researchers have identified nine genes that raise the risk of Alzheimer's and say that a variation in the vitamin D3 receptor gene could also increase a person's susceptibility. Report
Developers have a new target for epilepsy: A missing slice of DNA that creates a significant risk for the disease. Story
Patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia have the BRC-ABL1 fusion gene and are more likely to suffer a relapse. Story
Cancer Research
A team at Harvard has used an implant to successfully reprogram immune cells to attack cancer and infectious diseases. Article
"New blood" can revitalize a company or a sports team. Recent research by Tel Aviv University finds that young blood does a body good as well, especially when it comes to fighting cancer. Release
The heart failure drug Digoxin may also be affective in fighting cancer. Report
And Finally... The protein histone deacetylase 4 extends the life of retinal cells, a finding that may help lead to new drugs that avert blindness. Report