Genetics
Scientists from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have begun to unravel how blood stem cells regenerate themselves, identifying a key gene required for the process. Release
A rare but hard-to-treat form of breast cancer is driven by a newly discovered gene, ZNF703, that may instruct cancer cells to reproduce quickly, researchers have found. Report
Stem cells
A new study has raised doubts about the process used to "reprogram" adult stem cells by showing that the process leads to genetic aberrations that resemble those found in cancer cells. Story
The University of Massachusetts Medical School announced last week that its Human Stem Cell Bank and Registry has seven stem cell lines available to researchers working on treatments for cancer, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and juvenile diabetes. Article
Virginia's new state research and development tax credit will not apply to embryonic stem-cell research. Article
Cancer
A study of a population with a genetic mutation that shuts off receptors to HGH finds they almost never get cancer or diabetes, suggesting a downside for people taking the hormone as an anti-aging treatment. News
New research shows that cancer cells infected with reoviruses secrete proteins which, even when isolated, result in the death of cancer cells. Item
Separate studies published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine identify a protein that drives tumor-promoting inflammation in pancreatic and breast tumors. Report
Scientists studying genetic pathways that are mutated in many forms of cancer--and also cause certain forms of congenital heart disease--have introduced these mutations into mice and successfully treated one congenital disease in the lab. Story
And Finally... New research shows people who have used amphetamines such as benzedrine and dexedrine appear to be at an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. News