Severe sleep apnea drastically increases cancer risk; Mesenchymal stem cells treat MS in mice;

Cancer

>  Investigators have discovered a distinct molecular subtype of prostate cancer with a unique set of genetic mutations, according to research from Weill Cornell Medical College, the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Story

> Long-term use of beta-blocker medication to fight high blood pressure does not reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer after all, a new study has concluded. Story

> People with severe sleep apnea are 5 times more likely to die from cancer, according to an evaluation of 22-year mortality data from 1,522 people involved in a long-running sleep study, CBS News reports. Story

Stem Cell Research

> A new study has shown functional improvement in immune system response and myelin repair using a human mesenchymal stem cell treatment in animal models for multiple sclerosis. Release

> The Maryland Technology Development Corp. has approved the state's Stem Cell Research Commission's recommendation to fund 40 new research proposals, including projects focused on sickle cell anemia, Type 1 diabetes, Parkinson's disease and Lou Gehrig's disease. Release

Genetics

> Scientists have mapped the complete genetic codes of 21 breast cancers and established a catalog of mutations that build up in breast cells, Reuters reports. Story

> The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History is developing its first exhibit on the human genome, fueled in part by a $3 million pledge from Life Technologies Corp.'s philanthropic foundation. Story