Stem Cell Research
A surgeon in the UK is testing a new procedure that involves taking stem cells from spare fat and implanting them into breasts for reconstructive surgery. The approach has already proved successful in Japan and surgeons say it could soon be available to everyone in the UK. Report
In a mid-stage study, researchers say that injections of stem cells into heart muscles reduced patients' angina pain and increased their ability to exercise. Story
Here's a report on the work of Dr. Andras Nagy, who has made as breakthrough in turning adult stem cells into embryonic-like stem cells. Report
In a genetic engineering breakthrough that could help everyone from bed-ridden patients to elite athletes, a team of American researchers--including 2007 Nobel Prize winner Mario R. Capecchi--have created a "switch" that allows mutations or light signals to be turned on in muscle stem cells to monitor muscle regeneration in a living mammal. Release
Advanced Cell Technology could garner up to $1.9 million from a deal to license stem cell technology to a Korean partner. Story
Scientists in Texas are opposing a bill that would ban state support for any research that involves the destruction of an embryo. Report
Cancer Research
The new Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas has named William Gimson as its first executive director. The institute was created to manage the $3 billion bond program established for cancer research in the state. Report
A buildup of chemical bonds on certain cancer-promoting genes, a process known as hypermethylation, is widely known to render cells cancerous by disrupting biological brakes on runaway growth. Now, Johns Hopkins scientists say the reverse process--demethylation--which wipes off those chemical bonds may also trigger more than half of all cancers. Release
Genetics
National Institutes of Health researchers have identified a gene that suppresses tumor growth in melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Release
Researchers at UT Southwestern have identified a gene that could explain why women are 10 times more likely than men to contract lupus. Report
Scientists in the U.S. have identified new genetic variations that point to a risk for developing breast cancer. Story
A new study says that GST mu genes are linked to decreased lung capacity in children. Story
In a new study in Nature, researchers at Brandeis University and the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology for the first time shed light on a crucial step in the complex process by which human genetic information is transmitted to action in the human cell and frequently at which point genetic disease develops in humans. Release