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Genomic profiling has the potential to usher in a revolution of personalized healthcare and disease prevention. But evidence to support genomic profiling is inconsistent, and data on the health outcome benefits based on such testing are lacking. For genomic profiling to become valid and useful, well designed epidemiologic studies and thorough clinical evaluations of recommended interventions based on genotype are required.
Quantitative modifiers of neoplastic pathways are greatly treasured but difficult to identify at the molecular level. An apparent success has now identified a centrosomal protein kinase that affects many cancer histotypes.
Nephronophthisis is the most common inherited cause of renal failure in children. Two new studies add to the growing body of literature that suggests that cilial dysfunction may underlie all forms of cystic renal disease.
The molecular pathogenesis of most forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is poorly understood. Now, reduced expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is shown to be a risk factor for contracting ALS. Addition of Vegf in mice is shown to protect motoneurons from damage.
A new study of Drosophila melanogaster bridges the gap between quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for lifespan and a gene involved in catecholamine synthesis. The causative gene also contributes to variation in lifespan in a natural population and seems to be subject to balancing selection in nature.
Breaking the bond between an enhancer and a promoter has serious biological consequences. A recent study describes a new chromatin insulator in the Drosophila melanogaster Antennapedia complex (ANTC) that may ensure that nearby enhancers remain faithful to their respective promoters.
