Archive for the ‘Gene Therapy Research’ Category

RIO DE JANEIRO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

CryopraxisTM/CellPraxis aims to start patient recruitment for its Phase III Refractory Angina Cell Therapy Brazilian arm clinical trial by the end of 2012 or early 2013. The phase IIA/B clinical trial study was completed in December 2011. These trials involved the use of a proprietary autologous stem cell formulation (MonocellTM) indicated for neoangiogeneses.

Safety and efficacy of this product was evaluated in patients with refractory angina, a no option disease condition, characterized by severe chest pain for which there is no efficient treatment available, says the President of both Companies, Eduardo Cruz.

ReACT, MonocellTMs derived product, showed evidence of safety and efficacy in our initial clinical trials. All patients included in this trial were classified as Class IV Angina in CCSAC* (the most severe class of chest pain). In the first group of patients, whose data was published**, there was a progressive and sustained improvement in angina symptoms, with 87.5% of the patients completing the clinical trial with a CCSAC score of 0 or 1.

Angina symptom relief began as early as 3 months post procedure with continuing improvement through the 18th month, suggesting that angiogenesis began early, and that it kept evolving 18 months after the procedure. Objective evaluation of stress myocardium perfusion (scintigraphic analysis), after 1 year of follow-up, gave indications of complete myocardial reperfusion in 75% of the patients, says Dr. Nelson Hossne, Medical Director of CellPraxis. Our conclusion was ReACT's specific cell formulation, MonoCell, had a direct correlation to myocardial neoangiogeneses.

About CryopraxisTM (www.cryopraxis.com.br) and CellPraxis (www.cellpraxis.com)

Located at Bio-Rio Biotech Cluster (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), CryopraxisTM is the pioneer and the largest bank of umbilical cord blood in Brazil and has been in operation since 2001, with approximately 25,000 customers. CellPraxis is a bioengineering company that invests in research projects involving stem cell therapy. Some of these projects are conducted in partnership with institutions like the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Federal University of So Paulo, the University of South Florida and Saneron CCEL Therapeutics, Inc. (a USA based biotechnology company dedicated to stem cell research).

Forward-Looking Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements reflect management's current expectations, as of the date of this press release, and involve certain risks and uncertainties. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward- looking statements as a result of various factors. The Company's further development is highly dependent on future medical and research developments and market acceptance, which is outside its control.

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Cardiac Cell Therapy Phase III Trial to Treat Refractory Angina

Public release date: 5-Nov-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Bachtler, Barbara bachtler@mdc-berlin.de 49-309-406-3896 Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres

The patients have single short fingers (metacarpals) and toes (metatarsals) and can be restricted in growth due to a shortened skeleton. This hereditary disease is called brachydactyly type E (Greek for short fingers). Three years ago Dr. Philipp G. Maass from the research group of Professor Friedrich C. Luft at the Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), a joint cooperation between the Charit Medical Faculty and the Max Delbrck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in Berlin-Buch, has discovered an epigenetic mechanism, which, when dysregulated, causes this condition. Now, together with Dr. Sylvia Bhring (ECRC) he was able to show how this epigenetic regulator functions and influences the development of the skeleton and the extremities. Also, he shed light on a new principle of gene regulation (Journal of Clinical Investigation, doi: 10.1172/JCI65508)*.

The gene causing brachydactyly type E (BDE) is PTHLH (the abbreviation stands for parathyroid hormone like hormone), and belongs to a group of genes that regulate the development of cartilage and determine subsequent skeletal structure. The researchers investigated two families with BDE. The patients exhibit shortened metacarpals, involved in forming the hands and feet, but had no other clinical symptoms.

Up to now, more than ten different forms of brachydactyly are known. The features of the hands and feet are variable depending upon which type of brachydactyly a patient has. Sometimes, the brachydactyly can be associated with hypertension, mental retardation, or other medical problems.

Several new findings

The gene PTHLH is located on chromosome 12, one of the 46 chromosomes of the human genome. The gene exerts considerably influence on cartilage during development and early life. However, little was known about the regulation of this gene. Now, Dr. Maass, Dr. Bhring and Professor Luft have detected an epigenetic regulator for the gene PTHLH on chromosome 12 and in the course of their research made several new findings.

First, they could show, that the gene regulator interacts with genes over very long distances on the same chromosome (cis) and that it also is able to regulate genes on other chromosomes (trans). Thus, the tongue-twister name for this regulator: cis and trans-chromosomal communicator acting through DNA and noncoding RNA (CISTR-ACT).

Second, the team showed that because of a balanced translocation, CISTR-ACT is misplaced, so that the regulator no longer can properly influence PTHLH function.

Third, CISTR-ACT encodes a so-called long noncoding RNA that participates in the regulatory functions. This finding encompasses a new principle in gene regulation. Epigenetics refers to inherited mechanisms that occur without alterations in the DNA gene sequence. In this form of BDE, no change in the DNA sequence of coding genes is responsible for the condition.

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New findings on gene regulation and bone development

Tomatoes genetically engineered to unclog arteries and a strain of a bacteria in yogurt designed to lower cholesterol are among a new wave of alternative remedies showing promise in the fight against heart disease.

Scientists presented two studies today at the American Heart Association meeting in Los Angeles that suggest food may be altered in such a way that it offers benefits similar to traditional pharmaceuticals.

In one study, researchers fed mice pieces of tomatoes altered to produce a peptide that mimics effects of artery- clearing HDL cholesterol. In a second, people were given a twice-daily capsule of Micropharma Ltd.s probiotic, made from yogurt bacteria. In both cases, the results showed significant heart-health benefits, and researchers said they may add to cholesterol-reducing drugs like statins in the fight against heart disease.

As good as statins are, they havent completely reduced the number of people still dying of heart attack and stroke and those numbers are still quite significant, said Alan Fogelman, the lead author on the tomato study and a cardiology researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles

In the tomato study, sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, the mice displayed reduced plaque and higher HDL. The experimental drug is the first of its kind made in a plant that can be eaten, the researchers said. Separately, the probiotic trial, done in 127 people, found the yogurt bacteria helped cut total cholesterol by 9.1 percent.

More than half a million Americans die from heart disease annually despite advances in drugs and procedures to prevent heart attacks and strokes. When the body has too much LDL, or bad cholesterol, it can build up in the arteries, blocking blood flow. HDL or good cholesterol can help ferry plaque out of the arteries.

Medicines to lower LDL, such as Lipitor made by New York- based Pfizer Inc. (PFE), can cause side effects in 10 to 20 percent of patients. Attempts by Pfizer Inc. and Roche AG (ROG) to come up with new drugs to raise HDL have failed.

In the NIH study, mice were served the genetically engineered tomatoes freeze-dried, ground and added to high-fat, calorie-filled food. The tomato additive represented 2.2 percent of their diet. The result was lower blood levels of inflammation, higher levels of good cholesterol and lower levels of plaque build-up in their arteries.

Researchers decided to put the peptide in a food because it would be too complex and difficult to make into a chemical form that could be made into a pill, Fogelman said. He chose tomatoes because he likes them, though the peptide could likely be put in other fruits and vegetables, like lettuce, he said.

All participants in the Micropharma probiotic study had high cholesterol. After nine weeks, those taking the probiotic had levels of LDL, also known as bad cholesterol, about 12 percent lower than those on placebo. There was no change to HDL cholesterol.

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Gene-Altered Tomatoes, Yogurt Bacteria May Fight Heart Disease

Study found 30% of youngsters have a mutation of a gene called presenilin 1 (PSEN1), which makes them more likely to develop Alzheimer's early Researchers say it offers them a critical opportunity to look for early signs of the disease before symptoms appear

By Anna Hodgekiss

PUBLISHED: 03:32 EST, 6 November 2012 | UPDATED: 05:47 EST, 6 November 2012

A form of Alzheimer's disease has been found in some teenagers - more than 20 years before symptoms even develop, according to a new study.

Research on a group of young adults found about 30 per cent have a mutation of a gene called presenilin 1 (PSEN1), which makes them more likely to develop Alzheimer's at an unusually young age.

Although the inherited form of the disease is rare, the researchers say it offers them a critical opportunity to look for early signs of the disease before clinical symptoms appear.

U.S. scientists found that around 30 per cent of young people had a mutation of a gene called presenilin 1 (PSEN1), which makes them more likely to develop Alzheimer's at an unusually young age (posed by models)

Disappointing results in recent drug trials of prospective Alzheimer's treatments is thought to be down to timing - once the symptoms of the disease are apparent, damage to the nervous system may already be too extensive for drug treatments to have their greatest impact.

As a result, if scientists could identify signs that an individual is likely to get Alzheimer's before symptoms appear, this could lead to more effective clinical trials, and result in advances in prevention of the disease.

In the new study, published in the journal Lancet Neurology, the researchers performed brain imaging, blood tests and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) on 44 adults aged 18 to 26.

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Dementia gene found in a third of teenagers

By E.J. Mundell HealthDay Reporter Posted: Monday, November 5, 2012, 3:29 PM

MONDAY, Nov. 5 (HealthDay News) -- People who took a probiotic supplement containing a beneficial bacteria saw their cholesterol levels improve, and a freeze-dried concoction made from a genetically engineered tomato had a similar effect on mice, two new studies show.

The research, to be presented Monday at the American Heart Association annual meeting in Los Angeles, is the latest to use nonpharmaceuticals or specially designed foods to rein in high cholesterol -- a major risk factor for heart disease, heart attack and stroke.

In one study involving 127 people with high cholesterol, those who took a twice-daily supplement of a special strain of the Lactobacillus reuteri bacterium for nine weeks experienced an average 11.6 percent drop in LDL "bad" cholesterol and a 9.1 percent drop in total cholesterol, compared to those taking a placebo.

Other strains of L. reuteri are found naturally in breads and yogurts, but researchers at the Canadian probiotics company Micropharma, which funded the study, say they've formulated a strain that seems to help block the absorption of cholesterol.

The strain, called L. reuteri NCIMB 30242 and marketed as Cardioviva, is thought to help break up bile salts, which helps lower absorption of cholesterol.

Dr. Mitchell Jones, chief scientific officer at Micropharma, helped develop the product, which he said can also be added to food products such as yogurts. "Cardioviva is a novel, natural approach to one of the most prevalent heart problems of our time, high cholesterol," Jones said. As to safety, he added that, "like other probiotics, if there are gastrointestinal side effects, they are rare and usually minor."

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Gene-Tweaked Tomatoes, Probiotics Aim to Lower Your Cholesterol

4 November 2012 Last updated at 19:00 ET

A bowel cancer treatment could be improved as a result of research at a Scottish university.

Scientists in Dundee examined hundreds of molecules to try to predict whether bowel cancer patients can be successfully treated with chemotherapy.

Their work focused on the K-RAS gene which they found could be "tricked" into behaving like cells with a damaged form of the gene.

The study was for the National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) in Liverpool.

Bowel cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the UK with more than 41,000 people diagnosed with the disease in the UK each year, the study said.

Dr Gillian Smith, research author, said: "Our research reveals that changing the behaviour of K-RAS boosts the effect of certain drugs to kill bowel cancer cells.

"This research is at an early stage, but if we're able to prove these results in larger studies, the findings could provide new scope for bowel cancer treatments targeting the K-RAS gene.

"Our findings are particularly interesting because there is already a test available in the clinic that can identify which patients have a faulty version of K-RAS."

Dr Jane Cope, director of the NCRI, said: "This is exciting research that adds to the dramatic progress made over the past 30 years in tackling bowel cancer.

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Study shows cancer gene 'trick'

Genetic Engineering 11-3-2012 by Paul Giem
The theory and practical aspects of genetic engineering are discussed. Attention is paid to the current controversy over genetically modified foods (Prop 37 in California) and an application to the intelligent design controversy is made.From:ItIsAboutGodViews:4 1ratingsTime:01:15:09More inScience Technology

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Genetic Engineering 11-3-2012 by Paul Giem - Video

Mike #39;s Beautiful Life Excerpt - Genetic Engineering
This is an eight minute excerpt from Mike #39;s Beautiful Life, which explains why genetic engineering is one of the most dangerous developments humans will ever face. For more information, visit http://www.ravediet.comFrom:Mike AndersonViews:3 1ratingsTime:08:20More inNews Politics

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Mike's Beautiful Life Excerpt - Genetic Engineering - Video

Black Sheep (2006) - Trailer
Directed by Jonathan King "An experiment in genetic engineering turns harmless sheep into blood-thirsty killers that terrorize a sprawling New Zealand farm." (by imdb.com)From:PyrkensteinViews:2 0ratingsTime:01:59More inFilm Animation

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Black Sheep (2006) - Trailer - Video

Impacts of Genetic Engineering
From:Emily WorkmanViews:3 0ratingsTime:04:06More inEducation

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Impacts of Genetic Engineering - Video

NIGHTMARE HALL - ALIEN BASE
Many conspiracy theorists believe that NIGHTMARE HALL is the deepest of all levels under Area 51 where Aliens and Half-humans are housed. All the darkest (Genetic Engineering) experiments are conducted in this area. Viewers are requested to draw their own conclusion because this video is just a work of new media art. WARNING: VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.From:FDdreamIncViews:7 1ratingsTime:00:46More inScience Technology

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NIGHTMARE HALL - ALIEN BASE - Video

Port Townsend Food Coop: How To Collect Signatures For GMO Labeling Initiative 522
How to set-up the I-522 signature gathering table at the Port Townsend Food Coop. If you would like to collect i-522 signatures at the PT Food Coop, contact Kathie Meyer (kathie@foodcoop.coop, 360.385.2831 x309) to get on the calendar. Fall 2012 Newsletter Article (Page 16) GMOs: It #39;s Our Right to Know Beverly Goldie, Food Co-op Owner Concerned Activist foodcoop.coop "...More than 20states have attempted to pass GMO labeling bills through government processes including Oregon, Vermont, Connecticut, Colorado, and New York -- and in each case the attempts have been thwarted by big corporations using extensive lobbying or threats to sue the states... ...If you live in the Port Townsend area, please visit the Co-op to sign the initiative. Let your voice join the thousands of other so we can be heard." Interview with Beverly Goldie (Part 1) http://www.youtube.com Video Interview: "I want my food untainted by GMOs" youtu.be Deb Shortess Food Coop Port Townsend - Our GMO Awareness Program http://www.youtube.com I-522 is an initiative to the Washington State legislature to establish mandatory labeling of foods produced through genetic engineering. As recommended by the Secretary of State, the LabelitWA group needs to turn in at least 320000 signatures to ensure they have 241153 valid signatures by December 31, 2012 in order to get on the November 2013 ballot. I-522, "The People #39;s Right to Know Genetically Engineered Food Act," is simple. The initiative would require food sold in retail ...From:digitalreporterViews:0 0ratingsTime:01:55More inTravel Events

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Port Townsend Food Coop: How To Collect Signatures For GMO Labeling Initiative 522 - Video

Public release date: 5-Nov-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Vicki Cohn vcohn@liebertpub.com 914-740-2100 Mary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News

New Rochelle, NY, November 5, 2012Spinal cord injury (SCI) can disrupt the body's sensitive signaling mechanisms that control blood pressure, breathing, and oxygen delivery to the heart and other organs during changes in body position. Cardiovascular (CV) disease is a leading cause of illness and death following SCI, and changes in baroreflex sensitivitythe body's ability to detect and respond to changes in blood pressuremay be predictive of a CV event. A comprehensive review article on baroreflex sensitivity after SCI is published in Journal of Neurotrauma, a peer-reviewed journal from Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers. The article is available free on the Journal of Neurotrauma website at http://www.liebertpub.com/neu.

Aaron Phillips, Andrei Krassioukov, Philip Ainslie, and Darren Warburton, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C., Canada, detail the current techniques available to measure baroreflex function, describe the mechanisms and role of normal baroreflex function, and summarize the body of literature on baroreflex function after SCI. In the article "Baroreflex Function after Spinal Cord Injury," the authors propose potential mechanisms to explain the baroreflex dysfunction that can occur following SCI and they recommend directions for future research studies.

"In addition to altering motor function, spinal cord injury can produce a range of serious complications including cardiovascular dysfunction and other quality of life issues," says Journal of Neurotrauma Deputy Editor W. Dalton Dietrich III, PhD, Scientific Director, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, and Kinetic Concepts Distinguished Chair in Neurosurgery, Professor of Neurological Surgery, Neurology and Cell Biology at University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Lois Pope LIFE Center. "This informative review article by an expert panel of researchers provides new information regarding mechanisms underlying autonomic dysfunction in people living with SCI. More attention and research are needed to develop and test new treatments targeting the causes of baroreflex dysfunction after SCI that can improve cardiovascular function in these individuals."

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About the Journal

Journal of Neurotrauma is an authoritative peer-reviewed journal published 24 times per year in print and online that focuses on the latest advances in the clinical and laboratory investigation of traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. Emphasis is on the basic pathobiology of injury to the nervous system, and the papers and reviews evaluate preclinical and clinical trials targeted at improving the early management and long-term care and recovery of patients with traumatic brain injury. Journal of Neurotrauma is the Official Journal of the National Neurotrauma Society and the International Neurotrauma Society. Complete tables of content and a sample issue may be viewed on the Journal of Neurotrauma website at http://www.liebertpub.com/neu.

About the Publisher

Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers is a privately held, fully integrated media company known for establishing authoritative peer-reviewed journals in many promising areas of science and biomedical research, including Therapeutic Hypothermia and Temperature Management, Tissue Engineering, and Brain Connectivity. Its biotechnology trade magazine, Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News (GEN), was the first in its field and is today the industry's most widely read publication worldwide. A complete list of the firm's 70 journals, books, and newsmagazines is available on the Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers website at http://www.liebertpub.com.

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Spinal cord injury puts patients at high risk of life-threatening cardiovascular events

Glycoanalysis company ProCognia (Israel) Ltd. (TASE:PRCG) is expanding its collaboration with Norway's UniTargetingResearch AS (UTR) for the production of biosimilars (generic biological drugs). ProCognia is expanding its license for the exclusive use and commercialization of UTR's proprietary and patent-protected technology for improving the production of proteins by the biosimilars industry. The technology makes it possible to boost production of biological molecules created by genetic engineering.

ProCognia's share price rose 5.5% by early afternoon to NIS 0.67, giving a market cap of NIS 12 million.

Under the new agreement, ProCognia will undertake collaborations on the basis of UTR's platform, and will develop a biosimilar of a brand biological drug which currently has billions of dollars in annual sales. ProCognia believes that the biosimilar has reached the stage of possible commercialization.

ProCognia says that the biosimilars market is expected to reach billions of dollars in the coming years. Biological drugs are mostly sugar-bearing proteins for the treatment of cancers and autoimmune diseases. The expanded agreement with UTR is a milestone for the development of the platform for increasing production of bio-better proteins and in the cell's excretion of the proteins for the production of biological drugs.

ProCognia adds that the license for the development of cells which express biosimilar and biobetter products, together with the company's proprietary glycoanalysis (analysis of sugar structures in proteins) technology, puts it in a competitive position for the development of biosimilar drugs. The renewed agreement also gives the company potential revenue from its current collaboration with UTR.

ProCognia's GlycoScope is an integrated technological platform for the analysis of recombinant monoclonal antibodies and complex biopharmaceutical glycoproteins. UTR, a spin-off from the University of Bergen, has developed genetic engineering technology for enhancing the production of proteins by adding genetically engineered DNA sequences which increase production.

Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - http://www.globes-online.com - on November 6, 2012

Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd. 2012

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ProCognia jumps on expanded biosimilar collaboration

Public release date: 5-Nov-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Vicki Cohn vcohn@liebertpub.com 914-740-2100 Mary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News

New Rochelle, NY, November 5, 2012At least 2 million people worldwide will be infected with HIV this year, driving the need for better HIV prevention strategies to slow the global pandemic. A better understanding of how to prevent HIV transmission using antiviral drugs led to approval of the first oral pill for HIV prevention, and microbicides delivered as topical gels or via intravaginal rings are in clinical testing and have yielded both positive and negative results. The complex factors involved in the sexual transmission of HIV, the urgent need for new preventive approaches, and the most promising methods currently in development are examined in a special issue of AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses, a peer-reviewed journal published by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc, publishers. The entire issue is available free on the AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses website at http://www.liebertpub.com/aid.

Guest Editor Patrick Kiser, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, and coauthors Pedro Mesquita and Betsy Herold, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, provide an overview of the scientific and developmental gaps in the field of drug discovery, formulation, and delivery to prevent sexual transmission of HIV. In the article "A Perspective on Progress and Gaps in HIV Prevention Science," they review the prophylactic agents in development and their advantages and limitations, and they present recommendations for future research directions. "The advances we are seeing today are exciting and justify a continued focus on the science and technologies that can make a difference in this public health crisis," says Dr. Kiser.

Peter Anton and coauthors, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and the School of Public Health (Los Angeles, CA), University of Pittsburgh and Medical School (PA), University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (Baltimore, MD), Alpha StatConsult (Damascus, MD), Columbia University (New York, NY), and CONRAD (Arlington, VA), compared the oral and topical administration of the microbicide tenofovir, given as a pill or rectal gel. A mucosal tissue sample was removed from each participant and exposed to HIV to assess if treatment prevented infection. While the patients preferred the oral drug, one-time rectal exposure to the microbicide led to 6-10 times greater drug concentrations in the sampled tissue, and this correlates with reduced infectibility.

The methods and materials used to administer microbicidal drugs can affect whether or not they will be effective. Meropi Aravantinou et al. (Population Council and Rockefeller University, New York, NY; Tulane University, Covington, LA; National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD) demonstrate this in the article "The Nonnucleoside Reverse Transcription Inhibitor MIV-160 Delivered from an Intravaginal Ring, But Not from a Carrageenan Gel, Protects Against Simian/Human Immunodeficiency Virus-RT Infection."

Line Vibholm and colleagues from Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark, present the results of a study designed to evaluate in a female mouse model the effects of a topical gel containing 1% tenofovir, a microbicide previously shown to reduce substantially the transmission of both HIV and herpes simplex virus (HSV). In "Antiviral and Immunological Effects of Tenofovir Microbicide in Vaginal Herpes Simplex Virus 2 Infection," the authors provide data to support the suitability of this model for testing future microbicidal drug candidates.

"It is currently an exciting time in HIV prevention science research, with progress on multiple fronts," says Thomas Hope, PhD, Editor-in-Chief of AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses and Professor of Cell and Molecular Biology at the Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL. "We are proud to feature this work in the special issue and, in the future, to report critical advances to bring the field closer to the goal of decreasing the rate of HIV transmission around the world."

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HIV and AIDS prevention--Progress and the challenges ahead

ScienceDaily (Nov. 5, 2012) Johns Hopkins researchers have succeeded in teaching computers how to identify commonalities in DNA sequences known to regulate gene activity, and to then use those commonalities to predict other regulatory regions throughout the genome. The tool is expected to help scientists better understand disease risk and cell development.

The work was reported in two recent papers in Genome Research, published online on July 3 and Sept. 27.

"Our goal is to understand how regulatory information is encrypted and to learn which sequence variations contribute to medical risks," says Andrew McCallion, Ph.D., associate professor of molecular and comparative pathobiology in the McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine at Hopkins. "We give data to a computer and 'teach it' to distinguish between data that has no biological value versus data that has this or that biological value. It then establishes a set of rules, which allows it to look at new sets of data and apply what it learned. We're basically sending our computers to school."

These state-of-the-art "machine learning" techniques were developed by Michael Beer, Ph.D., assistant professor of biomedical engineering at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and by Ivan Ovcharenko, Ph.D., at the National Center for Biotechnology Information. The researchers began both studies by creating "training sets" for their computers to "learn" from. These training sets were lists of DNA sequences taken from regions of the genome, called enhancers, that are known to increase the activity of particular genes in particular cells.

For the first of their studies, McCallion's team created a training set of enhancer sequences specific to a particular region of the brain by compiling a list of 211 published sequences that had been shown, by various studies in mice and zebrafish, to be active in the development or function of that part of the brain.

For a second study, the team generated a training set through experiments of their own. They began with a purified population of mouse melanocytes, which are the skin cells that produce the pigment melanin that gives color to skin and absorbs harmful UV rays from the sun. The researchers used a technique called ChIP-seq (pronounced "chip seek") to collect and sequence all of the pieces of DNA that were bound in those cells by special enhancer-binding proteins, generating a list of about 2,500 presumed melanocyte enhancer sequences.

Once the researchers had these two training sets for their computers, one specific to the brain and another to melanocytes, the computers were able to distinguish the features of the training sequences from the features of all other sequences in the genome, and create rules that defined one set from the other. Applying those rules to the whole genome, the computers were able to discover thousands of probable brain or melanocyte enhancer sequences that fit the features of the training sets.

In the brain study, the computers identified 40,000 probable brain enhancer sequences; for melanocytes, 7,500. Randomly testing a subset of each batch of sequences, the scientists found that more than 85 percent of the predicted enhancer sequences enhanced gene activity in the brain or in melanocytes, as expected, verifying the predictive power of their approach.

The researchers say that, in addition to identifying specific DNA sequences that control the genetic activity of a particular organ or cell type, these studies contribute to our understanding of enhancers in general and have validated an experimental approach that can be applied to many other biological questions as well.

Authors on the brain paper include Grzegorz Burzynski, Xylena Reed, Zachary Stine, Takeshi Matsui and Andrew McCallion from The Johns Hopkins University, and Leila Taher and Ivan Ovcharenko from the National Center for Biotechnology Information.

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Computers 'taught' to ID regulating gene sequences

Public release date: 5-Nov-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Mary Stewart mstewart@entnet.org 703-535-3762 American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Alexandria, VA Genetic testing for a certain mutation in pediatric patients is valuable in determining a cause for unexplained hearing loss, according to a study in the November 2012 issue of OtolaryngologyHead and Neck Surgery.

The study's authors state that testing for some of the most common mutations that cause sensorineural hearing loss in a targeted way, rather than through generalized screening of hearing loss patients, yields the best results.

University of Miami NIH-funded researchers led by Dr. Xue Zhong Liu, a physician-scientist, conducted a nine-year study on 221 adult and 163 pediatric patients with sensorineural hearing loss. Blood samples were screened for mutations in GJB2 and GJB6 and mitochondrial DNA mutations, audiometric tests were conducted, and patient and family histories were taken.

Mutations in the GJB2/GJB6 genes were identified in 23 of 163 pediatric patients (14%), but only 3 of 221 adults (1%). Thirteen percent of the pediatric patients were determined to be carriers. The mitochondrial testing in adults returned a higher rate (3%) than what is usually reported (1%). Identifying DFNB1 mutations early will provide carriers with a number of options, including risk factor avoidance and pharmaceutical options to prevent hearing loss from progressing or improving existing conditions.

The authors conclude, "Our study supports the considerable value of genetic testing in establishing an etiology for childhood hearing loss. Given its high yield, DFNB1 mutation screening should be considered an early step in the diagnostic evaluation of pediatric hearing loss. However, its role in adults seems considerably more limited and is yet to be defined."

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OtolaryngologyHead and Neck Surgery is the official scientific journal of the American Academy of OtolaryngologyHead and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF). The study's authors are Peter J. King, MD; Xiaomei Ouyang, MD; Lilin Du; Denise Yan, PhD; Simon I. Angeli, MD, and corresponding author, Xue Zhong Liu, MD, PhD.

Reporters who wish to obtain a copy of the study, "Etiologic Diagnosis of Nonsyndromic Genetic Hearing Loss in Adult vs Pediatric Populations" should contact Mary Stewart at 1-703-535-3762, or newsroom@entnet.org.

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Etiologic diagnosis of nonsyndromic genetic hearing loss in adult vs pediatric populations

Q. What is genetic fingerprinting? How valuable is it in crime investigations and tracing one's parentage?

--mar_g2009@yahoo.com

A. Genetic fingerprinting (DNA testing; DNA typing; DNA profiling) refers to the process of identifying an individual by studying his DNA. DNA is short for deoxyribose nucleic acid, a molecule that can be found in the nucleus of each and every cell of the body, except for the red blood cells which do not have a nucleus.

In the nucleus, the DNA molecules are contained in structures called chromosomes, of which there are 23 pairs in humans. Half of the 23 pairs of chromosomes that a person has have been inherited from his/her mother and the other half from his/her father.

The DNA molecule in each chromosome is in the form of a very long but thin thread that consists of two twisted strands made up of sugar and phosphate molecules. At regular intervals, nitrogen-containing bases connect the two strands to each other-much like the two-sides of a ladder being connected by rungs.

The human genome, which refers to the total amount of DNA present in the 23 pairs of chromosomes, contains three billion nitrogen bases. The sequencing or arrangement of these bases (DNA sequence) in the DNA strands within the chromosomes is unique to a person. The probability that two living persons have identical DNA sequence (except for identical twins) is practically zero. The complicated process of development that the egg cell (of a person's mother) and the sperm cell (of a person's father) undergo before these two cells unite during fertilization to produce the fetus that will eventually become the person ensures this.

Genetic fingerprinting involves obtaining segments of a person's DNA from certain chromosomes and comparing the sequence of the bases in these segments with those of another person or particular population or family groups and identifying DNA sequences, called genetic markers, which the person have in common with the others. Statistical analysis of this comparison can help resolve questions regarding a person's ancestry and help forensic investigators solve crimes. Incidentally, for samples, genetic fingerprinting utilizes nucleated body cells, which can come from any body tissue such as a single root of hair, saliva, urine or semen.

Genetic fingerprinting is a more accurate method of identification than fingerprinting, blood typing or any other procedure that is presently being employed. But in its current state of development, genetic fingerprinting has limited applications. In forensic medicine, it is useful in acquitting innocent suspects, but not in convicting guilty ones. The test cannot tell whether the DNA sample taken from the crime scene comes from the suspect, but it can tell with certainty if it does not come from the suspect.

Similarly, in verifying the parentage of a child, genetic fingerprinting cannot definitely say whether the person who is undergoing the test is the mother or father of a child, but it can tell with certainty if he or she is not the parent.

Genetic fingerprinting also has other advantages over other identification procedures. Because DNA is resistant to degradation, genetic fingerprinting can still be done even if the sample has been treated with detergents, acids, bases, oil-based products, salt, and even if it has been contaminated by bacteria. Additionally, DNA degrades very slowly hence, samples that are already several years old or those taken from corpses that have been buried for years can still be used.

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The world of genetic fingerprinting

Netpak Promo video Ang
Netpak, a new breed in high performance packaging and responsible printing. Newest technology, service, expertise and innovation. That is the genetics of NetpakFrom:emballagesnetpakViews:0 0ratingsTime:02:59More inPeople Blogs

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Size Genetics
bit.ly Size genetics is a natural way of male enlargement using the age old technique of traction to extend the penis. The penis extender has been around for some years, and the technology has come a long way. Extenders are now developed with comfort in mind, and Size Genetics offers the best system for this. They have now what #39;s called a 16 way comfort system that caters to each individuals needs. No other penis extender system offers as much as SizeGenetics. Click the link above to read my personal review of the size genetics system.From:Tom CarnegyViews:2 0ratingsTime:01:11More inHowto Style

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How To Stick To A Diet - Part 4 Goals
excuseproof.com - Want to know how to stick to a diet? Need more motivation to stick to a healthy diet plan? Learn how to get motivated to stay on your diet using the latest findings of modern psychology and neuroscience in this on-going video series. If you don #39;t know what you want, how are you going to get there? In this video, we #39;re going to finish up the "awareness" aspect by figuring out what you want that a better diet will bring you. It could be a fitter body, more energy, better health, or all of the above. Goal writing tips Use a pen and paper (do this by hand) for a stronger neural connection Write in present tense as if you already have reached your goals Write the positive emotions you would be feeling Write what you #39;ll HAVE, what you #39;ll DO, and how you #39;ll see yourself BEING What you have is a result of what you do which is a result of who you are or perceive yourself to be. In upcoming videos you #39;ll learn: Why willpower alone doesn #39;t work, and what the proper role of willpower really is. Which "force" is stronger than willpower. When goals can actually be detrimental to success and what their purpose is. How to rewire your brain and reprogram your genetics. How you can overcome and stop junk food cravings. What the biggest mistake people make is when starting a diet. How you can change your habits permanently, even if you #39;ve had them your entire life. Tons more! For more dieting and healthy living tips, check out: "How To Stick To A Diet" kindle book www ...From:ExcuseProofViews:0 0ratingsTime:03:57More inHowto Style

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ViolinistThumb_ch1a
Introducing genetics pioneer - Friedrich Miescher. First part of Chapter 1, "The violinist thumb" by Sam Kean. How do living things pass down traits to their children.From:TokyoBookWormViews:0 0ratingsTime:00:26More inFilm Animation

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Genetics by Design Sale
Genetics by Design SaleFrom:TheHolsteinWorldViews:0 0ratingsTime:01:56More inPets Animals

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GHOST ISLAND (The Hidden) !
Download full: ftpgood.com What is The Hidden? "In the early 1950s human genetics experimentation was taking its first, tentative steps. Amongst many other black projects, a team of British scientists working at an Infinitum Research experimental station stumbled across some remarkable phenomena involving DNA manipulation. This led to deeper research with dangerously unpredictable results, often leading to human patients losing their lives in irresponsible and immoral experiments. Time passed on, and by the mid 1990s the failure rate of the experiments had been reduced from 75% to a mere 15%, enough for Infinitum to move onto the next stage: Biological Light Refraction. The British team were hoping to unravel the possibilities of light manipulation to create the perfect covert military agent. Early into the new millennium, due to a gross miscalculation, a series of tests on Subject 617 led to a massive synaptic trauma leaving the patient with multiple genetic anomalies. The subject was left in constant pain and with unstable DNA. The subject escaped captivity, killing anyone that got in its way. The IRIS (Infinitum Research Interception Squad) team have been deployed to return the subject to a maximum security Infinitum Research facility for further study and dissection. The entire project was considered a failure: all funding ceased and development was discontinued while all records and traces of the experiments were destroyed. Infinitum Research denies all knowledge of ...From:ardanx9Views:1 0ratingsTime:03:17More inEntertainment

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"Rob" singing to Jono #39;s trumpet playing
The red white Border Collie pup "Rob" we are currently fostering also is trying to sing along with Jono (sounds more like barking - but he really is trying to sing) ... shares genetics with Teine...he too has the "singing gene"From:Richard MitchellViews:4 0ratingsTime:00:28More inPets Animals

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