SEATTLE -- Researchers at the University of Washington have assembled the first comprehensive genetic map of an unborn child -- a development that could help usher in a new era of prenatal testing. By analyzing fetal DNA circulating in the mother's blood, the scientists were able to sequence the baby's genome 18 weeks into the pregnancy. The technique also worked at eight weeks, with slightly lower sensitivity. Because the approach requires only a blood sample from the mother and saliva from the father, it poses none of the miscarriage risk associated with invasive tests such as amniocentesis. And while most existing prenatal tests are designed to check for single disorders, including Down syndrome, a full-gene scan has the power to reveal a wide range of potential problems before birth, said lead author Jacob Kitzman, a doctoral student in genetics. "It's much more comprehensive." The procedure is still several years away from commercialization, project leader Jay Shendure said. But the UW study, published in the June 6 issue of Science Translational Medicine, marks a significant step forward in technology that's been developing over the past several years -- and which worries some people, said Marcy Darnovsky of the Center for Genetics … Continue reading →

ScienceDaily (June 7, 2012) A team of UC Davis investigators has found that a genetic mutation may play an important role in the development of prostate cancer. The mutation of the so-called p53 (or Tp53) gene was previously implicated in late disease progression, but until now has never been shown to act as an initiating factor. The findings may open new avenues for diagnosing and treating the disease. The study was published online in the journal Disease Models & Mechanisms and will appear in the November 2012 print edition in an article titled, "Initiation of prostate cancer in mice by Tp53R270H: Evidence for an alternate molecular progression." "Our team found a molecular pathway to prostate cancer that differs from the current conventional wisdom of how the disease develops," said Alexander Borowsky, associate professor of pathology and laboratory medicine and principal investigator of the study. "With this new understanding, research can go in new directions to possibly develop new diagnostics and refine therapy." Prostate cancer is the leading cancer diagnosis in men in the United States. Although it is curable in about 80 percent of men with localized disease, the rate is much lower if the cancer is highly virulent and … Continue reading →

Scientists map babys genetic code in womb By John von Radowitz Friday, June 08, 2012 An unborn babys whole genetic code has been mapped in the womb using DNA taken from its parents. The technique could in future make it possible to swiftly scan for some 3,500 genetic disorders before birth, without physically disturbing either foetus or mother. But scientists acknowledge the ability to sequence a babys whole genome in the womb has as yet unresolved ethical implications. It could produce a wealth of data relating to a babys future health. At the same time, difficult questions may be raised about the moral case for termination. Most pre-natal genetic screening currently involves tapping fluid from the foetal sac, or taking placental samples. Such invasive methods can only identify a small number of birth defects including Downs syndrome, and spina bifida. They also pose risks for both mother and child. But there are thousands of rarer genetic conditions that are seldom spotted until they start producing symptoms. The new research involved analysing DNA shed by the foetus and floating in the mothers bloodstream. Blood sample DNA from the mother was also studied as well as DNA extracted from the fathers saliva. … Continue reading →

LOUVAIN LA NEUVE, Belgium, June 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Treatment of Refractory Epilepsy by Vagus Nerve Stimulation to be available in Europe Neurotech s.a. (http://www.neurotech-int.eu), a Belgium based developer and manufacturer of neurostimulation devices, announces that it has obtained the European CE Mark for its ADNS-300 system dedicated to the treatment of refractory epilepsy. The surgically implanted ADNS-300 system delivers mild electrical pulses to the vagus nerve in the neck. Operating as a pacemaker, it produces stimulation towards the brain. "Advens therapy" uses the ADNS-300 stimulator as a therapeutic option for those patients who are refractory to anti-epileptic drugs and are not eligible for epilepsy (brain) surgery. The ADNS-300 is the world's first rechargeable neurostimulator for vagus nerve stimulation. The device includes an innovative electrode and a promising "sensing" feature that may prove to be a significant technological breakthrough in the control of response to the therapy. Patients use a remote controller and charger to turn the system on/off and to recharge the neurostimulator. "Rechargeable systems may prove to be more cost-effective, especially if surgical operations to replace batteries are avoided over time. This helps patients to maintain a more independent life, with a lower risk of potential complications associated … Continue reading →

DALLAS, TX--(Marketwire -06/07/12)- The American Stroke Association kicks off a national hip hop stroke video competition for 10- to 15-year-olds to broaden public awareness about stroke. The free competition at http://www.strokeassociation.org/hiphopcontest engages and educates youth on stroke while igniting their creative use of visual arts. Stroke is the No. 4 cause of death and a leading cause of severe, long-term disability in America. Yet, 93 percent of Americans do not think of stroke as a major health concern, according to the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association. Integrating hip hop music with stroke education helps kids learn, retain and share stroke information with their parents and grandparents, according to research presented at the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference in February. Kids can submit a video at http://www.strokeassociation.org/hiphopcontest as an individual or group before Sept. 21, 2012. Each video must include the American Stroke Association's official hip hop stroke song and a parent or grandparent, and demonstrate artistic ability and originality. The song, "Enlighten the World on Stroke," was written for the American Stroke Association by Atlanta-based Osiris South Records, LLC. All videos will be posted on the American Stroke Association's competition website where … Continue reading →