What’s been going on in the life sciences world this week? Check out Week in Brief for an overview of the biggest news from the last seven days.
For the first time, scientists have observed an entire chromosome in a dividing cell at high resolution. This has shed new light on cell division dynamics, showcasing how chromosomes change into a rod-like shape during the process (Cell).
Systemic analysis of whole genome sequencing data from stomach lining tissue has revealed new insights into mutational processes that can lead to gastric cancer. Cancer driver mutations were found to be prevalent in those over the age of 60 (Nature).
A new generative AI tool has been published, which can analyse molecular changes in millions of cells from a patient sample. This new tech could be used to better understand the development of cancer and other conditions, and to help predict treatment responses (Nature Genetics).
A study has shown that, of those who received a positive result from a genetic screening, over 90% were unaware of their risk prior to the test. This highlights the importance of screening to find actionable results (JAMA Network Open).
The genetic risk of developing certain neuropsychiatric disorders may manifest as prior to birth. This is according to a new study that shows potentially causal links between DNA methylation in the placenta and the risk of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder (Nature Communications).
New research has shown that mutations in a Y-chromosome gene are linked to sex-based differences in patients suffering from a heart valve disease. This work could lead to better tailored treatments (Science Advances).
Using an AI tool, researchers have discovered a potential treatment target for a rare and aggressive form of salivary gland cancer. Inhibiting the protein in question, PRMT5, showed promise against the disease in organoid experiments (Journal of Experimental and Clinical Cancer Research).
Sarepta Therapeutics have announced that a teenager has unfortunately passed away after they received gene therapy for muscular dystrophy. The patient suffered from acute liver injury after treatment, and is the first individual to have died after taking the drug Elevidys (AP News).
Scientists have discovered a mutation that can be used to predict pancreatic survival rates and the risk of metastasis. Using this information, patients most at risk of aggressive metastatic disease could receive earlier interventions (Annals of Surgical Oncology).
Recent work has revealed a new role for a protein found in the nucleus of all plants and animals. Exportin-1, which was previously only known to export material out of the nucleus and is linked to several cancers such as leukaemia, has now been seen to play a role in transcription (Molecular Cell).
See last week’s Week in Brief here.
