Researchers have revealed genetic mutations that may influence who develops severe adverse response to chemotherapy, known as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). This discovery can ultimately help doctors to have a better understanding of CIPN and whether or not their patients should move forward with certain cancer treatments.

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Experts have identified two new variants of a gene, known to regulate glycogen availability for muscle development. This shows that the latest sequencing technology can be used successfully and cost-effectively in gene discovery and diagnosis of rare disease cases.

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Researchers have found 15 new molecular markers, called microsatellite loci, which could help uncover the genetic structure and breeding history behind different lice populations, and potentially their corresponding humans of choice.

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Scientists have studied the DNA of children with neuroblastoma and found relatively few recurrent gene mutations, contrary to expectations and hopes. This research underscores the fact that tumour cells often change rapidly over time, so more effective treatments for this aggressive cancer will need to account for its dynamic nature.

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A team of Chinese scientists has managed to construct the history of the panda, from its origins to the current day, by resequencing the genomes of nearly three dozen wild giant pandas. While pandas today thrive on a diet of bamboo, their ancestors were omnivores or carnivores, with bamboo becoming the primary source of culinary sustenance for the creatures about three million years ago.

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Scientists have found that a gene known as RASGRF-2 plays a crucial role in controlling how alcohol stimulates the brain to release dopamine, triggering feelings of reward. This finding may help explain why some young people have more of a tendency to binge drink.

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A recent study found that patients with a certain variation on a gene linked to release of dopamine, a brain chemical that affects emotions and sensations of pleasure and pain, were more likely to respond to a placebo version of acupuncture than patients with a different variation.

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Researchers have identified faults in two genes, FANCC and BLM, in six families. Faults in these genes appear to increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Both these genes work in a similar way as BRCA1 and BRCA2, and this highlights the importance of these functions in preventing breast cancer.

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Scientists have sequenced the complete genome of the banana, an important crop in developing countries. The sequence represents a major advance in the quest to unravel the complex genetics of this vital crop, whose breeding is particularly challenging.

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Scientists continue to search for ‘elite sport genes’ to find out which genetic profiles contribute to exceptional athletic performance. The purpose is to use those profiles to identify champion athletes early in life so that they can receive the support they need to achieve their incredible potential.

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