Want to be happier? Stay in the moment - Matt Killingsworth
View full lesson: http://ed.ted.com/lessons/want-to-be-happier-stay-in-the-moment-matt-killingsworth When are humans most happy? To gather data on this quest...

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Public release date: 28-Mar-2013 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Kathy Ridgely Beal kbeal@acmg.net 301-238-4582 American College of Medical Genetics

Caleb P. Bupp MD was honored as the 2013 recipient of the ACMG Foundation/Signature Genomics from PerkinElmer, Inc. Travel Award at the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) 2013 Annual Clinical Genetics Meeting in Phoenix, AZ.

Dr. Bupp was selected to receive the award for his platform presentation, "Twenty years of neural tube defect surveillance and prevention in South Carolina."

Dr. Bupp completed his MD degree at the University of Toledo College of Medicine. He completed his residency in Pediatrics at the University of Louisville and is currently completing his Medical Genetics Residency at the Greenwood Genetics Center.. Dr. Bupp received his Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Grove City College. He is currently a Medical Consultant for the U.S. Department of Justice.

The ACMG Foundation/Signature Genomics Travel Award is given to a trainee ACMG member whose abstract submission was chosen as a platform presentation during the ACMG Annual Clinical Genetics Meeting. The ACMG program committee selects the Travel Award recipient based on scientific merit. In recognition of the selected presentation, Signature Genomics covers the travel costs for the recipient to the ACMG meeting.

"The Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine is grateful to Signature Genomics' for its continued generous support of the development of medical genetic researchers through this Travel Award," said Bruce R. Korf, MD, PhD FACMG, president of the ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine.

"Signature Genomics is pleased to support the recognition of young researchers like Dr. Bupp who are working in the field of medical genetics and genomics. This presentation is just one of the many outstanding presentations at this year's ACMG meeting," said Beth Torchia, PhD, FACMG, Technical Laboratory Director at Signature Genomics.

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About the ACMG and ACMG Foundation

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2013 ACMG Foundation/Signature Genomic, PerkinElmer Inc., Travel Award Winner announced

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Individuals who pick up smoking as teenagers have a much higher risk of becoming heavy smokers as adults. And for some, the risk is even greater depending on their genetics.

A team of researchers from the United States, the U.K. and New Zealand utilized previous research on genetics and smoking to develop a genetic risk profile for individuals who eventually become heavy smokers.

The research revealed individuals with a high-genetic risk for smoking were much more likely to become heavy smokers as adults, but only if they had tried cigarettes as teenagers. Those who were determined to have low-genetic risk were much less likely to progress into heavy smoking, even if they had tried cigarettes when they were younger.

Smoking behavior is a major public health problem, which develops relatively early in life, lead author Dan Belsky, a post-doctoral research fellow at Duke Universitys Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, told FoxNews.com. We know from studies in families that genetics makes a difference in who becomes hooked on cigarettes and who doesnt. Relatives who share more genes are more similar in their smoking behavior.

- Dan Belsky, lead author for the study

Belsky noted their research was based on large genome-wide association studies (GWAS) from 2010 on smoking behavior, in which scientists looked across entire genomes to identify variants linked with heavy smoking. Those studies identified variants in single nucleotide polymorphisms located in and around two groups of genes the nicotine receptor genes, which control how the brain responds to nicotine, and the CYP2A6 region, which is responsible for nicotine metabolism in the liver.

What the studies did not show was when these genetic risks first manifest. Belsky and his team also wanted to know if early manifestation of these genetic risk factors were critical to the genetic influence on adult smoking problems.

To better understand how these genetic variations influence behavior, the scientists followed 1,000 New Zealanders from birth to the age of 38, analyzing their smoking habits in relation to their known genetic risk. Utilizing the genetic risk score developed to predict heavy smoking among individuals, the researchers cross analyzed an individuals risk score with their smoking habits throughout the course of the lives.

Pack-a-day by 18

Ultimately, the results showed that genetic risk was best at predicting whether or not a teenager who tried cigarettes grew to become a heavy smoker.

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Genetics may determine who becomes a heavy smoker

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Public release date: 28-Mar-2013 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Kathy Beal kbeal@acmg.net 301-238-4582 American College of Medical Genetics

Lindsay C. Burrage, MD, PhD of Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children's Hospital and Shane C. Quinonez, MD of The University of Michigan were honored as the 2013-2014 recipients of the Genzyme/ACMG Foundation Medical Genetics Training Award in Clinical Biochemical Genetics at the ACMG 2013 Annual Clinical Genetics Meeting in Phoenix, AZ.

The objective of the two Genzyme/ACMG Foundation Awards is to support a national training program to encourage the recruitment and training of clinicians in the field of clinical biochemical genetics and especially in the diagnosis, management and treatment of individuals with metabolic diseases. Two awardees will be given the opportunity to participate in an in-depth clinical experience at a premier medical center with expertise and significant clinical volume in the area of biochemical genetics.

The Award grants $75,000 per year to each of two recipients selected by the ACMG Foundation through a competitive process and will provide for the sponsorship of one year of the trainees' clinical genetics subspecialty in biochemical genetics following residency.

Dr. Burrage is currently in the second year of residency in Medical Genetics at Baylor College of Medicine. She said, "The Medical Biochemical Genetics Fellowship at Baylor will provide an environment where I can obtain both clinical and research training in inborn errors of metabolism. This training will prepare me for an academic career in biochemical genetics, where I can continue to pursue my research interests focusing on metabolic disorders." Dr. Burrage completed her M.D. and Ph.D. at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH and a Pediatrics Residency at Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH. Her research during the Award period will involve a randomized clinical trial to evaluate the utility of sodium phenylbutyrate as a therapeutic agent in Maple Syrup Urine Disease.

The second award recipient, Dr. Quinonez, received his M.D from the University of Michigan, completed his residency in Pediatrics at the University of Michigan, and began his residency in Medical Genetics in 2011. His research focuses on Cystinosis and the potential correction of cystine storage via microvesicles. He will continue his training as part of the Clinical Biochemical Genetics Program.

"I am extremely honored to be one of the recipients of the Genzyme/ACMG Foundation award. It is my hope that the opportunities, both research and clinical, afforded to me as a result of this award will allow me to provide the best possible clinical care to the patients I manage in the future."

"The Genzyme/ACMG Foundation Clinical Genetics Award in Clinical Biochemical Genetics is critical to the development of the genetics workforce. Biochemical genetics is undergoing particular rapid change, as new insights into disease mechanisms are leading to new methods of treatment," said Bruce R. Korf, MD, PhD, FACMG, president of the ACMG Foundation.

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2013-14 Genzyme/ACMG Foundation Training Award in Clinical Biochemical Genetics announced

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SEATTLE, WA--(Marketwire - Mar 28, 2013) - Atossa Genetics, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATOS), a healthcare company focused on the prevention of breast cancer, has entered into a $30 million stock purchase agreement with Aspire Capital, LLC. Under terms of the agreement, Aspire has made an initial purchase of $1 million of Atossa common stock at a price of $12.00 per share. In addition, after the SEC declares the registration statement related to the transaction effective, Aspire has committed to purchase up to an additional $29 million of Atossa's common stock over the next three years at prices based on prevailing market prices over a period preceding each sale.

"We look forward to working with Aspire Capital as a financial partner and to Aspire Capital being a long-term investor in Atossa," stated Dr. Steven Quay, chairman, CEO and president. "Our agreement with Aspire provides added financial strength and flexibility, allowing us to raise equity opportunistically based on market conditions and our working capital needs. We believe that Aspire's initial investment and ongoing commitment, along with their reputation as a long-term, institutional investor, demonstrates confidence in our ForeCYTE and ArgusCYTE tests, other breast health tests in development, and our business model. We presently do not expect to need to raise additional equity capital in the near term other than under this agreement. However, we may decide to opportunistically raise equity or debt capital or enter into a strategic transaction in which equity capital is issued."

"Over the past few months we have spent a lot of time with the management team and done significant due diligence on Atossa as well as talked with physicians and users of its products. During this process, we have come to see the tremendous opportunity that Atossa presents as the 'Pap Smear' for the breast and for early non-invasive treatment of breast cancer," commented Steven G. Martin, Managing Member of Aspire Capital. "Atossa's products can help save the lives of our mothers, our daughters and our wives. The Company's success is personal to all of us. We are extremely proud to be a long-term shareholder in Atossa and a financial partner to this experienced management team."

Key aspects of the agreement with Aspire Capital include:

Atossa will use the net proceeds from the sales of common stock for general corporate purposes and working capital requirements. Dawson James Securities, Inc. was the placement agent for the sale of 83,333 shares of common shares at $12 per share as well as the $30 million stock purchase agreement.

Atossa also entered into a registration rights agreement with Aspire in connection with its entry into the purchase agreement that requires the Company to file a registration statement regarding the shares sold to Aspire Capital. A more complete and detailed description of the transaction is set forth in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed today with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

About Atossa Genetics, Inc.

Atossa Genetics, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATOS), The Breast Health Company, is based in Seattle, WA, and is focused on preventing breast cancer through the commercialization of patented, FDA-designated Class II diagnostic medical devices and patented, laboratory developed tests (LDT) that can detect precursors to breast cancer up to eight years before mammography, and through research and development that will permit it to commercialize treatments for pre-cancerous lesions.

The National Reference Laboratory for Breast Health (NRLBH), a wholly owned subsidiary of Atossa Genetics, Inc., is a CLIA-certified high-complexity molecular diagnostic laboratory located in Seattle, WA, that provides the patented ForeCYTE Breast Health Test, a risk assessment test for women 18 to 73 years of age akin to the Pap Smear, and the ArgusCYTE Breast Health Test, a blood test for recurrence in breast cancer survivors that provides a "liquid biopsy" for circulating cancer cells and a tailored treatment plan for patients and their caregivers.

About Aspire Capital Fund, LLC

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Atossa Genetics Announces $30 Million At-the-Market Common Stock Purchase Agreement With Aspire Capital, LLC

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

SEATTLE, WA--(Marketwire - Mar 28, 2013) - Atossa Genetics, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATOS), a healthcare company focused on the prevention of breast cancer through the commercialization of diagnostic medical devices and laboratory developed tests that can detect precursors to breast cancer, and through the research, development, and ultimate commercialization of treatments for pre-cancerous lesions and ductal carcinoma in situ, today announced its 2012 financial results and corporate developments.

Recent Accomplishments and Highlights

"We continue to make steady progress in the national rollout of our patented ForeCYTE Breast Health Test, advancing our ambition to arm women and their physicians with information that will enable improved breast health management and prevent breast cancer," stated Dr. Steven Quay, chairman, CEO and president. "We are very encouraged by the enthusiastic response we are seeing from doctors and their patients for the ForeCYTE test during the early phases of our national rollout. We believe that widespread adoption of the ForeCYTE test could lead to a dramatic lowering of the incidence of breast cancer, much as the Pap smear has led to a 75 percent reduction in cervical cancer."

Developments in 2012 and early 2013 include:

Full-Year 2012 Financial Results

Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2012 was $5.1 million, or $(0.41) per share, compared with net loss of $3.4 million, or $(0.38) per share, for the year ended December 31, 2011. The increase in net loss was primarily attributable to an increasein general and administrative expense of $1.8 million.

Revenues for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 were $481,842, which included $6,440 of product revenue from the sale of MASCT Systems and $475,402 of diagnostic testing service revenue from the ForeCYTE and ArgusCYTE breast health tests. This compares with total revenues of $1,500 for the year ended December 31, 2011. The year-over-year increase in total revenues was driven by the launch of the ForeCYTE test near the end of 2011 in a field experience trial and sales of the ArgusCYTE test.

Gross profit for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 was $416,213. This compares to gross loss of $95,690 for the year ended December 31, 2011. Loss on reduction of inventory to lower of cost or market was $29,884 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012, and $92,026 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2011, primarily due to write-off of parts purchased during the year for the assembly of MASCT System which was determined at zero net realizable value as a result of lower of cost or market analysis at year end. The MASCT System is currently sold at a price substantially lower than its cost to encourage sales and because the MASCT System is currently manufactured by Atossa's suppliers only in small quantities. For these reasons, the manufacturing cost allocated to each inventory unit is high.

Total operating expenses were $5.5 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012, consisting of G&A expenses of $5.0 million and selling expenses of $0.5 million.This compares to total operating expenses of $3.3 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2011, consisting of G&A expenses of $3.2 million and selling expenses of $0.1 million.The increase in G&A expenses of $1.8 million, or approximately 56%, from 2011 to 2012 is attributed to the launch of the Company's MASCT System, ForeCYTE test and ArgusCYTE test and the related growth in expenses to hire additional staff, expand our operations, invest additional funds in research and development and increased legal fees and other costs associated with our initial public offering.Atossa expects that its G&A expenses will continue to increase as it adds additional full time employees and incurs additional costs as a publicly traded company. Additionally, G&A costs are expected to rise as the Company increases headcount to coordinate the production and manufacture of the MASCT System, and the expected increase in service revenues.

At December 31, 2012, Atossa had cash and cash equivalents of $1.7 million.

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Atossa Genetics Reports 2012 Results and Operating Highlights

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

WALTHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Interleukin Genetics,Inc. (ILIU) today issued financial and operational results for its fiscal fourth quarter and full fiscal year ended December 31, 2012.

In 2012, with the successful completion of the University of Michigan study showing the value of our periodontal disease test, PST, in guiding preventive dental care, Interleukin Genetics achieved a key milestone on the path to what we believe will be growth in commercialization of our proprietary molecular diagnostic technology, reported Dr. Ken Kornman, Chief Executive Officer of Interleukin Genetics. We are now focused on preparing to make PST widely available to guide more effective and efficient preventive care in dentistry. In addition, we continue to work with our weight management test partner, Amway, to integrate more directly with their new weight loss programs that launch in 2013. We are optimistic that our advances in 2012 will help to make Interleukin one of the leading commercial providers of molecular diagnostics as personalized healthcare becomes a reality.

2012 Financial Highlights

The Company reported revenues of $2.2 million and a loss from continuing operations of $5.1 million, or $(0.14) per basic and diluted common share, for the year ended December31, 2012, compared to revenues in 2011 of $2.9 million and a loss from continuing operations of $5.2 million, or $(0.14) per basic and diluted common share. The revenue decrease is primarily attributable to decreased sales of the Companys Inherent Health brand of genetic tests through the Amway Global sales channel.

Research and development expenses were $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease is primarily attributable to decreased consulting costs partially offset by increased compensation expenses as compared to the year ended December 31, 2011.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were $4.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $4.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease is primarily attributable to decreases in sales commissions paid to Amway Global as part of our Merchant Channel and Partner Store Agreement, compensation expenses and depreciation, partially offset by increased professional fees and employee separation costs attributable to the resignation of the Companys former Chief Executive Officer on August 23, 2012.

Fourth Quarter Results

Revenue for the quarter ended December31, 2012 was $0.3 million, compared to $0.6 million for the same period in 2011. The decrease is primarily attributable to decreased genetic testing revenue as a result of sales through the Amway Global sales channel.

Research and development expenses were $0.3 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2012, compared to $0.4 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2011. The decrease is primarily attributable to decreased consulting costs partially offset by increased compensation expenses as compared to the year ended December 31, 2011.

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Interleukin Genetics Reports Fourth Quarter and Year End 2012 Financial Results

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Stem Cell Therapy Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury by Dr Alok Sharma
Stem Cell Therapy Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury by Dr Alok Sharma After Stem Cell Therapy 1) Ankle dorsiflexion movements are possible now. 2) He is able ...

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Stem Cell Therapy Treatment for Spinal Cord Injury by Dr Alok Sharma - Video

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Stem Cell Therapy Treatment for Autism by Dr Alok Sharma

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Stem Cell Therapy Treatment for Autism by Dr Alok Sharma - Video

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Stem Cell Therapy Treatment for Autism by Dr Alok Sharma Mumbai India

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Stem Cell Therapy Treatment for Autism by Dr Alok Sharma Mumbai India - Video

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By: Azer N. Parrocha, Philippine News Agency March 28, 2013 3:16 AM

InterAksyon.com The online news portal of TV5

MANILA, Philippines - Although guidelines for stem cell therapy in the country have already been released, the Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday reminded the public that hospitals performing the treatment are as of the moment, not accredited.

Health Secretary Enrique Ona, in a press conference, explained that for a hospital or clinic to be considered accredited, a years worth of tests and studies have to be done to prove that the procedure is indeed safe and effective.

I hope the general public understands that these stem cells, although called innovative (form of treatment) is not standard and should not be advertised as though it is already an accepted form of treatment, Ona said.

Ona explained that the DOH still continues to look on the capacity of the treatment and will make sure that the stem cells used for procedure are accepted as protocol.

Stem cells like those coming from embryos or animals which are restricted will also be looked into by the DOH to see if there are any hospitals or clinics that do not abide by the administrative order.

If the protocol is accepted, report of results should be evaluated, he said. They are evaluated about a year to see if their claim is effective [and if it is] it will be validated.

At present, there are no hospitals or clinics completely accredited for the stem cell therapy yet. Given that, certain processes must be followed before doctors are allowed to use the treatment.

I cannot see a so-called clinic yet certifying that there is a process that is very effective, Ona explained. We have to see the type of stem cell, the type of claim they have.

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Hospitals performing stem cell therapy are yet to be accredited – DOH

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Cell Therapy Shows Promise for Acute Type of Leukemia

By: michael koons

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Cell Therapy Shows Promise for Acute Type of Leukemia - Video

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Virgil discusses his combination cell therapy by Dr Harry Adelson
Virgil discusses his combination cell therapy from Dr Harry Adelson for arthritis of his knee. Dr Adelson practices in Park City, Utah. He has been performin...

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Virgil discusses his combination cell therapy by Dr Harry Adelson - Video

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Stem Cell Therapy for Pets -- Midnight Before After
Amazing before and after footage of Midnight, a dog who received stem cell therapy for her arthritic joints. We discovered a side benefit of better skin and ...

By: NewmanVets

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Stem Cell Therapy for Pets -- Midnight Before

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The Consumer By Linda Bolido Philippine Daily Inquirer

All the publicity about stem-cell therapy (SCT), including endorsements from some of the countrys most powerful people and brightest stars, has made it seem like a miracle cure, even a cure-all.

From the treatment of life-threatening medical problems to reversing the effects of aging, people are now beginning to look to SCTespecially if they can afford itfor salvation.

But, according to a doctor I know, there are actually only two proven applications for the therapy right now. The rest, at this stage, is really still experimental. People have, of course, volunteered for pioneering procedures, hoping for a cure for whatever ails them.

Education still needed

Thats well and good, as long as they are fully informed and give their unequivocal consent to being experimented on. The problem, however, is some people undergo the therapy without fully understanding it. And there are groups that seem to think that because they have Googled the therapy and read everything on the Net about it, they are capable of doing the procedure.

I mentioned in this column previously that even beauty parlors were offering to do SCT. Although it would be only for cosmetic purposes, the procedure is too new and complex to leave in the hands of beauticians.

Finally, the Department of Health has issued rules and regulations to regulate the SCT practice, a move warmly welcomed by the medical community, particularly the Philippine Medical Association and Philippine Society for Stem Cell Medicine, which expressed concern before that the popularity of SCT would lead to abuse and illegal practice if left unregulated.

Health Secretary Enrique Ona, in published reports, said the guidelines aimed to safeguard the welfare of our patients and the general public by making [sure] safe, effective and ethical stem-cell modalities and practices are within emerging international and global standards considering the very complex nature of this therapy.

Among other things, the rules restrict the use of genetically altered stem cells and tissues of human adults and the umbilical cord, fat-derived human stem cells and live animal stem cells.

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New rules will regulate stem- cell therapy use

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Released: 3/20/2013 3:50 PM EDT Embargo expired: 3/27/2013 12:00 PM EDT Source Newsroom: Mayo Clinic

http://www.mayoclinic.org/news2013-rst/7384.html

Newswise ROCHESTER, Minn. -- Researchers at Mayo Clinic Cancer Center have identified a novel gene that can contribute to a womans susceptibility for developing ovarian cancer. Researchers identified the gene, called HNF1B, through large-scale analysis of more than 16,000 women with ovarian cancer and more than 26,000 healthy women. Results of the study are published in the current issue of the journal Nature Communications.

The study is one of 13 papers to be published simultaneously in five journals by the Collaborative Oncological Gene-environment Study (COGS), an international research collaboration involving investigators from Europe, Asia, Australia and North America, including Mayo Clinic. This landmark series of papers provides genotyping results from more than 250,000 individuals that look at DNA sequences involved in three hormone-related cancers: ovarian, breast and prostate.

Through the combined efforts of this consortium, and all the data sharing, we are much closer to understanding the inherited factors in these diseases, says Mayo Clinic investigator Ellen Goode, Ph.D., senior author of the HNF1B paper, and co-author of three additional papers among the 13, focusing on ovarian and breast cancer development. Ovarian cancer is the most common cause of death from gynecological cancers in the U.S.

In their study, Dr. Goode and her collaborators showed that variations in the HNF1B gene are overrepresented in one type of epithelial ovarian cancer and underrepresented in another type. They also found that variation in DNA methylation, a process that moderates the expression of genes such as HNF1B, correlates with different ovarian cancer subtypes. This finding suggests that the activation and inhibition of gene expression by DNA methylation can be as important a factor in cancer as genetic mutations.

The distinct methylation patterns suggest a molecular mechanism by which changes in this gene lead to increased cancer risk, says Dr. Goode. This has potential clinical implications for improving our understanding of how the disease begins, for better identification of ovarian cancer subtypes and for developing novel treatment approaches.

Celeste Leigh Pearce, Ph.D., of the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, is co-senior author of the study. Other co-authors of COGS papers include Fergus Couch, Ph.D.; Julie Cunningham, Ph.D.; Kimberly Kalli, Ph.D.; Janet Olson, Ph.D.; Susan Slager, Ph.D.; Stephen Thibodeau, Ph.D.; and Celine Vachon, Ph.D.; all of Mayo Clinic.

Funding for the study came from the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, the Genetic Associations and Mechanisms in Oncology (GAME-ON) Network (U19 CA148112), the European Union Seventh Framework, Cancer Research UK, the Mayo Clinic Ovarian Cancer SPORE (P50 CA136393), and the National Cancer Institute (R01 CA122443), the Fred C. and Katherine B. Andersen Foundation, and the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance.

About Mayo Clinic Cancer Center As a leading institution funded by the National Cancer Institute, Mayo Clinic Cancer Center conducts basic, clinical and population science research, translating discoveries into improved methods for prevention, diagnosis, prognosis and therapy. For information on cancer clinical trials, call 507-538-7623.

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Novel Gene Drives Development of Different Types of Ovarian Cancer

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SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Illumina, Inc. (ILMN) announced that its iCOGS custom array was used to identify genetic variants related to breast, ovary and prostate cancer as part of the Collaborative Oncological Gene-Environment Study (COGS), the results of which were published today in Nature Genetics and other leading journals.1 Developed in collaboration with four large consortia2 involved in the study, the iCOGS array enables significant advances in understanding the genetic basis of cancer.

Specifically, the iCOGS array identifies single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across selected regions of DNA associated with cancer.Its 200,000 SNPs were drawn from previous genome-wide association studies of the different cancer types and subtypes; associations with disease survival or other traits that are associated with risk of cancer; and functional candidates. The technology was used to test more than 200,000 individuals participating in the COGS.

This groundbreaking study demonstrates how genomic technology is advancing cancer research, said Jay Flatley, Illuminas President and Chief Executive Officer. We applaud the efforts of the consortia, and are pleased the iCOGS array played a role in enabling this research that ultimately will help patients.

The COGS findings include a striking increase in the number of genetic associations for breast, ovarian and prostate cancer nearly doubling the number of known susceptibility regions. The findings also provide insights into the differences between subtypes of cancer, including those revealed from comparisons of Estrogen Receptor+ and Estrogen Receptor- breast cancers, as well as the pathways and mechanisms involved in susceptibility to these common cancers.

David Bentley, Vice President and Chief Scientist at Illumina added, The partnership of the consortia and their work with us unified an enormous depth of knowledge to create a single, specialized array for application to the entire study cohort. Ultimately, we believe the results of the COGS have significant implications in the understanding and management of cancer.

To read the papers, visit: http://www.nature.com/icogs/.

About Illumina

Illumina (www.illumina.com) is a leading developer, manufacturer, and marketer of life science tools and integrated systems for the analysis of genetic variation and function. We provide innovative sequencing and array-based solutions for genotyping, copy number variation analysis, methylation studies, gene expression profiling, and low-multiplex analysis of DNA, RNA, and protein. We also provide tools and services that are fueling advances in consumer genomics and diagnostics. Our technology and products accelerate genetic analysis research and its application, paving the way for molecular medicine and ultimately transforming healthcare.

Forward-Looking Statements

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Illumina Technology Enables Findings of the Collaborative Oncological Gene -Environment Study (COGS)

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Public release date: 27-Mar-2013 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Joe Dangor newsbureau@mayo.edu 507-284-5005 Mayo Clinic

ROCHESTER, Minn. -- Researchers at Mayo Clinic Cancer Center have identified a novel gene that can contribute to a woman's susceptibility for developing ovarian cancer. Researchers identified the gene, called HNF1B, through large-scale analysis of more than 16,000 women with ovarian cancer and more than 26,000 healthy women. Results of the study are published in the current issue of the journal Nature Communications.

The study is one of 13 papers to be published simultaneously in five journals by the Collaborative Oncological Gene-environment Study (COGS), an international research collaboration involving investigators from Europe, Asia, Australia and North America, including Mayo Clinic. This landmark series of papers provides genotyping results from more than 250,000 individuals that look at DNA sequences involved in three hormone-related cancers: ovarian, breast and prostate.

"Through the combined efforts of this consortium, and all the data sharing, we are much closer to understanding the inherited factors in these diseases," says Mayo Clinic investigator Ellen Goode, Ph.D., senior author of the HNF1B paper, and co-author of three additional papers among the 13, focusing on ovarian and breast cancer development. Ovarian cancer is the most common cause of death from gynecological cancers in the U.S.

In their study, Dr. Goode and her collaborators showed that variations in the HNF1B gene are overrepresented in one type of epithelial ovarian cancer and underrepresented in another type. They also found that variation in DNA methylation, a process that moderates the expression of genes such as HNF1B, correlates with different ovarian cancer subtypes. This finding suggests that the activation and inhibition of gene expression by DNA methylation can be as important a factor in cancer as genetic mutations.

"The distinct methylation patterns suggest a molecular mechanism by which changes in this gene lead to increased cancer risk," says Dr. Goode. "This has potential clinical implications for improving our understanding of how the disease begins, for better identification of ovarian cancer subtypes and for developing novel treatment approaches."

###

Celeste Leigh Pearce, Ph.D., of the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, is co-senior author of the study. Other co-authors of COGS papers include Fergus Couch, Ph.D.; Julie Cunningham, Ph.D.; Kimberly Kalli, Ph.D.; Janet Olson, Ph.D.; Susan Slager, Ph.D.; Stephen Thibodeau, Ph.D.; and Celine Vachon, Ph.D.; all of Mayo Clinic.

Funding for the study came from the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, the Genetic Associations and Mechanisms in Oncology (GAME-ON) Network (U19 CA148112), the European Union Seventh Framework, Cancer Research UK, the Mayo Clinic Ovarian Cancer SPORE (P50 CA136393), and the National Cancer Institute (R01 CA122443), the Fred C. and Katherine B. Andersen Foundation, and the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance.

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Novel gene drives development of different types of ovarian cancer, Mayo-led study finds

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A microscopic image of prostate cancer. Researchers have found new genetic markers that flag a person's susceptibility to the disease, as well as breast and ovarian cancer.

A microscopic image of prostate cancer. Researchers have found new genetic markers that flag a person's susceptibility to the disease, as well as breast and ovarian cancer.

The largest gene-probing study ever done has fished out dozens of new genetic markers that flag a person's susceptibility to breast, ovarian and prostate cancer.

The 74 newly discovered genetic variants double the previously known number for these malignancies, all of which are driven by sex hormones.

Underscoring the sheer magnitude of the findings, they're contained in 15 scientific papers published simultaneously by five different journals. The Nature group of journals has collected them all here.

But while the discovery is a landmark in cancer genetics, knowing these susceptibility markers won't translate into much for patients for now.

The nearest hope is that the growing catalog of markers will allow researchers to fine-tune screening tests for these cancers. They might be able to identify which people to screen using existing tools such as mammography, PSA blood tests or ultrasound. And a patient's genetic profile could help determine what to do when a screening test comes back positive.

For instance, one paper suggests that if a woman's genes contain one of four newly discovered variants, she's at risk for a more aggressive type of breast cancer called ER-negative, which accounts for about one in four cases. So she might be advised to have earlier or more frequent mammograms.

But Douglas Easton of Cambridge University, an author of one new paper, cautions that there are "many hurdles" before these genetic signals can be incorporated into breast cancer screening. "If you're 40-years-old, I think it would be in your lifetime," Easton told reporters on a conference call. "It will take some time."

The same is true for men with prostate cancer, who are currently bedeviled by the ambiguities of a screening test called PSA. Right now, a test that finds an elevated PSA doesn't indicate if a man actually has prostate cancer, or whether it's a slow-growing or aggressive type.

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Catalog Of Gene Markers For Some Cancers Doubles In Size

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Mar. 26, 2013 Pediatric researchers, investigating the biology of brain tumors in children, are finding that crucial differences in how the same gene is mutated may call for different treatments. A new study offers glimpses into how scientists will be using the ongoing flood of gene-sequencing data to customize treatments based on very specific mutations in a child's tumor.

"By better understanding the basic biology of these tumors, such as how particular mutations in the same gene may respond differently to targeted drugs, we are moving closer to personalized medicine for children with cancer," said the study's first author, Angela J. Sievert, M.D., M.P.H., an oncologist in the Cancer Center at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Sievert, working with co-first author Shih-Shan Lang, M.D., in the translational laboratory of neurosurgeon Phillip Storm, M.D., and Adam Resnick, Ph.D., published a study ahead of print today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

The study, performed in cell cultures and animals, focused on a type of astrocytoma, the most common type of brain tumor in children. When surgeons can fully remove an astrocytoma (also called a low-grade glioma), a child can be cured. However, many astrocytomas are too widespread or in too delicate a site to be safely removed. Others may recur. So pediatric oncologists have been seeking better options -- ideally, a drug that can selectively and definitively kill the tumor with low toxicity to healthy tissue.

The current study focuses on mutations in the BRAF gene, one of the most commonly mutated genes in human cancers. Because the same gene is also mutated in certain adult cancers, such as melanoma, the pediatric researchers were able to make use of recently developed drugs, BRAF inhibitors, which were already being tested with some success against melanoma in adults.

The current study provides another example of the complexity of cancer: in the same gene, different mutations behave differently. Sievert and her colleagues at Children's Hospital were among several research groups who reported almost simultaneously in 2008 and 2009 that mutations in the BRAF gene were highly prevalent in astrocytomas in children. "These were landmark discoveries, because they suggested that if we could block the action of that mutation, we could develop a new, more effective treatment for these tumors," said Sievert.

However, follow-up studies in animal models were initially disappointing. BRAF inhibitors that were effective in BRAF-driven adult melanomas made brain tumors worse -- via an effect called paradoxical activation.

Further investigation revealed how tumor behavior depended on which type of BRAF mutation was involved. The first-generation drug that was effective in adult melanoma acted against point mutations in BRAF called V600E alterations. However, in most astrocytomas the mutation in the BRAF gene was different; it produced a fusion gene, designated KIAA1549-BRAF. When used against the fusion gene, the first-generation drug activated a cancer-driving biological pathway, the MAPK signaling cascade, and accelerated tumor growth.

By examining the molecular mechanisms behind drug resistance and working with the pharmaceutical industry, the current study's investigators identified a new, experimental second-generation BRAF inhibitor that disrupted the cancer-promoting signals from the fusion gene, and did not cause the paradoxical activation in the cell cultures and animal models.

This preclinical work result lays a foundation for multicenter clinical trials to test the mutation-specific targeting of tumors by this class of drugs in children with astrocytomas, said Sievert. As this effort progresses, it will benefit from CHOP's commitment to resources and collaborations that support data-intense research efforts.

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Details of gene pathways suggest fine-tuning drugs for child brain tumors

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NEW YORK (AP) A huge international effort involving more than 100 institutions and genetic tests on 200,000 people has uncovered dozens of signposts in DNA that can help reveal further a person's risk for breast, ovarian or prostate cancer, scientists reported Wednesday.

It's the latest mega-collaboration to learn more about the intricate mechanisms that lead to cancer. And while the headway seems significant in many ways, the potential payoff for ordinary people is mostly this: Someday there may be genetic tests that help identify women with the most to gain from mammograms, and men who could benefit most from PSA tests and prostate biopsies.

And perhaps farther in the future these genetic clues might lead to new treatments.

"This adds another piece to the puzzle," said Harpal Kumar, chief executive of Cancer Research U.K., the charity which funded much of the research.

One analysis suggests that among men whose family history gives them roughly a 20 percent lifetime risk for prostate cancer, such genetic markers could identify those whose real risk is 60 percent.

The markers also could make a difference for women with BRCA gene mutations, which puts them at high risk for breast cancer. Researchers may be able to separate those whose lifetime risk exceeds 80 percent from women whose risk is about 20 to 50 percent. One doctor said that might mean some women would choose to monitor for cancer rather than taking the drastic step of having healthy breasts removed.

Scientists have found risk markers for the three diseases before, but the new trove doubles the known list, said one author, Douglas Easton of Cambridge University. The discoveries also reveal clues about the biological underpinnings of these cancers, which may pay off someday in better therapies, he said.

Experts not connected with the work said it was encouraging but that more research is needed to see how useful it would be for guiding patient care. One suggested that using a gene test along with PSA testing and other factors might help determine which men have enough risk of a life-threatening prostate cancer that they should get a biopsy. Many prostate cancers found early are slow-growing and won't be fatal, but there is no way to differentiate and many men have surgery they may not need.

Easton said the prospects for a genetic test are greater for prostate and breast cancer than ovarian cancer.

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women worldwide, with more than 1 million new cases a year. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men after lung cancer, with about 900,000 new cases every year. Ovarian cancer accounts for about 4 percent of all cancers diagnosed in women, causing about 225,000 cases worldwide.

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Scientists find new gene markers for cancer risk

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

By Ben Hirschler

LONDON (Reuters) - New research has nearly doubled the number of genetic variations implicated in breast, prostate and ovarian cancer, offering fresh avenues for screening at-risk patients and, potentially, developing better drugs.

The bumper haul of 74 gene changes that can increase risks for the three hormone-related cancers, announced by scientists on Wednesday, is the result of the largest ever study of its kind.

It follows an international project to analyze the DNA of more than 200,000 people - half of them with cancer and half from the general population - to find alterations that are more common in individuals with the disease.

Although each gene variation increases cancer risk by only a small amount, scientists calculate that the 1 percent of men carrying lots of the alterations could have a 50 percent increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

Women with multiple variants could see their risk of breast cancer increase by 30 percent.

Doug Easton of the University of Cambridge, one of the cancer researchers who led the work, said the batch of new genetic discoveries meant medical experts would be able to develop new cancer screening programs.

This will take time, since more research is needed to develop diagnostic tools.

"I would think that within five to 10 years this might be being used commonly, if not in a very widespread population base," said Paul Pharoah, also of the University of Cambridge.

Initially, the additional screening is likely to be targeted at patients with established cancer risk factors, such as carriers of BRCA gene faults. Women with BRCA faults are known to be at greater risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer.

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Record gene haul points to better cancer screening

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Nephilim History part3
The truth about the demon host.

By: shieldoftheson

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Nephilim History part3 - Video

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Gene modification
For more information, log on to- http://shomusbiology.weebly.com/ Download the study materials here- http://shomusbiology.weebly.com/bio-materials.html Genet...

By: Suman Bhattacharjee

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Gene modification - Video

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Public release date: 27-Mar-2013 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Jordi Morato comunicacio@idibell.cat IDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute

The Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) has signed a licensing agreement with the Spanish biotech company Histocell to make use of a patent for the treatment of acute pulmonary diseases with mesenchymal stem cells. These cells, administered intravenously, have the ability to go directly to the damaged lungs, acting as a "smart drug".

To enhance the effect, researchers have modified this cells by genetic engineering. The studies have been developed by a team led by Josep Maria Aran, researcher at the Human Molecular Genetics group of IDIBELL, in collaboration with researchers of the Pneumology group at Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR) and the Biomedical Research Network Centre for Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES). The outcomes of the research have supposed an international patent application managed by the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) at IDIBELL.

The researchers use adult mesenchymal stem cells extracted from adipose tissue obtained from liposuction. These cells are capable of enhancing the regeneration of the damaged lung tissue and secrete inflammatory proteins therein when injected into the blood.

Improvements

The novelty patented by IDIBELL and VHIR researchers has been the insertion of improvements through genetic engineering that can significantly enhance the anti-inflammatory and regenerative power of the mesenchymal cells. Specifically, researchers have modified the antagonist to secrete interleukin 33, a regulatory protein (cytokine) that has a fundamental role in the inflammatory process.

The treatment has proven to be very effective given intravenously, although it could be considered the option of administering it by inhalation.

In the administered dose, these stem cells do not involve immune rejection, because the body removes them after their function is performed. This makes them particularly useful for treating acute diseases.

Good results

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IDIBELL licenses Histocell, a patent for acute respiratory diseases with stem cells

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