Sunday, June 11, 2006

Gene Discovery Opens Door To Tackling Disease

Source: Western Australian Institute for Medical Research
Posted: June 9, 2006

Summary:

Western Australian researchers have discovered a new gene that could lead to breakthroughs in breast and prostate cancer, as well as diabetes.

The gene, called SLIRP, was discovered by a team at the Western Australian Institute for Medical Research's (WAIMR) Laboratory for Cancer Medicine.

The researchers believe the discovery could open the door to targeted new treatments for the cancers.

If researchers can figure out how SLIRP controls the actions of hormones, they may be able develop so-called 'smart' drugs that zoom in on the gene.

Commentary: Hopefully these findings will lead to early detection of diseases and the development of treatments that are tailored to patients' individual genetic make-up.

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