Pfizer, UCL forge macular degeneration research pact; Researchers find genes linked to chronic conditions;

Stem Cell Research

Pfizer and University College London have forged a research pact to identify stem cell therapies for macular degeneration. Their goal is to start bringing new candidates into the clinic in 2011. Report

Stem cells extracted from the fat of patients with multiple sclerosis could offer a new approach to treating the disease. Researchers tested the approach on three patients and say that more studying is warranted. Story

Australia's Mesoblast has been given a green light to start a Phase II trial of a stem cell therapy for fusion of the cervical spine. Story

Genetics

South Korean researchers have identified genes linked to chronic ailments like hypertension and osteoporosis. Story

A mouse study has found that genetics may help to explain alcohol-related susceptibility and resistance. Release

Yale School of Medicine scientist Jeffrey R. Gruen, M.D., has received a $5.2 million grant from the Manton Foundation to further his research on the genetics of dyslexia. Release

HIV-1-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) is a kidney disease that occurs commonly in individuals infected with HIV-1. Several studies have linked variants of genes expressed in kidney cells known as podocytes to HIVAN. Release

Cancer research

A team of scientists at The Campbell Family Institute for Breast Cancer Research at Princess Margaret Hospital and international collaborators has discovered how to trigger an improved immune response to cancer that could be included in new clinical trials that use a patient's own cells to destroy tumors. Release

New research suggests that walnuts--rich in Omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants--could help prevent breast cancer. Report