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Biotech News Science news Regular science news |
- Howard Florey Institute study shows environmental factor in Huntington's
- Monkey protein blocks HIV in humans
Howard Florey Institute study shows environmental factor in Huntington's
February 20 – A team of scientists at the Howard Florey Institute are investigating how providing a stimulating environment alters the onset and progression of Huntington's disease. Despite strong genetic factors, evidence from a mouse model with a human Huntington's disease gene mutation suggests environmental factors play a major role. Headed by Dr. Anthony Hannan, the team exposed mice with the disease to different environments and compared the effects of complex sensory, motor and cognitive stimulation. They uncovered evidence for molecular changes relating to communication between nerve cells in distinct regions of the cerebral cortex, as well as other brain areas, which may explain the behavioural changes. The link between environmental stimulation and changes in the nerve-cell connection gives new insight into the way gene-environment interactions may delay onset and progression of Huntington's disease and numerous other neurodegenerative diseases. While further research is required the team believe the finding will help to develop new drug treatments.
[Source: Media Release]
Monkey protein blocks HIV in humans
February 25 – Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have identified a protein in Old World monkeys that blocks infection by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1). Named TRIM5-alpha, the blocking molecule may be the first example of a previously unknown member of the immune system that patrols the body for viruses and, if they enter a cell, prevents them from acting. The protein disrupts the uncoating of the viral capsid disabling the virus from reaching the cells genetic machinery required for replication. 'This is the first form of intracellular immunity made up of natural factors that specifically and potently block retroviruses such as HIV-1,' said Joseph Sodroski MD. Humans cells contain a similar TRIM5-alpha protein but is less effective than the monkey version in blocking HIV-1 infection. While therapeutic use of the finding remains speculative, researchers might find ways to increase effectiveness of the human TRIM5-alpha molecule or administer the more potent monkey version as a therapy.
[Source: Dana-Faber Cancer Institute]
