Researchers from Harvard Medical School (HMS) have found a new method of transforming stem cells into killing machines that can attack brain cancer. As part of experiments on mice, researchers genetically engineered the stem cells to prepare and secrete toxins that can kill brain tumors and that too without killing themselves or the normal cells. While publishing their findings in the journal Stem Cells, the researchers said in the next stage tests would be conducted on humans. An … [Read more...]

Signs that warn consumers on how much exercise they should do to burn off the calories they gain from sugary drinks may trigger healthy choices, researchers from the Baltimore-based John Hopkins University (JHU) recently suggested. As part of a study the researchers observed the purchasing habits of teenagers and they found youngsters purchased lesser number of sugary drinks and increased their water when the warning signs were put up. The researchers published the findings of their study … [Read more...]

Oregon's mandatory genetically modified organism (GMO)-labeling initiative named as Measure 92 is all set to become the costliest vote in the history of the state. Opponents of the GMO food labeling proposal have already raised about $20 million for the ‘no’ campaign against the proposed laws in the state, according to campaign finance reports. This is nearly triple the amount that was raised by the ‘yes’ campaigners of the initiative. On November 6, voters in Oregon and Colorado are going … [Read more...]

An effective treatment for type 1 diabetes by transforming stem cells into beta cells that produce insulin has been developed by a team of Harvard University scientists. Stating that their hunt to find a cure for type 1diabetes has taken a giant leap forward, the scientists said the disease afflicts at least 3 million people in US, who spend at least $15 billion for its treatment every year. When the immune system devastates the cells that control the levels of blood sugar, the disease … [Read more...]

Newer advances in gene therapy are likely to provide safer treatment to children who have been suffering with a fatal genetic disorder that could lead to a major deficiency in their immune systems. Most of the children having X-linked severe collective immunodeficiency, also known as X-SCID, usually die before they reach the age of one. They, therefore, need to live in a ‘bubble’ for their health and protection. During preliminary clinical trial stage, nine baby boys with X-SCID were … [Read more...]