Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Researchers Develop Hybrid Protein Tools For Gene Cutting And Editing

MedicalNews Today, Article Date: 31 Aug 2010

An Iowa State University team of researchers has developed a type of hybrid proteins that can make double-strand DNA breaks at specific sites in living cells, possibly leading to better gene replacement and gene editing therapies. Read more

[Distribution of frataxin in eye retina of normal mice and of transgenic R7E mice with retinal degeneration]

Zh Evol Biokhim Fiziol. 2010 Jul-Aug;46(4):347-9.

[Article in Russian]

Development of a potential therapy for Friedreich ataxia based on transduction of the frataxin protein in the mitochondria

Canadian Association for Familial Ataxias - Claude St-Jean Foundation
August 25, 2010,

CAFA IS LAUNCHING A MAJOR RESEARCH PROJECT

This research project’s goal is to develop a therapy for Friedreich ataxia by targeting the actual cause of the illness, the reduction of frataxin. The project will therefore aim to administer the frataxin protein intravenously. However, as this protein does not spontaneously penetrate cells, it will be encapsulated with peptides (fragments of other proteins), in nanoparticles. Alternatively, the frataxin protein itself will be modified by adding peptides which will allow the proteins to penetrate not only the interior of cells, but also the interior of the mitochondria.

Symposium participants optimistic about finding first treatment for Friedreich's ataxia

USF Health News, August 30, 2010 @ 4:58 pm

"With all the significant scientific advancements presented, at the end of the symposium it was the people with Friedreich’s ataxia who gave the research meaning and value"