Scientists at the University College of London have created a new method to identify and map gene locations for complex inherited diseases by utilizing detailed maps of the human genome. Their study specifically highlighted Crohn’s disease, which they found has over 200 genes involved in the complex disease. The number of gene locations for Crohn’s disease is more than have been found for any other disease. The article explains that there are only 66 known gene regions for type two diabetes. With the new method of identifying and mapping gene locations, it is possible that there are many more genetic regions that attribute to such diseases. By narrowing down the genetic component to many diseases, it will be easier for those scientists in the medical field to improve treatment for painful symptoms. In addition to creating better treatments, studying the genetic component of such diseases can provide better understanding as to how they are inherited.
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammation that may affect any part of the digestive tract
Crohn’s disease is just the stepping stone into detailed genetic studies of diseases. In the article, a senior author from the University College of London, Dr. Nikolas Maniatis, was interviewed as saying: “The discovery of so many gene locations for Crohn's Disease is an important step forward in understanding the disease, which has a very complicated genetic basis. We hope that the method we have used here can be used to identify the genes involved in other diseases which are similarly complex, for example different cancers and diabetes.” The additional genes attributed to Crohn’s disease were found through the use of incredibly detailed maps of the human genome as well as through the subdivision of patients based on the disease present. This study is incredibly exciting and will lead to great strides in better diagnosis of disease and more personalized treatment plans for those who are suffering from disease. It is especially fascinating that such complex diseases are effectively being broken down and the specific genes that cause such complex illnesses are correctly being identified.
No comments:
Post a Comment