By Michael Le Page ZEPHYR/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY As our understanding of genetics grows, so does the potential for people to use it to have babies with particular characteristics. In theory, DNA analysis could help prospective parents choose which IVF embryos to implant on the basis of characteristics like intelligence. But now a study estimates that… Read More: Genetic screening of IVF embryos is unlikely to lead to… »
A genetic variant found only in people of African descent significantly increases a smoker’s preference for cigarettes containing menthol, a flavor additive. The variant of the MRGPRX4 gene is five to eight times more frequent among smokers who use menthol cigarettes than other smokers, according to an international group of researchers supported by the U.S.… Read More: Genetic vulnerability to menthol cigarette use »
Research carried out in collaboration with the University of Birmingham has found that genetic testing improves the diagnoses of abnormalities in developing babies that are picked up during ultrasound scans. The research, published today in The Lancet, was carried out by the University of Birmingham’s Institute of Metabolism and Systems, Wellcome Sanger Institute, University of Cambridge,… Read More: Genetic testing gives answers on developmental disorders during pregnancy »
Color Genomics is continuing to build relationships with healthcare organizations to offer DNA tests to their populations. In its latest move, the Burlingame, Calif.-based DNA-testing company is partnering with NorthShore University HealthSystem to offer its genetic tests to more than 10,000 patients. As part of the collaboration, the hospital system will offer Color’s genomic health… Read More: Color Genomics to partner with NorthShore on genetic testing »