Wild Dogs in Moscow learn to use the subway

Not exactly related, but we were talking about it so I found the article.  Article from PopSci that describes wild dog packs in Russia.  One specific type, the beggars have adapted their behavior to navigate the subway system in order to beg in more areas.

Don't spit on a Brisbane bus!

Bus operators in brisbane are now equipped with DNA kits to identify anyone who violates their strict no-spitting rule!

What do a bunch of old jews know about living forever?

This is a really cool article about the genetics of longevity from the New York Times.   Its not super sciency but its a pretty good read.  The genetic part of it is that there are genes that prevent major diseases (cardiovascular, cancer, diabetes, and cognitive decline) and there are the telomeres that give you a yardstick for life expectancy.

For those of you asking about Rubber Boy...

Here is some science behind the disease, Osteogenesis imperfecta. OI manifests in a number of symptoms including weak bones, multiple fractures, bowed limbs, short stature, deafness, and short lifespan. An article last week in Molecular Therapy describes the genetic basis of OI - dominant mutations in the type I collagen genes - and a new attempt at treatment through gene therapy.

Or for a more dramatic portrayal of the disease, see Bruce Willis in 'Unbreakable'.

The pursuit of susceptibility genes for Alzheimer's disease: progress and prospects

Because of technological advances, GWAS have begun to make progress in AD genetics. A small proportion of AD patients have an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance, and genetic studies of these patients can potentially help with patient care. Four genes, APOE, CLU, PICALM, and CR1 have been found to be involved in AD susceptibility. These genes play a role in the pathophysiology of AD, and their discovery "supports ongoing efforts towards intervention in these pathways."

ICHG/ASHG 2011: New research on genetic factors associated with autism, schizophrenia and Parkinson's

The article discussed a recent gathering of scientists in Montreal for the 12th International Congress of Human Genetics (ICHG). The focus of the gathering was to present research on certain diseases and disorders--mostly mental issues--based on genetic research. Although the researchers did not understand the genetic basis for the diseases completely, the researchers were able to get some answers out of their research and were able to make sense of some very complex things. I'm sure that the next conference will have advanced the understanding even more since the research provided great insight into understanding autism, schizophrenia, intellectual disability, epilepsy and Parkinson's diseases. A brief summary of each of the researchers findings can be found at the bottom of the article.

Genetics of Multiple Sclerosis

29 new gene variants have been identified as associated with Multiple Sclerosis, many of which are related to the immune system. This will aid in shedding light on the immuno-pathogenesis associated with the development of the disease.