Genetic regions linked to timing of menopause

Thirteen genomic regions appear to influence the age at onset of menopause, according to a genetic study. These regions contain genes involved in DNA repair and immune responses, processes not previously linked to menopause...[Read More]

Rise in 'selective reproduction' due to increase in IVF, experts say

There has been a rise in the number of British women choosing to give birth to fewer children following multiple pregnancy, leading to renewed calls for restrictions on the number of embryos implanted during IVF....[Read More]

First clinical grade, 'gold standard' stem cells created

The world's first 'clinical grade' human embryonic stem cells have been donated to the UK Stem Cell Bank (UKSCB). The high quality cell lines are expected to become the gold standard for developing new cell-based therapies for serious medical conditions, including spinal cord injuries...[Read More]

Pioneering clinical trial using cardiac stem cells shows early promise

The world's first clinical trial using patients' own cardiac stem cells to repair heart damage has produced surprising results. The preliminary trial was designed simply to test the safety of the procedure, but doctors observed an unexpected improvement in heart function in patients receiving the treatment...[Read More]

Gene therapy used in attempt to halt blindness

A British man has become the first person to receive an advanced gene therapy treatment in a bid to save his sight. Jonathan Wyatt, aged 63, is the first of 12 patients to have the experimental procedure to try and halt the progression of his genetic eye disorder, choroideraemia. While he still has some sight, if left untreated, he would eventually become blind...[Read More]

Obese women may be denied IVF treatment by Canadian clinic

Doctors in Canada will consider a policy to withhold IVF to obese women at a national meeting of fertility experts this week....[Read More]

Nerve cells generated from Parkinson's patient

UK scientists have, for the first time, generated live nerve cells from a patient with a rapidly progressing form of Parkinson's disease...[Read More]

Cochrane review finds little evidence aspirin affects IVF

There is insufficient evidence to suggest that taking aspirin during IVF increases a woman's chances of conceiving, according to the latest Cochrane Systematic Review...[Read More]

Gene linked to early onset stroke uncovered

US scientists have identified a gene that may increase the risk of an early onset of stroke. They analysed the genomes of 14 Amish individuals affected by stroke and found a mutation in the SAMHD1 gene that was associated with the brain condition....[Read More]

Prostate cancer genetic test could prevent surgery, say researchers

A genetic screening test could help doctors to identify men with the most aggressive types of prostate cancer, UK scientists believe. The test could save men with milder forms of the disease from unnecessary surgery and its potentially serious side effects...[Read More]