(March 17, 2008 - Insidermedicine) From Sweden - Researchers have identified 37 genes in mice that lower cholesterol and reduce the chance of plaque formation which is a risk factor for the development of heart disease and stroke. While much of clinical medicine focuses on identifying and stabilizing plaque, this new finding may make it possible to prevent plaque formation before it accumulates.

From Romania - An isolated population from the mountainous Northern regions of Romania may provide a genetic clue to the development of vitiligo, a skin disorder causing loss of pigment. In a study of over 1600 residents from this area, where inbreeding is common, the rate of vitiligo was noted to be 20 times that of neighboring regions. It is believed that an environmental trigger is also important in genetically susceptible individuals.

And finally, from Pennsylvania - Researchers studied over 700 morbidly obese patients, whose average BMI was 51, to determine if genetic mutations played a role in those who failed weight loss surgery. The results showed that those with 2 copies of two common single nucleotide polymorphisms that are associated with obesity were more likely to regain weight.

For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Essie Heinrich.