Genes and the body

How genes work in the body and how they go wrong in disease. Genes are fundamental to human biology, but what do they do and how do they interact with the environment?

Latest

Genetic variants linked to increased risk of common gynaecological disease

Research published today identifies two genetic variants that increase the risk of developing endometriosis, a common gynaecological disease. The study provides clues to the origin of this often very painful condition, which has a significant impact on the quality of life of sufferers. 13/11/10 From Genes and disease

Study shows great genetic variation in pancreatic cancer

A new study published recently in 'Nature' reveals in detail the complexity of genetic variation found in pancreatic cancer cells. The ability to identify and understand the early mutations involved with the disease may lead to the discovery of new drug targets. 09/11/10 From Genes and disease

Gene discovery supports link between handedness and language-related disorders

Scientists at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, have identified a genetic variant which influences whether a person with dyslexia is more skilled with either the left or right hand. The finding identifies a novel gene for handedness and provides the first genetic evidence to support a link between handedness and a language-related disorder. 05/11/10 From How the body works

Scientists identify four genetic variants linked to risk of early menopause

Research suggests that four common genetic variants may have a significant impact on the odds of having early menopause. 18/10/10 From How the body works

How the body works The genome contains all the genes required to build and maintain the body. These processes are gradually being understood, often through research on other organisms.		Human variation Studies of genetic differences between people and populations can shed light on what makes us individual and on the history and evolution of humans as a species.

Genes and disease Genes can have a powerful impact on our health, sometimes directly - through chromosome or single gene disorders - or by influencing our susceptibility to disease.		Nature and nurture Are we the product of our genes or of the environment that surrounds us? Undoubtedly both.