Researchers have identified a network of genes that appear to work together in determining alcohol dependence. By comparing patterns of genetic code from the brain tissue of alcoholics and nonalcoholics, researchers discovered a particular set of genes co-expressed together in the individuals who had consumed the most alcohol.

Human ancestors began evolving the ability to digest alcohol about 10 million years ago, researchers say. The study found that a single genetic mutation 10 million years ago endowed human ancestors with an enhanced ability to break down ethanol.

Vitamin D supplements can reduce chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) flare-ups by over 40 per cent in patients with a vitamin D deficiency, according to a new research. Researchers from Queen Mary University of London conducted a randomised trial on 240 patients with COPD in and around London. Half of the patients (122) received vitamin D supplements and the other half (118) received an equivalent placebo.

Researchers have found that the colonisation of the gut by certain types of bacteria may lead to immune responses later in life that are linked to autoimmune disease. Researchers in mice studies found that increases in the levels of segmented filamentous bacteria can trigger changes in the lymphoid tissue of the mouse gut that result in the production of antibodies that attack components of the cell nucleus.