Pharma News

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.

The rapid evolution of HIV, which has allowed the virus to develop resistance to patients' immunity, is at the same time slowing the virus's ability to cause AIDS, according to a new research. The study also suggested that people infected by HIV are likely to progress to AIDS more slowly because of widespread access to antiretroviral therapy (ART).

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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.

The Union Minister for health & Family Welfare, Shri J P Nadda has termed the Budget 2015-2016 announced by the Finance Minister today as balanced, progressive, pragmatic and pro-people. He said that the budget will lead to all around social and economic development that is inclusive and outcome oriented. The Health Minister has thanked the Hon. Prime Minister and the Finance Minister for the balanced and people-oriented Budget.

Researchers are developing a new drug that may prevent the onset of diabetes and reverse the symptoms of the disease.

Scientists have managed to prolong the lifespan of flies by up to 60 per cent after activating a gene which destroys unhealthy cells, an advance which may help develop new anti-ageing treatments for humans.