(Press-News.org) MEDELLÍN, Colombia, November 14, 2024 - In a breakthrough that bridges the gap between neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration, Dr. Natalia Acosta-Baena has identified a novel genetic syndrome that reshapes our understanding of brain disorders. Her research, featured in the latest Genomic Press Interview, reveals how a single gene involved in neuronal transport can influence both brain development and degeneration.
Dr. Acosta-Baena's discovery of a SPAG9 variant's role in both processes challenges the traditional view that neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegeneration operate through distinct pathways. This finding emerges from her work at the University of Antioquia's Neurosciences Group, where she combines clinical expertise with advanced genetic research.
"Neurodevelopmental genetics is a field where we only see the tip of the iceberg," says Dr. Acosta-Baena. "When we manage to understand the relationship between genetic networks, we will be able to decipher neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration."
Her journey to this discovery began with contributions to characterizing the world's largest population affected by autosomal dominant genetic Alzheimer's disease (mutation E280A in PSEN1). This foundational work established new parameters for biomarker studies and clinical trial design in genetic neurodegeneration.
Dr. Acosta-Baena's research raises intriguing questions about the interconnected nature of brain development and aging. Could other transport proteins play similar dual roles? How might this understanding reshape therapeutic approaches for both neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegenerative diseases?
"The greatest impact I hope to achieve with my research is to foster a collaborative effort that reaches individuals who are sick and their caregivers," Dr. Acosta-Baena explains. "I envision a future where our knowledge empowers people and influences health policies towards true prevention."
Beyond the laboratory, Dr. Acosta-Baena maintains an active clinical practice, drawing inspiration from rare disease presentations to fuel new research questions. Her approach combines rigorous scientific methodology with a deep appreciation for human connection, influenced by her love of Latin American literature and Colombia's mountain landscapes.
The implications of Dr. Acosta-Baena's work extend beyond immediate clinical applications. Her research suggests potential new therapeutic targets that could benefit both developmental disorders and age-related neurodegeneration. The discovery also raises questions about how genetic networks might be manipulated to prevent or delay the onset of neurological conditions.
Dr. Acosta-Baena’s Genomic Press interview is part of a larger series that highlights the people behind today’s most influential scientific ideas. Each interview in the series offers a blend of cutting-edge research and personal reflections, providing readers with a comprehensive view of the scientists shaping the future. By combining a focus on professional achievements with personal insights, this interview style invites a richer narrative that both engages and educates readers. This format provides an ideal starting point for profiles that delve into the scientist’s impact on the field, while also touching on broader human themes. More information on the research leaders and research rising stars featured by Genomic Press can be found in our website: https://genomicpress.com.
The full Genomic Press Interview, titled “Natalia Acosta-Baena: The genetic gap between neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration,” is available on 14 November 2024 in Genomic Psychiatry, offering readers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the thoughts and experiences of one of the most influential minds in neuroscience and neurobiology of brain disorders. The article is freely available online at https://url.genomicpress.com/yckpuu6k.
About Genomic Psychiatry – Genomic Psychiatry: Advancing Science from Genes to Society (ISSN: 2997-2388) represents a paradigm shift in genetics journals by interweaving advances in genomics and genetics with progress in all other areas of contemporary psychiatry. Genomic Psychiatry publishes peer-reviewed papers of the highest quality from any area within the continuum that goes from genes and molecules to neuroscience, clinical psychiatry, and public health.
END
Colombia's Dr. Natalia Acosta-Baena uncovers critical link between brain development and degeneration
Groundbreaking research revealed in exclusive Genomic Press Interview sheds new light on genetic pathways connecting neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegeneration
2024-11-14
[Attachments] See images for this press release:
ELSE PRESS RELEASES FROM THIS DATE:
How can we reduce adolescent pregnancies in low- and middle-income countries?
2024-11-14
Many young girls in low- and middle-income countries become pregnant early, which can be dangerous for them and for their babies. Studies show that girls who stay in school are less likely to get pregnant at a young age. Financial support can encourage girls to stay in school and delay pregnancy and marriage in some settings. However, a new large study from Zambia found that two years of financial support combined with comprehensive sexuality education and community dialogue meetings, moderately reduced ...
When sun protection begets malnutrition: vitamin D deficiency in Japanese women
2024-11-14
Vitamin D, an essential nutrient, is naturally produced through sun exposure and certain foods. However, excessive sunburn prevention measures are causing a severe problem of vitamin D deficiency, particularly among young women in Japan.
Since vitamin D deficiency is also related to pregnancy-induced hypertension and low birth weight in children, it is important to quickly identify those at high risk and provide appropriate health guidance. However, the method currently established for measuring serum vitamin D levels is expensive and ...
Cannabis use can cause chromosomal damage, increasing cancer risk and harming offspring
2024-11-14
Cannabis use causes cellular damage that increases the risk of highly cancerous tumours, according to a new paper published in the scientific journal Addiction Biology. The paper describes cannabis as a “genotoxic” substance because it damages a cell's genetic information, which can lead to DNA mutations, accelerated aging, and cancer. To make matters worse, this genotoxicity may be transmitted via damaged egg and sperm to the cannabis user’s offspring, making the risk of cannabis ...
Survey finds many Americans apply misguided and counterproductive advice to combat holiday weight gain
2024-11-14
Orlando, Fla - For those striving to maintain a healthy lifestyle, holiday celebrations can feel like a minefield of dietary pitfalls, bound to derail the progress you’ve made through diet and exercise the rest of the year. In fact, a new national survey by Orlando Health finds nearly two in five (39%) Americans worry about how much they eat over the holidays. The good news is that dietitians say there’s no need to feel guilty about a few holiday treats.
“Holidays come around once a year, and indulging in a few traditional foods and favorite recipes that may have a little extra ...
New study reveals half a century of change on Britain’s iconic limestone pavements
2024-11-14
Fifty years of change on iconic limestone pavements has revealed mixed fortunes for one of the most distinctive landscapes in the UK.
The landscapes - which will be familiar to visitors to the Yorkshire Dales and fans of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows film – have, in many places, seen reductions of specialist species and more common less desirable species become more abundant.
However, it is not all bad news as the picture is very mixed across the UK’s areas of limestone pavement with some areas increasing in plant biodiversity.
The ...
Green flight paths could unlock sustainable aviation, new research suggests
2024-11-14
‘Green flight paths’ between key global locations could help to fast-track fully decarbonised aviation, according to research led by an international team based at Heriot-Watt University in the United Kingdom and the American University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates.
The research, published in the in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s top international journal, Energy and Environmental Science, recommends that a small number of long-haul flights with high passenger volumes, ...
Community partners key to success of vaccine clinic focused on neurodevelopmental conditions
2024-11-14
A new paper shows how partnering with the community can lead to more inclusive health care, especially for individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities. The article, published this week in Pediatrics, details the success of a unique COVID-19 and flu vaccine clinic at the UC Davis MIND Institute.
The clinic team includes developmental-behavioral pediatricians, child life specialists, nurses, psychologists, social workers and staff trained to help families navigate health care. The goal is not only to administer vaccines, but to help patients build skills needed to successfully complete medical procedures for the rest of their lives.
Listening to ...
Low-carbon collaborative dual-layer optimization for energy station considering joint electricity and heat demand response
2024-11-14
In a significant step towards achieving the "Carbon Peaking and Carbon Neutrality" goals, researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing Institute of Technology, in collaboration with Hohai University, have developed a groundbreaking dual-layer optimization strategy for park-level integrated energy systems (PIES). This strategy, which integrates electricity and heat demand response, significantly boosts the economic efficiency and low-carbon operation ...
McMaster University researchers uncover potential treatment for rare genetic disorders
2024-11-14
Hamilton, ON, Nov. 14, 2024, In a groundbreaking study, researchers at McMaster University have identified a potential treatment for Sandhoff and Tay-Sachs diseases—two rare, often fatal lysosomal storage disorders that cause progressive damage to nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
After years of investigating the diseases’ underlying mechanisms, the research team has identified an existing FDA-approved drug that could significantly improve quality of life for affected patients and their families.
“Sandhoff and Tay-Sachs are devastating diseases,” ...
The return of protectionism: The impact of the Sino-US trade war
2024-11-14
Since 2018, Sino-US economic and trade relations have become increasingly tense. Between 2018 and 2019, the US imposed seven rounds of tariffs on China, to which China responded with retaliatory measures. The simple average tariff rates on US imports from China rose from 4.07% in January 2018 to 24.43% in December 2019, while the simple average tariff rates on Chinese imports from the US increased from 9.32% in January 2018 to 22.53% in December 2019 (see figure 1).
Consequently, the share of Chinese goods in US imports declined significantly — ...
LAST 30 PRESS RELEASES:
Aspects of marriage counseling may hold the key to depolarizing, unifying the country, study finds
With $2 million in new funding, Montana State research lab continues explorations into viruses and honeybee health
Scientists chip away at potato storage problems
Research update: Generating electricity from tacky tape
People’s acceptance of AI judgements on moral decisions: A study on justified defection
Wildfire smoke can carry toxins hundreds of kilometers, depositing grime on urban structures, surfaces: research
New study highlights AI’s potential to help doctors detect congenital heart defects
Your fridge uses tech from the 50’s, but scientists have an update
Archaeology: Ancient Greek and Roman cultures caused lead pollution in Aegean Sea region
Lead contamination in ancient Greece points to societal change
Antidepressant use before, during, and after pregnancy
Risk factors for and health status of socially isolated adults
Community racial and ethnic representation among physicians in US internal medicine residency programs
Salt and nutritional content of foods advertised during televised professional football games
KTU researcher on energy revolution: sustainability is still a work in process
Urgent action needed to keep Europe polio-free, warn heads of ECDC and WHO Europe
A new therapeutic target for a lethal form of heart failure: ALPK2
Optimism can boost saving, especially for lower-income individuals
Findings may lead to blood test to predict risk of postpartum depression
New insights on radical trapping in 12-phosphatetraphene uncovered
Grossman wins 2025 Transatlantic Alliance Award in Endocrinology
Girish N. Nadkarni, MD, MPH, CPH, named to leadership roles in AI and Digital Health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
A hearing aid for … your nose?
Borrowing nature’s blueprint: How scientists replicated bone marrow
Politically connected corporations received more exemptions from US tariffs on Chinese imports, study finds
Walk like a … gecko? Animal footpads inspire a polymer that sticks to ice
Role of barrier films in maintaining the stability of perovskite solar cells
New technology tracks dairy cows for improved health and productivity
Antibiotics of the future are prone to bacterial resistance
New ‘Matchless’ grass variety yields high seed count without need for field burning
[Press-News.org] Colombia's Dr. Natalia Acosta-Baena uncovers critical link between brain development and degenerationGroundbreaking research revealed in exclusive Genomic Press Interview sheds new light on genetic pathways connecting neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegeneration