(December 7 - Insidermedicine)

From Cambridge (UK) - According to a report published in the journal Nature, genetic mutations, known as copy number variants (where sections of DNA are deleted or duplicated), have been identified as a cause of severe childhood obesity. The researchers examining 300 severely obese children found that some of these children were missing sections of chromosome 16. They believe that a specific gene on this chromosome, SH2B1, plays a role in regulating weight and blood sugar.

From California - Researchers have found a compound that may restore some lung function in those who suffer from cystic fibrosis, according to a report published in the online edition of Nature Chemical Biology. The drug suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), originally used to treat lymphoma, was able to restore 28% of normal lung cell function in cells taken from cystic fibrosis patients. While further research is necessary, this may one day ease the symptoms and improve the quality of life of those who suffer from cystic fibrosis.

And finally, from Hamilton - A more convenient oral medication for those with the clotting disorder venous thromboembolism may soon be available. VTE is usually treated with the blood thinner warfarin, which requires patients to carefully watch their diet and has known interactions with other drugs. According to a new report published online by The New England Journal of Medicine, dabigatran etexilate is as safe and effective as warfarin, without the need for such careful monitoring or dose adjustment.