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Genetics could impact on the body’s immune response to viral infections
New research has emerged suggesting genetic factors may affect the body’s immune system. Environmental factors have historically been regarded more important than genes in a healthy immune system, according to Associate Professor John Miles of the Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine at James Cook University, Cairns. “[Scientists thought] it didn’t matter so much…
Read MorePsoriasis skin conditions could soon be relieved with therapies using newly discovered protein
A protein could hold the answer to helpful therapies for skin problems such as psoriasis, a chronic skin disease affecting more than 100 million people globally. The protein is a fragment of a bigger molecule, JARID2, which researchers previously believed only existed in the developing embryo where its role is to coordinate the formation of…
Read MoreMy first taste of the world of PR – Ben Pike
Growing up, I was always fascinated by how things work, so a Biology degree at the University of Essex seemed like a good fit for me. At the time, I didn’t completely understand the various roles and careers that a science degree could lead to. When I chose to relocate from the UK to Australia,…
Read MorePowder to the people: Multinational Pharma defending allegations it knew of asbetos contaminants
Multinational pharmaceutical company, Johnson and Johnson (J&J) has been forced to rebut allegations of selling its baby powder with knowledge of trace carcinogenic asbestos contaminants, following a damning article published by Reuters last week. Investigations led by the international news agency alleged the company was aware of trace elements of cancer-causing asbestos in its products…
Read MoreFish oil helping to guard against allergies
Fish oil supplementation during childhood may offer a protective effect against allergies for children that reside within heavily polluted areas. New Australian research out of the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, has released the finding of a ground-breaking study that paves the way forward for parents to safeguard their children against common childhood allergies.…
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