Structural modifications of the DNA, where large or small DNA segments change direction, are duplicated or completely lost, are among the most common genetic alterations. In a recent study led from IGP, the researchers compared identical (monozygotic) twins of different age and could show that this type of acquired DNA aberrations are more common in older people. Very large rearrangements, for instance the loss of a significant part of a chromosome, were only present in the elderly. The results may in part explain why the immune system is impaired with age

Researchers at IGP are working in a joint project with the company Halo Genomics to identify mutations that cause colon cancer. Using a new analysis technique they could examine a large number of samples in a very short time, improving productivity up to ten fold compared to conventional approaches. The method could increase the possibilities of selecting the best therapy for cancer patients in the future.

During the decoding of the genes in a cell, RNA molecules are formed as an intermediate step. The RNA molecules are subsequently processed and then translated into proteins. In a recent study IGP researchers have shown that during embryo development the RNA molecules are not processed to the same degree as in the fully developed brain. The scientists also discovered that the processing occurs immediately after the RNA molecules have been formed. This process has previously not been possible to study directly in tissues samples and the results provide important knowledge for understanding the regulatory mechanisms for genes involved in brain development.