ScienceDaily (Jan. 13, 2008) — A new study has shown promising results in fighting a severe genetic disorder which can create tumours throughout the body

Advances in genetic knowledge have transformed our understanding of disease in recent years. We now know which genes are linked to a wide variety of conditions. However, so far, very few cures and treatments have developed as a result of this knowledge.

Now a UK study led by researchers at Cardiff University suggests that a chemical first found on Easter Island could treat the genetic disorder tuberous sclerosis.

Tuberous sclerosis is an inherited disease affecting children and adults which causes tumours to grow in many of the organs of the body. Its consequences can include autism and epilepsy through its effects on the brain. A team from the Institute of Medical Genetics at Cardiff University's School of Medicine was the first to identify the genes linked with the disease -- TSC1 and TSC2.


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