GENE DISCOVERY:Researchers at the universities of Edinburgh and Glasgow have discovered that the re-activation of a single gene in mice can switch off symptoms of the complex neurological disorder Rett Syndrome.
The condition, which mainly affects girls, leaves children with multiple disabilities including walking and speech difficulties and breathing irregularities. The research focused on the MECP2 gene which causes the condition to develop.
When the gene was activated in mice born with the MECP2 switched off, breathing and mobility problems stopped.
CHARITY WALK:Kilkenny hurler DJ Carey has called for walkers throughout Ireland to join him on this year's Irish Heart Foundation (IHF) overseas walk in Kerala, India. The walk, the 18th of its kind run by the IHF, will run from October 12th to 14th. Each participant is expected to raise €5,400. See www.irishheart.ie for full details or tel: 01 6685001.
DELVE INTO DREAMS:Psychotherapist Paul Bradley will lead a seminar on dream interpretation on February 27th at 8pm in the Glenroyal Hotel, Maynooth, Co Kildare. Many types of dreams, including recurring, vivid dreams and nightmares, will be discussed as will the symbolism of dreaming about being chased, flying or losing your teeth. Bradley has a diploma in Jungian psychotherapy, which emphasises the importance of dream analysis. Admission is €20. Tel: 087 9598840.
CANCER AWARENESS:Single men aged 35-44 and people on low incomes are less aware of cancer-prevention messages, according to new research. The study of more than 1,300 people also found that those most knowledgeable about cancer warning signs were well-educated, married women aged 45-54. The study also found that while television advertising was the best way of providing cancer-prevention information, too much of it led to people ignoring it. The study was carried out by the University of Ulster and funded by the Ulster Cancer Foundation.
sthompson@irish-times.ie