Scientists have found that a special component in some people's blood provides them with natural protection against malaria. A recent study has demonstrated that a genetic variant named rs112233623-T reduces the activity of CCND3,

The definition of a “rare” disease is based on how often they occur in the population not by whether or not there is a genetic connection. Some rare diseases tend to run in families caused from a change in a single gene or in combinations of genes.

But they disagree on whether studying social genomics—elucidating any potential genetic contributions to behaviors ranging from mental illnesses to educational attainment to political affiliation—can help achieve this goal.

In response, Vermont lawmakers are considering a consumer protection bill that would regulate how genetic testing companies collect, use and share Vermonters’ data. An amended version of the bill was voted out of the House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development on Feb. 19.

Umbilical cord blood transplantation has transformed the treatment options for patients with blood cancers and other life-threatening hematologic disorders, particularly when matched donors are unavailable.

Sponsors believe the insurance industry should be banned from using genetic information to determine healthcare coverage.