As part of the human genome project, College researchers are mapping the rat genome as another tool to locate human genes and identify disease-causing genes. Rats are 90 percent similar to humans at a genetic coding level and provide a useful model for deciphering the genetic makeup of humans. The rat genome project helps scientists define gene function and determine how genes interplay with each other and the environment to produce disease. Howard J. Jacob, PhD, has used the rat genome for genetic research on diabetes, blood disorders, hypertension, kidney failure and a host of other diseases and ailments. Dr. Jacob is the Warren P. Knowles Professor and Director of the Human and Molecular Genetics Center.
Earlier diagnosis means patients can benefit from therapy to slow disease progression.
Currently, Alzheimer s is diagnosed by evaluation of memory and other cognitive abilities. Shi-Jiang Li, PhD, and Piero G. Antuono, MD, developed and patented an fMRI technique that determines a biological change in the brains of people who have, or are at risk for, Alzheimer s. Their approach measures the blood oxygen level in the brain, which provides an index of how well the brain cells function and communicate with each other. A change in this index over time may herald the first signs of the disease. Using this technique, they were able to differentiate the normal elderly from elderly with or at risk of Alzheimer s.