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The discovery of a gene associated with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) was only the first step toward understanding the disease. Now researchers are determining what the gene' product normally does (pages 359–364).
The realization that a mutation in a haemoglobin gene is at the root of sickle cell anaemia and the discovery of an effective treatment are separated by years. But sickle cell research is a model for how different paths of inquiry can come together with good result.
Compounds designed to inhibit the HIV-1 protease are in final stages of testing. But significant questions about supply and efficacy need to be answered.
A previously undescribed tissue connection may provide an explanation for some forms of tension headache. It also proves that common beliefs aboutanatomical research reaching its limits are unfounded.
Genetic testing for cancer predisposition is available now, but demand for testing is difficult to predict given the complex issues faced by candidates for testing.
The generation of cytotoxic T lymphocyte response may be an essential part of an effective immune response to HIV infection. It may also do more harm than good (pages 330–336).
