For the first time in North America, scientists have performed a gene-editing surgery to permanently alter a man’s DNA in an attempt to cure a currently untreatable disease. Brian Madeux, 44, of Oakland, CA has a very rare disease known as Hunter syndrome. This disease is an inherited genetic disorder caused by a missing or malfunctioning enzyme. Without certain enzymes, the body struggles to break down complex molecules, and the buildup of these molecules can eventually cause permanent damage to appearance, mental development, and organ function.

Through an IV tube, Brain received billions of copies of a corrective gene, and a genetic tool to cut his DNA in a specific spot. Once the DNA has been cut, the new genes slip into place and direct cells to start making the enzyme lacked by the patient. This type of editing is called “zinc finger nucleases.” “We cut your DNA, open it up, insert a gene, stitch it back up. Invisible mending. It becomes part of your DNA and is there for the rest of your life,” explains Dr. Sandy Macrae, the president of Sangamo Therapeutics. Sandy’s company is testing this method for the treatment of hemophilia and two other metabolic diseases.

This method of disease treatment is far from perfect; it is possible that the virus carrying the new genes into the body could trigger an immune system attack. The insertion of new genes could also have a negative effect on existing ones. Methods currently being tested in the US have built-in genetic safeguards that prevent these gene changes from being passed on to future generations.

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Exercise is a big part of living a physically healthy life, but could regular cardio and weight training also provide a positive boost to your mental attitude? Researchers have gathered evidence that suggests that people experiencing mental health issues want to exercise more, and want their doctors’ help to use physical activity to relieve their anxiety.

In a collaboration between Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, a survey of 295 patients currently receiving treatment at a mental health clinic was conducted to gather information about their attitudes towards exercise. Of this group, 85% reported that they would like to exercise more, and 80% believed that exercising improved their mood and helped to calm their anxiety. More than 50% of those surveyed also stated that their mood limited their ability to exercise, providing insight into a way therapists and physicians can better support their patients.

“Physical activity has been shown to be effective in alleviating mild to moderate depression and anxiety. Current physical activity guidelines advise at least 30 minutes, five days a week to promote mental and physical health, yet many of those surveyed weren’t meeting these recommendations,” says Carol Janney, lead author of the study and an assistant professor of epidemiology at Michigan State.

In the future, therapists and psychiatrists may provide prescriptions for exercise, or enlist the help of personal trainers to provide their patients with optimal treatments for their mental health.

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Canada is currently the only industrialized country that provides universal health care without providing universal coverage for prescription medications. Previous research suggests that 10% of Canadians do not take recommended medications for their conditions because of the high cost. If Canada were to implement a program with universal prescription medication coverage, it could save Canadians around $4.2 billion dollars annually.

“Not only will a national pharma care plan cost less than Canadians are currently spending, it will ensure better coverage so that every Canadian has access to the medications they need,” says Dr. Danyaal Raza, the chair of Canadian Doctors for Medicare. Raza and the CDR believe the way medications are covered fragments purchasing power, and negatively affects price negotiation with drug companies.

The Liberal government has committed to reducing the price of medications, ut has never promised a move to a universal coverage system. As of now there are upwards of 100 pharma care programs in Canada run by both provincial and federal governments. Have one system would not only save Canadians money for necessary drugs, but also reduce administration costs as well. The government is certainly aware of this possible improvement to our health system, and the development of a national pharma care program is being investigated by the House standing committee on health.

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