Scientists have uncovered more genetic links to a number of well known diseases, as well as new connections to two health conditions that aren't as well understood.
It's those discoveries that may pack the biggest punch for patients. Among the latest batch of genetic discoveries are new genes for heart disease and new insight into genes linked to macular degeneration.
The first gene links to two common but poorly understood and often questioned conditions, a severe form of premenstrual syndrome called PMDD, and the even more common restless leg syndrome were also discovered.
The hallmark symptom of restless leg syndrome is an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, especially at night. NBC reporter Jaye Watson now knows she can blame a gene for the nighttime kick-fest."It's that feeling in my legs, the unbearable need to move them, and it starts, like that and it starts like every 20 seconds," explained Watson.
Emory University's Dr. David Rye, also a restless leg suffer, helped find the connection.A genetic link can work wonders at validating conditions like PMDD and RLS. It's an endorsement that brings peace of mind for patients,and the potential to revolutionize treatment.
