Researchers have discovered a group of genes that lead to some of the most common birth defects in humans. The defects range from heart problems to cleft palates (the roof of the mouth that also forms the floor of the nasal cavity). John Burn, professor of clinical genetics at the University of New Castle, UK, says that scientists are studying 17 genes to find out which of them cause the problem. For this purpose, they are targeting a gene called 'Tuple', a form of which is found in humans, mice, and yeast used to brew beer. This gene plays a vital role in the formation of the spinal cord. The gene instructs cells in the "neural crest" - formed after the spinal tube closes - to migrate. After reaching a new site, these migrant cells form important parts of the heart and the thymus gland that is a crucial part of the immune system. The discovery could help prevent and even cure spinal bifida (a spinal cord defect) in women for whom folic acid does not work
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