Released on = April 3, 2007, 10:49 pm

Press Release Author = Dr.Dheeraj

Industry = Healthcare

Press Release Summary = Researchers studying the causes of facial clefts have
identified a handful of new genetic mutations linked to these birth defects in a
step that might help lead to a test to predict a family\'s risk

Press Release Body = Researchers studying the causes of facial clefts have
identified a handful of new genetic mutations linked to these birth defects in a
step that might help lead to a test to predict a family\'s risk.

They found seven mutations related to genes associated with fetal facial
development. The researchers said these mutations might account for 5 percent of
cleft lip and palate cases that are not associated with other syndromes or birth
defects.

In this study DNA of 184 persons having cleft lip and cleft palate was compared with
DNA of people not having clefts.

The study adds to the understanding of the causes of these birth defects and might
help doctors predict a family\'s risk of having children with the condition, the
researchers said.

Cleft lip and cleft palate are birth defects affecting the upper lip and the roof
of the mouth, and may be manifested as anything from a small notch in the lip to a
complete groove running into the roof of the mouth and nose. These birth defects
occur when tissues that form the lip and palate do not join as they should early in
a fetus\'s development.

These facial clefts, seen in about one of every 700 live births worldwide, are
thought to have multiple causes. They can appear in conjunction with other syndromes
or birth defects or on their own - so-called non-syndromic facial clefts. They can
necessitate expensive medical treatment and are associated with shorter life span.
There is no diagnostic test right now for non-syndromic cleft lip and palate.

Women who take folic acid in its natural form or supplements can lower the risk of
having baby with cleft lip and cleft palate.Folic acid, a B vitamin, already was
known to cut the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Folic acid is
found in leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, beans and whole grains, can also be taken
as a vitamin supplement, and is added to certain fortified foods.

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