News Genetics

A common drug may help treat a rare genetic disease

Ibuprofen counters problems caused by mutations in the MAN1B1 gene, fruit fly tests show

Eight pills have spilled out of a knocked over bottle and more are visible inside.

Ibuprofen, a common pain reliever, may relieve symptoms of a very rare genetic disease.

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By Tina Hesman Saey

DENVER — A drug found in almost every medicine cabinet may be a treatment for a rare genetic disease.

Ibuprofen may help children with mutations in a gene called MAN1B1, a study in fruit flies suggests. Geneticist Clement Chow of the University of Utah in Salt Lake City reported the results November 6 at the American Society of Human Genetics annual meeting.