Tag

Spina Bifida

All articles tagged with #spina bifida

"The Genetic Mutation That Led to Human Tail Loss 25 Million Years Ago"
science1 year ago

"The Genetic Mutation That Led to Human Tail Loss 25 Million Years Ago"

A new study suggests that a single genetic tweak 25 million years ago caused humans to lose their tails, allowing for upright walking but also leading to birth defects like spina bifida. The tweak involved the insertion of Alu elements near the TBXT gene, preventing tail growth. While the loss of the tail may have provided evolutionary advantages, it also resulted in neural tube defects. The study sheds light on the genetic basis of tail loss in humans and its potential consequences.

"Georgia Girl with Spina Bifida Bonds with Turtle with Similar Condition"
human-interest2 years ago

"Georgia Girl with Spina Bifida Bonds with Turtle with Similar Condition"

A 12-year-old girl with spina bifida, Kendall Barfield, virtually adopted a sea turtle named Bandit who shares a similar condition, and finally got to meet her in person at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Bandit, a juvenile green sea turtle, was injured in a boat accident, leaving her partially paralyzed, but she is thriving with the center's care. Kendall's mother, Danielle, praised the center's work and runs an online group for people affected by spina bifida. Kendall aspires to work with animals in the future and hopes to be seen for who she is on the inside, not just her condition.

"Parents' Experiences: Fetal Surgery While Pregnant"
health2 years ago

"Parents' Experiences: Fetal Surgery While Pregnant"

Two families share their emotional experiences of undergoing fetal surgery while pregnant to treat conditions such as spina bifida, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, and hydrops fetalis. Fetal surgery is a procedure performed on an unborn baby in utero and can be lifesaving in certain cases. The surgery varies depending on the condition, ranging from minimally invasive procedures to more complex open repairs. While there are risks involved, such as preterm birth, the families express gratitude for the surgeries that have given their children a chance at a better quality of life.