Gene responsible for lactose intolerance identified US and Finnish scientists have discovered the gene that is responsible for lactose intolerance in adults. All babies are born with the ability to synthesise lactase, an enzyme required to digest the natural sugar found in milk. However, this ability is lost in early childhood in more than 90% of Asians who then become lactose intolerant. Lactose intolerant individuals are unable to eat large quantities of dairy products, an important source of calcium. The discovery is the first step in more accurate diagnosis and understanding of the condition.


Polyphenols in wine, tea and chocolate The recognised health benefits of the anti-oxidant polyphenols is one of the driving principles behind recommendations to eat at least five portions per day of fruit and vegetables. However, a series of studies in 2001 have revealed new evidence for the health benefits for specific polyphenols found in tea (both green and black), red wine andchocolate. Polyphenols are a broad group of compounds found in most plants. However, their bioavailability and potency in modifying metabolic processes such as platelet aggregation, neutralising free radicals and lipoprotein oxidation vary enormously. Improved research methods are revealing more about how these compounds work, and suggest that the impact of polypheonls found in these foods and beverages may have previously been underestimated.


United Nations Development Programme Report on Biotechnology The Human Development Report 2001 commissioned by the United Nations Development Programme urges developed countries to put aside their fears of genetically modified organisms and help poorer nations unlock the potentials of biotechnology. “Biotechnology offers the best ‘tool of choice’ for marginal ecological zones, left behind by the green revolution but home to more than half of the world’s poorest people,” The report states that regulated planting of biotech crops could reduce malnutrition and starvation in developing countries. And that the benefits of GM crops to developing countries are likely to outweigh their risks if their use is properly controlled.