A team of scientists discovered a special protein that encases copper to transport it through the cell and deliver it to specific enzymes. The finding provides clues to toxic mechanisms of other metals and rare diseases related to copper metabolism.
Researchers at UC Irvine have identified a gene associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia and manic-depressive illness. The gene encodes a potassium ion channel protein that controls electrical activity in nerves, and its altered function may contribute to brain behavior changes.
Cargo ships powered by diesel engines are among the world's highest polluting combustion sources per ton of fuel consumed. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has implemented new regulations to address the issue, but experts warn that a measurable reduction in nitrogen emissions will not occur for many years.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have used glowing jellyfish protein to study how cells transform from embryos to larvae in fruit flies. The studies shed light on how cells cinch shut during dorsal closure, a process comparable to neural tube closure in developing mammalian fetuses.
Researchers have discovered that saliva is a reliable source of genetic material for DNA screening, eliminating the need for blood samples and associated risks. This breakthrough could make genetic testing more accessible to populations previously outside the medical mainstream.
A new X-ray technique called defraction-enhanced imaging (DEI) produces sharper images of breast tissue, potentially diagnosing tumors earlier and reducing cancer deaths. The method uses a single-energy X-ray source to reduce scatter and improve contrast, highlighting the edges of structures in cancerous tumors.
Targeted alpha-particle therapy using Bismuth-213 has shown very encouraging results in leukemia patients, with no significant uptake outside the target areas. The therapy appears safe and feasible, with high linear energy transfer and reduced damage to normal tissue.
Researchers found that cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs) can recognize and target different HIV strains, suggesting a potential universal vaccine. CTLs play a key role in the immune response against HIV, with high levels seen in long-term nonprogressors and individuals who remain uninfected despite multiple exposures.
A survey by Purdue University professor Glenn Sparks found that TV exposure can influence beliefs in paranormal phenomena, but only in 10% of cases. The study suggests that people tend to rely on personal experiences rather than media when they have no such experiences.
Researchers successfully transferred a normal human beta globin gene into mice bone marrow cells, achieving long-term expression and high levels of production. This breakthrough holds promise for the treatment of sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia.