Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for August 20, 2003


How AIDS destroys immunity

Researchers found that the HIV vpr gene exploits the normal repair process of cells to stop vital white blood cells from replicating, thus disabling the immune system. The study suggests a possible treatment for AIDS-related immune-system damage using medicines that prevent the human ATR gene from being activated by HIV's vpr gene.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 20, 2003

Salk News: Social behavior genes

A study at the Salk Institute found that children with Williams syndrome exhibit unique social behavior patterns, including high scores on tests measuring social interactions. Genetic screening revealed that one gene may be responsible for this hyper-sociability in some individuals, suggesting a potential genetic link to the disorder.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Genetics·DateAug 20, 2003