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Science News for February 10, 2003


The war against anti-aging medicine

The biogerontological community is at war with anti-aging medicine, threatening the status and funding of their own research. Binstock argues that this campaign may inadvertently undermine their own legitimacy and research support by blurring public understanding of the difference between their work and pseudoscientific products.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateFeb 10, 2003

Study shows how eye cells die when exposed to lead

Researchers found that low-level lead exposure during development in mice injures and kills rod-shaped photoreceptor cells, a crucial component of human vision. The study suggests possible treatments using an anti-death protein called Bcl-xL to prevent cell death in eye disorders.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2003

Jefferson scientists find calcium is key to slowing colorectal cancer growth

Scientists at Thomas Jefferson University found that a bacterial toxin opens a cellular door, allowing calcium to flow into tumor cells, which slows cell division and may lead to new methods of treating colorectal cancer. The discovery could also enable the use of the toxin as an intravenous infusion to treat metastatic tumors.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2003

Mayo Clinic study shows loss of mental, functional abilities

Researchers discovered that many nonagenarians (people 90-99 years old) are free of Alzheimer's disease or dementia, with some performing in the superior range on cognitive tests. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) also exists in this age group, but features similar characteristics to those seen in younger individuals.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 10, 2003