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Science News for July 15, 2003


Other highlights of the July 16 JNCI

Research highlights the link between high animal fat intake and increased breast cancer risk, as well as the benefits of gynecologic surgeries in reducing ovarian cancer risk. Protein overexpression is also linked to esophageal cancer development, suggesting a potential target for prevention.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 15, 2003

An aspirin a day keeps Staphylococcus aureus away

Treatment with salicylic acid (SAL) induces activation of the S. aureus stress response gene sigB, downregulating virulence factors and reducing ability to adhere to host cells. This finding represents a new prospect for using aspirin as an adjunct therapy to combat Staphylococcus aureus infections.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 15, 2003

Rutgers scientists post a genetic road map to sources of disease

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a genetic road map that identifies sources of disease by analyzing single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The map, which is the first of its kind, provides detailed information on gene interactions and will enable scientists to conduct large-scale genotyping with greater efficiency.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 15, 2003

JCI table of contents, July 15, 2003

Salicylic acid has been shown to downregulate two key genes in Staphylococcus aureus, leading to reduced virulence and ability to adhere to host cells. Meanwhile, osteopontin has been found to play a critical role in the development of rheumatoid arthritis by facilitating cell adhesion and immune response modulation.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 15, 2003

Genetics a factor in PSA levels

A new study identified three genetic variants associated with a 30% increase in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. The discovery could lead to more accurate testing and fewer unnecessary biopsies, particularly for black men who are at higher risk of developing prostate cancer.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 15, 2003

Rethinking how the brain sees visual features

Duke University researchers found that individual clusters in the visual cortex do not specialize in recognizing specific combinations of stimulus features. Instead, they respond to a broad range of stimulus combinations predicted by spatial and temporal properties of the visual stimulus.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateJul 15, 2003

Stem cells found to home toward the injured liver

Researchers have discovered that hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) migrate selectively to injured liver tissue through the expression of SDF-1 and CXCR4. This selective homing mechanism may serve as a target for future therapeutic protocols to improve liver regeneration and transplantation outcomes.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 15, 2003