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Science News for April 19, 2007


Why cisplatin kills breast cancer cells when other drugs fail

Triple-negative breast cancer cells are sensitive to cisplatin due to increased expression of delta-Np63 and TAp73 proteins. Cisplatin releases TAp73 from delta-Np63, leading to cell death. This study suggests using cisplatin as an early treatment option for individuals with triple-negative breast cancer.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 19, 2007

Morphine kills the pain, not the patient

A recent study found that morphine's effectiveness in pain relief does not correlate with patient survival time. In fact, patients with no opioid experience are at risk of respiratory depression, while those with moderate-to-severe chronic pain are not. This challenges the common misconception that morphine is deadly.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 19, 2007

JCI table of contents -- April 19, 2007

Triple-negative breast cancer cells are sensitive to cisplatin, a common chemotherapeutic drug that can be effective in treating the disease. Researchers also found that delta-Np63 and TAp73 proteins play a crucial role in mediating chemosensitivity to cisplatin.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 19, 2007

2-protein team would be lost without each other

A team of scientists has discovered a key mechanism by which plant proteins, Scarecrow and Short-root, regulate water and nutrient uptake in plants. This complex system ensures that plants can control the amount of water and nutrients they take in through their roots, enabling them to thrive in various environments.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateApr 19, 2007

Why some aphids can't stand the heat

Researchers found that a single gene in symbiotic bacteria determines aphid thermal tolerance. The gene's mutation affects heat-shock protein production, leading to reduced reproduction and survival in hot conditions. This discovery highlights the critical role of symbiotic bacteria in insect ecology.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 19, 2007

Molecular signature may identify cisplatin-sensitive breast tumors

Researchers at MGH Cancer Center have discovered a molecular pathway underlying sensitivity to cisplatin in triple-negative breast cancers. The study found that p63 and p73 expression levels can predict cisplatin therapy effectiveness, leading to the design of a clinical trial for patients with advanced triple-negative breast cancer.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 19, 2007