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Science News for December 31, 2007


Making sense of antisense microRNAs

Research reveals antisense transcription of the Hox miRNA locus generates a novel miRNA precursor, mir-iab-8, which represses Hox gene targets, resulting in homeotic phenotypes. Additional antisense miRNAs identified in Drosophila and mammals may contribute to diversification of miRNA function.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 31, 2007

Lack of deep sleep may increase risk of type 2 diabetes

A recent study found that suppressing slow-wave sleep in healthy young adults significantly decreases their ability to regulate blood-sugar levels. After only three nights of selective slow-wave sleep suppression, subjects became less sensitive to insulin, resulting in reduced tolerance to glucose and increased risk for type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 31, 2007

Some antipsychotic drugs may be missing their mark

Researchers at Ohio State University Medical Center found that serotonin and synthetic hallucinogens trigger different chemical pathways in brain cells, leading to important implications for drug development. The study's findings suggest that screening agents must also determine if the agent signals through beta-arrestin.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 31, 2007

AGU journal highlights -- Dec. 31, 2007

Researchers isolated the signal of ocean global warming by analyzing historical temperature records. Volcanic loading in Hawaii triggered earthquakes with divergent mechanisms. Climate scientists found anticorrelated precipitation patterns between China and Brazil, suggesting oceanic circulation triggers abrupt climate events.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 31, 2007