Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for July 19, 2007


JCI table of contents: July 19, 2007

A study on mucins reveals their crucial role in protecting the gut from bacterial infection. In contrast, lupus research identifies shared signaling networks active in B cells from genetically distinct mouse models. Meanwhile, a new study shows that blocking ERK1/2 activation can prevent congenital heart defects in mice with Noonan syn...

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

Study links manic depression with brain tissue loss

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have found that people with bipolar disorder experience accelerated brain tissue loss, particularly in areas controlling memory, face recognition, and coordination. The study shows that repeated episodes of illness can lead to greater brain loss and decline in mental ability.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 19, 2007

Molecular detectors may refine cancer treatment

Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a new method to detect subtle differences in leukemia cells using molecular probes called aptamers. This technique has the potential to improve diagnosis and treatment for cancer patients by providing more precise and personalized care.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalClinical Chemistry·DateJul 19, 2007

Probing biology's dark matter

A new microfluidics device has enabled researchers to analyze a rare bacteria found in the human mouth and sequence over 1,000 genes from an unstudied group of bacteria, known as TM7. This breakthrough technology holds promise for advancing microbial ecology and discovering new species.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2007

Self-injury found to be common in high-school students

A new study suggests that non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a common occurrence among high school students, with nearly half of teens experiencing NSSI in the past year. The most common reasons for engaging in NSSI include regulating emotional states and managing situations.

SourceLifespan·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateJul 19, 2007

Alternative farming cleans up water

A study by University of Minnesota researchers found that alternative cropping systems reduced nitrate levels in surface and ground water by 41-62% compared to conventional farming practices. Increasing cropping system biodiversity can improve water quality.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJul 19, 2007

MIT IDs link between brain tumor proteins

MIT scientists have discovered a connection between two proteins found in brain tumors that could help treat glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most aggressive form of brain cancer. Attacking both EGFRvIII and c-Met simultaneously is more effective than targeting either protein alone, offering new hope for treating this deadly disease.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2007

Charting ever-changing genomes

Researchers developed a method to catalog genetic variations in Arabidopsis thaliana, revealing regions targeted by natural selection. The study found that one out of 10 genes is very different and many gene families were shaped by evolution. The data have been placed in a publicly accessible database.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 19, 2007

Mucins stand guard against gut infections

Researchers have discovered that cell surface mucin 1 (Muc1) is a key component of the gut's defense against bacterial infections. Mice infected with Campylobacter jejuni were found to be more susceptible to intestinal damage without Muc1, highlighting its critical role in preventing infection spread.

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

Coming soon -- Protein synthesis without amino acids?

Chinese researchers report a convenient method for synthesizing short protein chains using inexpensive starting materials and a simple cobalt complex catalyst. The new technique, similar to olefin polymerization, could be ideal for industrial production and may lead to the creation of polypeptides that were previously inaccessible.

SourceWiley·DateJul 19, 2007

Tiny brain, normal life

A 44-year-old man with a tiny brain and massive ventricular enlargement led a normal life despite mild leg weakness and cognitive impairments. He underwent various treatments, including shunt insertions and neuroendoscopic procedures, to manage his symptoms.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 19, 2007