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Science News for March 8, 2007


Therapeutic peptide frees the protein p73 to kill tumor cells

Researchers have discovered a peptide that can free the protein p73, which induces tumor cell death, and effectively kills both p53-sufficient and p53-deficient human tumor cell lines. The study suggests targeting the p73-mediated pathway could provide a new avenue for developing anticancer therapeutics.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 8, 2007

Tracking sperm whales and jumbo squid

Researchers successfully tag sperm whales and jumbo squid swimming together, providing new insights into the diving behavior of both species. The study, published in Marine Ecology Progress Series, raises questions about the feeding habits and hunting strategies of sperm whales and their prey.

SourceStanford University·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateMar 8, 2007

JCI table of contents -- March 8, 2006

A therapeutic peptide, 37AA, has been developed to target the protein p73, which can induce tumor cell death. The study found that the peptide killed both p53-sufficient and p53-deficient human tumor cell lines. Additionally, a tissue-resident population of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) was discovered in transplanted human lungs, with ...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 8, 2007

Type of stem cell found to reside in transplanted lungs

A new study found that lung-derived mesenchymal stem cells reside in transplanted lungs, challenging the assumption that they originate from bone marrow. These cells have been shown to differentiate into multiple connective tissue cell types and may hold the key to understanding therapeutic options using MSCs that reside in adult organs.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 8, 2007

Researchers find suntan's 'master regulator'

A study published in Cell Press found that the p53 gene, known for preventing cancer, also regulates the suntan response. The researchers discovered that p53 activates the tanning machinery, protecting against sunburns. The findings may lead to new products that produce a tan safely without UV radiation exposure.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMar 8, 2007