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Science News for August 23, 2009


Microbiologists find defense molecule that senses respiratory viruses

Microbiologists at the University of Texas Health Science Center have discovered a cellular molecule called NOD2 that recognizes two common respiratory viruses and directs cells to mount a defense. The finding holds promise for new therapies against human RSV and influenza A, particularly among vulnerable populations.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature Immunology·DateAug 23, 2009

Some skin cancer may be mediated by primary cilia activity

Scientists found that primary cilia can either suppress or promote basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Removing primary cilia from skin cancer cells blocks tumor growth, while boosting cilia function boosts tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 23, 2009
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'Glow-in-the-dark' red blood cells made from human stem cells

Researchers have successfully modified a human embryonic stem cell line to glow red when it becomes a red blood cell, representing a significant step towards generating mature red blood cells from human stem cells. This breakthrough could aid in tracking the differentiation of embryonic stem cells into specific cell types.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 23, 2009

Some brain tumors may be mediated by tiny filament on cells

Researchers at UCSF discovered a tiny filament extending from brain cells, known as primary cilia, may play a role in the most common malignant brain tumor in children. The study found that primary cilia are present in some tumors but absent in others, suggesting they may be used by cancer cells to grow.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 23, 2009
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U-M researchers discover therapeutic target that could help patients with pulmonary fibrosis

Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified a novel gene and enzyme that may hold the key to treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a life-threatening lung disease. The discovery could lead to new treatments for not only pulmonary fibrosis but also other organ-based diseases such as cardiac and kidney fibrosis.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 23, 2009

Lightning's mirror image ... only much bigger

Researchers captured a one-second image of gigantic jets, which are highly charged meteorological events that flash up to the lower levels of space. The study reveals that these events have comparable electrical charges to conventional lightning, but travel farther and faster due to thinner air.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 23, 2009

Fragile period of childhood brain development could underlie epilepsy

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center discovered a genetic link between childhood brain development and adult-onset epilepsy, highlighting the fragility of the brain during early childhood. The study identifies a new pathway controlling neuron circuit maturation, which may lead to new therapies for this condition.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 23, 2009