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Science News for January 22, 2010


Don't forget to eat your greens

A recent study found that chlorophyll and chlorophyllin can reverse the effects of aflatoxin poisoning by limiting its bioavailability. The research, led by DOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory scientists, suggests that consuming greens may be a way to prevent long-term exposure to carcinogenic mycotoxins.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateJan 22, 2010

CSHL study identifies potential way to reverse cancer cell metabolism and tumor growth

A study at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has identified three molecular factors that contribute to high levels of PK-M2 in cancer cells, which promotes rapid cell proliferation and tumor growth. The researchers found that forcing a reduction in the levels of these factors could reverse the Warburg effect and restore normal metabolism.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2010

Scientists shed new light on walking

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have created a genetically modified mouse that can walk when exposed to blue light. The study provides insight into the neural control of locomotion and has potential implications for treating spinal cord injuries.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 22, 2010

Neuron connections seen in 3-D

Scientists have successfully imaged vesicles and filaments involved in neuronal communication, revealing crucial role of filamentous structures in regulating neurotransmitter release. The 3D images were obtained using electron cryotomography, a novel method that rapidly freezes cells while preserving biological structures.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 22, 2010

For most outfielders, luck has nothing to do with catching flies

A study published in the Journal of Vision found that outfielders catch fly balls by tracking optical acceleration, rather than predicting the ball's trajectory. The research used a virtual environment to test three major theories of fly catching, and confirmed that baseball players continuously track the ball and run forward or backwa...

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Vision·DateJan 22, 2010