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Science News for October 31, 2010


How do we kill rogue cells?

A team of researchers has identified how the protein perforin kills rogue cells, which could lead to new treatments for cancer, malaria, and diabetes. The study reveals that perforin assembles to punch holes in cell membranes, allowing toxic enzymes to destroy infected cells.

SourceScience in Public·JournalNature·DateOct 31, 2010

Researchers could use plant's light switch to control cells

Researchers have created a novel 'on-off switch' using a plant's light-activated proteins to control cell functions. The blue-light switch has been successfully tested in yeast, mammalian cells and cultured rodent brain tissue, offering a new approach for controlling cell growth, death and delivering medication directly to diseased cells.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 31, 2010

University of Guam receives $1.3M grant

The University of Guam has received a five-year $1.3M grant from the US Department of Education to increase retention and academic success among first-year Pacific Islander freshmen. The Kubre program will focus on providing quality support services such as tutoring, mentoring, and career exploration to help students succeed in math.