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Biologists, educators recognize excellence in evolution education
W. Jason Niedermeyer, a high school biology teacher in Oregon, received the 2010 Evolution Education Award for his innovative approaches to teaching evolution. His curriculum focuses on inquiry-based learning and utilizes hands-on labs, class discussions, and student activities to promote accurate understanding of biological evolution.
EMBO recognizes 63 researchers for advances in life sciences
The European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) has recognized 63 life scientists for their outstanding research contributions. Among the new members are 12 female researchers who have made significant advancements in various fields of molecular biology, neuroscience, and cancer biology.
Stephan Grill wins the 2011 Paul Ehrlich Prize for Young Researchers
Dr. Stephan Grill's innovative laser-assisted method enables non-invasive measurement of mechanical forces in living cells, opening new avenues for understanding interactions between mechanics and biochemistry in cell biology. The Paul Ehrlich Prize recognizes his outstanding contributions to the field.
Poor start in life need not spell doom in adulthood
A University of California, Riverside biologist found that adult Trinidadian guppies can mitigate the negative effects of a poor early start through flexible growth and reproductive strategies. This study suggests that adults can compensate for their early conditions through adaptive changes.
Entire issue of scientific journal devoted to center headed by Scripps Research Scientists
The Joint Center for Structural Genomics (JCSG), led by Ian A. Wilson, has made significant strides in high-throughput structural genomics, solving over 1,150 structures to date. The JCSG's pipeline has optimized every stage of the process, enabling large numbers of target proteins to be tackled simultaneously.
Novel regulatory process for T cells may help explain immune system diseases
Researchers discovered a novel regulatory process in T cells that may help explain autoimmunity and immune deficiency diseases. The study found that disrupting this process leads to rapid T cell proliferation and death, compromising the immune system's defensive functions.
SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2010
NIH grants will advance studies of the form and function of proteins
The NIH has awarded $290 million in grants for structural biology research, focusing on determining protein shapes and functions. Four large-scale centers will operate pipelines for protein structure determination, including centers for mitochondria and membrane proteins.
ASTRO announces 2010 Annual Meeting awards
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) honored outstanding researchers in radiation oncology, recognizing excellence in clinical and basic science research. The awards include Resident Clinical/Basic Science Research Awards, Resident Poster Viewing Awards, and Annual Meeting Scientific Abstract Awards.
UCSF receives $15.4 million to create systems biology center
The UCSF Center for Systems and Synthetic Biology will investigate fundamental design principles of adaptation in cells using forward engineering and comparative genomics. The center's findings may lead to new therapeutic tools and the development of synthetic circuits that can trigger desired cellular responses.
Undergraduate research highlighted in DNA and Cell Biology Journal
A special issue of DNA and Cell Biology features undergraduate research projects that demonstrate the valuable contributions of young scientists. The studies showcase innovative approaches to bioluminescence testing, mutant gene mapping, telomerase regulation, and fruit fly metabolism.
The public looks at synthetic biology -- cautiously
A nationwide survey found that two-thirds of Americans believe synthetic biology should continue, but with more research on human and environmental impacts. The public also harbors concerns about security, moral, and health risks, as well as potential damage to the environment.
Winners of plant-biology video contest announced -- new competition begins at Penn State University
The winners of the Penn State University plant-biology video contest are being announced, with $2,000 in Grand Prizes awarded for innovative and informative videos showcasing plant life. The competition is part of the nonprofit collaborative project ChloroFilms, which promotes fresh and attention-getting videos about plant biology.
With HMGB1's help, cells dine in
A team of researchers discovered HMGB1 as a critical pro-autophagic protein that enhances cell survival and limits programmed cell death. This finding suggests blocking HMGB1 could benefit cancer patients by preventing tumor cells from revving up autophagy to withstand chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation treatment
Study finds that cancer-causing gene crucial in stem cell development
A research team at the University of Georgia has discovered a critical role for the cancer-causing gene Myc in stem cell biology, which could revolutionize medicine by enabling patient-specific stem cells. The study found that Myc sustains pluripotency by repressing a master regulator gene, and its absence triggers differentiation.
You say, 'bio-math,' I say, 'math-bio': Crossing science education divide
A special issue of CBE—Life Sciences Education journal introduces new ways to integrate mathematical thinking into biology education and vice versa. The articles explore teaching modeling, DNA microarray analysis, fractal geometry, and more to bridge the gap between math and biology skills.
New discovery suggests our lungs are 'innately prone' to silicosis and related diseases
A new study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that our innate immune systems are a major contributor to chronic lung diseases like silicosis. Researchers found that mice with an inactive adaptive immune system developed more severe silicosis, highlighting the importance of reducing chronic inflammation.
SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateAug 31, 2010
6 University of Miami students selected as 2010 NOAA/Ernest F. Hollings Scholars
Six University of Miami students were selected as 2010 NOAA/Ernest F. Hollings Scholars, achieving this prestigious recognition for the second consecutive year. The recipients are recognized for their academic excellence and potential to pursue careers in oceanic and atmospheric science.
NYU School of Medicine receives $8.2M grant from NIDDK to continue urological disease research
The NYU Urothelial Biology Team has received a five-year, $8.2 million grant from the NIDDK to investigate bladder biology and diseases such as UTI. The team aims to understand how disease-causing bacteria interact with host urothelial cells, which is crucial for developing novel treatments for recurrent UTI and other urologic diseases.
Bernd Sturmfels of UC-Berkeley was awarded the John von Neumann Lecture at SIAM Annual Meeting
Bernd Sturmfels received the John von Neumann Lecture for his work on applying algebraic ideas to problems in biology, statistics, optimization, and polynomial systems. The lecture surveyed recent applications of abstract algebra in modeling and solving nonlinear problems.
American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology honors 11 outstanding scientists
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology honored 11 researchers with various awards for their groundbreaking contributions to the life sciences. Axel T. Brunger, Michael Brown, Joseph Goldstein, Charles E. Chalfant, Job Dekker, Christine Guthrie, Arthur Gutierrez-Hartmann, Yusuf Hannun, and Arthur E. Johnson received...
Biology, computer science combine efforts to fight cancer
The University of Houston received a $2.4 million grant to fund postdoctoral scientists researching cancer biology and computational disciplines. This multidisciplinary approach aims to tackle the most pressing problems in cancer research.
Gut movements in caterpillars inspire soft-body robot design
Research team discovers unique gut sliding movement in caterpillars, which inspires design of soft material robots. These 'softbots' can move without visible leg translations and are suitable for search-and-rescue operations and space applications.
Rapid growth in adolescence leads to fewer offspring, UC Riverside biologists find
Researchers at UC Riverside found that female guppies that grew rapidly as juveniles produced fewer offspring than expected. This suggests long-term costs of early rapid growth and weight gain in adulthood, potentially impacting human reproductive success.
iGEM team helps prevent rogue use of synthetic biology
A bioinformatics team from Virginia Tech and ENSIMAG is using federal guidance to detect the misuse of synthetic biology. The team's work will help gene synthesis companies identify potential threats, improving national security.
Divide and conquer: Genes decide who wins in the body's battle against cancer
Researchers discover Lgl and Mahjong proteins help identify how healthy cells fight cancer cells. Normal cells surround cancer cells, leading to their death, while cancerous cells break free and divide.
New approach helps teachers integrate conservation biology into high school ecology classes
A new teaching model using real data and relevant videos engages high school students in conservation biology research, improving understanding of ecological concepts. Students develop a better grasp of normal ecological processes and how human actions affect the natural world.
Mount Sinai researchers discover new way diseases develop
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine identified a new way diseases develop through understanding how cells control gene expression. They found that protein DPF3b plays a critical role in the transcription process for muscle growth and heart development.
A worm bites off enough to chew
Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology have discovered a control mechanism behind the development of Pristionchus' mouthparts. The organism's mouth dimorphism is triggered by environmental factors such as food scarcity and high population density, resulting in the development of strong teeth-like denticles.
Responsible science for do-it-yourself biologists
The DIYbio community, comprising over 2,000 amateur biologists, is partnering with the Woodrow Wilson Center on a biosafety initiative to ensure safe science. The project aims to develop a positive culture around citizen science and establish best practices for safety in the community.
12 women scientists announced as winners of Elsevier Foundation TWOWS Awards
The Elsevier Foundation TWOWS Awards honored twelve talented young women scientists from various regions for their groundbreaking research. The award aims to promote wider participation and excellence in science among developing countries' promising scientists.
NSF grant will develop new online hub for biochemistry, molecular biology educators
The National Science Foundation has awarded a $360,000 grant to establish an online resource for biochemistry and molecular biology educators. The initiative aims to improve undergraduate-level teaching by providing core concepts, assessments, and forums. Hundreds of life scientists will collaborate on the project.
New 2009 Impact Factors soar for newest Cell Press journals
The 2009 Journal Citation Reports reveals a surge in Impact Factors for Cell Press journals, with Cell Stem Cell and Cell Host and Microbe leading the charge. Cancer Cell also continues to grow, while Molecular Cell sees an impressive 13% increase, demonstrating the growing importance of these publications in the scientific community.
Systems biology helps to understand hematopoiesis
Researchers used systems biology approaches to study how hematopoietic cells react to high levels of erythropoietin. They found that the cells rapidly take up and break down the hormone, replenishing their receptors in a continuous process. This understanding may lead to developing more effective anemia treatments.
Moral issues raised by synthetic biology subject of Hastings Center workshop
A recent Hastings Center workshop examined the moral implications of synthetic biology, raising questions about humanity's relationship with nature. The project aims to address pressing ethical concerns in emerging technology, involving experts from various fields.
Without this protein, embryonic development halts
A study published in Experimental Biology and Medicine found that the Ash2l protein is crucial for early mammalian development, with mouse embryos dying without it. The researchers discovered that Ash2l interacts with Tbx1 to regulate gene transcription, shedding light on the pathogenesis of DiGeorge syndrome.
SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateMay 13, 2010
US Department of Defense SMART scholarship winner's focus is synthetic biology
Matthew Lux, a Virginia Tech Ph.D. student, has been awarded a US Department of Defense SMART scholarship to explore opportunities in synthetic biology for defense applications. His research involves developing intelligent sensors and countermeasures using calibrated genetic parts.
EMBO Gold Medal 2010 recognizes Jason W. Chin
Jason W. Chin receives the EMBO Gold Medal for his groundbreaking work on reprogramming the genetic code, allowing molecular biologists to control and elucidate protein functions with unprecedented precision. His research enables the creation of designer amino acids, opening doors to new applications in protein therapeutics and materials.
Jefferson scientists identify a new protein involved in longevity
Researchers found that the level of arrestin protein determines how long C. elegans lives, with worms having triple the amount living one-third less than normal. Arrestin interacts with several proteins to regulate longevity and has relevance to human biology and cancer development.
March of Dimes awards $250,000 prize to scientist who discovered how to reprogram human cells
Dr. Shinya Yamanaka's pioneering work on induced pluripotent stem cells eliminates need for embryonic stem cell harvesting from human embryos. The discovery has the potential to correct or repair birth defects in children, offering hope for preventions and treatments.
Keck Futures Initiative awards $1.25 million for 13 research projects
The National Academies Keck FUTURES INITIATIVE has awarded $1.25 million to 13 research projects in synthetic biology, with a focus on interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative approaches. The grants will support the development of new technologies and methods for capturing diverse biological machinery from arbitrary environments.
MSU students gain research experience through plant genomics program
The National Science Foundation has awarded Michigan State University a $282,606 grant to fund a 10-week summer research program in plant genomics. Undergraduate students will participate in research projects alongside internationally respected scientists, gaining hands-on experience and developing research skills.
Louisiana Tech students to present on regenerative medicine at national meeting
Researchers from Louisiana Tech University are presenting their work on smart nanofilms for regenerative medicine at the 2010 Experimental Biology meeting. Their presentation highlights the first known application of a smart nanofilm sprayed directly on living tissue, showing promising results in wound healing and potential application...
10 scientists to receive ASBMB awards
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology will present 10 scientists with various awards for their outstanding contributions to the field. This year's awardees include Phillip Sharp, Sarah Keller, David Russell, James Wells, John Tesmer, Lisa Gentile, Susan S. Taylor, Douglas Rees, and Ruedi Aebersold.
New study implicates health care utilization, over biology, in colorectal cancer disparities
A new study by the National Cancer Institute found that health care utilization, rather than biology, plays a more important role in colorectal cancer disparities among African Americans. The study revealed that blacks were less likely to receive follow-up colonoscopies after screening, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 6, 2010
UD team develops new method for producing proteins critical to medical research
Scientists at the University of Delaware have developed a new method for producing ubiquitylated proteins, which may hold the key to understanding cancer cell resistance to drugs and other diseases. The new approach combines intein chemistry and disulfide crosslinking to yield hundredsfold more proteins than current methods.
Start spreading the news: NYU scientists find therapeutic target to stop cancer metastases
Researchers discovered that immune suppressive cells in the liver may facilitate cancer spread, and targeting these cells could prevent it. Combating immune suppressive cells early after cancer development may keep the disease from spreading to the liver.
SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateMar 31, 2010
From the clinics to the bench and back -- phenytoin as a mood stabilizer?
A study published in Experimental Biology and Medicine found that phenytoin modulates gene expression in rats with bipolar disorder, including genes involved in neurotransmission and neuroprotection. The findings suggest that chronic phenytoin administration may have mood-stabilizing effects.
SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateMar 29, 2010
Bloom's syndrome protein is critical for meiotic recombination
Researchers found that mouse Bloom's syndrome protein is involved in proper homologous chromosome pairing and segregation during meiosis. The protein also plays a role in synapsis without affecting the entry into prophase I stage.
SU biologists' work with 'glow-in-the-dark' sperm sheds light on sexual selection
Researchers genetically alter fruit flies to create fluorescent sperm, allowing them to observe in detail what happens to live sperm inside the female. The findings may have huge implications for understanding postcopulatory sexual selection and its role in evolutionary change.
Honeybee learning, invasive harlequin ladybirds, and more
A study by Amdam et al. found a positive correlation between honeybee associative learning performance and metabolic stress resilience, independent of social factors. The relationship suggests that central nervous system function and metabolic biology can be associated, providing insights into how to reduce human health disparities.
Researchers uncover new data about Arl13b function in Joubert syndrome
Researchers have gained new understanding of Arl13b's function in Joubert syndrome, a rare disorder characterized by developmental delay and low muscle tone. The study reveals that Arl13b regulates ciliary transmembrane protein localization and transport to the tip of the cilium.
SEBM Distinguished Scientist Awards for 2010
The Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine presents the inaugural SEBM Distinguished Scientist Award to recognize seminal research accomplishments. Past SEBM Presidents are among the honorees, including Hector F. DeLuca and Barbara A. Horwitz.
After 5 years, free systems biology markup language has proven popular
The Systems Biology Markup Language (SBML) has been widely adopted by the scientific community for sharing and evaluating models of biological processes. SBML's popularity is a validation of its usefulness, with over 500 citations in an online academic database.
Evolutionary Synthesis Center wins 5-year, $25M, renewal from NSF
The National Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent) has been awarded a $25 million 5-year grant from the NSF to continue its cutting-edge research in evolutionary biology. The center plans to expand its programs and add new initiatives, including graduate fellowships and international research partnerships.
If you take simvastatin to control cholesterol, watch out for infection says new report
A new study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that simvastatin impairs immune cells' ability to kill pathogens and enhances inflammation. Researchers found that simvastatin also increases cytokine production, which triggers and sustains inflammation.
SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateMar 1, 2010
Successful genome sequencing of Pea Aphid is a breakthrough for ecology and agricultural research
The Pea Aphid's genome sequence provides valuable tools for understanding aphid biology, speciation, and ecological interactions. The sequencing also sheds light on the relationship between aphids and plant viruses, revealing surprising gaps in the insect immune system.
Breaking the aphid's code
The sequencing of the pea aphid genome uncovers extensive collaboration between the insect and its bacterial symbiont. This study has significant implications for understanding aphid biology and its impact on food supply and pesticide use.
Aphid's genome generates exciting questions
The pea aphid's genome, sequenced by the International Aphid Genomics Consortium, has generated exciting questions about its symbiotic relationship with bacteria and its impact on agriculture. The genome's 35,000 genes suggest a complex life cycle with multiple adaptations to different environments.
A mission statement for science educators
A renowned science educator, Marvin Druger, reflects on his mission to inspire students to enjoy the adventure of learning. His new book, Practical Perspectives on Science Education, offers practical tips, personal reflections, and a passion for making science education meaningful and motivational.