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Name that tune

Researchers found that specific cells in the bird's brain become 'tuned' to what the bird is learning, responding strongly to familiar songs and motifs. The study suggests that experience modifies the brain to highlight important motifs, allowing birds to recognize individual songs.

1st evidence that nuclear transplantation ('therapeutic cloning') can eliminate tissue rejection

Researchers at Advanced Cell Technology successfully transplanted cloned tissues into animals without rejection. The study's findings suggest that nuclear transplantation could provide a limitless supply of immune-compatible cells and organs for regenerative therapies, tackling one of the major challenges in transplantation medicine.

SourceAdvanced Cell Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 2, 2002

Two genes are better than one: Combination approach selectively kills pancreatic cancer cells

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have discovered a combination of two genes that selectively kill pancreatic cancer cells in test tube experiments. The mda-7 protein and K-ras antisense DNA combination prevents tumor growth in animals, offering a potential new treatment option for this aggressive disease.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2001

New insight into diet and colon cancer

Researchers found that a fish oil-rich diet protects against colon cancer, while a corn oil-diet appears to promote it. The scientists also discovered how cancer spreads among cells in the colon, with a new understanding of cell damage varying from bottom to top within crypts.