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Potential cause of arthritis discovered

Researchers have discovered that certain types of naturally occurring carbohydrates in the body may cause rheumatoid arthritis by triggering an immune response and leading to inflammation and joint damage. The study found that glycosaminoglycans, a major component of joint cartilage and skin, activate inflammatory cells in the joints.

Fantastic Voyage -- Filled buckeyball now a step closer to becoming a drug-delivery device

Researchers have successfully attached a water-soluble group to an 80-atom fullerene, creating a buckeyball with biological functionality. The aim is to get these molecules into the bloodstream for potential drug delivery. This innovation marks a first step in developing drugs and expands MRI reagents and nanotube applications.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 9, 2002

Synthetic antifreeze could prevent ice growth

Scientists have created a synthetic antifreeze protein that mimics the natural defense mechanism of Arctic and Antarctic fish, which can prevent ice growth in living organisms. The new compound has potential applications in frost protection for crops, preservation of human organs, and elimination of freezer burn.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBioconjugate Chemistry·DateAug 19, 2001

Tires of the future

Experts will discuss new synthetic elastomers designed to improve tire traction properties, as well as surface-modified mineral fillers that could increase fuel economy in vehicles. Researchers will also predict fatigue in fiber-reinforced rubber composite laminates in tires.