Stem Cell Research
The prominent Scottish scientist Sir Graeme Catto is calling for the creation of a special fund to back stem cell researchers so that other countries don't woo them away. Report
The University of Toronto and Japan's Kyoto University have inked a research pact that will connect Canadian researchers with the lab of renowned stem cell scientist Dr. Shinya Yamanaka. The pact is intended to speed the development of stem cell therapies. Story
California's stem cell institute has signed a memorandum with UK officials that will make it easier for researchers in California and the UK to arrange joint funding. Report
The Scientist reports that the FDA may lift its hold on a Phase I stem cell trial testing ESCs on spinal cord injuries early next year. Report
Genetics
The Personal Genome Project is beginning to post the personal genetic data for the first 10 people to volunteer to go public with their DNA. The program hopes to expand from 10 to 10,000 people, experimenting with the notion that if we all go public with our genetic secrets we can propel the science forward far more rapidly. Article
A group of researchers from the German Institute of Human Nutrition led by Hadi Al-Hasani and Hans-Georg Joost has identified a natural mutation in the Tbc1d1 gene that keeps mice lean and also protects against diabetes despite a high-fat diet. The researchers were thus able to gain a deep insight into the function of the gene. Release
Scientists say that a single gene triggers the development of lymphatic vessels, a key factor in the development of cancer. Report
Researchers at UC San Diego have identified a master genetic switch that plays a key role in cell survival in hypoxia. Release
Cancer Research
Scientists have developed biomolecular computers that are assembled from strips of RNA. And that opens the door to devices that can be used to react to conditions inside a cell. Report
A recently identified cancer-causing protein makes the anti-leukemia drug imatinib, less effective. By blocking the protein, an international team of researchers was able to slow the spread of leukemia cells in culture. Release