Human Genetic Variation Alters Anthrax Toxin Sensitivity
Martchenko, Candille et al., PNAS
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine show that genetic variation affecting capillary morphogenesis gene 2, or CMG2, dramatically alters toxin sensitivity in humans. In its analysis, the team reports on "a CMG2 single-nucleotide polymorphism occurring frequently in African and European populations [that they found] independently altered toxin uptake." The group goes on to suggest "testing of genomically characterized human cell populations may offer a broadly useful strategy for elucidating effects of genetic variation on infectious disease susceptibility."
Gizmos Galore
November 05, 2009
At TEDMED, Craig Venter "made a convincing argument" that studying the genes from the aquatic microbes he found during his time at sea could led to new medications, says Wired Science. As all those microbe fight each other off with various chemicals, Venter estimates that 10,000 antibiotics could be discovered in the ocean. Scripps' Eric Topol demonstrated the use of different wireless medical devices, including the Corventis PiiX that monitored his vital signs, which were then projected onto the overhead screen. Also, Wired says that Harvard's David Sinclair presented "solid evidence" that, in mice, resveratrol provides the same affects as a low-calorie diet, but without the diet.