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."
A Good Surprise
November 04, 2009
Toronto's The Star speaks with Shinya Yamanaka who recently received the 2009 Canada Gairdner Award for his work on induced pluripotent stem cells. In it, Yamanaka recounts how surprised they were when their method worked. "We thought it would be much more difficult. But as it turns out, all we need are four factors," he says. Yamanaka will also be collaborating with University of Toronto researchers on iPS work.
Alex Palazzo at Transcription and Translation points out other articles featuring Yamanaka and wonders if he is the "George Clooney of science."