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."
LabCorp Donates $100,000 for Haiti Relief Effort
February 09, 2010
LabCorp has donated $100,000 to the American Red Cross "to aid victims" of the earthquake that struck that island nation last month, according to a US media report.
The American Red Cross calls the gift "extremely generous," according to The Caswell Messenger.
LabCorp's gift — and presumably its knowledge in health care — could help the Red Cross establish field hospitals and restore water, among other goals.
Here is a partial list of other corporations that had provided monetary gifts.