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."
No Wheat? No Worries! Just Use Whiskey
August 18, 2010
Researchers at Edinburgh Napier University in Scotland have found a way to produce biofuel using the two main byproducts of the whiskey distillation process, reports the Guardian's Kirsty Scott. Taking the "pot ale" — the liquid from the copper stills — and the "draff" — spent grains — the researchers used an old fermentation method first developed to produce butanol and acetone, Scott says, and were able to produce biobutanol, which gives 30 percent more power than bioethanol. The new fuel has the potential to be used in cars and even in airplanes, the researchers say. They're trying to file a patent for the method, and plan to start a company to commercialize the invention, Scott reports. The Daily Scan wonders if this will change the meaning of "driving under the influence of alcohol."
Interesting piece, other than
Interesting piece, other than the grievous misspelling. If it comes from Scotland the drink is called whisky, not whiskey. The original article spells it correctly.