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."
Norvatis and Roche to UK: We Might Quit You
April 14, 2010
In the Pipeline's Derek Lowe says Novartis and Roche are employing some "hardball negotiating" in their fight with the UK government over drug pricing and clinical trial regulations. Last week, the Guardian reported that the two companies threatened to pull their research and development departments out of the UK, a move that could put as many as 5,000 people out of work. Lowe asks who benefits from this move. The news was made public through a leak, so if it came from the companies, it could be a tactic to pressure the government even more. On the other hand, if the leak came from Britain's National Health Service, the purpose could be to make the companies look bad. Either way, he says, "I think it's unlikely that this would be followed through — but neither is it completely impossible, either, which is what makes it a reasonably effective move."