Category Biology/Biotechnology

Magnetic resonance images of the human brain. Researchers of the Jena University and the Jena University Hospital discovered that the visual processing of numbers takes place in both hemispheres of the brain. Credit: Jan-Peter Kasper/FSU

Researchers have located an important region for the visual processing of numbers in the human brain and showed that it is active in both hemispheres. The scientists published high resolution magnetic resonance recordings of this region. The human brain works with division of labour. Although our thinking organ excels in displaying amazing flexibility and plasticity, typically different areas of the brain take over different tasks.

While words and language are mainly being processed in the left hemisphere, the right hemisphere is responsible for numerical ...

Inhibition of Mdm2–MdmX RING–RING interaction by MMRi6 and its analog MMRi64.

A new class of small-molecule compounds has been discovered that are good candidates for novel targeted therapies in leukemia and lymphoma Rx. They drive cancer cells to suicide, RPCI researchers report. “We are excited about the unique activities of these compounds and will continue to focus our research efforts on development of their clinical potential,” says Xinjiang Wang, PhD. “These compounds kill cancer cells, not just stop cancer cell growth temporarily. These types of agents offer the promise of therapeutic benefit.”

They demonstrated that the small-molecule MMRi compounds have an advantage over p53-activating agents in current use as cancer therapies...

This is a bright-field microscopy of Yarrowia lipolytica. Gene editing in this yeast strain will lead to new precursors for biofuels and specialty polymers Credit: University of California, Riverside

CRISPR-Cas9 tool expedites production of biofuel precursors and specialty polymers in living systems. The development will lead to new precursors for biofuels, specialty polymers, adhesives and fragrances. The research involves the oleaginous (oil-producing) yeast Yarrowia lipolytica, which is known for converting sugars to lipids and hydrocarbons that are difficult to make synthetically. Until now, Y. lipolytica has been hard to manipulate at the genetic level, but the application of CRISPR-Cas9 will change that, allowing scientists to tap into its bio-manufacturing potential.

Unlike traditio...

Comparing volume and activity of the cells that break down bone density in the upper and lower jaw bones of Medaka fish after 56 days spent aboard the International Space Station with those on the ground. Credit: Chatani et al, Sci. Rep. 5, 14172 (2015)

During spaceflight, astronauts lose bone mineral density, but it is not clear exactly what causes this loss. They reared small freshwater fish aboard the International Space Station for 56 days and examined the animals’ jawbones and teeth for any effects from microgravity. Previous studies suggest that microgravity activates osteoclasts, cells that control the breakdown of bone tissue, and the Medaka fish investigation examined the relationship between this increased osteoclast activity and reduced bone mineral density.

Investigators found ...