Insights into Biology

Some Like It Hot

Scientists have found a new mechanism of cell division in extremophiles (they're only at home at 80 degrees Celsius). Cool stuff:

"This is the first time in decades that a novel cell division mechanism has been discovered, and the gene products display no similarity to previously known division proteins."

Hardwired Hatred

Neuroscientists have found the brain circuitry for hatred.

(This one was popular - even the main stream media picked it up here and here.)

And now for something completely different...

Research into how T. Rex hunted.

Rite of Winter

Winter's coming, along with its traditional colds. Next time a cold strikes, it probably won't make you feel any better to know the virus is manipulating your genes.

What's in Your DNA?

Over at Emory University, researchers have been looking at retrotransposons that make up 10% of of the human genome.

On the flip side, researchers have found value in junk DNA.

Gains and Losses in the Brain

Scientists at Duke University have watched a ferret brain as it gains the ability to process movement.

On the scarier flip side, researchers can now cause mice to lose memories.

Anyone up for Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind?

Matter over Mind?

University of California researchers have linked slower reaction times associated with aging to the decay of the brain's myelin.

Plant Allies

Researchers at the University of Delaware have shown that a plant can call in allies. When under attack by a pathogen, a signal is sent from the leaves to the roots that then secrete a substance to attract beneficial bacteria.

It's Not What You Eat...

... it's the bacteria in your gut.

Welcome!

Welcome to my blog! I've been fascinated with biology since I was a kid, and I'm delighted to have a place to discuss all things biology-related.

If you have a question or an opinion, feel free to leave a comment. And if you're looking to hire for your lab or company, check out my resume or send me an email.