Universidad de Salamanca

Facultad de Biología

Biblioteca

Bionoticias Diciembre (1ª) de 2013

MÁS INFORMACIÓN Y OFERTAS EN LA WEB DE LA BIOBLIOTECA : http://campus.usal.es/~bibliotecabiologia/

BioNoticias. Resumen de prensa semanal

Elaborado por la Biblioteca de Biología. Universidad de Salamanca

Para leer el texto completo de los artículos pulse en el título

Para agrandar el texto pulse cualquier otra parte de la página

Puede enviarnos sus noticias a bibbiol@usal.es

Suscribirse a Bionotias + BioEmpleo: dirección de correo electrónico y su nombre a bibbiol@usal.es

Boletines anteriores en http://issuu.com/bibliotecabiologia

índice

Biología 4

Biomedicina 10

Biotecnología 14

Células madre y epigenética 27

Neurociencia 30

Política científica 40

.Biología

Los híbridos de ADN y ARN condensan los cromosomas y favorecen

las mutaciones

Un estudio liderado por el Consejo Superior de Investigaciones

Científicas (CSIC), en España, ha demostrado que la formación de

híbridos de ADN y ARN hace que los cromosomas se compacten e

impide que se repliquen correctamente, lo que provoca mutaciones. La

estabilidad de los cromosomas es un...

Diseñan una planta de producción de anticuerpos monoclonales

Investigadores de la Universidad de Salamanca en España han diseñado

una planta biofarmacéutica pensada para la fabricación de moléculas de

origen biológico que generan anticuerpos monoclonales con

aplicaciones terapéuticas en ámbitos muy diversos, como el cáncer, las

enfermedades autoinmunes e...

El número de aves en peligro crítico de extinción en el mundo bate un

nuevo récord

La última Lista Roja de las Aves elaborada por BirdLife Internacional

revela que entre las 10.065 especies conocidas de aves, 198 están

incluidas en la categoría de máxima alarma de la Unión Internacional

para la Conservación de la Naturaleza. La pardela balear es la única

especie española con esta distinción a nivel mundial.

Hallazgo de una extraña bacteria en dos centros espaciales

Un raro microbio descubierto recientemente, y que sobrevive con muy

escasos nutrientes, ha sido encontrado en dos lugares llamativos de la

Tierra: Dos recintos dedicados a preparativos finales de naves

espaciales. La bacteria es muy diferente de cualquier otra conocida. De

hecho, se la considera...

Descubierta una nueva y enigmática especie de tigrillo salvaje en Brasil

Científicos del proyecto ‘Gatos do Mato–Brasil’ han revelado que no

existe una sola especie de leopardo tigre brasileño, también conocido

como tigrillo (Leopardus tigrinus) como se creía hasta ahora. Aunque

visualmente todos los ejemplares parecen iguales, en realidad

pertenecen a dos especies distintas.

Descubren una planta única en su género por vivir a gran altura en las

montañas

Se ha descubierto una especie de juncia que vive en zonas de alta

montaña en el sudoeste de Tasmania. Esta pequeña planta, a la que se le

ha dado el nombre de Lepidosperma monticola, vive en montañas como

por ejemplo el Monte Field y el Monte Sprent. En su género es la única

planta esencialmente...

¿Qué justifica la muerte celular?

La ciencia ha demostrado que existen decesos que aportan ventajas al

desarrollo armónico de un organismo. “Uno de ellas es la muerte celular

programada, que consiste en desechar a lo largo de la vida estructuras

que el organismo ya no necesita”, refiere el investigador del

Departamento de...

La creciente complejidad de los factores de transcripción hizo posible la

evolución de los seres vivos

Un estudio el que ha participado el Consejo Superior de Investigaciones

Científicas (CSIC), en España, revela que la creciente complejidad de

los factores de transcripción permitió la evolución de los seres vivos y

su paso de organismos unicelulares a pluricelulares. Este trabajo,

publicado en la...

Cerca del 40% de las tortugas atrapadas por la pesca en el Mediterráneo

fallecen

Cuando una tortuga marina es capturada accidentalmente por un

palangrero, los pescadores intentan cortar el hilo de pescar —sin subir el

animal a bordo— para devolver la tortuga al mar. Sin embargo, cerca

del 40% de las tortugas liberadas muere meses después por las secuelas

de esta pesca accidental, según alerta un estudio publicado en la revista

Marine Ecology Progress Series.

Los caballitos de mar son cazadores sigilosos gracias a la forma de su

cabeza

Los hipocampos se alimentan de presas huidizas y muy sensibles a los

cambios, capaces de sentir cualquier deformación en el agua

circundante. Investigadores estadounidenses han averiguado su truco

para cazar: es la forma de la cabeza lo que les permite moverse sin

perturbar su entorno.

La creciente complejidad de los factores de transcripción hizo posible la

evolución de los seres vivos

Los factores de transcripción son proteínas que se unen al ADN y

activan o reprimen la expresión de genes, y son esenciales en el

desarrollo animal. Científicos del Instituto de Biología Evolutiva

(CSIC-UPF) han descubierto que las plantas y los animales tienen el

repertorio más complejo de factores de transcripción.

Resuelta la primera parte del puzle genético del olivo

El proyecto ‘Primera secuenciación completa del ADN del olivo’,

liderado por el CSIC, ha logrado secuenciar el ADN de un olivo de unos

1.200 años de edad, de la variedad Farga, que procede de la Sierra del

Maestrazgo (Castellón). Los resultados de este estudio, que ha

completado así su fase inicial, servirán para mejorar la producción

olivarera.

Los hombres se sienten más atraídos por sus parejas después de inhalar

oxitocina

Investigadores de la Universidad de Bonn (Alemania) han analizado en

20 parejas heterosexuales la respuesta de los hombres al visualizar

fotografías de mujeres desconocidas o de su pareja tras haber inhalado

oxitocina.Los resultados, publicados en la revista PNAS, revelan que se

produce una mayor...

Bacterias, no tan malas como las pintan

Entrega del podcast Quilo de Ciencia, realizado por Jorge Laborda

(catedrático de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular de la Universidad de

Castilla-La Mancha, España), en Ciencia para Escuchar, que

recomendamos por su interés. Desde los inicios de la civilización, las

plagas y las pestes...

Los visones que se crían felices ligan más

Los ejemplares masculinos de visón criados en cautividad con juguetes,

piscinas y columpios obtienen una mejor respuesta de las hembras en la

época de celo. La investigación ayudará a mejorar la reproducción de

otras especies que tienen dificultades, como los osos panda.

Una planta transgénica se aclimata sin influencia exterior

La Universidad de Ginebra, en Suiza, en colaboración las universidades

de Gante (Bélgica) y Friburgo (Alemania) ha creado plantas

transgénicas resistentes a los rayos ultravioleta que producen altos

niveles de antioxidantes.

El esqueleto del dinosaurio Misty, a subasta

Cualquiera que haya visitado el Museo de Historia Natural de Londres

recordará el esqueleto de dinosaurio del Jurásico Tardío, de 17 metros

de largo y 6 de alto, que se exhibe en el hall central. Se trata de una

réplica de Diplodocus longus. Este miércoles, la casa de subastas

británica Summers Place Auctions pone a la venta a Misty, un ejemplar

auténtico.

Crean un catálogo de cetáceos del sur peninsular de acceso libre

El intercambio de datos fotográficos de las poblaciones de cetáceos es

fundamental para realizar estimaciones de su abundancia. El equipo de

Conservación, Información y Estudio de Cetáceos, CIRCE, ha puesto a

disposición de todos los usuarios interesados sus catálogos del sur

peninsular.

Un hongo colocado en olivares a modo de apósito los protege frente a

las plagas

Investigadores del Grupo de Investigación Entomología Agrícola de la

Universidad de Córdoba han desarrollado un método que permite la

utilización de hongos a modo de ‘apósitos’ para proteger al olivar de las

heridas de poda, granizo o cualquier otro origen frente al ataque de la

polilla Euzophera pinguis.

Los humedales de las zonas semiáridas se adaptan peor a los cambios

durante el período seco

La capacidad de los humedales para hacer frente a las perturbaciones es

diferente en la fase seca y en la fase húmeda, según revela un estudio

del Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC) en el Parque

Nacional Las Tablas de Daimiel.

.Biomedicina

Más del 40% de los niños con parálisis cerebral sufre dolor

Un estudio realizado por el Instituto Universitario de Integración en la

Comunidad (INICO) de la Universidad de Salamanca indica que el

41,8% de los niños con parálisis cerebral sufren dolor y que esto tiene

un impacto muy significativo en la calidad de vida de los afectados,

sobre todo en el aspecto psicológico. Detectar de forma temprana el

dolor y controlarlo sería una importante ayuda para est

¿Por qué los tumores se vuelven resistentes a la quimioterapia?

Un nuevo estudio analiza las causas por las que un paciente se vuelve

resistente a la quimioterapia y describe los cambios epigenéticos que

explican la falta de respuesta al fármaco en cáncer de colon. Los

resultados han sido publicados en The Journal of The National Cancer

Institute.

Los híbridos de ADN y ARN condensan los cromosomas y favorecen

las mutaciones

Un estudio liderado por el Consejo Superior de Investigaciones

Científicas (CSIC) ha demostrado que la formación de híbridos de ADN

y ARN impide que los cromosomas se repliquen correctamente, lo que

provoca mutaciones. El fenómeno descrito ha sido observado en

levaduras, nematodos y células humanas.

Hallan un gen responsable de la susceptibilidad a padecer trastorno del

pánico

Un estudio publicado recientemente en el Journal of Neuroscience

señala por primera vez al gen trkC como factor relacionado con el

desarrollo de trastorno del pánico. Los investigadores han definido el

mecanismo específico de formación de las memorias del miedo, lo que

abre la puerta a nuevos tratamientos farmacológicos y cognitivos.

El colesterol alto fomenta el crecimiento del cáncer de mama

Un subproducto del colesterol, que funciona de forma similar a la

hormona estrógeno, impulsa el crecimiento y la propagación de los tipos

más comunes de cáncer de mama. En un estudio realizado en ratones,

los investigadores también encontraron que los medicamentos contra el

colesterol, como las estatinas, parecen disminuir el efecto de esta

molécula.

Investigadores españoles diseñan moléculas sintéticas capaces de

bloquear la replicación del VIH

Un equipo multidisciplinar de científicos de la Universidad Católica de

Valencia, el Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, la Universitad de

València y el Instituto de SaludCarlos III ha conseguido por primera vez

en el mundo crear moléculas sintéticas que bloquean la replicación del

virus del SIDA e impiden la infección de las células.

Alertan del riesgo por dengue en el Mundial de Fútbol de Brasil

Un científico de la Universidad de Oxford (Reino Unido) advierte de

que en tres de las sedes del Mundial Fútbol de 2014 existe un alto riesgo

de contraer dengue. “No quiero disuadir a nadie de acudir a la cita

mundialista, pero es necesario informar a los aficionados acerca de los

riesgos y cómo pueden protegerse de ellos”, destaca Simon Hay, autor

del artículo.

Las mujeres de entre 35 y 60 años con VIH presentan peor calidad de

vida que las más jóvenes

El primer proyecto de investigación realizado en España para conocer la

calidad de vida, la prevalencia de detección positiva de ansiedad y

depresión y la función neurocognitiva de mujeres seropositivas desvela

la necesidad de optimizar el estudio y tratamiento de su salud mental y

emocional.

En España seguirá habiendo muertes por amianto hasta el año 2040

La exposición al amianto seguirá causando muertes en España hasta el

año 2040, fundamentalmente a causa de mesoteliomas pleurales y

carcinomas de pulmón. Así lo afirma un equipo de investigadores

españoles en un artículo publicado recientemente en la revista BMC

Cancer.

Analizan las propiedades beneficiosas de cuatro compuestos del aceite

de oliva virgen

Un nuevo estudio, publicado en el Journal of Agricultural and Food

Chemistry, refleja las propiedades saludables de cuatro compuestos del

aceite de oliva virgen contra enfermedades cardiovasculares o cáncer.

Dichos compuestos cuentan con propiedades antiinflamatorias, inhiben

el estrés oxidativo y reducen el daño que se produce en el ADN.

Los medicamentos con alto contenido en sodio aumentan el riesgo de

enfermedad cardiovascular

Un equipo de investigadores británicos ha demostrado en más de 1,2

millones de pacientes que los fármacos ricos en sodio, como el

paracetamol y la aspirina efervescentes, o como el ibuprofeno soluble,

aumentan un 16% el riesgo de sufrir un infarto o un ictus y siete veces

el desarrollo de la hipertensión.

Describen uno de los mecanismos que favorece el rechazo en el

trasplante de cartílago porcino en humanos

Investigadores españoles han liderado la demostración de que la

inhibición de uno de los componentes básicos del sistema de

complemento protege a las células del cartílago porcinos del rechazo en

el trasplante entre animales de diferente especie.

Los trastornos mentales provocan más estigma en las familias que los

problemas físicos

Las patologías mentales y físicas suponen un impacto en la vida de los

familiares de los afectados, pero el nivel es mayor en las familias que

poseen un miembro con una enfermedad mental, ya que sufren más

discriminación. Los resultados se basan en un estudio realizado en 28

países, entre ellos, España.

Los hombres se sienten más atraídos por sus parejas después de inhalar

oxitocina

Un estudio analiza la respuesta de los hombres heterosexuales al

visualizar fotografías de mujeres tras haber inhalado oxitocina. Los

resultados revelan una mayor actividad en las regiones de recompensa

del cerebro al ver la cara de su compañera, a la que también calificaron

como más atractiva que las mujeres desconocidas.

GripeNet predice la incidencia de la gripe en tiempo real con datos de

los ciudadanos

Una plataforma de ciencia ciudadana en internet creada por

investigadores de la Universidad de Zaragoza simula el avance de la

gripe en la población a partir de los datos de los usuarios que se

registren. Hoy se ha presentado la segunda parte de este proyecto, que

servirá para que se eviten colapsos en los hospitales y la población

conozca la situación en su entorno.

.Biotecnología

Protien Cyclin D1 governs microRNA processing in breast cancer

A protein that helps push a replicating cell through the cell cycle also

mediates the processing and generation of mature microRNA, according

to new research.

Mitochondria separate their waste

Cellular power plants collect and break down damaged molecules in

order to protect themselves from harmful substances, research shows.

Up to now, it was unclear whether this housekeeping work involves

sorting out defective proteins when they digest mitochondria.

Researchers have now discovered that the proteins are sorted out during

the constant fusion and fission of mitochondria.

Bone grafting improvements with help of sea coral

Sea coral could soon be used more extensively in bone grafting

procedures thanks to new research that has refined the material's

properties and made it more compatible with natural bone.

Researchers find missing component in effort to create primitive,

synthetic cells

A team of investigators working to create "protocells" -- primitive

synthetic cells consisting of a nucleic acid strand encased within a

membrane-bound compartment -- have found a solution to what could

have been a critical problem, the potential incompatibility between a

chemical requirement of RNA copying and the stability of the protocell

membrane.

Gene found responsible for susceptibility to panic disorder

A study published points, for the first time, to the gene trkC as a factor

in susceptibility to a panic disorder. The researchers define the specific

mechanism for the formation of fear memories which will help in the

development of new pharmacological and cognitive treatments.

Protecting vital crops in China

Evidence of disease in oilseed rape crops across China and how it may

spread has been mapped by researchers, providing new strategic

information on crop protection to the Chinese government.

The heart's own stem cells play their part in regeneration

Up until a few years ago, the common school of thought held that the

mammalian heart had very little regenerative capacity. However,

scientists now know that heart muscle cells constantly regenerate, albeit

at a very low rate. Sca1 stem cells replace steadily aging heart muscle

cells, new research shows.

Barcodes for trees: Researchers identify genetic fingerprints of

endangered conifers

In the tropics and subtropics, many evergreen conifers are endangered.

Biologists have collected the world’s largest Podocarpaceae collection.

They sequenced characteristic parts of the DNA of these conifers in

order to generate a “DNA barcode” for each species. With the help of

this genetic fingerprint, unknown individuals can be assigned to the

respective Podocarpaceae species, which are often v

Researchers block replication of AIDS virus

A multidisciplinary team of scientists from Spanish universities and

research centers has managed to design small synthetic molecules

capable of joining to the genetic material of the AIDS virus and

blocking its replication.

Mutations in mantled howler provoked by disturbances in habitat

The disturbances of the habitat could be affecting the populations of the

mantled howler, or golden-mantled howling monkey, (Alouatta palliate

Mexicana) who in an extreme case could be developing mutations that

make them less resistant to diseases and climate events.

Quantitative approaches provide new perspective on development of

antibiotic resistance

Using quantitative models of bacterial growth, a team biophysicists has

discovered the bizarre way by which antibiotic resistance allows

bacteria to multiply in the presence of antibiotics, a growing health

problem in hospitals and nursing homes across the United States.

Are you carrying adrenal Cushing’s syndrome without knowing it?

Genetic research suggests that clinicians’ understanding and treatment

of a form of Cushing’s syndrome affecting both adrenal glands will be

fundamentally changed, and that moreover, it might be appropriate to

begin screening for the genetic mutations that cause this form of the

disease.

New aggressive HIV strain leads to faster AIDS development

A recently discovered HIV strain leads to significantly faster

development of AIDS than currently prevalent forms, according to new

research.

Historic first procedure performed using technique of retrograde gene

therapy on human heart

A new technique uses a minimally invasive method for a physician to

go backwards through a patient’s main cardiac vein, or coronary sinus,

and inserts a catheter. A balloon is then inflated to block blood flow out

of the heart so that a very high dose of gene therapy can be infused

directly into the heart. The unique gene therapy doesn’t involve viruses

and is pure human DNA infused into patients,

New clues to memory formation may help better treat dementia

Do fruit flies hold the key to treating dementia? Biologists have taken a

significant step forward in unraveling the mechanisms of Pavlovian

conditioning. Their work will help them understand how memories form

and, ultimately, provide better treatments to improve memory in all

ages.

Scientists identify potential target for malaria drugs

Researchers have identified the protein in malaria-causing Plasmodium

parasites that is inhibited by a newly discovered class of anti-malarial

compounds known as imidazopyrazines. The protein,

phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase, is the first potential malaria drug target

shown to be essential to all stages of the Plasmodium life cycle;

imidazopyrazines impede its activity throughout this process.

Researchers identify rescuer for vital tumor-suppressor

The tumor-suppessing protein PTEN is absent in many cancers, yet

defects in the PTEN gene do not account for this disappearance.

Researchers identified an enzyme that keep PTEN from being fed to the

cell's protein-recycling mechanism.

Prostate cancer stem cells found to be moving target

Prostate cancer stem cells evolve into different cells as prostate cancer

progresses becoming a moving target for therapy. Scientists must be

prepared for the continual evolution of the stem cell as tumors adapt and

become resistant to new and more potent therapies. With this

knowledge, researchers can now design therapies that target the

elements of the cancer stem cells that remain unchanged.

Implantable slimming aid

Biotechnologists have constructed a genetic regulatory circuit from

human components that monitors blood-fat levels. In response to

excessive levels, it produces a messenger substance that signalizes

satiety to the body. Tests on obese mice reveal that this helps them to

lose weight.

HIV vaccine preventing healthy cells' infection

AIDS research has attempted many strategies to tackle the HIV virus

infection. Now, a new type of vaccine is based on one of the envelope

proteins of the HIV virus, called the gp41 protein. What makes it

interesting is that it is directly responsible for the fusion of the HIV

virus into human cells. By integrating the gp41 protein into the vaccine,

researchers try to trigger the production of anti

Big brains are all in the genes

Scientists have moved a step closer to understanding genetic changes

that permitted humans and other mammals to develop such big brains.

Leukemia cells exploit 'enhancer' DNA elements to cause lethal disease

A team of researchers has identified a leukemia-specific stretch of DNA

called an enhancer element that enables cancerous blood cells to

proliferate in acute myeloid leukemia, a devastating cancer that is

incurable in 70 percent of patients. Just as important, the findings offer a

mechanistic insight into how a new class of promising drugs -- one

version of which is already in human clinical trial

New agent against cancer cells

Scientists have discovered a new active substance that inhibits cell

division in leukemia cells and could play an important role in the fight

against cancer.

Vitamins: Potential damage to body's defences

Vitamin supplements are a billion-dollar industry. We want to stay

healthy and fit and help our bodies with this. But perhaps we are

achieving precisely the opposite?

Iron preserves, hides ancient tissues in fossilized remains

Iron may play a role in preserving ancient tissues within dinosaur

fossils, but also may hide them from detection. This finding could open

the door to the recovery of more ancient tissues from within fossils.

'Molecular motors' involved in chromosome transport observed

Researchers have for the first time directly observed the “molecular

motor”, called Xkid, that plays a critical role in facilitating the proper

alignment of chromosomes during cell division. The study provides

invaluable knowledge on the mechanisms of materials transport in

biological systems.

Inner workings of bacterial black box caught on time-lapse video

Using a pioneering visualization method, researchers made movies of a

complex and vital cellular machine called the carboxysome being

assembled inside living cells. They observed that bacteria build these

internal compartments in a way never seen in plant, animal and other

eukaryotic cells. The findings will illuminate bacterial physiology and

may also influence nanotechnology development.

Mmechanism behind blood stem cells' longevity discovered

Researchers have long wondered what allows blood stem cells to persist

for decades, when their progeny last for days, weeks or months before

they need to be replaced. Now, a study has uncovered one of the

mechanisms that allow these stem cells to keep dividing in perpetuity.

Using microRNA fit to a T

Researchers have successfully targeted T lymphocytes – which play a

central role in the body’s immune response – with another type of white

blood cell engineered to synthesize and deliver bits of non-coding RNA

or microRNA (miRNA).

Scientists re-imagine how genomes are assembled

Scientists have developed a new method for piecing together the short

DNA reads produced by next-generation sequencing technologies that

are the basis for building complete genome sequences.

Human neural stem cells could address critical limb ischemia

New research has shown human neural stem cells could improve blood

flow in critical limb ischemia through the growth of new vessels.

Marijuana's potential for treating autoimmune disorders

A new study provides evidence that THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), a

principal ingredient in marijuana, may be beneficial in treating those

with autoimmune disorders. The study is the first to explore how tiny,

yet powerful molecules called microRNAs are influenced by THC. The

ability to alter microRNA expression could hold the key to successful

treatments for a whole host of autoimmune diseases, incl

Dysfunctional mitochondria may underlie resistance to radiation therapy

The resistance of some cancers to the cell-killing effects of radiation

therapy may be due to abnormalities in the mitochondria -- the cellular

structures responsible for generating energy, according to an

international team of researchers.

Discovery of progenitor cells key to placenta development may

illuminate pregnancy complications

Researchers have identified a novel progenitor cell and a related cell

communication pathway key to growth of a healthy placenta. The

team’s discovery gives scientists a “tool box” for understanding the

developmental hierarchy of progenitor cells that initiate growth of the

placenta, and greatly increases the knowledge of what might cause

pregnancy complications.

Killer cocktail fights brain cancer

A novel immune-boosting drug combination eradicates an aggressive

form of brain cancer in mice, according to a study.

Golden staph paralyzes immune defenses

When golden staph enters our skin it can identify the key immune cells

and 'nuke' our body's immune response. Now we know how, thanks to

an international research group.

New tool for profiling critical regulatory structures of RNA molecules

A molecular technique that will help the scientific community to

analyze -- on a scale previously impossible -- molecules that play a

critical role in regulating gene expression has been developed by a

research team. The technique, which has potential uses in human health,

enables more-accurate prediction of how ribonucleic acid molecules

fold within living cells, shedding new light on how living

Viruses are as simple as they are 'smart'

Viruses are as simple as they are “smart”: too elementary to be able to

reproduce by themselves, they exploit the reproductive “machinery” of

cells, by inserting pieces of their own DNA so that it is transcribed by

the host cell. To do this, they first have to inject their own genetic

material into the cells they infect. An international team of researchers

has studied how this occurs and how long

Scientists capture 'redox moments' in living cells

Scientists have glimpsed key chemical events, known as redox

reactions, inside living cells of fast-growing Synechococcus. The work

marks the first time that redox activity has been observed in specific

proteins within living cells.

Cancer-fighting technology progressing well

New work abolishes otherwise unmanageable human cancers in

preclinical rodent studies. The technology is based on the notion that

solid tumors can be programmed to generate their own very potent

chemotherapy.

The collared treerunner is more than a single species

The lowland tropics were once though filled with widespread species,

while moderate and higher elevations were thought to contain species

with more restricted distributions. That idea is turning out to be partially

incorrect. A new study describes four species once considered to be the

collared treerunner, a lizard known to the scientific community as Plica

plica.

Research finds combo of plant nutrients kills breast cancer cells

A study has found that a super cocktail of six natural compounds in

vegetables, fruits, spices and plant roots killed 100 percent of sample

breast cancer cells without toxic side effects on normal cells.

Chromosomes show off their shapes

Researchers calculate the shape of a chromosome. The new view of our

chromosomes reveals a complex picture.

Researchers use nanoscale 'patches' to sensitize targeted cell receptors

Researchers have developed nanoscale 'patches' that can be used to

sensitize targeted cell receptors, making them more responsive to

signals that control cell activity. The finding holds promise for

promoting healing and facilitating tissue engineering research.

Researchers create compounds that boost antibiotics' effectiveness

Inhibitor compounds developed by biologists and chemists have been

shown to bolster the ability of antibiotics to treat deadly bacterial

diseases such as MRSA and anthrax.

Scientists find potential cause for deadly breast cancer relapse

Researchers have found that the protein Engrailed 1 is overexpressed in

basal-like carcinomas, and designed a chain of amino acids to shut

down the protein and kill basal-like tumors in the lab.

Hallmark for development of testicular tumors found in genes

Researchers have studied the role of a peculiar class of small non-

coding RNAs that are mainly expressed in the human male germline.

Mouse study finds gut microorganisms may determine cancer treatment

outcome

An intact population of microorganisms that derive food and benefit

from other organisms living in the intestine is required for optimal

response to cancer therapy, according to a mouse study.

New link found between obesity, diabetes

A single overactive enzyme worsens the two core defects of diabetes—

impaired insulin sensitivity and overproduction of glucose, suggesting

that a drug targeting the enzyme could help correct both at once,

according to mouse studies.

Your first hug: How early embryo changes shape

In research published, Australian scientists have revealed new insights

into how cells organize and form an early mammalian embryo.

Meat, egg, dairy nutrient essential for brain development

Research indicates that brain cells depend on the local synthesis of

asparagine to function properly. "The cells of the body can do without it

because they use asparagine provided through diet. Asparagine,

however, is not well transported to the brain via the blood-brain

barrier," said senior co-author of the study.

First map of autism-risk genes by function

Scientists mapped groups of autism-risk genes by function, and

identified how mutations in these genes disrupt fetal brain development.

Their findings prioritize targets for future research and shed light on

autism's molecular origins.

How living cells solved a needle in a haystack problem to produce

electrical signals

Scientists have figured out how cells do the improbable: pick the

charged calcium ions out of vast sodium sea to generate electrical

signals. The speed and accuracy of this selection is crucial to the beating

of the heart and the flow of nerve impulses in the brain. The finding is

likely to assist the development of new drugs, such as safer medications

for chronic pain.

Gene-silencing study finds new targets for Parkinson's disease

Scientists have used RNA interference technology to reveal dozens of

genes that may represent new therapeutic targets for treating Parkinson's

disease. The findings also may be relevant to several diseases caused by

damage to mitochondria, the biological power plants found in cells

throughout the body.

Study of human blood fluke parasites identifies drug resistance

mutations

An international group of scientists has identified the mutations that

result in drug resistance in a parasite infecting 187 million people in

South America, Africa and Asia. The new finding allows detailed

understanding of the drugs’ mechanism of action and raises prospects of

improved therapies.

Study finds gene network associated with alcohol dependence

Using a new approach that combines genome-wide association studies

with information about which human proteins interact with one another,

researchers have identified a group of 39 genes that together are

strongly associated with alcoholism.

Scientists show how cells protect DNA from catastrophic damage

Researchers have unveiled a profound biological process that explains

how DNA can be damaged during genome replication. In addition, the

scientists developed a new analytical tool to measure the cell's response

to chemotherapy, which could have an important impact on future

cancer therapy.

Different cellular mechanisms behind regenerated body parts

Scientists have discovered that two separate species of salamander

differ in the way their muscles grow back in lost body parts. Their

findings on the species-specific solutions demonstrate there is more than

one mechanism of tissue regeneration.

Scientists find invisibility cloak that shields HIV-1 from immune

system

Of the two major types of HIV, only one, HIV-1, typically causes AIDS

in infected people who don't receive treatment. A study reveals how

HIV-1 escapes detection by essentially becoming invisible to a patient's

immune system, whereas HIV-2 triggers protective immune responses

in patients. This understanding of how HIV-1's "invisibility cloak"

works could lead to the development of effect

Scientists identify gene that regulates body weight in humans, mice

Research has pointed to the importance of genetic factors in human

obesity and has shown that heritability plays a role in 40 percent to 90

percent of cases. Now investigators have found that loss of a particular

gene's function in humans and mice causes morbid obesity. The study of

a morbidly obese family provides insights into pathways that control

body weight and nutritional status, and the res

Fungus-fighting drug may make mild flu meaner

Mice given a drug commonly used in patients to fight systemic fungal

infections more often succumb to what would otherwise be a mild case

of the flu. The evidence shows that the drug called Amphotericin B,

which has an estimated $330 million in sales around the world each

year, can render a protein important for antiviral defense ineffective in

both cells and mice.

Attractants prevent nerve cell migration

A vision is to implant nerve precursor cells in patients with Parkinson's

and Huntington's diseases. However, the implanted nerve cells

frequently do not migrate as hoped. Scientists have now discovered an

important cause of this: Attractants secreted by the precursor cells

prevent the maturing nerve cells from migrating into the brain.

Study identifies protein essential for immune recognition, response to

viral infection

A research team has identified an immune cell protein that is critical to

setting off the body's initial response against viral infection. They found

that a protein called GEF-H1 is essential to the ability of macrophages --

major contributors to the innate immune system -- to respond to viral

infections like influenza.

.Células madre y epigenética

Scientists design, test new approach for corneal stem cell treatments

Researchers have designed and tested a novel, minute-long procedure to

prepare human amniotic membrane for use as a scaffold for specialized

stem cells that may be used to treat some corneal diseases. This

membrane serves as a foundation that supports the growth of stem cells

in order to graft them onto the cornea. This new method may accelerate

research and clinical applications for stem cell cor

Prostate cancer stem cells found to be moving target

Prostate cancer stem cells evolve into different cells as prostate cancer

progresses becoming a moving target for therapy. Scientists must be

prepared for the continual evolution of the stem cell as tumors adapt and

become resistant to new and more potent therapies. With this

knowledge, researchers can now design therapies that target the

elements of the cancer stem cells that remain unchanged.

Human neural stem cells could address critical limb ischemia

New research has shown human neural stem cells could improve blood

flow in critical limb ischemia through the growth of new vessels.

Discovery of progenitor cells key to placenta development may

illuminate pregnancy complications

Researchers have identified a novel progenitor cell and a related cell

communication pathway key to growth of a healthy placenta. The

team’s discovery gives scientists a “tool box” for understanding the

developmental

New agent against cancer cells

Scientists have discovered a new active substance that inhibits cell

division in leukemia cells and could play an important role in the fight

against cancer.

Maternal mood disorder, newborn neurobehavior

Researchers have now tested the influence of maternal depression

and/or anxiety during pregnancy on newborn neurobehavior.

Hallmark for development of testicular tumors found in genes

Researchers have studied the role of a peculiar class of small non-

coding RNAs that are mainly expressed in the human male germline.

Epigenetic changes may explain chronic kidney disease

Researchers found, in a genome-wide survey, significant differences in

the pattern of chemical modifications on DNA that affect gene

expression in kidney cells from patients with chronic kidney disease

versus healthy controls. This is the first study to show that changes in

these modifications – the cornerstone of the field of epigenetics – might

explain chronic kidney disease.

Aging impacts epigenome in human skeletal muscle

Our epigenome is a set of chemical switches that turn parts of our

genome off and on and are impacted by environmental factors including

diet, exercise and stress. Research reveals that aging also effects the

epigenome in human skeletal muscle. The study provides a method to

study sarcopenia, the degenerative loss of muscle mass that begins in

middle age.

Linking risk factors, disease origins in breast cancer

Researchers have found that epigenetic changes to DNA are associated

with aging in disease-free breast tissues and are further altered in breast

tumors. Epigenetic changes describe heritable alterations caused by

mechanisms other than by changes in DNA sequence. The discovery

illustrates how cancer and aging are tightly interconnected processes by

identifying epigenetic alterations present in the

Aging erodes genetic control, but that's flexible

In yeast at least, the aging process appears to reduce an organism's

ability to silence certain genes that need to be silenced. Now researchers

who study the biology of aging have shown that the loss of genetic

control occurs in fruit flies as

.Neurociencia

Memories 'geotagged' with spatial information

Using a video game in which people navigate through a town delivering

objects, a team of neuroscientists has discovered how brain cells that

encode spatial information form "geotags" for specific memories and

are activated immediately before those memories are recalled. Their

work shows how spatial information is incorporated into memories and

why remembering an experience can bring to m

Gene found responsible for susceptibility to panic disorder

A study published points, for the first time, to the gene trkC as a factor

in susceptibility to a panic disorder. The researchers define the specific

mechanism for the formation of fear memories which will help in the

development of new pharmacological and cognitive treatments.

Genetic mutation increases risk of Parkinson's disease from pesticides

Study uses patient-derived stem cells to show that a mutation in the α-

synuclein gene causes increased vulnerability to pesticides, leading to

Parkinson’s disease.

Speech recovery after stroke

Scientists investigate how speech is anchored in the brain, focusing their

research on the difference between left- and right-handed people.

Study connects dots between genes, human behavior

Establishing links between genes, the brain and human behavior is a

central issue in cognitive neuroscience research, but studying how genes

influence cognitive abilities and behavior as the brain develops from

childhood to adulthood has proven difficult. Now, an international team

of scientists has made inroads to understanding how genes influence

brain structure and cognitive abilities and how n

Buildup of amyloid in brain blood vessels promotes early cognitive

impairment

A team of researchers has discovered in a model of Alzheimer’s disease

that early accumulation of a small protein, known as amyloid β, in the

blood vessels of the brain can drive early cognitive impairment.

Surviving survival

In the largest study of its kind, researchers have investigated the

caregivers of 186 mothers to childhood brain tumor survivors aged 14-

40 whose care needs last long into adulthood. They discovered that a

complex interaction among the health of the caregivers, the demands

experienced by the caregiver, the caregiver’s perceptions about the

health of the survivor, and the family’s support interact

Geriatric care may help older patients find independence after trauma

A year after a trauma injury, seniors had difficulty with daily tasks such

as simple shopping trips.

Promising new treatment helps people with spine injuries walk better

Scientists may have found a new treatment that can help people with

spinal cord injuries walk better.

New clues to memory formation may help better treat dementia

Do fruit flies hold the key to treating dementia? Biologists have taken a

significant step forward in unraveling the mechanisms of Pavlovian

conditioning. Their work will help them understand how memories form

and, ultimately, provide better treatments to improve memory in all

ages.

Key protein responsible for controlling communication between brain

cells identified

Scientists are a step closer to understanding how some of the brain's 100

billion nerve cells co-ordinate their communication.

Polymer foam expands potential to treat aneurysms

Researchers are using the unique contraction and expansion properties

of shape memory polymer foam to design a much improved treatment

for brain aneurysms, which cause severe neurological damage or death

for 30,000 Americans each year.

Drug reduces brain changes, motor deficits of Huntington's disease

A drug that acts like a growth-promoting protein in the brain reduces

degeneration and motor deficits associated with Huntington's disease in

two mouse models of the disorder, according to a study. The findings

add to a growing body of evidence that protecting or boosting

neurotrophins -- the molecules that support the survival and function of

nerve cells -- may slow the progression of Huntington'

Big brains are all in the genes

Scientists have moved a step closer to understanding genetic changes

that permitted humans and other mammals to develop such big brains.

Brain bypass surgery gives young man his life back

A neuroradiologist inserts a micro-catheter into an aneurysm and injects

a flourescent dye, a complex, rare and new procedure which provides a

neurosurgeon a clear view of the blood vessel that feeds the aneurysm.

The surgeon then knows where to sew in a tranplanted blood vessel to

bypass the aneursym.

MR spectroscopy shows differences in brains of preterm infants

Premature birth appears to trigger developmental processes in the white

matter of the brain that could put children at higher risk of problems

later in life, according to a study.

Gene mutation for excessive alcohol drinking found

Researchers have discovered a gene that regulates alcohol consumption

and when faulty can cause excessive drinking. They have also identified

the mechanism underlying this phenomenon. The study showed that

normal mice show no interest in alcohol and drink little or no alcohol

when offered a free choice between a bottle of water and a bottle of

diluted alcohol. However, mice with a genetic mutation

New therapeutic target identified for Huntington's disease

A new study published identifies a new target in the search for

therapeutic interventions for Huntington's disease -- a devastating late-

onset neurodegenerative disorder.

ADHD study: Expensive training programs don't help grades, behavior

A two-year study found that computer-based training programs that

claim to help children with ADHD succeed in the classroom and in peer

relationships while reducing hyperactivity and inattentiveness do not

produce significant or meaningful long-term improvements. Parents are

better off saving their money, the lead researcher says.

Brain imaging differences in infants at genetic risk for Alzheimer's

Researchers have found that infants who carry a gene associated with an

increased risk for Alzheimer's disease tend to have differences in brain

development compared to infants who do not carry the gene. The

findings do not mean that these infants will get Alzheimer's, but they

may be a step toward understanding how this gene confers risk much

later in life.

Postmenopausal estrogen decline unrelated to changes in cognition,

mood

A new study shows that decreased estrogen levels after menopause are

largely unrelated to changes in cognitive ability and mood. It did find,

however, a possible link between levels of another hormone --

progesterone -- and cognition among younger postmenopausal women.

Oxytocin leads to monogamy

How is the bond between people in love maintained? Scientists have

discovered a biological mechanism that could explain the attraction

between loving couples: If oxytocin is administered to men and if they

are shown pictures of their partner, the bonding hormone stimulates the

reward center in the brain, increasing the attractiveness of the partner,

and strengthening monogamy.

Common brain cell plays key role in shaping neural circuits

Neuroscientists have discovered a new role played by a common but

mysterious class of brain cells.

Navigational ability visible in brain

The brains of people who immediately know their way after traveling

along as a passenger are different from the brains of people who always

need a GPS system or a map to get from one place to another.

Controlling circadian rhythms

Most people have experienced the effects of circadian-rhythm

disruption. To have any hope of modulating our biological “clocks,” we

need to first understand the physiology at play. A new study helps

explain some of the biophysical processes underlying regulation of

circadian rhythms.

Killer cocktail fights brain cancer

A novel immune-boosting drug combination eradicates an aggressive

form of brain cancer in mice, according to a study.

New immunotherapy for malignant brain tumors

Glioblastoma is one of the most ominous brain tumors. Despite

aggressive surgery, radiation and chemotherapy the outcome of this

disease is almost always fatal. A research team has now achieved

success with a novel form of treatment that involves encouraging the

body’s own immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells in

the brain.

PCBs still affecting health decades later

Although PCBs have been banned in the United States since 1979, a

researcher has found that higher levels of the toxin was associated with

lower cognitive performance in seniors.

The good news in bad news: Repeatedly exposing yourself to a negative

event may prevent it from affecting you

Psychology shows that it doesn't take much to put you in a bad mood.

And being in a bad mood slows your reaction time and affects your

basic cognitive abilities like speech, writing, and counting. But new

research now reveals that repeated exposure to a negative event

neutralizes its effect on your mood and your thinking. The study has

broad implications for understanding our emotions.

Making sense of sensation in autism

Occupational therapy helps children with autism improve their ability to

perform everyday better than standard behavioral therapy.

Swarming insect provides clues to how the brain processes smells

Our sense of smell is often the first response to environmental stimuli.

Odors trigger neurons in the brain that alert us to take action. However,

there is often more than one odor in the environment, such as in coffee

shops or grocery stores. How does our brain process multiple odors

received simultaneously?

Researchers find chemical signature for 'fast' form of Parkinson's

Scientists have discovered a potential biochemical signal that can

predict the progression of the rapid form of Parkinson's disease early-

on, right after onset of motor symptoms. The hope is that blood-based

biochemical signals such as this may aid in earlier detection and more

effective management of the disease.

New kind of genetic switch can target activities of just one type of brain

cell

Mysterious brain cells called microglia are starting to reveal their

secrets thanks to research conducted at the Weizmann Institute of

Science.

Different gene expression in male, female brains may help explain brain

disorder differences

Scientists have shown that there are widespread differences in how

genes, the basic building blocks of the human body, are expressed in

men and women’s brains.

Improvement of mood associated with improved brain injury outcomes

Researchers found that improvement of mood over the course of post-

acute brain rehabilitation is associated with increased participation in

day-to-day activities, independent living, and ability to work after

rehabilitation is complete.

Broken cellular 'clock' linked to brain damage

A new discovery may help explain the surprisingly strong connections

between sleep problems and neurodegenerative conditions such as

Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer's, vascular changes in the neck

An international research team studying Alzheimer's and mild cognitive

impairment is reporting potentially significant findings on a vascular

abnormality outside the brain.

Water-based imaging maps brain neurons before surgery

Some neurosurgeons are using a new approach to visualize the brain’s

delicate anatomy prior to surgery. The novel technique allows

neurosurgeons to see the brain’s nerve connections thus preserving and

protecting critical functions such as vision, speech and memory. No

needles, dyes or chemicals are needed to create the radiology scan. The

main imaging ingredient? Water.

First map of autism-risk genes by function

Scientists mapped groups of autism-risk genes by function, and

identified how mutations in these genes disrupt fetal brain development.

Their findings prioritize targets for future research and shed light on

autism's molecular origins.

Meat, egg, dairy nutrient essential for brain development

Research indicates that brain cells depend on the local synthesis of

asparagine to function properly. "The cells of the body can do without it

because they use asparagine provided through diet. Asparagine,

however, is not well transported to the brain via the blood-brain

barrier," said senior co-author of the study.

Gene-silencing study finds new targets for Parkinson's disease

Scientists have used RNA interference technology to reveal dozens of

genes that may represent new therapeutic targets for treating Parkinson's

disease. The findings also may be relevant to several diseases caused by

damage to mitochondria, the biological power plants found in cells

throughout the body.

Study pinpoints cell type, brain region affected by gene mutations in

autism

Researchers have identified the disruption of a single type of cell -- in a

particular brain region and at a particular time in brain development --

as a significant factor in the emergence of autism.

Preventing marijuana-induced memory problems with over-the-counter

painkillers

In addition to being used as a recreational drug, marijuana has been

used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, from chronic pain to

epilepsy. However, its medical value is greatly limited by debilitating

side effects. A study has revealed the molecular pathways responsible

for marijuana-induced learning and memory problems. The findings

suggest that preventing these side effects could b

Attractants prevent nerve cell migration

A vision is to implant nerve precursor cells in patients with Parkinson's

and Huntington's diseases. However, the implanted nerve cells

frequently do not migrate as hoped. Scientists have now discovered an

important cause of this: Attractants secreted by the precursor cells

prevent the maturing nerve cells from migrating into the brain.

Scientists find brain region that helps you make up your mind

One of the smallest parts of the brain is getting a second look after new

research suggests it plays a crucial role in decision making. A new study

published in Nature Neuroscience says the lateral habenula, a region of

the brain linked to

.Política científica

La red de colaboración científica de Atapuerca ha convertido al

yacimiento en una gran infraestructura

El complejo de Atapuerca (Burgos) se puede ver como una instalación

unida a una fuente de datos única –su registro arqueológico–, con un

gran impacto científico internacional y también socioeconómico

regional y a escala estatal indiscutible. Esto la ha convertido en una gran

infraestructura de investigación científica (LSRI), deviniendo a la vez

un caso muy especial dentro de esta catalogación.

El mercado negro de los artículos científicos en China

Una investigación del departamento de prensa de Science revela un

mercado negro en auge de las publicaciones científicas en China, donde

los investigadores están dispuestos a pagar decenas de miles de yuanes

para que añadan sus nombres al trabajo de otra persona. Añadir dos

nombres costaría unos 26.300 dólares.

FECYT y Loterías se unen para celebrar el sorteo de la ciencia

La Fundación Española para la Ciencia y la Tecnología (FECYT) y

Loterías y Apuestas del Estado colaboran para celebrar el Sorteo de la

Semana de la Ciencia en A Coruña, en el que se repartirán 42 millones

de euros.

A los países se les acumulan los deberes climáticos

Esta cumbre del clima de Varsovia –que se ha alargado durante toda la

noche de ayer hasta hoy a las 19:30 horas– deja muchas cuentas

pendientes a Lima y París, las sedes de 2014 y 2015. De aquí ha salido

un 'mecanismo internacional de Varsovia' de pérdidas y daños, se ha

fijado un nuevo calendario para la Plataforma de Durban y se ha dado

continuidad al compromiso de los 100.000 millones de dólare

Arranca la segunda edición de Famelab en España

La Fundación Española para la Ciencia y la Tecnología (FECYT) y el

British Council organizan por segunda vez en España el mayor

certamen internacional de monólogos científicos. El objetivo es

encontrar nuevas voces de la ciencia que

Biblioteca. Facultad de Biología

Universidad de Salamanca. Campus Miguel de Unamuno

c/Donantes de Sangre s/n 37007 Salamanca

angelpoveda@usal.es

http://campus.usal.es/~bibliotecabiologia/