Keeping plant-cell motors on track

In a growing plant cell, motor proteins called kinesins work as transporters that haul materials built in one part of the cell to the place where they are needed. Now, biologists at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered the molecular brakeman that holds kinesins in check until their cargo is needed.

McDaniel named to Macmillan Learning advisory council

Mark McDaniel
Mark McDaniel, professor of psychological and brain sciences in Arts & Sciences, is one of three leading experts in cognitive and learning sciences appointed as permanent members of a Learning Research Advisory Council formed by Macmillan Learning.

3-D mapping babies’ brains

Research from a collaborative team at Washington University in St. Louis tested a 3-D method that could lead to new diagnostic tools that will precisely measure the third-trimester growth and folding patterns of a baby’s brain. Their findings might help to sound an early alarm on developmental disorders in preemies that could affect them later in life.

Students to build homes, make connections

Washington University in St. Louis junior Sarah Small can’t wire a socket or install a toilet. But this spring break, she will be part of a team of 16 students from the university’s Habitat for Humanity chapter building a home in Georgia. Small will capture the experience on the university’s Instagram account.

Attend Sling Health Demo Day in April

Sling Health Network is a student-run biotechnology incubator that provides resources, training and mentorship to teams of students working to solve real-life clinical problems. RSVP to attend the group’s Demo Day, starting at 6 p.m. April 13.