Census of microbes in healthy humans reported
Some 200 U.S. scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and elsewhere detail findings from the most comprehensive census of the microbial make-up of healthy humans.
Timing, duration of biochemical bugle call critical for fighting viruses
Researchers have identified the primary player of the
biochemical bugle call that musters the body’s defenders against viral
infection. Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine
in St. Louis have shown that a key molecule, MDA5, is essential for
producing enough interferon (the bugle call) to rally virus-fighting
cells during certain viral infections.
Two faculty named fellows of American Academy of Microbiology
The American Academy of Microbiology has named two Washington University in St. Louis faculty members as fellows: Robert Blankenship, PhD, and John Heuser, MD.
Glaser, emeritus trustee, 93
Robert J. Glaser, Emeritus Trustee and former
Washington University School of Medicine faculty member, died Thursday,
June 7, 2012, at his home in Palo Alto, Calif. He was 93.
Permutt, renowned diabetes researcher, 72
M. Alan Permutt, MD, professor of medicine and of cell biology and physiology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, died of cancer Sunday, June 10, 2012, in St. Louis. He was 72.
Clues found to way embryonic kidney maintains its fleeting stem cells
Studying mice and humans, researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and their collaborators in Paris have identified two proteins that are required to maintain a supply of stem cells in the developing kidney. The work is a small step toward the future goal of growing kidney stem cells in the lab.
Decoding DNA finds breast tumor signatures that predict treatment response
Decoding the DNA of patients with advanced breast cancer has allowed scientists to identify distinct cancer “signatures” that could help predict which women are most likely to benefit from estrogen-lowering therapy, while sparing others from unnecessary treatment.
Arts as Healing to hold exhibit June 29
The Siteman Cancer Center’s Arts as Healing Program will hold a gallery exhibit June 29 featuring original art created by cancer survivors. The Kaleidoscope of Hope event will be held from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Des Lee Gallery, 1627 Washington Ave., First Floor, St. Louis, MO, 63103.
Washington People: Kevin Black
Kevin Black’s family didn’t have any physicians in it. Well, one of his great-great-grandfathers had a medical license back in the late 1800s, but he had no formal training — and Black himself wasn’t planning on medical school. But during his first year of college, a teacher helped change his career plans.
Renew employee U-Pass to ride MetroLink, Metro buses for free
The employee 2011-12 U-Pass — allowing WUSTL faculty and staff free use of Metro, the region’s public transportation system — will expire June 30. Benefits-eligible employees may request a new U-Pass for the 2012-13 fiscal year at the Parking & Transportation Services website, parking.wustl.edu/upass.htm. The new pass will be valid through June 30, 2013.
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