Focusing on one cell

Most people don’t think highly of pond scum, but for Susan Dutcher, PhD, professor of genetics and of cell biology and physiology at the School of Medicine, the single-celled green algae Chlamydomonas are incredible creatures worthy of her life’s work.

Retired NFL players misuse painkillers more than general population

Retired NFL players use painkillers at four times the rate of the general population, according to new research conducted by investigators at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. The researchers say the brutal collisions and bone-jarring injuries associated with football often cause long-term pain, which contributes to continued use and abuse of pain-killing medications. 

Biologists’ favorite worm gets viruses

A workhorse of modern biology is sick, and scientists couldn’t be happier. Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and other institutions have found that the nematode C. elegans, a millimeter-long worm used extensively for decades to study many aspects of biology, gets naturally occurring viral infections.

Something for everyone

Mackenzie Asel (left) and Arun Ganti, both second-year medical students, study a painting on display at the 2011 Student, Faculty and Staff Art Show in the atrium of the Farrell Learning and Teaching Center at the School of Medicine. The show, which runs through Feb. 11, features photography, painting, mixed media, ceramics and various other forms of art.
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