Episode 13: Science News

Leaf it to me
Plants to grow HIV medication: This week research published from St George's, University of London describes a new protein that can kill the HIV, it then demonstrates how this protein could be produced in large quantities, to make it affordable for people in developing countries. The researchers combined two proteins that have been shown to kill the virus. Combined the proteins are more effective at killing HIV. In creating this fusion scientists designed synthetic DNA that would make the protein, and they introduced this DNA into plant cells.
Sexton et al. Design, expression, and characterization of a multivalent, combination HIV microbicide. The FASEB Journal, 2009; DOI: 10.1096/fj.09-131995

Inflaming the flu
This week researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that a drug used for treating rheumatoid arthritis reduces severe illness and death in mice exposed to the Influenza A virus. But why? They propose that changing the response of the body's immune system to influenza infection may reduce the severe symptoms of the influenza virus. The mice were effectively vaccinated against influenza A, and then infected with it. The mice didn't become as sick, recovered much faster and had much less damage to the lungs, compared to mice that weren't given the drug. Researchers said that the arthritis drug does not affect the immune system's early response to the virus – the fast attack in the lungs,, but it prevents "memory" T-cells from overreacting. "It's this overactive immune response that can make you feel sick – and can also lead to pneumonia," she says.
Teijaro et al. Costimulation Modulation Uncouples Protection from Immunopathology in Memory T Cell Responses to Influenza Virus. The Journal of Immunology, 2009; 182 (11): 6834 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0803860

The mercury is rising
RMIT University researchers have used nanotechnology to create a sensor that can measure mercury, which is one of the world’s most toxic substances. The sensor uses tiny flecks of gold are nano-engineered that attract mercury particles. Industrial processes release a complicated mix of volatile compounds, which interfere with monitoring mercury concentrations. The RMIT researchers altered the surface of the gold, making hundreds of tiny nano-spikes. Each one of these are about 1000 times smaller than the width of a human hair. It’s been known since ancient times that gold attracts mercury, but a regular gold surface doesn’t absorb much vapour and any measurements it makes are inconsistent.