Each time a human cell divides, it must first make a copy of its 46 chromosomes to serve as an instruction manual for the new cell. Normally, this process goes off without a hitch. But from time to time, the information isn't copied and collated properly, leaving gaps or breaks that the cell has to carefully combine back together. Researchers have long recognized that some regions of the chromosome,called "fragile sites," are more prone to breakage and can be a breeding ground for human cancers. But they have struggled to understand why these weak spots in the genetic code occur in the first place. A comprehensive mapping of the fragile sites in yeast by a team of Duke researchers shows that fragile sites appear in specific areas of the genome where the DNA-copying machinery is slowed or stalled, either by certain sequences of DNA or by structural elements. The study, which appears May 5 in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, could give insight into the origins of many of the genetic abnormalities seen in solid tumors. "Other studies have been limited to looking at fragile sites on specific genes or chromosomes," said Thomas D. Petes, Ph.D., the Minnie … Continue reading →

by Joseph Masilamany, reporters@theborneopost.com. Posted on May 6, 2014, Tuesday KOTA SAMARAHAN: In the last few decades, the term DNA has grown to become a household name. But not many are aware that DNA, which stands for the mouthful deoxyribonucleic acid, can be extracted from an organism using common household items and tools found in the kitchen. Visitors to the three-day BioBorneo 2014 Conference and Exhibition, currently held at University Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), were surprised to know that DNA extraction is in fact a simple procedure that does not require sophisticated tools from the ivory tower of science. At the exhibition booth hosted by the Malaysian Biotechnology Information Centre (Mabic), project officers Shamira Shamsudeen and Farah Nazri demonstrated yesterday how the DNA extraction procedure could be executed using household detergent, baking powder, meat tenderizer, a spoon and an electric blender. The Mabic booth attracted many visitors who were keen to try out the DNA extraction technique themselves. Using the simple ingredients and kitchen tools, many visitors turned genetic scientists as they attempted to extract the DNA from a strawberry. Speaking to The Borneo Post, Mabic executive director Dr Mahaletchumy Arujanan, says her centre aims to bring science closer home to … Continue reading →