Neural targeting of Mycobacterium leprae mediated by the G domain of the laminin-alpha-2 chain

Article Abstract:

A combination of immunological, histological, tissue culture and molecular biological techniques were employed to study the molecular basis of the neural tropism of Mycobacterium leprae. The data revealed that M. leprae exhibits specific binding to the G domain of the laminin-alpha-2 (LN-alpha-2) chain on Schwann cell-axon units, thus forming an LN-alpha-2G bridge. Such findings provide evidence for the novel role of the G domain of LN-2 in infection and that of a host-derived bridging molecule for the determination of nerve tropism of a pathogen.

Central nervous system, Histology, Pathogenic microorganisms, Recombinant proteins, Cell culture, Tissue culture, Schwann cells, Mycobacterium leprae, Immunoblotting

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In and out of the replication factory

Article Abstract:

Live-fluorescence microscopy is used to monitor individual genomic loci as they replicate in budding yeast. The analysis has shown that DNA is recruited to replication factories and that sister replication forks initiated from the same origin are held together within a single replication factory.

DNA replication

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Jumpstarting research into neglected diseases

Article Abstract:

Advocacy groups started by patients and their relatives have helped in galvanizing research efforts and driving innovative approaches to develop new treatments for an assortment of illness. The advantages and drawbacks of this type of entrepreneurial approach are discussed.

Genetic aspects, Gene therapy, Genetic research, Progeria, Report

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