Familiar Double Helix DNA Strands Aren’t The Only Ones That Show Up In Human Cells
Scientists have found DNA structures that more resemble a tangled knot -- and they seem like they may be fairly common in cells.
Los Angeles Times:
In Human Cells, Scientists Find DNA That Looks Like A Twisted Knot Instead Of A Double Helix
Biology textbooks may be due for a rewrite.For the first time, scientists have detected a DNA structure inside living human cells that looks more like a four-stranded knot than the elegant double helix we learned about in school. The tangled shape, known as an i-motif, had been seen before in the lab, but few researchers expected it to occur in human cells. The new work shows not only that i-motifs do indeed exist in human cells, but that they may be quite common. (Netburn, 4/23)
In other public health news —
San Jose Mercury News:
Study: Mothers' Weight Linked To Daughters' Early Puberty
We all remember going through puberty, though some of us might like to forget. Now imagine starting that formative transition — developing breasts or pubic hair — at 6 years old, just as you’re starting first grade. Now new research has found a likely cause: The heavier the mom-to-be, the more likely her daughter will bloom early, according to a study by the Kaiser Permanente Department of Research. (Lanese, 4/23)
Capital Public Radio:
E. Coli Cases In Alaskan Prison May Lead To Source Of Contaminated Lettuce
Federal investigators are looking for the exact source of an E. coli outbreak stemming from romaine lettuce, and an Alaskan prison may provide a clue to the origin. Food safety lawyer Bill Marler represents 28 people infected in the E. coli outbreak, including cases related to chopped romaine lettuce served at a Panera Bread restaurant in New Jersey (Marler says he's representing one person with E. coli in Sacramento). (Mitric, 4/23)