Microbiology Prof. Erle Robertson conducted a series of experiments with Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpes virus, also known as KSHV. University scientists found that a protein expressed by one gene on the virus builds a biochemical docking station which links viral DNA to the chromosomes of lymphoma cells. KSHV is known to be one of a family of gammaherpesviruses that remain dormant in humans after the initial infection is over.
Robertson said the research team identified a protein called the latency-associated nuclear antigen, or LANA. They found that LANA is known to tether, or link, the virus to host chromosomes.
Medical graduate student Murray Cotter, who worked with Robertson on the project, said he hopes to apply what he learned to gene therapy research.
The University is currently in the process of applying for a patent on the viral tethering mechanism.
-A University professor of voice and voice training has developed some suggestions to combat the aging voice.
Leslie Guinn, who works with the medical school's Vocal Health Center, said there are a number of reasons why the aging voice changes. She said lack of flexibility in the rib cage cartilage and the voice box can result in dryness of the mouth, less efficient breathing and less control.
Guinn said that the aging voice can sometimes be attributed to a lack of use. Guinns said it can also be attributed to gastroesophogeal reflux, whose symptoms are usually habitual throat clearing, postnasal drip, nighttime choking spells, sour acid taste and heartburn.
Guinns suggests treating the aging voice with a minimum of eight 8-ounce glasses of non-caffeinated fluids every day and 12-15 minutes of vocal exercises.
-According to a University researcher, many former recipients of welfare are still living in poverty despite the fact that the number of Americans on welfare has declined.
Social Work and Public Policy Prof. Sheldon Danziger said despite the booming economy many recipients have "slipped through the cracks." Danziger said that the thriving economy has reduced the number of welfare recipients nearly 40 percent. But only 50 to 70 percent of recipients who are no longer on welfare are actually getting jobs.
Danziger said that some states terminate welfare recipients not because they are finding work but because of administrative changes. Danziger said other states use diversion policies and sanction policies, which also lead to fewer cases.
-The University's Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives received a grant to initiate the Pathways to Student Success and Excellence Program for the 1999-2000 academic year.
The program, known as POSSE, aims to increase the retention and graduation rates of academically and economically disadvantaged undergraduate students.
OAMI Director John Matlock said the University's graduation rate is one of the highest among the nation's public institutions. But Matlock notes that there are still many disparities that exist among minority students.
- Compiled by Daily Staff Reporter Risa Berrin.
11-18-99
| Previous Article | Next Article |
should be sent to: daily.letters@umich.edu | should be sent to: online.daily@umich.edu |