Life Sciences

Keiler elected as Fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology
Kenneth Keiler
Forensic scientists have a blast in Happy Valley
Forensics trainees use lasers to establish projectile trajectories in a mock crime scene at the Cottages. Credit: Penn State
New neuron-like cells allow investigation into synthesis of vital cellular components
The enzyme called FGAMS (red) is expressed in human neuron-like cells, which suggests its involvement in the synthesis of purines, a component of DNA involved in many other cellular and metabolic processes. Using a new method to create synthetic neurons from a readily available cell line, a new study explores the role of FGAMS in creating a multi-enzyme complex called the purinosome, which enables faster production of purines. Credit: Colleen Mangold, Penn State
Researchers map druggable genomic targets in evolving malaria parasite
The 48-hour lifecycle of Plasmodium falciparum development in human red blood cells. A team of researchers has used whole genome analysis and chemogenetics to identify new drug targets and resistance genes in the parasite. Credit: Llinás Laboratory, Penn State
Have RNA, will travel: Malaria parasite packs genetic material in preparation for trip from mosquitoes to humans
Because the malaria parasite Plasmodium cannot anticipate when it may be transmitted from a mosquito to a mammalian host, it uses specialized poly(A)-binding proteins to package and protect its genetic material for use after transmission. Credit: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
New research agenda for malaria elimination and eradication
Glass sculptures depict the malaria-causing parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. Credit: Artwork by Luke Jerram, graphic design by Rachel Papernick
Agricultural parasite takes control of host plant’s genes
Dodder, a parasitic plant, attached to a host plant from which it obtains water and nutrients. The parasite inserts microRNAs into the host that can silence the expression of host genes. This is the first example of cross-species gene regulation observed in a parasitic plant. CREDIT: Penn State University
Person to person: Matt Keefe
Matt Keefe
Different Journeys in Lives Dedicated to Medicine
Physicians from three different eras in three different settings trace their roots back to Penn State.
Person-to-person: Alexa Dembek
Alexa Dembek
Subscribe to Life Sciences