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Genetics technique takes bite out of research barriersResearchers can go about their business much more easily thanks to a novel DNA tool curiously named after a ghost-chomping videogame icon. Dubbed P[acman], the new method promises to transform the ability of scientists to study the structure and function of virtually the entire genome of the fruit fly Drosophila (a popular research subject in genetics), opening up previously closed doors in studies of the fly's genes and even gene complexes in the fly, which was not possible before. The method, described by BCM developers in the journal Science earlier this year, may be applicable to other frequently studied organisms such as mice. "P[acman] overcomes a key limitation of currently available methods because it allows you to study large chunks of DNA in vivo," said Hugo Bellen, D.V.M., Ph.D., M.B.A., Professor of Molecular and Human Genetics at Baylor College of Medicine and Director of the Program in Developmental Biology. He is also a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator. Short for P/phiC31 artificial chromosome for manipulation, P[acman] combines three recently developed technologies to overcome problems presented by current research methods, whose occasionally limited control over genetic manipulation in fruit flies has impeded scientists. P[acman] overcomes certain obstacles by cloning large pieces of DNA to help transform the genome and permit that DNA to be inserted into specific places in the genome, an advance with far-reaching promise, said Bellen. |
FeaturesNewsBCM Cancer Center One of Select Few SpotlightBert O'Malley: A Pioneer in Molecular Endocrinology Making Sense of the Sense of Touch Severe Skin Conditions Take a Back Seat at Camp Dermadillo Health Economist Must Put Price Tag on the Priceless Doctor Creates Cartoon that "Bugs" Kids About the Risks of Tobacco BriefsLiving Longer is Smelly Business Clinical Trials for Cancer Southward Bound Green Tea Component Blocks HIV Cell Entry Genetics Technique Takes Bite out of Research Barriers Sports Legends Lend Helping Hands, Arms to College Development & Alumni NewsMitchell Gift Furthers Brain Research Lambert Receives Lifetime Achievement Award Kleberg Foundation Gift Establishes RNAi Screening Core Facility Alumnus Named White House Fellow
Tailoring Technology to Benefit You, the Patient
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Volume 3, Issue 2, Summer 2007 |
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