Histocompatibility antigens on murine tumors

Recent advances in tumor immunology suggest that the expression of the histocompatibility antigens, encoded by the major histocompatibility complex, is important in controlling the metastatic growth of certain murine tumors. The anomalous expression of histocompatibility antigens in many neoplasms appears to be associated with the ability of these cells to evade the immune system and progress to metastasis. This review examines some of the underlying molecular and immunobiological interactions that might determine the metastatic outcome of cellular transformation.     

Mouse tumor model for neurofibromatosis type 1

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by increased incidence of benign and malignant tumors of neural crest origin. Mutations that activate the protooncogene ras, such as loss of Nf1, cooperate with inactivating mutations at the p53 tumor suppressor gene during malignant transformation. One hundred percent of mice harboring null Nf1 and p53 alleles in cis synergize to develop soft tissue sarcomas between 3 and 7 months of age. These sarcomas exhibit loss of heterozygosity at both gene loci and express phenotypic traits characteristic of neural crest derivatives and human NF1 malignancies.     

Society for Developmental Biology meeting. A mile-high view of development

BOULDER, COLORADO--Nearly 600 scientists gathered at the base of the Flatirons to discuss the growth and patterning of organisms including plants, worms, fruit flies, fish, and mice at the 59th annual meeting of the Society for Developmental Biology. Among the highlights were clues about how blind cave fish lost their eyes and how a gene that influences cell movement might help cancer spread.     

African research. Against all odds, victories from the front lines

In one of the world's poorest countries, a team of Malian and American researchers who have been monitoring malaria here since 1997 are attacking malaria both in the lab and in the clinic. The Bandiagara Malaria Project is also laying the groundwork for future trials of a hoped-for vaccine. The researchers' presence has already had a measurable effect: In the past few years, malaria deaths have been rare.