Spider's Web Image: Lisa McDonald / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Scientists have created genetically engineered E. coli bacteria that produce spider dragline silk. Spider's silk has many amazing properties that make it an ideal material that could be used for a number of industrial and biomedical applications. In order to create this artificial silk, the researchers synthesized the spider gene that produces silk and inserted it into the E. coli bacteria.

The researchers genetically altered the bacteria in order to help them produce spider silk protein. The artificial silk protein was then purified and spun into silk fiber. The strength, extensibility and stiffness of the artificial silk fiber was tested and found to be comparable to that of genuine spider silk. The researchers are confident that their method for mass producing spider dragline silk can also be used to produce other biomaterials such as elastin and collagen.

Learn more about this study:

• Native-Like Spider Silk Produced in Metabolically Engineered Bacteria Science Daily

Image: Genome Management Information System, Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Genes are segments of DNA located on chromosomes. Genes exist in alternative forms called alleles. Alleles determine distinct traits that can be passed on from parents to offspring. Genes are inherited through gene transmission that occurs during reproduction.

Genes contain the codes for the production of specific proteins. The information contained within DNA is not directly converted to proteins, but must first be transcribed in a process called DNA transcription. While transcription takes place within the nucleus of our cells, actual protein production takes place in the cytoplasm.

More Genetics Information:

• Chromosomes and Sex
  
• Chromosome Abnormalities
  
• Mendel's Law of Segregation
  
• Genetic Variation
  

Photo courtesy PDPhoto.org

Can chili peppers help in the fight against obesity? Scientists have found that capsaicin, the constituent of chili peppers that causes a burning sensation in tissue that it comes into contact with, suppresses fat buildup. Studies suggest that capsaicin may help to lower calorie intake, reduce fat tissue and decrease blood-fat levels.

Capsaicin in chili peppers reduces fat buildup by causing changes in fat proteins. These changes promote fat breakdown by the altered proteins. The researchers are hopeful that information gained from the study of the effects of capsaicin on fat will result in the development of new treatments for obesity. Obesity is a serious health concern as it is linked to other health problems such as diabetes and heart disease.

Learn more about this study:

• New Evidence That Chili Pepper Ingredient Fights Fat Science Daily

Graphene Sheet

Scientists have developed a new kind of paper with antibacterial properties. The material, called graphene, was discovered six years ago and consists of super-thin sheets of carbon. The ability of this material to inhibit the growth of bacteria was discovered when scientists created sheets of paper from graphene oxide and attempted to grow both bacterial cells and human cells on the paper. While human cell growth was unaffected by graphene, bacterial cells were unable to grow on the paper.

The findings of this study published in ACS Nano also show that graphene paper fights airborne bacteria as well. Due to the low cost involved in the mass production of this paper, coupled with its antibacterial properties, scientists believe that this material will have a number of commercial and clinical applications. Some of these applications could include its use in food packaging, the production of antibacterial bandages and even the development of anti-odor shoes.

Learn more about this study:

• Graphene-Based Antibacterial Paper EurekAlert