Media spotlight
with Judith H Moore

Birth defect gene discovered
Researchers may be a step closer to understanding the reasons behind the most severe form of the birth defect spina bifida. Reporting in the journal, Human Molecular Biology, the joint project between researchers at Imperial College and the Institute of Child Health, University College London, has identified a novel gene in mice that provides the first information on the genetic basis of the condition. Dr Philip Stanier from IC’s new institute of reproductive and developmental biology said: “We have identified the gene that is mutated in the loop-tail strain of mice. Although folic acid supplementation can reduce the occurrence of many cases of spina bifida, understanding the mode of action of the loop-tail gene may provide the key to identifying further therapies that will prevent this devastating disorder.” Sunday Telegraph (25/11/01), BBC News Online (20/11/01)

The power of thought
Great news for couch potatoes — you can think yourself thin, reports the Independent on Sunday (02/12/01). Researchers have investigated the interaction between psychological and physiological processes. Professor John Gruzelier, division of neuroscience and psychological medicine, recently completed a research project showing students who use visualisation techniques rather than deep relaxation when revising, have fewer colds. “It backs up the notion of the `fighting spirit’, and it extends into personality,” he commented. “People who are cognitively activated — who think and talk quickly and are very sociable — have stronger immune systems than passive loners.”

Key to youthful appearance in diet
Imperial College scientists have identified one of the keys to looking young. A team led by Professor Chris Bulpit, division of medicine at Hammersmith campus, has shown high cholesterol levels result in premature ageing.

Speaking to BBC News Online (19/11/01) Professor Bulpit said: “We were of course expecting to see that grey hair and balding were associated with looking older — but we were quite surprised by the association with haemoglobin and cholesterol.”

Jean wars
The Financial Times (21/11/01) reports that the Levi Strauss’ recent victory in the battle with the supermarket chain, Tesco over the supply of cheap jeans has ramifications for the sale and supply of branded goods across Europe. Tesco claims that the jeans manufacturer is exploiting trademark rights to deprive consumers in ‘Fortress Europe’ of US-style bargains. A report published by Dr Stefan Szymanski, management school, in 1999, supports the ruling reached by the European Court of Justice. While the relaxation of legislation governing the sale of trademark goods would produce some short-term benefits by creating more competition and lower prices, “the long-term consequences could well be serious (and) may reduce the investment in manufacture, supply and customer care,” it warns.