Cryo-EM Method Yields
Picture-Perfect Proteins

Ng, top, and Glaeser

Researchers at UC Berkeley and Berkeley Lab are developing a technique for determining three-dimensional protein structures that can yield more useful data than previous methods. Called single-particle electron cryomicroscopy, or cryo-EM, this new method allows researchers to visualize the protein in its native physiological state, as it appears in a biological cell. The work is being done by Lab life scientist Robert Glaeser along with members of the Computational Research Division's Scientific Computing Group, led by Esmond Ng. Full story.

Clues to 'Gene Deserts' Mystery Uncovered

Like the famous living deserts of the Southwest, the so-called "gene deserts" in our DNA are teeming with activity. The trick is knowing where to look for it. A new roadmap to the location of DNA segments that are significant in medical, biological and evolutionary research could emerge from studies published yesterday by scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and their colleagues. Research last year at the Joint Genome Institute (JGI) and Berkeley Lab has shown that gene deserts contain DNA sequences that can switch genes on and off over considerable distances along the DNA molecule. Full story.

Holiday Craft Fair
In Cafeteria Today

Be sure to stop by the cafeteria today between 3 and 6 p.m. for the Lab's ninth annual Holiday Craft Fair. Choose from artwork, edibles, jewelry, and many other items, each handmade by Lab employees. Drawings for free prizes will take place during the event.

Lab Clothing
On Sale Today

All Lab-logo merchandise — including shirts, hats, jackets and sweaters in multiple colors and styles — will be on sale for 10-to-25 percent off today near the coffee bar in the cafeteria. The sale will run from 2 to 4 p.m., which includes the first hour of the employee crafts fair in the dining room (see story above).

Pager Radio System
To Shut Down Dec. 23

The Lab's voice pager radio system will cease operations at close of business on Thursday, Dec. 23. This is due to new National Telecommunications and Information Administration regulations. Old voice pagers (see photos) may be turned in to the Radio Shop at Building 41 or mailed to MS 25A-119 for recycling. Go here to view replacement non-voice numeric and alphanumeric commercial pagers. For more information, contact Telephone Services (x7997).