Genetic Enhancer
Elements Described

The sequence of the human genome has been available for several years, but it remains a mystery how exactly genes are switched on and off under the right circumstances or, if inappropriately controlled, cause disease. In a study led by post-doctoral fellow Axel Visel and Senior Scientist Len Pennacchio from Berkeley Lab’s Genomics Division, bioinformatics were used to discover thousands of potential DNA switches in the human genome. Over two hundred of these regions were then confirmed to be genetic switches in transgenic mice, providing the largest collection of genetic enhancer elements in the human genome described to date. The results were published in the Feb. 1 edition of Nature Genetics. Full story.

Roadmap for Nano
R&D Gets Published

The potential for nanotechnology to build molecule-by- molecule has been greatly discussed with one question invariably being asked: How do we get from here to there? To help answer that question, the think tank Foresight Nanotech Institute and Battelle have unveiled “Productive Nanosystems: A Technology Roadmap.” This roadmap is a first attempt to map out the R&D pathways across multiple disciplines to achieve atomically precise manufacturing. For the past three years, working groups comprised of over 70 scientists, theorists, and business leaders have collaborated to create a common framework for understanding and defining these pathways. Paul Alivisatos, Division Director of Berkeley Lab’s Materials Sciences Division, was among the members of the plan’s steering committee. Full story.

Genomics Site Updated;
New Sequences, Tools

The latest version of the MicrobesOnline website, a resource for comparative and functional genomics, has been released. This recent release contains new genome sequences from the NCBI RefSeq 22 database and functional genomic data sets, and includes an improved microarray expression interface allowing scientists to compare the expression patterns of selected genes as well as search for other genes with a similar expression profile. The TreeBrowser tool, which allows users to evaluate genes within an evolutionary framework by browsing pre-computed phylogenetic trees, has been updated to allow comparisons with alternative species tree topologies. MicrobesOnline was created by the DOE’s Virtual Institute for Microbial Stress and Survival.

Theatre Talk on Improving
Biomass for Bioenergy

Tuskan

As part of the “Science at the Theater” lecture series, Jerry Tuskan, with Berkeley Lab’s Genomics Division, will discuss “Genomic Advance to Improve Biomass for Biofuels” at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre on Monday, Feb. 11. Tuskan has led the international effort to characterize and analyze the genome of the first tree ever sequenced — the poplar.  He is among the world's authorities on the genetic basis of tree growth and development, with emphasis on biomass accumulations, carbon allocation and cell-wall chemistry. This free event starts at 5:30 p.m. The theatre is located at 2025 Addison St. The next talk, “Saving Power at Peak Hours” by Mary Ann Piette, takes place on March 10.

Prevent Runaway Cars;
Turn Tires When Parking

When facing down, turn wheels towards the curb

Drivers must curb their car's tires when parking alongside the steep roads found throughout the Lab’s hilly terrain. This prevents a runaway car if a vehicle’s brakes fail. Follow these simple rules: When facing downhill, turn the wheels to the right. When facing uphill on a street with a curb, turn the wheels to the left. When facing uphill on a street with no curb, turn the wheels to the right. In all cases, set the parking brake and leave the vehicle in gear or in the park position. Go here for more information.

Oddone Tries to Brighten
Fermi Lab’s Future

Oddone

Pier Oddone has been the director of Fermilab for two and a half years, coming to Batavia from Berkeley Lab. During his time, the lab has weathered its share of funding crises, but Oddone says the latest is the worst of his career, and the worst in the lab's history. Last month, Congress passed an omnibus appropriations bill that took a huge bite out of funding for high-energy physics. At Fermilab, the result was a $52 million cut from what had been expected, effectively shutting down research on two main projects at the lab — the International Linear Collider and the NOVA neutrino experiments. Oddone's job is to keep the ship righted and plan for the lab's future. Full story.