novel approach

(Duke University) Without knowing how much of an industrial chemical is being produced, it is almost impossible for scientists to determine if it poses any threat to the environment or human health.

Civil engineers at Duke University believe they have come up with a novel way of estimating how much of one such material -- titanium dioxide -- is being generated, laying the groundwork for future studies to assess any possible risks.

Researchers have developed a novel approach to the delivery of small bits of genetic material in order to silence genes using "RNA interference" -- and in the process, discovered a potent method of suppressing inflammation in mice similar to what occurs in a range of human diseases.

Even the most drug-resistant fungi can be eradicated in multiple in vitro and in vivo models using a lethal combination of an antifungal agent and inhibition of a specific heat shock protein (Hsp90).

Such findings could point to a novel approach for the development of future antifungal therapies for patients with compromised immune systems.