Medical
research nets $5 mil
The thinnest
and most delicate tissue has delivered a hard-hitting impact upon UC's
research community. Scientists in John Cuppoletti's medical lab are working
to better understand how proteins travel through membranes -- a discovery
that may lead to significant advances on cystic fibrosis, cardiac disease
and neurological disorders. The interdisciplinary research attracted a
$5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense.
In a separate lab run by Sun-Tak Hwang and William Krantz, an entire field
of discovery revolves around membrane technology. The National Science
Foundation awarded $250,000 this year to UC to become a site for the Center
for Membrane Applied Science and Technology.
The goal is to develop biomedical applications, such as artificial kidneys.
Past breakthroughs in membrane research allowed development of contact
lenses, the artificial lung machine and controlled-release medications,
such as the nicotine patch.
Big
splash for cash
DAAP's Amy Ferrell employed the classic Superman technique
on her chilly slide across Sigma Sigma Commons in May. Though the temperatures
didn't make it out of the 50s, fraternity and sorority students easily
outdid last year's fund-raising totals at the Greek Games, which featured
races, tug of war and a homemade Slip 'n Slide.
-- photo/Carrie Cochran
