New technique analyzes seaweed chemical defenses, could lead to new drug compounds
GT Newsroom, Apr 7 A new technique is helping scientists learn how organisms as simple as seaweed can mount complex chemical defenses to protect themselves from microbial threats such as fungus. Known as desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, the technique for the first time allows researchers to study unique chemical activity taking place on the surfaces of these organisms ... and could one day allow scientists to borrow and adapt some of those defensive chemical compounds for use against cancer, HIV, malaria, drug-resistant bacteria and other diseases of humans. (full story | Julia Kubanek)

Groundbreaking research begins for pancreatic and lung cancers
GT Newsroom,  Apr 1 The Georgia Institute of Technology and Saint Joseph’s Hospital have joined together to begin the first regional research program to study the genetics and cell biology of pancreatic cancer. Tissue and serum samples from patients with cancer are being scrutinized to identify the differences in genetic and cellular features between normal and tumor cells. Findings from this research will be used for the ultimate purpose of developing tests for early diagnosis and identifying specific, targeted therapies to treat pancreatic cancer. (full story | John McDonald)

Marcus Nanotechnology Building formally dedicated
GT Newsroom, Apr  23  Three years after breaking ground, Georgia Tech dedicated  the Marcus Nanotechnology Building, one of the most ambitious and expensive projects in the Institute’s history. The ceremony was held on Friday, April 24. The 190,000-square-foot complex poises Georgia Tech to be a global hub for nanotechnology research and development while igniting an environment that could potentially transform both local and state economies. (full story | video tour | Bernie Marcus discusses nanotechnology on  CNBC)

Global warming's impact on severe weather
Bukisa, Apr 18 The number of Atlantic hurricanes in an average season has doubled in the last century due in part to warmer seas and changing wind patterns caused by global warming, according to a study released on Sunday. The new study, published online in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London, said the increased numbers of tropical storms  and hurricanes in the last 100 years is closely related to a 1.3-degree rise in sea surface temperatures. (full story |Peter Webster)