Scientists sequence genome of the N2-fixing, soil-living bacterium Azotobacter vinelandii. [ + ]

European Medicines Agency grants Clinuvel new orphan drug designation for afamelanotide. [ + ]

Two young researchers at Children’s Cancer Institute Australia for Medical Research (CCIA), Dr Joshua McCarroll and Dr Marcia Munoz, were today awarded significant funding from the Balnaves Foundation to further their promising research into childhood cancer. [ + ]

Australian researchers close to a breakthrough in cancer treatment using the body's own immune system to destroy cancerous cells. [ + ]

Scientists identify gene vital to early embryonic cells forming a normal heart and skull. [ + ]

People take it for granted their teeth can be repaired as they age. Hearing can be enhanced electronically. Cosmetic surgery may disguise the external ravages of time. Transplant surgery can replace heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. But when the eye’s light-sensitive membrane, the retina, fails there seems little you can do about it – and millions end their lives in darkness. [ + ]

A tiny frozen microbe may hold clues to extraterrestrial life. [ + ]

Genes linked to vitamin D involved in susceptibility to multiple sclerosis. [ + ]

Role of key gene in neurodegenerative disorder uncovered. [ + ]

New insights into the potential risks of exposure to carbon nanotubes. [ + ]

The RETCIF test is able to detect viruses, including swine flu, within hours. The test, developed by Melbourne virologist Dr Robert Alexander, is expected to be available internationally within two years.

COH, PXS, HGN, CXS, CXD, BTA [ + ]

Mutated mice provide hope for congenital myopathy cure. [ + ]

Rigaku and PerkinElmer have announced a co-marketing strategy for their X-ray fluorescence and atomic spectroscopy instruments and solutions.

Offers a fast, sensitive, and cost-effective diagnostic test that runs on standard laboratory equipment. [ + ]