Melbourne researchers have uncovered a new genetic player in programmed cell death, offering a fresh target for potential cancer therapies. [ + ]

A decision by the European Patent Office (EPO) to revise the controversial 'Edinburgh' patent to exclude embryonic stem cells has disappointed Australian company Stem Cell Sciences. [ + ]

A new Sydney imaging centre is set to improve research opportunities for brain and nervous system specialists. [ + ]

Monash University researchers have identified two basic mechanisms that control the level of calcium deposition in bones and joints, a finding that could lead to treatments for osteoporosis and some forms of arthritis.

Bio-IT innovators are being encouraged to enter this year's Asia-Pacific Australian Information Communication and Technology (ICT) Awards. [ + ]

Born-again oil exploration company EQiTX has added another science heavyweight to its ranks for its latest incarnation as a biotech. [ + ]

A new chairman with science and manufacturing experience is to head the board of Optiscan. [ + ]

Aventis CropScience has officially become Bayer CropScience as a result of last year's acquisition of the CropScience unit by Bayer for around 7.25 billion euros ($AU13.4 billion). [ + ]

An international collaboration including Melbourne researchers has uncovered two reasons for calcium deposits in bones and joints, setting the foundation for new osteoporosis therapies. [ + ]

Sydney bioseparations specialist Gradipore has revealed that the first stage of its collaborative work with Texas A&M University is nearing completion. [ + ]

Patent attorneys will be watching closely this week as the legal status of the Federal Government's innovation patents system is tested for the first time in court. [ + ]

Former Industry, Research and Development Board chairman Dr Terry Cutler has been named as the fourth new appointee to the CSIRO board in the last two months. [ + ]

Nanotechnology drug developer Starpharma Pooled Development today announced it had gained approval for a United States patent over its dendrimer-based anti-cancer products. [ + ]

Bolstered by rising interest in the fusion of optics and biology, Australia's biophotonics community is lifting its game. [ + ]

Researchers have for the first time successfully grown human stem cells without exposure to mouse feeder cells. [ + ]