Sigma-Aldrich announced the launch of Panorama Human Cancer Version 1 Protein Functional Microarray. Developed by Procognia Ltd, UK and licensed exclusively through Sigma-Aldrich, the Cancer V1 protein microarray contains 130 correctly folded proteins. These proteins are selected from a recent seminal scientific publication that reviewed and compiled all proteins that are implicated in mediating cancer. Read the press release.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has been selected as one of six universities nationwide to be awarded a two-year, nearly $1 million planning grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that will provide a foundation for the development of a center for cheminformatics research. The Rensselaer Exploratory Center for Cheminformatics Research (RECCR) will bring together an interdisciplinary research team to seek improved understanding of the relationships between chemical structure and function for use in biotechnology applications. Read the press release.

InforSense and Elsevier MDL have announced an expanded strategic relationship to integrate the new-generation MDL Isentris informatics platform and the InforSense KDE workflow-based integrative analytics platform, and to explore further joint development initiatives. The aim of the collaboration is to enable scientists in the life sciences to use information and knowledge more effectively in decision-making in order to enhance R&D productivity. Read the press release.

Tokyo-based Eisai Co., Ltd. and San Diego-based TorreyPines Therapeutics Inc. jointly announced the signing of a new research agreement that focuses on the discovery of genes responsible for late onset Alzheimer's disease. This latest agreement marks the continuation of Eisai's support for this program that began in 2001. A second collaboration agreement between TorreyPines and Eisai was signed in February of this year to support the discovery of small molecules that lower A-beta42, a peptide involved in the creation of amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Read the press release.

The National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) this week launched a completely redesigned and enhanced website. The new site contains expanded information for prospective and current grantees and more patient-oriented information on technology-based medical procedures. The new web site can be viewed at: http://www.nibib.nih.gov.