Extension

• Discover magazine published a feature article in its August 2000 issue:
  "Every living thing has at least one parasite that lives inside or on it, and many, including humans, have far more. Scientists are only just beginning to discover exactly how powerful these hidden inhabitants can be, but their research is pointing to a remarkable possibility: Parasites may rule the world. The notion that tiny creatures we've largely taken for granted are such a dominant force is immensely disturbing.
  
  
• Scientists at the University of Utah and in Japan have discovered a gene that ensures the flatworm's brain develops within its head. When the "brains everywhere" gene is silenced, brain material develops throughout the body, including the worm's tail.The human version of the gene probably is not involved in keeping the human brain inside the skull, but likely plays some other role in nervous system development in human embryos, says Alejandro Sánchez Alvarado, a developmental biologist at the University of Utah School of Medicine.
  
  
• Stem Cells Research:
  Researchers have identified a gene in planaria--freshwater flatworms renowned for their regenerative abilities--that is key for maintenance of their stem cells. Because planarian stem cells share characteristics with those of humans, the work will aid scientists striving to understand how stem cells can be used to completely repair damaged tissues and organs.