University scientists have identified a protein that may provide insight into the cause of hearing deficiencies. The study was published in yesterday's issue of Cell magazine.
Scientists believe that the protein, named myosin Ic, controls the development of sensory hairs in the ear that allow a person to hear properly.
Neuroscience and Otolaryngology Prof. Jeffrey R. Holt, the study's leader, said scientists hope they can achieve their goal of curing deafness within 10 years.
The next step in the process toward curing human deafness is to unravel the functions of the 40 varieties of human myosin cells, Holt said.
Bush's 'axis of evil' stirs controversy in North Korea
In response to President George W. Bush's characterization of North Korea as part of an "axis of evil," the official North Korean media service has released a statement that the United States is the "empire of the devil."
Bush's statement, made during his Jan. 29 State of the Union address, has drawn criticism from South Korean President Kim Dae Jung, who has long supported dialogue between North and South Korea.
The North Korean media service said Bush's comments represent his administration's "moral leprosy," accusing the president of launching a "war of aggression."
Bush plans to meet with Kim in Seoul on Feb. 19. Kim had hoped to engage the United States' help in forcing North Korea back into permanent peace negotiations, though one of his aides said Kim now is skeptical that this will be possible.
- Compiled by Chris Wilson
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