September 2016-This Month in JoVE: Introducing JoVE Genetics, JoVE Biochemistry, and JoVE Cancer Research

Abstract

This month we are pleased to introduce three new sections of the JoVE family: Genetics, Biochemistry, and Cancer Research. JoVE Genetics contains methodologies for exploring all aspects of genes and heredity-from human genetics to model organisms, epigenetics to evolutionary genetics, and gene editing to gene therapy. This section features a method for genotyping pufferfish species by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, described by Miyaguchi. This technique can aid in the appropriate identification and differentiation of toxic species, which is not only important for public health but also for forensics and investigations of food fraud. Also in JoVE Genetics, Yu et al. report methods for genetically engineering the unconventional yeast Yarrowia lipolytica with improved gene deletion efficiency. The engineered Y. lipolytica strains have potential applications in biofuel and biochemical production. JoVE Biochemistry comprises methods that advance our understanding of biomolecule structure and function, as well as their interactions and transformations during biological processes. This month, Gunning et al. present a method of meat authentication using multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mass spectrometry, which identifies peptides and gives relative quantitation for detecting adulterant species in meat mixtures. This method is sensitive enough to detect 1% horsemeat in beef products. Also in JoVE Biochemistry, Head and Liu describe a method for identifying small molecule-binding proteins using photoaffinity labeling. The target proteins are bound and covalently labeled within the live cellular environment, which helps preserve native protein structure and binding conditions. JoVE Cancer Research encompasses a broad range of techniques used to advance the understanding and treatment of cancer. This includes methodologies for studying carcinogenesis, developing innovative diagnostics and therapeutics, and uncovering the mechanisms of drug resistance. This month in JoVE Cancer Research, Ansari et al. report a method of targeted cell isolation via glass surface functionalization. This method can identify biomarkers of resistance or susceptibility to anti-angiogenic therapies. Also in this section, Domogauer et al. present a mixed cell culture model that mimics the tumor microenvironment. With this model, the intercellular communication within the tumor microenvironment can be studied under various conditions. You've just had a sneak peek of the articles in the newest sections of JoVE. Visit the website to see the full-length articles, plus many more, in JoVE: The Journal of Visualized Experiments.