New Photoreceptor Discovery - Melanopsin Helps Control Biological Clock

New Photoreceptor Discovery - Melanopsin Helps Control Biological Clock

Neuroscientists at John Hopkins report that they have identified a set of photoreceptors in the eye that monitor light levels to adjust the body clock rather than perceiving images. Unlike rods and cones, these melanopsin-containing cells are relatively insensitive to light when taken together, but individually are far more sensitive. They are, however, 5,000 times sparser than rods or cones, and respond very slowly so detect slow changes in light.

Prostate cancer gene detected - CNN.com

Prostate cancer gene detected - CNN.com

CNN reports that a test should soon be available to test for the five gene markers that identify a person as being at high risk of developing prostate cancer. Though not a cure, the test does identify men that should take extra care to minimize they chance of developing prostate cancer, or at least increase the likelihood of detecting it early. The test requires either blood or saliva so it easy to obtain in a doctor's office.

3 Smart Things About Sleeping Late

3 Smart Things About Sleeping Late

According to Wired magazine, late risers are more creative and less stressed.