Researchers find gene linked to breast cancer spread

by Kitta MacPherson

A team of researchers at Princeton and The Cancer Institute of New Jersey has identified a long-sought gene that is fatefully switched on in 30 to 40 percent of all breast cancer patients, spreading the disease, resisting traditional chemotherapies and eventually leading to death. The gene, called “Metadherin” or MTDH, is located in a small region of human chromosome 8 and appears to be crucial to cancer’s spread or metastasis because it helps tumor cells stick tightly to blood vessels in distant organs. The gene also makes tumors more resistant to the powerful chemotherapeutic agents normally used to wipe out the deadly cells.

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Tilghman details impact of economic downturn

While Princeton remains fully committed to its financial aid program and other high-priority initiatives, the current economic downturn has reduced the value of the University’s endowment and has led officials to adjust future spending projections, President Tilghman told members of the campus community in a recent letter.

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An update on Princeton’s economic condition

To the Princeton campus community: The New Year is traditionally a time for reviewing the past and anticipating the future. As we begin 2009, our thoughts cannot help but turn to the impact of the world’s turbulent economy. Many of you have asked me how Princeton has been affected and what lies ahead for our University. I want to take advantage of the pause between semesters to provide you with some information about Princeton’s economic condition and share with you my perspective on the months and years ahead. I have also had an opportunity to discuss these matters at length with the Trustees, who have been very supportive of the actions we are taking.

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New campus transit system launched

by Ruth Stevens

The University on Jan. 5 launched its new integrated campus transit system, featuring new routes, new environmentally friendly buses and a new provider. Other improvements include stops with more shelters, connections to New Jersey Transit and the Princeton Borough FreeB shuttle, service to local shopping centers, an improved on-demand service and extended hours.

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Website showcases array of Healthier Princeton programs

by Emily Aronson

Faculty, staff and students who made New Year’s resolutions to improve their physical, mental or spiritual health can use a new website to learn about the many campus resources available through the University’s Healthier Princeton program. The Healthier Princeton website at www.princeton.edu/healthier brings together information about new and ongoing programs, initiatives and events organized by various University offices. Healthier Princeton offers an integrated approach to health promotion and education, disease detection and prevention, and fitness and wellness services for the University community.

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Managing editor: Eric Quiñones
Assistant editor: Jennifer Greenstein Altmann
Lead designer: Maggie Westergaard
Designer: Shani Hilton
Calendar editor: Shani Hilton
Contributing writers: Emily Aronson, Kitta MacPherson, Ruth Stevens
Photographers: Denise Applewhite, Brian Wilson
Web edition: Mahlon Lovett
Subscription manager: Elizabeth Patten

The Bulletin is published weekly during the academic year, except during University breaks and exam weeks, by the Office of Communications. Permission is given to adapt, reprint or excerpt material from the Bulletin for use in other media.

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