Australian researchers have presented the first evidence of a drug that attacks a key part of cancer cells, thought to be fundamental to the survival of most cancer cells in humans.

Proteome Systems of Sydney, Australia, and Sigma-Aldrich of St. Louis have entered a manufacturing and distribution collaboration.

A "tractor beam" that can reach out, trap and move objects has been developed by scientists in the United Kingdom. But while fictional tractor beams of the kind depicted in Star Trek can ensnare a spaceship, the real version works at a microscopic level.

A survey of the Tasmanian public has found that while almost 65% believe that genetically modified crops should not be grown in Tasmania, more people think that genetically modified foods should be allowed in the State, as long as they are labelled.

Scientists at The Australian National University have produced the coldest substance known, cooling a group of atoms to almost absolute zero (-273 degrees Celsius).

Eminent scientist and former Australian of the Year, Sir Gustav Nossal, will lead Victoria's bid for a national synchrotron research facility to be built beside Monash University.

CSIRO Plant Industry has developed the first cotton plants genetically modified to produce healthier cooking oils and margarines.

Australia's peak body for science and technology expressed disappointment in the Budget.

Hemp, coconuts and banana trees could hold the key to the biodegradable car of the future, according to Associate Professor Alan Crosky of the School of Material Science and Engineering at the University of New South Wales.

Ultrasound can provide a simple and painless way to predict how cancer patients will respond to chemotherapy, researchers in the United Kingdom have revealed.

Paper makers, the steel and aluminium and food packaging industries may benefit from a new instrument that can measure the thickness of a fine coating as it is being applied.

Video clips are to be used to detect early symptoms of the genetic disorder Rett syndrome in a bid by Edinburgh and Glasgow Universities to detect the rare but disabling ailment at an early stage of childhood.

Glass manufacturer Pilkington has developed a self-cleaning glass that is undergoing trials in Ireland, Austria and North America.

Australia scooped 4 out of 11 prizes in the Merrill Lynch innovation grants competition for PhDs in science, engineering and the liberal arts. There were entries from 17 countries.

Celebrate science and technology at: Science in the City.