University of Chicago researchers announced on January 23 that they have produced a three-dimensional molecular map of a crucial protein that makes anthrax deadly. Dr. Wei-jen Tang, professor at University of Chicago Department of Pharmacological & Physiological Sciences, Committee on Cancer Biology, is a leader of the research team. According to Dr. Tang, the crucial protein consists of three factors. The first factor, edema factor, can contribute to fluid buildup on the lungs. The second factor, lethal factor, destroys immune cells. A third factor, protective antigen, leads the other two factors into cells. The three-dimensional map will help produce drugs to block the action of the toxin for cure. Dr. Tang manages Tang Lab which focuses on how to analyze the biochemical functions and physiological roles of a given gene product using molecular biological tools.