SIR — As African-Americans and as scientists, we are appalled and disappointed in your News Feature 'Pimp my antibody' (Nature 446, 964–966; 2007), which summarizes recent developments in antibody therapy. Despite your misguided attempt to be humorous and socially 'hip', we are dismayed at the cavalier use of the word 'pimp' in a scientific journal, especially one as reputable as Nature.

A pimp is defined as a person who controls and exploits a prostitute. Unfortunately, urban/hip-hop culture (and increasingly, mainstream American culture) has embraced the flamboyant, vulgar and misogynistic pimp lifestyle. This has led to a new, related meaning of the term 'to pimp'. However, no amount of manipulation can remove this term from its immoral origins. That such a headline appeared in Nature indicates the extent to which our society has become desensitized to such imagery. Use of this term in a scientific context is highly inappropriate, because it could be seen as endorsing such a lifestyle.

Although most scientists desire their work to be understood and appreciated by the average non-scientist, inclusion of such offensive slang only degrades the article and the science it describes.

We are especially concerned about the use of such language in an international journal. The United States' multifaceted culture has global influence, but this is one aspect that should not be spread and legitimized. Nature should continue to inspire scientific discovery and inform the international scientific community of noteworthy progress, without promoting disrespectful and demeaning imagery.