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1 step closer to green chemistry and improved pharmaceuticals
June 25, 2008
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, solve an important piece of the puzzle behind how proteins are shaped Proteins are the workhorses of our cells. They help to digest our food, are at the core of our immune system, and literally shape our body from top to toe. Proteins also play an important role in biotechnology in the form of enzymes, which are important in the creation of anything from pharmaceuticals to bread, washing powder and much more. Their possibilities are virtually without limit.
To take advantage of their great potential, a detailed understanding of the three-dimensional shape of proteins is necessary. This is normally achieved through a complicated and expensive process in the laboratory. For years, researchers have tried to replace these experiments by computer simulations.
Now, two researchers at the Department of Biology at the University of Copenhagen, Assoc. professor Thomas Hamelryck and PhD-student Wouter Boomsma, have solved an important part of the problem of modeling the three dimensional shape of proteins. After 5 years of research, they have succeeded in developing a mathematical model that incorporates knowledge from physics, probability theory and geometry to describe the structure of proteins. This has given protein researchers a valuable new tool for the improved understanding of the shape and function of proteins.
"Each individual protein has its own unique chemical composition, consisting of 20 different amino acids in various different combinations. There are an endless number of such combinations, each giving rise to its own shape. We have developed a simple mathematical model that captures these different shapes. This means that it will become easier for industry and researchers to use proteins to achieve their goals. For example in the development of green chemistry, where dangerous chemicals are replaced with protein-based products, which are more environment friendly", says Thomas Hamelryck.
Thomas also points to the fact that their computer model can have a great impact on the pharmaceutical industry.
"Proteins and illness are highly related, and most pharmaceuticals are targeted at proteins in our body. As we increase our knowledge of these proteins, the chance of finding more efficient pharmaceuticals for illnesses such as cancer, diabetes and AIDS are greatly enhanced", Thomas continues.
The two researchers at the University of Copenhagen are currently collaborating closely with partners in the biotech industry to explore these possibilities.
University of Copenhagen
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Related Pharmaceuticals Current Events and Pharmaceuticals News Articles Pharmaceuticals Current Events and Pharmaceuticals News RSS Structural biology scores with protein snapshot In a landmark technical achievement, investigators in the Vanderbilt Center for Structural Biology have used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods to determine the structure of the largest membrane-spanning protein to date.
Bioengineers develop a microfabricated device to measure cellular forces during tissue development A University of Pennsylvania-collaboration of bioengineers studying the physical forces generated by individual cells has created a tiny micron-sized device that allows researchers to measure and manipulate cellular forces as assemblies of living cells reorganize themselves into tissues.
Cerebrospinal fluid shows Alzheimer's disease deterioration much earlier It is possible to determine which patients run a high risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and the dementia associated with it, even in patients with minimal memory impairment. This has been shown by recent research at the Sahlgrenska Academy.
Drugs against winter vomiting disease one step closer The virus that causes winter vomiting disease invades cells by attaching to particular sugar molecules on the surface of the cells.
Antibiotics, antimicrobials and antifungals in waterways Antibiotics, antimicrobials and antifungals are seeping into the waterways of North America, Europe and East Asia, according to an investigation published in the peer-reviewed journal Environmental Health Perspectives (EHP).
Hypospadias, a birth defect of the male urethra, is not increasing in New York state In recent decades, there have been periodic reports of a worldwide decline in sperm count and quality.
NEJM Study Points to New Era in Hepatitis C Treatment For patients with the most common form of hepatitis C, the addition of a hepatitis C-specific protease inhibitor called telaprevir to the current standard therapy can significantly improve the chances of being cured, and it does it in half the time of standard therapy alone.
Scientists develop a new HIV microbicide -- and a way to mass produce it in plants In what could be a major pharmaceutical breakthrough, research published online in The FASEB Journal describes how scientists from St George's, University of London have devised a one-two punch to stop HIV.
New study may help understand how Alzheimer's robs sufferers of episodic memory Memory loss is love's great thief. Those who suffer aren't just the ones who can't remember-family, friends and loved ones agonize over how to react when the disorder begins its often inexorable progress.
Bacteria create aquatic superbugs in waste treatment plants For bacteria in wastewater treatment plants, the stars align perfectly to create a hedonistic mating ground for antibiotic-resistant superbugs eventually discharged into streams and lakes. More Pharmaceuticals Current Events and Pharmaceuticals News Articles
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Our Daily Meds: How the Pharmaceutical Companies Transformed Themselves into Slick Marketing Machines and Hooked the Nation on Prescription Drugs
by Melody Petersen (Author)
An “angrily illuminating” (The New York Times) exposé of Big Pharma’s corrupting influence in America today In the last thirty years, pharmaceutical companies have seized control of American medicine by putting their marketers in charge. They invent diseases in order to sell the pills that "cure" them. They sway doctors by giving them resort vacatopms, gourmet meals, and fistfuls of cash. They advertise prescription drugs at NASCAR races, on subways, and even in churches. Medicines can save lives, but the relentless promotion of these products has come at tremendous cost. Prescription pills taken as directed are estimated to kill one American every five minutes. More Americans are addicted to medications than cocaine. And roads have become less safe as the over-medicated...
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Saunders Pharmaceutical Word Book 2008
by Ellen Drake CMT FAAMT AHDI-F Educator of the Year Winner (Author), Randy Drake MS (Author)
Written by transcriptionists for transcriptionists, this drug reference lets you quickly locate the correct spelling and capitalization of more than 27,000 brand-name and generic drugs. It includes the corresponding uses of those drugs, cross-referencing of brand names to generics, and the usual methods of administration (e.g., capsule, IV, cream). To help you avoid errors, it also contains the indications (reasons for administration) of approved drugs and standard dosages.
Over 27,000 brand-name and generic drugs are included, with dosage forms, investigational drug names, chemotherapy protocols, trademarked dosage forms, drug categories/classes, and almost 2,000 medicinal herbs and natural remedies.Pharmaceutical information is organized specifically for the medical...
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Iceland Health Omega 3 Maximum Strength (1,000mg) ~ Pharmaceutical Grade - (30 softgels) ~ As Seen on TV
by Nutrition 21
If you are like most Americans, you are only first hearing about Iceland Health Omega-3. Well, tens of thousands are seeing remarkable improvements to their health and longevity, as well as getting the immediate benefits of increased energy, better sleep and improved memory. Icelanders, who eat a diet rich in fish and fish oil, have the worlds longest life expectancy and best health. Their rate of heart disease, stroke, blood pressure, cholesterol, and joint problems are the lowest in the world. For years, researchers were stumped as to why fish bestowed so many benefits.
Recently it is been determined that Omega-3 which comes from fish in the deep, cold, clean waters of Iceland contains 2 remarkable nutrients: EPA and DHA. These nutrients both thin the blood and reduce inflammation in...
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Pharmaceutical and Biotech Patent Law (2009 Edition)
by Practising Law Institute
The explosion of innovations in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology has arguably made these industries the hottest areas in patent law. PLI-s Pharmaceutical and Biotech Patent Law fully answers the crucial need for a clear and comprehensive guide to these exciting fields. Written by one of the country-s foremost patent law groups, this uniquely accessible reference provides you with the legal, scientific, and technical information you need to help clients obtain, defend, and challenge the validity of patents. Readable enough for non-lawyers and non-scientists, Pharmaceutical and Biotech Patent Law shows you how to craft rock-solid patent applications for these inventions; partner with the government to bring patented inventions quickly to the marketplace; invalidate...
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Selling Sickness: How the World's Biggest Pharmaceutical Companies Are Turning Us All Into Patients
by Ray Moynihan (Author), Alan Cassels (Author)
Thirty years ago, Henry Gadsden, the head of Merck, one of the world's largest drug companies, told Fortune magazine that he wanted Merck to be more like chewing gum maker Wrigley's. It had long been his dream to make drugs for healthy people so that Merck could "sell to everyone." Gadsden's dream now drives the marketing machinery of the most profitable industry on earth. Drug companies are systematically working to widen the very boundaries that define illness, and the markets for medication grow ever larger. Mild problems are redefined as serious illness and common complaints are labeled as medical conditions requiring drug treatments. Runny noses are now allergic rhinitis, PMS has become a psychiatric disorder, and hyperactive children have ADD. When it comes to conditions like high...
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Songs for the Pharmaceutical Age
by Tony Buttitta
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Insider's Guide to the World of Pharmaceutical Sales, 9th Edition
by Jane Williams (Author)
Finalist in Fore Word Magazine's 2008 Book of the Year Awards. The new Insider's Guide to the World of Pharmaceutical Sales, 9th Edition, contains 196 pages of outstanding pharmaceutical sales job interview and pharmaceutical selling information, including the enhanced PhRMA Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals that takes effect in January 2009. It is a complete pharmaceutical sales interview guide offering step-by-step instructions on how to gain a pharmaceutical sales position and then excel at the position. For new pharmaceutical sales representatives who want even greater insight into the industry and more advanced pharmaceutical selling information, Jane Williams has written Professional Pharmaceutical Selling. This detail intensive book will give them a notable...
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Pharmaceutical Executive
by Advanstar Communications Inc
Designed to meet the management and marketing needs of professionals in the pharmaceutical industry. Provides information on marketing, sales, promotion, legal and regulatory issues.
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Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Rena Air 400 Aquarium Air Pump
by Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
Features two adjustable air outlets. Recommended for aquariums up to 150 gallons. Rena Air's powerful motor maintains optimum air flow, even in the deepest aquariums. So silent is can be used in any room of the house, even bedrooms. Rena Air's powerful motor maintains optimum air flow, even in the deepest aquariums. Dual-pump technology with two adjustable air outlets. So silent it can be used in any room of the house, even bedrooms. fish tank aquarium air aeration
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Hi Tech Anavar Natural Anabolic Muscle Building Agent (180 Tablets)
by Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals
Anavar is a revolutionary muscle building catalyst. Anavar is designed to increase Strength and Size.
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