Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a single P450 enzyme responsible for producing two common plant volatiles that defend against insect attacks. The discovery provides new insights into the biosynthesis of these compounds and offers potential applications in improving crop pest controls.
Two compounds, called PITs (non-phosphoinositide PIP3 inhibitors), show promise in halting cancer growth by inducing cell death and limiting tumor growth in mice. These compounds interfere with cell signaling pathways, positioning them as a promising new approach to cancer treatment.
Scientists at UC Irvine have designed a new device using spatial frequency domain imaging to image cancerous lesions and monitor the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy (PDT) for skin cancer. The device, which uses an array of LEDs, can provide detailed images of the biochemistry of tissue, enabling targeted treatment.
University of Missouri researchers create a National Botanical Research Center to investigate the safety and efficacy of botanical dietary supplements, focusing on five key plants that may aid in preventing strokes, prostate cancer, and infectious diseases.
The Center for Aerosol Impacts on Climate and the Environment (CAICE) will use a wave tank simulator to study aerosol particles' impact on climate. Researchers will add various atmosphere-changing ingredients to measure effects of different variables, aiming to improve representation of aerosol mechanisms in global climate models.
Scientists have identified microRNA miR-33 as a key to controlling HDL, or "good" cholesterol levels. Increasing miR-33 levels resulted in lower HDL cholesterol levels, while turning it off raised HDL levels.
The NIH has awarded a $7.7 million grant to Arizona State University to unravel the structures of membrane proteins that play a key role in protecting against infectious diseases. The ASU center will target membrane proteins of key viral and bacterial pathogens, their infectious pathways and molecules involved in host defense.
The Einstein research aims to understand the role of proteins in normal biological processes and disease pathways. The project will focus on determining the structures of thousands of biomedically important proteins.
A research team led by Edward Yu has discovered the crystal structures of pumps that remove heavy metal toxins from bacteria, allowing them to resist antibiotics. This finding provides a better understanding of bacterial resistance and could help drug researchers develop treatments to combat it.
Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a chemical compound, blebbistatin, that inhibits the molecular motor NMII and prevents cell death in human pluripotent stem cells. This breakthrough discovery brings stem cell research closer to finding therapies for various diseases.
The Biophysical Society has recognized eight individuals with its 2011 awards for their significant contributions to the field of biophysics. The awardees include researchers who have made pioneering discoveries using NMR methods, membrane protein biochemistry, and single molecule fluorescence microscopy.
Researchers have found that African trypanosomes avoid human immune systems by mutating surface protein receptors, reducing TLF-1 uptake. This discovery may lead to the development of new therapies against the disease-causing parasites.
The University of Maryland has received a $1.9 million grant to acquire an 800 MHz NMR spectrometer, enabling researchers to investigate biomolecular structure and interactions with high resolution and sensitivity. This technology will advance research on RNAs, critical biological molecules involved in various diseases.
The study aims to understand how enzymes activate molecular oxygen and attach it to substrate molecules to synthesize siderophores, essential for the microbes' metabolic needs. The researchers will use protein crystallography training to train global scientists and students.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine have discovered an RNA sequence that promotes increased numbers of specific microRNAs, which regulate cell growth and stress response. This finding provides new insights into the links between miRNA expression and disease, including heart disease and cancer.
The University of Maryland will be the only academic institution in the US to possess a 950 MHz NMR spectrometer, enabling researchers to study large proteins and interactions with unprecedented resolution. The instrument will facilitate studies of protein assemblies, ubiquitin marking, and cellular function.
A leading international expert in vitamin D, Anthony Norman, recommends increasing daily intake to 2,000-4,000 IU for most adults to maximize health benefits. This could effectively eradicate rickets in infants and reduce the frequency of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune type-1 diabetes.
The ESA has elected ten new Fellows for their outstanding research, teaching, and extension work in entomology. Dr. Gary Blomquist and Dr. David Boethel are recognized for their research on pheromones and insect IPM, respectively.
Two middle school students from Wisconsin have co-authored a study revealing the innermost structure of a key bacterial enzyme that activates antibiotics and anti-cancer agents. The researchers identified the 3D structure of the methyltransferase, a crucial step in determining its function.
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology honored 11 researchers with various awards for their groundbreaking contributions to the life sciences. Axel T. Brunger, Michael Brown, Joseph Goldstein, Charles E. Chalfant, Job Dekker, Christine Guthrie, Arthur Gutierrez-Hartmann, Yusuf Hannun, and Arthur E. Johnson received...
Researchers have discovered that bone cells' spindly extensions can sense mechanical stimulation, signaling the release of bone-growth factors. This breakthrough could lead to therapies for osteoporosis and bone loss associated with aging.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered a compound called P7C3 that preserves newly created brain cells and boosts learning and memory in animal studies. The study found that P7C3 protects newborn neurons from dying, restoring normal structure and function of the hippocampus in knockout mice.
Researchers at University of Arizona successfully created nitrogenated organic molecules in a laboratory setting that mimics Titan's atmosphere. The findings suggest that complex organic molecules could be present on Titan, potentially creating conditions conducive to life.
The National Science Foundation has awarded a $360,000 grant to establish an online resource for biochemistry and molecular biology educators. The initiative aims to improve undergraduate-level teaching by providing core concepts, assessments, and forums. Hundreds of life scientists will collaborate on the project.
A recent study found that 20.4% of peer-reviewed articles published in 2008 were freely available online, with the highest share in Earth Sciences (33%) and the lowest in Chemistry (13%). The study suggests that author-posted manuscript copies dominate certain fields, while OA journals are more common in Medicine and Biochemistry.
A Ph.D. student has received a fellowship to study the enzyme UDP-galactopyranose mutase, which produces a sugar absent in humans, offering a potential target for drug treatment. The research aims to understand the chemical mechanism and develop new treatments for Chagas' disease.
Researchers found that cheatgrass has a competitive edge over soybeans due to its better-suited biochemistry under elevated carbon dioxide concentrations. The study highlights the potential risks of rising CO2 levels for agriculture, as some plants may be harmed by increased atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Dr. George Stark receives prestigious lectureship for outstanding lifetime scientific contributions, spanning basic biochemistry and specialized fields like gene regulation and cell signaling.
Queen's University biochemistry professor Zongchao Jia and post-doctoral student Jimin Zheng discovered a unique protein switch in bacteria, allowing them to adapt to low-nutrient environments. This breakthrough could lead to the development of molecules that can kill bacteria in water, reducing contamination risks.
Researchers have assembled the first comprehensive DNA sequence of an amphibian genome, which will aid in studying embryonic development and its implications for preventing birth defects and treating various human diseases. The Xenopus tropicalis frog genome sequencing provides a blueprint for understanding gene function and expression.
The National Science Foundation has awarded Michigan State University a $282,606 grant to fund a 10-week summer research program in plant genomics. Undergraduate students will participate in research projects alongside internationally respected scientists, gaining hands-on experience and developing research skills.
Researchers have discovered a new avenue to overcome tuberculosis drug resistance by targeting an enzyme that breaks down beta-lactam antibiotics. Clavulanate and meropenem combination shows promise in sterilizing TB bacteria, including XDR-strains.
Researchers determined the structure of an intermediate enzyme form participating in fundamental biology reactions. The discovery sheds light on life's origins and potential applications in producing renewable fuels and fighting pollution.
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology will present 10 scientists with various awards for their outstanding contributions to the field. This year's awardees include Phillip Sharp, Sarah Keller, David Russell, James Wells, John Tesmer, Lisa Gentile, Susan S. Taylor, Douglas Rees, and Ruedi Aebersold.
Researchers have invented a 'smart' insulin protein molecule that binds less to cancer receptors and self-assembles under the skin. This new form of insulin reduces the risk of cancer associated with obesity and excess insulin in Type-2 diabetes patients.
A new University of Colorado at Boulder study reveals that individual hand bacteria can be used to identify people on computer objects, with a high accuracy rate of 70-90%.
Kansas State University biochemist Jianhan Chen has won the National Science Foundation CAREER Award to establish a strong research program and provide educational opportunities for students. He will focus on developing new methods for effective protein modeling and studying intrinsically disordered proteins, which play crucial roles i...
Thalassemia Foundation of Canada awards Concordia University professor Dr. Peter Pawelek a two-year grant to study a receptor protein found on the surface of a lethal bacterial pathogen that can 'hijack' thalassemia treatment drugs. The research aims to develop new antibiotics to combat opportunistic infections in thalassemia patients.
Scientists at UH found that better food from high-latitude plants may explain why animals grow bigger in cold climates. The study suggests considering ecological interactions beyond traditional physiological responses to temperature.
Researchers at Arizona State University and Max Planck Institute have discovered how light initiates electron transfer in the photosystem I reaction center. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more efficient artificial photosynthetic devices, providing a clean source of renewable fuel.
Researchers have developed a new material that can capture heat-trapping carbon dioxide emissions using a synthetic DNA-like crystal. The discovery could lead to cleaner energy and potentially create materials that convert carbon dioxide into fuel.
Scientists have successfully imaged vesicles and filaments involved in neuronal communication, revealing crucial role of filamentous structures in regulating neurotransmitter release. The 3D images were obtained using electron cryotomography, a novel method that rapidly freezes cells while preserving biological structures.
Researchers have discovered a compound that can obstruct the enzyme protecting a deadly parasite causing sleeping sickness, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis. The findings provide new hope for developing effective treatments against these incurable diseases.
James A. Wells, a UCSF professor and director of the small molecule discovery center, has made groundbreaking contributions to protein engineering and discovery. He integrates multiple disciplines to design molecules that selectively activate or inhibit cellular processes.
David W. Russell has received the 2010 Avanti Award in Lipids for his groundbreaking work on cholesterol metabolism and oxysterol function. His laboratory has elucidated the enzymatic pathways responsible for cholesterol breakdown and identified genes involved in related diseases.
Keller's groundbreaking studies on membrane lipids have revealed how lipid composition affects cell membrane physical parameters and protein activity. Her work has opened a new area of study, with colleagues praising her thorough analyses and phase diagrams as the gold standard in membrane research.
Researchers found that first-line ART can be delivered safely without routine biochemistry and haematology monitoring, but CD4-cell count monitoring has a small benefit in disease progression and mortality. The trial suggests that monitoring should start from the second year of ART to guide the switch to second-line treatment.
A team of scientists has discovered how bacteria defend themselves from viruses and other invaders, unlocking opportunities for targeted antibiotics, gene function studies, and stable bacterial cultures. The CRISPR-Cas system, a dynamic duo of RNA and proteins, recognizes and neutralizes invader RNAs.
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have discovered how immune cells, such as white blood cells, move on various surfaces. They found that these cells use a 'clutch and wheels' system, involving cell anchors and cytoskeleton deformation to maintain constant speed, enabling them to adapt to different substrates.
Phillip A. Sharp has been awarded the 2010 Herbert Tabor Lectureship for his groundbreaking research on small RNAs, RNA interference, and its potential to revolutionize biology and generate new therapeutics. Sharp's work builds on his landmark discovery of RNA splicing in 1977, which earned him a Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
Researchers led by Jackie Shanks aim to develop a catalyst that allows plants to produce hydrocarbons, potentially creating second-generation biofuels. The project will investigate the conversion mechanisms and structures of biological hydrocarbons, paving the way for sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels.
Scientists have used single-molecule techniques to study the tethered lactose repressor protein, revealing how flexibility within the protein influences its ability to form DNA loops. The results suggest that limiting flexibility limits protein function in this case.
Researchers at UCSB have developed a novel drug delivery system that uses nanoparticles and laser exposure to deliver siRNA into cancer cells, providing temporal and spatial control over gene expression. The technique has potential applications in delivering multiple drugs against diverse biological targets.
Researchers will analyze toxic chemicals' impact on human health and potential causes of serious diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The three-year project uses zebrafish and mouse models to speed up testing and provide new information on chemical risk assessment.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center used the fungus Neurospora to study the biochemistry and genetics of body clocks. They found that a protein called FRQ marks time by a sequence of changes in its chemical structure, which controls many biological processes including cell division, hormonal release, and sleep/wake cycles.
Research from University of New South Wales found that snoring associated with sleep apnoea can impair brain function similar to a severe stroke or death. The study analyzed brain biochemistry in real-time, revealing significant effects on the brain's bioenergetic status during oxygen desaturation.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a 'surprising link' between three processes in cell wall synthesis, which could lead to the development of a new antibiotic. This breakthrough provides a novel method for searching for small molecule drugs targeting these pathways.
A three-year NSF grant will help improve protein production in crops through research on Arabidopsis gene conversion. The study aims to understand how plants control protein synthesis and identify key steps and factors involved.
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology has awarded several undergraduate students with grants to support their research in biochemistry and molecular biology. The recipients of the awards will present their findings at upcoming meetings and use the funds to purchase research supplies and reagents.
Dr. Graeme Hunter, a renowned dental researcher, has received the 2009 Biological Mineralization Award from the International Association for Dental Research (IADR). His work focuses on the physical biochemistry of biomineralization, with significant contributions to understanding mineralized tissues and pathological calcifications.