Early data suggests molecular medicine can restore normal retina architecture and improve visual function in severe cases of macular degeneration. Researchers are now calling for larger human trials to validate the approach's reliability and safety.
EMBL scientists first to visualize the structure of a ribosome-protein complex involved in carrying nascent proteins out of the cell. The discovery could increase understanding of illnesses such as cystic fibrosis and Parkinson's disease, where improper protein targeting leads to harmful accumulation inside cells.
Cancer treatment decisions will be based on biology as medical oncologists need skills and knowledge to implement personalized medicine. Governments, companies, and clinicians must adapt drug development with targeted patient selection, shorter trials, and cost-effectiveness improvements.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have successfully built 3-D molecular structures on surfaces using a self-assembly process. This breakthrough could lead to the development of cutting-edge optical and electronic technologies, as well as molecular computers.
Cell Press introduces Cell DNA, a free daily news aggregation service covering life sciences topics. Readers can subscribe to receive daily email digests with news summaries and comment on stories.
The European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) has recognized 63 life scientists for their outstanding research contributions. Among the new members are 12 female researchers who have made significant advancements in various fields of molecular biology, neuroscience, and cancer biology.
Dr. Stephan Grill's innovative laser-assisted method enables non-invasive measurement of mechanical forces in living cells, opening new avenues for understanding interactions between mechanics and biochemistry in cell biology. The Paul Ehrlich Prize recognizes his outstanding contributions to the field.
The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics is published on behalf of the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) and the American Society for Investigative Pathology (ASIP). The journal publishes high-quality original papers on scientific advances in molecular diagnostics.
A team of researchers discovered how a plant hormone binds two proteins together, triggering a dynamic form of plant immunity. The study reveals new insights into the structure and function of this molecular mechanism.
A research team created a quadrupedal molecular machine with four 'hooves' to study how multiple parts move. The team found that the molecule uses a pacing gait, but cannot use tunneling to zip through the surface corrugation.
A nationwide survey found that two-thirds of Americans believe synthetic biology should continue, but with more research on human and environmental impacts. The public also harbors concerns about security, moral, and health risks, as well as potential damage to the environment.
A special issue of CBE—Life Sciences Education journal introduces new ways to integrate mathematical thinking into biology education and vice versa. The articles explore teaching modeling, DNA microarray analysis, fractal geometry, and more to bridge the gap between math and biology skills.
Studies show molecular imaging improves evaluation and treatment planning for various cancers, including thyroid cancer, lymphoma, and non-small cell lung cancer. The technique allows doctors to identify disease severity and extent, providing personalized care and adjusting treatment plans accordingly.
The NYU Urothelial Biology Team has received a five-year, $8.2 million grant from the NIDDK to investigate bladder biology and diseases such as UTI. The team aims to understand how disease-causing bacteria interact with host urothelial cells, which is crucial for developing novel treatments for recurrent UTI and other urologic diseases.
A new imaging method can identify high-risk patients with potentially life-threatening cardiovascular conditions, helping physicians determine which patients are best suited for implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy. This technique also helps avoid overuse or underuse of ICD treatment.
Scientists have obtained the closest look yet at how a gargantuan molecular machine breaks down unwanted proteins in cells, a critical housekeeping chore that helps prevent diseases such as cancer. The research provides valuable clues on how the enzyme, tripeptidyl peptidase II, keeps cells tidy and disease-free.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a microfluidic image cytometry platform that can measure cell-signaling pathways in brain tumor samples at the single-cell level. This technology marks an advance toward predictive and personalized medicine, enabling physicians to predict patient prognosis and guide treatment.
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 at the University of Liverpool construct molecular 'knots' with dimensions of around two nanometers, using a process called self-assembly to mechanically bond interpenetrating loops. The discovery has potential applications in building molecular machines to trap harmful gases and pollutants.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine identified a new way diseases develop through understanding how cells control gene expression. They found that protein DPF3b plays a critical role in the transcription process for muscle growth and heart development.
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.
The 2009 Journal Citation Reports reveals a surge in Impact Factors for Cell Press journals, with Cell Stem Cell and Cell Host and Microbe leading the charge. Cancer Cell also continues to grow, while Molecular Cell sees an impressive 13% increase, demonstrating the growing importance of these publications in the scientific community.
The meeting showcased groundbreaking research and development worldwide in molecular imaging and nuclear medicine, with a focus on using molecular imaging to understand disease mechanisms and improve patient health. Key findings included advances in Alzheimer's disease identification and recurrent prostate cancer detection.
A recent Hastings Center workshop examined the moral implications of synthetic biology, raising questions about humanity's relationship with nature. The project aims to address pressing ethical concerns in emerging technology, involving experts from various fields.
Researchers have created autonomous molecular 'robots' made of DNA that can be programmed to follow a track, start, move, turn and stop. The development could lead to molecular systems used in medical therapeutic devices and reconfigurable robots.
Jason W. Chin receives the EMBO Gold Medal for his groundbreaking work on reprogramming the genetic code, allowing molecular biologists to control and elucidate protein functions with unprecedented precision. His research enables the creation of designer amino acids, opening doors to new applications in protein therapeutics and materials.
Researchers at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center have discovered a key molecular mechanism behind breast tumor cell spread. The finding focuses on Snail's interaction with LSD1 enzyme, which regulates DNA structure and shuts down E-cadherin gene expression, leading to metastasis.
The Journal of Nuclear Medicine published a supplement on cardiovascular molecular imaging, discussing its potential to diagnose heart diseases earlier. The publication combines various imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, MRI, and radiotracers, to improve management of cardiovascular disease.
The National Academies Keck FUTURES INITIATIVE has awarded $1.25 million to 13 research projects in synthetic biology, with a focus on interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative approaches. The grants will support the development of new technologies and methods for capturing diverse biological machinery from arbitrary environments.
Researchers have created a brain-like 'evolutionary circuit' in an organic molecular layer that can solve complex problems, mimicking natural phenomena like heat diffusion and cancer cell evolution. The processor also exhibits self-healing properties, unlike existing man-made computers.
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.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNM) has received a $48,000 grant from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) to develop research on comparative effectiveness of PET and other molecular imaging techniques. The primary emphasis will be on cancer diagnosis and management, with cardiology and neurolog...
A study published in Molecular and Cellular Proteomics identified 57 proteins that change during diabetes-induced erectile dysfunction, including those involved in cell death, fat metabolism, and sex hormone transport. These findings may lead to new diagnostic tools and drug targets for treating ED in diabetic patients.
A chemical called a molecular band-aid has been discovered to protect the hearts of Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients by preventing heart injury and remodeling. The treatment, which requires repeated injections, showed significant promise in a canine model, paving the way for potential human trials.
Scientists have created a simple model that can predict the patterns observed in molecular self-organization on surfaces. By combining statistical physics and detailed simulations with images obtained by scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM), researchers were able to formulate a model that can generate a wide variety of patterns, reprod...
A new study by researchers at the University of Michigan found that echolocating bats and whales share a similar molecular mechanism for this ability, overturning conventional thinking on convergence. The research focused on the prestin gene, which plays a crucial role in hearing and amplifying sounds.
A study published in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology reveals that a genetic mutation disrupts an array of metabolic pathways in muscle cells by affecting two key proteins. The loss of either protein accounts for most molecular abnormalities associated with the disease, while loss of both also seems to play an important role.
Scientists at EMBL discovered membrane-coat proteins in bacteria from the PVC superphylum, which could aid in understanding eukaryotic cell evolution and structure. These findings provide molecular evidence that coat proteins shape eukaryotic endomembrane systems in prokaryotes.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have discovered a molecular security system in human cells that deactivates and degrades foreign DNA. This discovery could lead to major improvements in genetic engineering and gene therapy technologies.
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.
A new game called Immune Attack teaches 7th-12th graders about immune system proteins and cells. The game shows significant gains in confidence and knowledge among players, according to an FAS expert. The game is designed to inspire high school computer programming classes to create their own games.
Michael Crickmore's prize-winning essay describes his research on the molecular basis of size differences in animals. He found that a delicate balance of size-regulating genes and signaling pathways control tissue development and shape specialized cells.
Researchers describe molecular anatomy of Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a small bacterium that can survive on its own. The study reveals intricate networks and multifunctional molecules, challenging the idea of a 'minimal' cell.
Scientists at EMBL have visualized the molecular mechanism responsible for oskar mRNA transport in Drosophila. By combining immunofluorescence with electron microscopy imaging, they defined a hierarchy of RNA particle assembly. This breakthrough sheds light on development and neuronal function, including synaptic plasticity and learnin...
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.
The American Society of Plant Biologists has launched 'Teaching Tools in Plant Biology' in The Plant Cell, a monthly online feature with regularly updated sets of teaching materials on important themes in plant biology. Peer-reviewed tools are designed for upper-level undergraduates but can also be adapted for introductory courses.
EMBO has elected 66 top-life scientists with expertise in various molecular biology fields, including evolutionary and computational biology. The new members come from 16 countries and include 15 female researchers recognized for their contributions to life science research.
Scientists used gene transfer to increase heart muscle cell contractions, improving cardiac function and quality of life for patients. The fast molecular motor gene transfer showed promise in reversing the course of heart failure.
A new molecular imaging technique using PET imaging shows promising results in evaluating and predicting the course of endometrial carcinoma. The technique combines estrogen receptor expression imaging with 18F-FDG PET to improve diagnostic accuracy, potentially saving women from unnecessary operations and biopsies.
Researchers at Rothamsted Research and Birkbeck University use Diamond Light Source's X-rays to unravel the mechanisms linked to pheromone detection in silkworm moths. This breakthrough has significant implications for developing new eco-friendly pest control methods, which could also benefit biosensors and detect explosives.
The Wilson Center's Synthetic Biology project has received two National Science Foundation grants to support research on the implications of synthetic biology for sustainability science and policy. The projects will explore emerging issues in synthetic biology, including its potential contribution to sustainable development.
Stem cell biology faces challenges in defining molecular characteristics, with potency and self-renewal not exclusive to stem cells. A new perspective suggests considering 'stemness' as a system property, rather than individual cell traits, which may lead to improved understanding of cancer stem cells.
Researchers found molecular decay of the enamelin gene in toothless mammals, correlating with enamel loss in the fossil record and supporting evolutionary change. The study provides fresh evidence for Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, linking morphological degeneration to molecular decay.
Researchers have identified a new molecular mechanism underlying Anaphase B, a previously understudied stage of cell division. The discovery has implications for understanding chromosome abnormalities and their link to cancer.
Researchers at EMBL have identified a whole family of proteins capable of directly responding to the alarm signal produced by PARP1 when DNA is damaged. Histone macroH2A1.1 plays a key role in this process, condensing chromatin around damaged areas to increase repair chances.
The National Cancer Institute has named Emory University's Chemical Biology Discovery Center as part of an 11-member national consortium aiming to develop innovative targeted cancer therapies. The consortium will focus on unmet medical needs, including drugs with significant clinical promise.
The Systems Biology Graphical Notation (SBGN) provides a standardized visual language for representing biological information, making it easier to exchange complex information. The new standard will benefit systems biologists working on various biochemical processes, including gene regulation, metabolism, and cellular signaling.
The Systems Biology Graphical Notation (SBGN) is a new visual language for graphically representing biological information, aiming to make complex models accurate, efficient, and easy to understand. Developed by researchers worldwide, SBGN will benefit systems biologists working on various biochemical processes.
Scientists believe that molecular chaperones, which help make and manage proteins, are crucial in both cancer and Alzheimer's. Disabling these molecules may lead to effective treatments for both diseases. Researchers are also exploring the potential of increasing their activity to halt disease progression.
SRI International was chosen to lead three research and development centers in the NCI's Chemical Biology Consortium program. The goal of the program is to discover and develop new cancer therapeutics against novel molecular and genetic targets.