New technique for DNA nanostructures
Researchers create DNA nanostructures up to 1,000 times smaller than commercial microarrays using the nanografting technique. This breakthrough enables the study of thousands of genes in a cell simultaneously.
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DNA’s oscillating double helix hinders electrical conduction
Research reveals DNA's chaotic movements limit its electrical conductivity, making it challenging for scientists to develop new molecular microelectronics. A fixed double-helix structure would improve DNA's ability to initiate reactions through charge transfer.
Genome protects itself against mobile junk DNA
Biologists found that nematodes use a sophisticated mechanism to render transposons harmless, preventing them from making proteins and jumping through DNA.
Writing nanopatterns with DNA inks
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new tool to write nanopatterns with DNA inks, enabling the creation of miniaturized gene chips with an array of diagnostic tests. This technology can produce spots of DNA down to 50 nanometers in diameter, reducing cost and time.
Foreign DNA makes TB vaccine better
Researchers have developed a new TB vaccine by fusing a Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigen with a gene that highly expresses a thiol-specific-antioxidant protein from Leishmania major. This hybrid DNA vaccine increased protein production, leading to a more robust immune response in mice.
Scientists discover protein identifies damage to DNA
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have identified a protein called ATR that senses damaged DNA and triggers the body's natural repair system. This discovery is significant as it highlights a crucial step in maintaining genome stability and preventing mutations that can lead to cancer.
SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2002
Parasite or partner? Study suggests new role for junk DNA
Scientists discovered that some human LINE-1 elements, known as junk DNA, can jump into chromosomes with broken strands and repair the damage. This finding raises questions about the potential benefits of these ancient genetic elements to human cells.
Researchers find synthetic molecules that may literally be the key to 'locking away' unwanted DNA
Scientists at the University of Warwick have created a large synthetic molecule that binds to the major groove of DNA, causing it to coil up and resembling how chromosomes package DNA. This breakthrough could enable precise control over gene expression and improve treatments for diseases by delivering drugs directly to specific cells.
Optical tweezers show how DNA uncoils
Using optical tweezers, researchers have observed the dynamic structure of individual nucleosomes for the first time. They found that DNA in these units can be released from histones through a three-stage process, allowing enzymes like RNA polymerase to access genetic information.
Regulating DNA methylation
A recent discovery by Dr. Kathrin Muegge and colleagues has revealed that a protein called Lsh is required for normal genome-wide methylation during development. The study suggests that chromatin structure plays a crucial role in regulating DNA methylation, which is essential for gene expression and cellular function.
Understanding DNA damage: New study suggests environment surrounding DNA plays key role in controlling charge transport
Researchers describe how sodium ions control electron hole migration through DNA, potentially initiating damage to genetic coding. The study suggests that water molecules, sodium ions, and DNA backbone work together to regulate electrical charge transport.
NIMH scientists discover new details of HIV infectious process
Researchers discovered that HIV DNA serves as a template to produce viral proteins Nef and Tat, bringing CD4 T cells out of their resting state. Non-integrated HIV DNA contributes to disease progression, despite not producing new viruses.
Structure shows repair protein cradling broken DNA
The Ku heterodimer, a key player in non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), is shown to 'cradle' broken DNA ends with its ring-shaped molecule, forming a precise alignment for repair enzymes. This structure provides insights into the accuracy of the NHEJ process and its importance in genome integrity.
Researchers develop liquid form of DNA
Scientists have successfully created a liquid form of DNA, which can be processed in various ways and may improve genetic engineering and microelectronic circuitry. The liquid DNA is also soluble in several solvents that ordinary DNA is not, enabling new scientific studies.
SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 11, 2001
UCSD researchers determine that DNA-repair enzyme also plays critical role in innate immunity
Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine have found that the DNA-repair enzyme DNA-PK also plays a key role in innate immunity, protecting against internal and external threats. The discovery could lead to treatments for DNA instability caused by radiation or cancer treatment.
Emory researchers report abnormal gene silencing may lead to breast cancer progression
Emory researchers discovered that abnormal gene silencing, caused by overexpression of methyltransferase enzymes, can lead to breast cancer progression. The silencing of the TMS-1 gene, responsible for programmed cell death, may contribute to tumor growth and resistance to conventional therapies.
Sensor uses DNA to detect presence of lead, a dangerous contaminant
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a DNA-based sensor that can detect lead ions in real-time. The sensor uses catalytic DNA with high metal ion selectivity and sensitivity to fluorescence detection, making it an ideal candidate for environmental monitoring and clinical toxicology applications.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 2, 2000
Brown researchers use wildcards to develop better way to sequence DNA
Researchers at Brown University have developed a new way to sequence DNA that is faster and more efficient than current methods. By inserting gaps into DNA probes, they can extract substantially more information about the DNA, allowing for the sequencing of tens of thousands of bases.
Research paves the way for faster, better, cheaper DNA detection method
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel DNA detection method that is more accurate, less expensive, and easier to use than conventional methods. The scanometric DNA array detection method uses gold nanoparticles and a flatbed scanner to detect target DNA with high sensitivity and selectivity.
BRCA1 cancer gene plays pivotal role in DNA control complex
The BRCA1 protein is at the catalytic heart of a vital DNA control complex that coordinates physical access to DNA for gene transcription. Mutant BRCA1 can lead to cancer by interfering with this complex.
Nanofabricated 'gel' separates DNA
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a nanofabricated device that can separate DNA fragments by length in as little as 15-30 minutes, compared to the traditional method which takes 12-24 hours. The device uses alternating deep and shallow sections to propel DNA strands through it, allowing for faster separation and analysis.
New technique shows scalability of DNA computing
Scientists from the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a new surface chemistry that simplifies DNA computing and enables scaling up to tackle complex problems. This breakthrough demonstrates DNA computing's potential to surpass conventional computers in information storage and processing capabilities.
Images of enzyme suggest way to improve DNA sequencing
Researchers have identified a structural anomaly in the Taq DNA polymerase enzyme that hampers its performance in DNA sequencing. By modifying this anomaly, scientists created an improved version of the enzyme, which increases sequencing speed and reduces errors.
Researchers suggest new mechanism to explain DNA charge transfer process
A research team suggests that electronic charge transfer in DNA occurs through temporary distortions in its structure, creating a 'polaron' that carries the charge. This process can help scientists understand DNA damage and repair mechanisms, leading to potential applications in diagnostic techniques and micromachines.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 1999
Head trauma damages DNA repair mechanism
Researchers found that head trauma impairs brain cells' ability to detect and repair DNA damage, leading to weeks of prolonged cell death. The study suggests that the body's surveillance system breaks down after an injury, making it difficult for cells to recover.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Neurochemistry·DateJul 9, 1999
Study Indicates Adolescent Smokers Are More Susceptible To Long-Term DNA Damage From Smoking Than Adults Smokers
A study by UC San Francisco researchers found that adolescent smokers incur more severe DNA damage than adult smokers, which can increase the risk of lung cancer. The study, published in Journal of the National Cancer Institute, suggests that smoking during adolescence may produce physiologic changes leading to persistent DNA damage.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 6, 1999
UI Laboratory Develops Procedure To Study DNA Replication
A University of Iowa research team has developed a way to isolate replicating DNA molecules for studying the replication process. This advance will allow investigators to better understand DNA replication and may lead to improved therapies for treating diseases such as cancer.
Wistar Scientists Gain Information About Molecular Recognition
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified a new mechanism of molecular recognition in which proteins regulate DNA transcription through asymmetric binding. This discovery sheds light on how homodimeric transcription factors can recognize their target DNA and has potential implications for drug design.
Purdue Study: RNA 'Motor' Transports DNA In Virus
A Purdue University study reveals that a virus uses six RNAs to create a motor that transports DNA, facilitating the development of nanoscale devices. The research also improves scientists' understanding of how cells transport large molecules through membranes.
Biologists Get First Look At DNA-Protein Binding Structure In An Archaeon
Researchers have identified the binding structure of DNA and protein in ancient hyperthermophilic archaeons, revealing a more complex and interesting mechanism than previously thought. The study sheds light on how proteins attach to DNA to stabilize and protect it in extreme conditions.
'Rolling Circles' Provide New Way to Amplify and Detect DNA
A new DNA production method dubbed 'rolling circles' has been developed by University of Rochester chemist Eric Kool, allowing for easy and inexpensive production of large quantities of DNA. This technique uses circular DNA strands that can be replicated exponentially without the need for expensive enzymes or complex equipment.
Harvard Medical School Researchers Present Atomic Structure Of DNA-Replicating Enzyme Widely Used In DNA Sequencing
The research reveals the structure of T7 DNA polymerase, a protein crucial for DNA replication, showcasing its high accuracy and speed. The study provides insights into how this enzyme achieves its accuracy and could guide the development of better reagents for DNA sequencing.
DNA Enzyme Works In Crystal Form; Yields New Insights Into Gene Copying
Duke University researchers discovered an enzyme that copies DNA in living cells can also function in crystal form, revealing details of its intricate machinery. The study sheds light on the enzyme's ability to incorporate only correct nucleotide pieces into DNA, a critical process for life.
Protein 'Heroes' Block Genetic Mutations
Two repair proteins, Fpg and UvrA, have been found to 'block the road' to replication by physically attaching themselves to damaged DNA, preventing mutations. This discovery offers new insights into natural DNA repair mechanisms and potential avenues for cancer prevention.
SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 12, 1997
Study: Hydrogen Bonds Aren't Key To DNA Pairing After All
Researchers found that growing strands of DNA can accurately incorporate a nucleotide that closely resembles thymine but lacks hydrogen bonding ability. This finding suggests that the distinctive shapes and sizes of DNA bases may underpin the impressive 99.99-percent accuracy of DNA replication.
SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 1997
Everyday Technology Underlies First DNA Computer Logic Gates
Researchers Animesh Ray and Mitsu Ogihara built DNA logic gates using common lab techniques, marking the first step towards a DNA computer. These gates detect specific DNA fragments, splice them together, and provide output through precise measurement of new strand lengths.
Molecular Imposter Rebuts Long
A ring-like molecule mimicking thymine's shape was inserted into DNA without hydrogen bonds, yet still accurately paired with adenine. This finding questions decades of dogma and suggests base shape is crucial for accurate DNA replication.
Proteins Interacting With RNA And DNA Are Surprisingly Similar
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University discovered that RNA- and DNA-binding proteins have the same shape, a configuration of three coils called alpha helices. This similarity suggests that the protein could be an ancient ancestral form of other proteins crucial to embryonic development.
Mutate Or Die: New Polymerase Gives Desperate Yeast An Option
A new DNA polymerase, dubbed zeta, allows yeast cells to replicate damaged DNA, increasing their odds of survival but also the risk of mutations. This enzyme is a last-gasp option for cells when all attempts to fix damaged DNA have failed, and its discovery sheds light on how organisms cope with this constant problem.
Heat-loving Microbe Repairs Its DNA With Light
A University of Cincinnati biologist discovered a microbe that can repair its DNA with visible light, a process known as photoreactivation. This finding is significant for understanding how hyperthermophiles survive in geothermal habitats.