Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine reanalyzed preexisting molecular data with new disease-causing genes and genetic knowledge, increasing the diagnostic rate nearly doubling it in one cohort. The computational pipeline facilitated semi-automated reanalysis, reducing labor intensity and cost.
Researchers created a novel solid-state spin filtering device with artificial molecular motors that switch spin polarization direction by light irradiation and thermal treatments. The device demonstrates 4 times chirality inversion, allowing for precise control of spin-polarization direction in spin-polarized currents.
Researchers have developed a new class of molecular photoswitches that meet key requirements for molecular photocontrol. The switches can be controlled using visible light and have improved properties compared to previous designs.
New observations of the NGC 300 spiral galaxy reveal that molecular clouds are short-lived structures undergoing rapid lifecycles driven by intense stellar radiation. The positions of young stars rarely coincide with those of their parent molecular clouds, indicating rapid star formation and gas dispersion.
The German Research Foundation (DFG) has approved a new Research Training Group focusing on the evolution of complex genetic regulation systems. The GenEvo group will bring together researchers from evolutionary and molecular biology to analyze regulatory processes and their selection under evolutionary pressures.
The UCI Skin Biology Resource-based Center will provide critical research infrastructure and resources for investigating skin biology and diseases. The center aims to discover fundamental mechanisms that may ultimately improve the understanding and treatment of skin diseases.
A recent study discovered that the nascent polypeptide-associated complex (NAC) plays a key role in preventing protein aggregation associated with neurodegenerative diseases. NAC suppresses PolyQ aggregation and enhances organismal fitness, according to tests using animal models such as C. elegans.
Claudia Bank wins the 2019 SMBE Allan Wilson Junior Award for her innovative research on population genetics of adaptation and speciation. The award recognizes her multidisciplinary basic research at Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência.
Researchers discover how bacteria evolve mutations that confer antibiotic resistance and find a way to inhibit this process with FDA-approved drug edaravone. The study reveals that low doses of ciprofloxacin induce DNA breaks, leading to mutations in bacterial populations.
The company has isolated rare inhibitory MAbs against CB1 using its MPS Antibody Discovery platform, offering a therapeutic solution for NASH. With over 10 million people affected in the US, this development could bring new hope to those suffering from liver disease and metabolic disorders.
A new approach called BIO-PC uses semi-permeable capsules containing diverse DNA logic gates for molecular sensing and computation. This method increases speed, modularity, and designability of computational circuits, reducing cross-talk between DNA strands.
Researchers found that lung cancer cells acquire resistance to molecular-targeted drugs by transforming epithelial characteristics into mesenchymal ones, leading to reduced miR-200c expression. Sequential treatment with an HDAC inhibitor and a next generation molecular-targeted drug overcomes this resistance, offering new potential for...
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have generated a comprehensive molecular map of gastrulation in mice, revealing the genetic activity of over 100,000 embryonic cells. This discovery provides critical information on how mammalian embryos develop during gastrulation and paves the way for new understanding of organ formation.
A University of Colorado study shows that low-molecular weight PAHs, commonly found in secondhand smoke and environmental exposures, can cause cancer-promoting changes in lung cells within 30 minutes.
A nearly 30-year mystery has been solved by Rutgers and international scientists, who discovered the molecular machinery that produces potent antibiotic microcin B17. The findings provide tools to design new antimicrobials and anticancer drugs.
A new science curriculum, Integrating Biology with Inquiry (IBIS), has been shown to increase student buy-in and satisfaction over time, while maintaining learning gains. The four-year study found that students recognized the connection between their teaching methods and their learning outcomes.
Researchers investigated the transition from tunneling leakage current to molecular tunneling in single-molecule junctions, finding optimal nanogap distances for proper function. The study suggests that future single-molecule electronics require precise control over molecular length and gap size.
A recent study by Medical University of Vienna professor Leopold Eckhart reveals the key molecular and evolutionary origins of mammalian adaptations in skin proteins. The research found that fully aquatic mammals require only one set of epidermal keratins, suggesting a unique evolutionary path.
Researchers identified distinct molecular signatures in children with cystic fibrosis, which may help predict disease severity and treatment response. The findings pave the way for precision medicine, allowing for therapies tailored to each patient's unique biology.
Researchers from Kumamoto University and Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a method to dissolve water-insoluble nanographene in water using molecular containers. The method successfully produced a highly ordered 2D molecular adlayer on a gold substrate, revealing its potential for next-generation functional nanomaterials.
A study from Bentley University's Center for Integration of Science and Industry reveals that many undergraduate biology textbooks fail to provide context for applying science in business. This can lead to impaired student engagement and limited ability to apply science in the workforce, hindering the goals of science education.
Researchers at LMU München developed a molecular motor that can rotate unidirectionally in response to external energy input and is independent of temperature. The new motor's unique behavior allows it to rotate faster at lower temperatures, extending its potential applications.
A molecular pathway previously studied in laboratory conditions has been verified to be disrupted in Parkinson's disease patients. The study identifies a key enzyme switch that plays a pivotal role in protecting the brain against stress.
The NIH BRAIN Initiative Cell Census Network has released its first data set, featuring the molecular identities of over 1.3 million mouse brain cells and anatomical data from 300 brains. This comprehensive characterization aims to integrate molecular, anatomical, and functional data on cell types in mice, humans, and non-human primates.
A new computational approach has been developed to analyze large databases of clinical and splicing information for thousands of tumors. The software detects patterns of similarities between cases and identifies molecular alterations associated with patient survival and resistance to therapy.
Dr. Robert Gillies, chair of Cancer Physiology and Radiology Research at Moffitt Cancer Center, receives the World Molecular Imaging Society's Gold Medal Award for his lifetime research in molecular imaging. His work focuses on understanding cancers as complex systems, leading to new cancer treatment options.
Scientists at the University of Konstanz have gained detailed structural insights into DNA polymerases interacting with modified substrates. This knowledge can be used to advance genome sequencing and other areas of molecular biology-based diagnostics.
Researchers designed a novel molecular wire with a polyyne backbone and a ruthenium-based unit, achieving higher conductance than previous organic molecular wires. The origin of high conductance lies in orbital splitting, which induces changes in the electron orbitals to facilitate electron transfer between metal electrodes and the wir...
A study published in Cell describes the discovery of a molecular link between aging and two major genetic causes of neurodegenerative diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The findings reveal possible new targets for treatment and highlight the need for a better understanding of the biology of...
Drs. Jonathan Rothberg, Roger Klein and Kevin Halling are being recognized for their groundbreaking work and longstanding commitment to advancing patient care and the field of molecular diagnostics. Drs. Rothberg is receiving AMP's highest honor for his pioneering work in genomics and inventions like massively parallel DNA sequencing.
The Association for Molecular Pathology recommends a minimum of 34 critical genes for high-throughput pan-myeloid sequencing tests to standardize clinical practice and improve patient care. The report provides evidence-based guidelines for the management of chronic myeloid neoplasms, including diagnostic and prognostic information.
Researchers identify a shortlist of designable molecular knot types that can be easily self-assembled under physical and chemical conditions. The findings support the synthesis of novel topologies for potential applications in medicine, electronics, and nanocargo loading/unloading.
BioBits kits use freeze-dried cell-free reactions to enable simple, hands-on biological experiments without specialized lab equipment. The kits introduce molecular and synthetic biology concepts, inspiring students to consider STEM careers.
The BioBits kits allow students to learn about key biological concepts through experiments with DNA and produce glowing proteins or scents. The kits contain freeze-dried cellular components, making them inexpensive and accessible.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have synthesized platinum complexes with macrocyclic ring ligands, enabling a 'triple-jump-rope' mechanism with unprecedented molecular motions. The findings hold promise for developing functional molecular machines capable of manipulating matter at atomic and subatomic levels.
Researchers have created a water-soluble molecule that can measure pressure in solution, offering new possibilities for materials sciences, catalysis, and other fields. The molecular ruby-based system shows promising results with high sensitivity, outperforming traditional gemstone ruby measurements.
Scientists have found that comet 67P's molecular oxygen is not produced on its surface, contradicting previous theories. The majority of the molecular oxygen in the coma is likely primordial and originated from the comet's body.
Twelve scientists were recognized with prestigious ASBMB awards, including the ASBMB Award for Exemplary Contributions to Education, ASBMB-Merck Award, and Earl and Thressa Stadtman Scholar Award. The winners are known for their groundbreaking research in biochemistry and molecular biology.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered a built-in molecular brake on human cell division that ensures two complete copies of DNA before cell division, preventing DNA damage and cancer. This process restricts growth to prevent lethal diseases like cancer.
Gambhir's work on multimodality molecular imaging has advanced nuclear medicine and healthcare. He has developed strategies to study gene and cell therapies, and his lab has more than 625 publications and over 40 patents pending.
A team from Osaka University invents a pseudo-rotaxane with unidirectional movement, enabling the observation of simultaneous motion and chemical reactivity. This innovation demonstrates 'face-selective translation,' where α-cyclodextrin interacts with the molecular machine to catalyze a reaction.
Researchers developed a computational method called Multi-Omics Factor Analysis (MOFA) to jointly analyze multiple molecular data types from patients, identifying molecular signatures that distinguish individuals. MOFA can help understand cancer development and inform personalized treatment.
Researchers have obtained key information about proteins in single human cells, revealing molecular happenings inside a cell. The nanoPOTS technology allows for the analysis of samples that are 500 times smaller than previously possible, providing vital insights into cellular behavior.
The NSF-Simons Center for Mathematical and Statistical Analysis of Biology at Harvard University will focus on three fundamental questions: molecular networks, sophisticated structures, and organisms' adaptability. The center aims to integrate mathematical, statistical, and engineering approaches with biology.
A team of researchers used computational simulations to gain insights into how an enzyme activates and shuts off phospholipid production. The study's results could help understand why small changes in the enzyme lead to conditions like blindness and dwarfism.
Researchers at the University of California - Berkeley have discovered the molecular structure of human telomerase, a key enzyme in aging and cancer. The detailed picture reveals possible drug-target sites, allowing for more targeted treatments to be developed.
A new EU grant of EUR 2.5 million will fund research on the sexual biology of malaria parasites to develop novel intervention targets. The project aims to map the functions of approximately 700 parasite genes involved in sexual reproduction to prevent malaria transmission by mosquitoes.
A study published in Science Advances reveals significant differences in molecular machinery that turns on and off gene expression between cerebellum and prefrontal cortex. The research provides insights into the molecular apparatus involved in conscious thinking and may lead to the development of drugs to treat mental illnesses.
The American Association of Anatomists has awarded its Young Investigator Awards to Bhart-Anjan Bhullar, Elçin Ünal, Maksim Plikus, and Helen Bateup for their groundbreaking contributions to cell biology, neuroanatomy, and developmental biology. These young scientists have made significant advancements in understanding the structural f...
Researchers Gary Lewin and Norbert Hübner are investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying neurological and heart diseases. They hope to identify ion channel anchors and characterize them at the molecular level, laying the groundwork for therapies that address tactile disorders and heart failure.
The molecular microscope system uses gene chips to read molecules in heart and lung transplant biopsies, providing more precise readings with fewer tissue samples. The system is showing promising results for both heart and lung transplant biopsies, improving patient outcomes and reducing errors.
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) has announced its annual award lecturers, who will present at the Annual Meeting in San Diego from April 21-25. The awards recognize outstanding contributions to biochemistry and molecular biology.
Recent studies published in PLOS Computational Biology have introduced novel computational methods to explore the molecular function of proteins. These approaches aim to simplify the challenge of determining functions for an ever-increasing amount of known proteins by identifying shared functional sites and predicting their activity.
Researchers have designed molecular perovskite-based energetic materials with improved explosive performances, including high detonation heat, velocity, and pressure. The new materials also exhibit increased thermal stability and low impact sensitivity, making them suitable for military devices and civil industry.
Scientists have built a computational microscope that can simulate atomic and subatomic forces driving molecular interactions. The tool streamlines efforts to understand chemistry, model large systems, and develop new pharmaceutical agents.
A research team has found a way to understand and manipulate charge transfers in molecular junctions, enabling the creation of predictable molecular diodes. This breakthrough has significant implications for the field of chemistry and could lead to novel electronics applications.
Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a method to construct perfectly aligned molecular assembly structures on graphenes. The technique relies on atomic force microscopy (AFM) and induces symmetry breaking in molecular patterns, enabling precise control over molecular alignment.
The study investigates how chain conformation influences thermal conductivity in amorphous polymers, revealing that ultra-thin polymer nanofibers exhibit higher thermal conductivity due to aligned molecular chains. An empirical function is proposed to describe the diameter dependence of chain conformation.
The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) has published consensus-based recommendations for clinical CYP2C19 genotyping allele selection. The guidelines aim to standardize testing across laboratories and improve concordance, enabling better patient care.
A new X-ray laser method solves the phase problem for solution scattering, allowing scientists to visualize molecular structures in detail. This improvement will enable researchers to study viruses and other biological molecules more effectively, providing critical information about their internal density variations.