Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered a critical component of the complex that enables NF-kB to trigger inflammatory responses. The study identifies ELKS protein as essential for NF-kB's function, opening new avenues for treating autoimmune diseases like lupus and arthritis.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have made a breakthrough in understanding how HIV replicates within host cells. The study revealed that molecules exist in cells that help convert HIV's RNA genome to DNA, allowing for the production of new virus particles.
Researchers discovered that the timing of short and long bright light flashes can create optical illusions by activating two parallel pathways in the brain. These pathways adapt to changes in light, suggesting a complex network for handling perception and consciousness.
Researchers have found that urocortin II administered intravenously significantly enhances heart muscle cell contractions in mice with congestive heart failure. The hormone targets the CRF2 receptor, leading to improved cardiovascular function and a potential new treatment for heart disease.
Researchers at the Salk Institute discovered a complex chain of events leading to Notch activation, which is crucial for proper left-right asymmetry. The study used mathematical modeling to pinpoint factors regulating Notch activity, revealing extracellular calcium as a key trigger.
Scientists discovered a chemical relay that controls whether the body burns sugars or fats for energy. The discovery may help design better treatments for insulin resistance and ultimately prevent adult-onset diabetes.
A recent study published in Science has identified nearly 6,000 protein-encoding genes in the tiny mustard weed Arabidopsis, revolutionizing plant genetics research. This breakthrough allows researchers to quickly identify and modify desirable traits in other plants using these genes.
Researchers discover PPAR-delta pathway that curbs atherosclerosis development and reduces heart disease by half. The pathway could be used to develop drugs to treat heart disease, currently the number one killer of Americans.
Researchers Terrence Sejnowski and Simon Laughlin argue that the human brain operates as a highly efficient hybrid device capable of making sophisticated computations. The brain's long-distance communication systems have been optimized for energy efficiency through millions of years of evolution.
A study at the Salk Institute found that children with Williams syndrome exhibit unique social behavior patterns, including high scores on tests measuring social interactions. Genetic screening revealed that one gene may be responsible for this hyper-sociability in some individuals, suggesting a potential genetic link to the disorder.
Researchers found that injecting a gene producing insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) into muscles delayed disease onset by 31 days, preserved nerve cells, and reduced muscle wasting. This study may lead to a new, gene-based treatment for ALS affecting over 30,000 Americans.
The Salk Institute's latest study, led by Joseph Ecker, provides a detailed map of Arabidopsis genes and their functions. The team has also identified key molecular pathways involved in ethylene gas signaling, which is crucial for plant growth, yield, and drought tolerance.
A research team led by Nathaniel Landau identified the interaction between HIV's Vif protein and APOBEC3G. The study found that mice have a similar antiviral protein that can block HIV replication due to its inability to recognize human proteins.
Researchers discovered a specific protein, PFT1, that triggers flowering in Arabidopsis plants under suboptimal light conditions. The study's findings have implications for improving crop yield and addressing world hunger, particularly in regions where malnutrition is prevalent.
Researchers found that the normal form of the BRCA-2 gene enhances androgen receptors' activity to suppress tumors. The mutant form of BRCA-2 fails to enhance activity, allowing cancer cells to proliferate. The study provides new insights into male breast cancer and its connection to the BRCA-2 gene.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have developed a detailed model of how stem cells produce motor neurons, which could lead to new treatments for spinal cord injuries and diseases affecting motor nerve cells. The study demonstrates an unusually efficient yield of 60 percent motor nerves using two key gene and protein-regulated pathways.
A study published in Cell identified the function of PPARd, a key receptor that regulates how fat is used. The receptor was found to regulate adaptive thermogenesis, a physiological defense against obesity.
A Salk Institute research team has discovered a receptor-protein interaction that guides nerve cells along specific pathways. The binding of protein Wnt5 to receptor Derailed prevents nerve cells from entering the wrong pathway, ensuring accurate connections.
Researchers at the Salk Institute found a genetic connection between organophosphate exposure and ADHD-like behavior, as well as symptoms similar to Gulf War syndrome. Mice exposed to organophosphates showed a 40% decrease in the NTE enzyme, leading to behavioral changes and neurological problems.
The Salk Institute and SUGEN scientists have created a detailed catalog of the 518 protein kinase genes encoded by the human genome. This comprehensive mapping will enable the development of new drugs targeting kinases, offering an alternative to standard chemotherapy for specific types of cancer.
Researchers found HIV integrates into human chromosomes near active genes, which are triggered by the virus itself. This targeting specificity could improve gene therapies by leveraging a retrovirus's efficiency.
The Drosophila genome sequence completion reveals nearly two-thirds of genes known to cause human disease are present in the genome. This achievement demonstrates the value of basic research using Drosophila in combating human disease.