Finding order in the inner chaos of our cells
Researchers have developed a tool to design synthetic disordered proteins, untangling their functionality. This innovation accelerates the exploration of biology's vast and underexplored area.
Protein Design
Articles tagged with Protein Design
Like a molecular shrink ray: AI tool redesigns proteins without sacrificing function
Researchers at Duke University developed an AI framework called Raygun that can create modified versions of proteins while preserving structure and function. The tool uses protein language models to make extensive changes to existing proteins, opening up new avenues for engineering customized-sized proteins.
Sustainable protein supply: Turning solar power into protein
A team at TUM has developed a process to produce crucial amino acids from carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and renewable energy. The approach converts solar energy into electricity, generating hydrogen that is then converted into methanol and eventually into amino acids.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2026
NovoTags: AI-designed proteins help scientists see inside living cells
Researchers have developed NovoTags, synthetic fluorescent protein tags that can bind to bright fluorescent dyes with high specificity and affinity. These tags enable multicolor imaging of proteins inside cells, expanding the toolkit for advanced light microscopy techniques.
Scientists measure hidden quantum forces that could power a new generation of pharmaceutical drugs
Researchers at Texas A&M University develop a laser technique called TRIP to directly measure quantum forces shaping proteins, enabling accurate prediction of how pharmaceutical drugs interact with them. This breakthrough could lead to the design of medicines tailored to specific diseases, revolutionizing precision medicine.
Revolutionizing protein science: AI as an observatory of physical organization in protein space
Artificial Intelligence is transforming protein research by predicting structures, learning patterns of evolutionary variation, and exploring designable regions of protein space. AI-derived data reveals new insights into protein organization, folding topology, and functional specialization.
Novel generative AI model enables atomic-scale prediction of protein–protein interactions
Researchers have developed a generative AI model called Void-X that can predict protein-protein interactions with high accuracy, enabling the design of new biomolecules for drug discovery and synthetic biology. The model achieves predictive accuracies of 78.3% for intra-chain clusters and 68.2% for inter-chain clusters.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2026
AI helps create miniprotein switches for drug targets
Researchers at UW Medicine Institute for Protein Design and Skape Bio used AI methods to create on-demand molecules that can toggle GPCRs. The approach enables precise control of GPCR signaling in cells, offering new insights into bodily functions and potential medicines for diseases.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2026
Shedding light on receptor selectivity: “one of the most comprehensive projects in my entire scientific career”
The study identified amino acids crucial for ligand selectivity in two groups of receptors, β-adrenergic and D1-like dopamine receptors. By modifying these amino acids, the researchers made each receptor prefer its native ligand. The findings suggest that regions outside of the primary binding site also play a role in selectivity.
BRIGHT at DTU partners with Novonesis in effort to turn captured CO₂ into nutritious protein
BRIGHT at DTU joins forces with Novonesis to develop microbes that can efficiently utilize acetic acid produced from captured carbon, enabling the production of sustainable protein. The collaboration aims to accelerate microbial fermentation and reduce costs, ultimately contributing to a circular bioeconomy.
When light boosts protein evolution
Researchers developed a method called optovolution that uses light to guide the evolution of proteins with dynamic, multi-state, and computational functions. This approach favors variants with better dynamics, allowing for the creation of new variants with improved light sensitivity and responsiveness.
Behind nature’s blueprints
Scientists from ISTA and Brandeis University develop a geometric framework that predicts viable structures in self-assembling particles. The 'high-dimensional convex polyhedron' tool helps identify constraints that prevent certain outcomes, offering insights into designing custom-made nanomaterials.
SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 8, 2026
More polar ocean turbulence due to planetary warming
New research suggests that ocean turbulence and horizontal stirring will dramatically increase in the Arctic and Southern Oceans due to human-induced Global Warming. The study uses ultra-high-resolution simulations to investigate how mesoscale horizontal stirring (MHS) responds to warming, revealing a pronounced future intensification ...
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 5, 2025
Graz University of Technology researchers open up new avenues of understanding proteins
Researchers at Graz University of Technology have developed a new approach to understand protein function and stability, identifying amino acids crucial for both with high accuracy. The FSA method combines machine-learning-generated sequences with natural sequences, revealing functional and structural significance of amino acids.
SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalStructure·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 30, 2025
A 'Rosetta Stone' for molecular systems
A new mathematical framework, STIV, can predict larger-scale effects like proteins unfolding and crystals forming without costly simulations or experiments. The framework solves a 40-year-old problem in phase-field modeling, allowing for the design of smarter medicines and materials.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJournal of Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2025
Protein nanorings designed to detect and neutralize SARS-CoV2 virus
Researchers have generated a new ring-shaped protein nanomaterial capable of strongly binding to and neutralizing the SARS-CoV2 virus. The system can integrate therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities and be adapted to combat other viruses.
SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 8, 2025
Tailored collagen binding of albumin-fused hyperactive coagulation factor IX dictates in vivo distribution and functional properties
Researchers designed long-acting human albumin-fused FIX variants with unique pharmacokinetic properties, including extended plasma half-lives and enhanced extravascular distribution. The findings endorse the use of engineered albumin-fused FIX variants as personalized therapy options for hemophilia B.
SourceUniversity of Oslo, Ullevaal University Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 29, 2025
Researchers leverage advanced bioengineering techniques to develop plastics made from sustainable biomaterials
A team of researchers has developed a new method to produce sturdy and reusable bioplastics from domestic raw materials, reducing reliance on petroleum-based chemicals. The bioplastics, known as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), have similar levels of toughness and malleability to traditional plastics, but are infinitely recyclable.
Artificial biosensor can better measure the body’s main stress hormone
A new artificial biosensor developed by University of California, Santa Cruz's Andy Yeh can accurately measure cortisol levels across all relevant ranges for human health. The sensor uses a smartphone camera to detect light emissions, providing high sensitivity and dynamic range for detecting small molecule analytes.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 28, 2025
Self-driving lab: AI and automated biology combine to improve enzymes
The University of Illinois team created a user-friendly process to improve enzyme performance using AI and automated robotics. By predicting sequence changes and testing variants, they increased the activity of two key industrial enzymes by up to 26 times and 90 times.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2025
Computational biochemist joins Rice with CPRIT recruitment award
Linna An joins Rice University to develop protein-based biosensors for cancer detection, drug monitoring, and personalized diagnostics. Her work focuses on mapping the 'metabolism landscape' of cancer using synthetic proteins.
New Danish research centre to make designed proteins with vast potential
A new Center for Protein Design at the University of Copenhagen aims to create artificially designed proteins with tailored properties to tackle diseases, environmental issues, and industrial applications. The centre will drive fundamental research and translate basic findings into concrete solutions.
Scientists build first genetic "toggle switch" for plants, paving the way for smarter farming
Researchers at Colorado State University have created a programmable plant circuit that can turn genes on and off, allowing farmers to time harvests and adapt to drought. The breakthrough could lead to automated genetic circuit design through machine learning, revolutionizing agriculture.
Targeting gluten: researchers delete proteins in wheat harmful to people with celiac disease
Researchers have developed new seed varieties of wheat that remove harmful gluten proteins without affecting breadmaking quality. The modified wheat can reduce the risk of triggering celiac disease in people without the condition and improve flour quality.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalTheoretical and Applied Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2025
Harnessing generative AI to expand the mitochondrial targeting toolkit
Researchers used generative AI to design diverse mitochondrial targeting sequences, achieving a 50-100% success rate in yeast, plant cells, and mammalian cells. The AI-generated sequences showed improved targeting abilities compared to existing ones, with potential applications in metabolic engineering and therapeutics.
SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 2025
Gene circuits enable more precise control of gene therapy
Researchers at MIT developed a control circuit that can precisely regulate gene expression levels, improving the efficacy and safety of gene therapy treatments. The 'COMMAND' circuit uses microRNA to suppress gene expression, allowing for tighter control over treatment outcomes.
Genetic engineering drives innovative material design for enhanced uranium extraction from seawater
Researchers developed a novel protein, LSUBP, to enhance uranium extraction from seawater. The engineered protein achieves high adsorption capacity, offering a promising new material for effective uranium extraction.
Research team improves method for producing designer proteins
A research team has discovered that protein misfolding is a major cause of efficiency problems when using split inteins to produce proteins. By introducing specific mutations to the intein fragment, they were able to suppress aggregation and increase productivity.
The Protein Society announces its 2025 Award Recipients
The Protein Society recognizes five award winners in 2025 for their groundbreaking research in protein science and technology. Professor Jan Steyaert receives the Christian B. Anfinsen Award for pioneering nanobody technology, while Dr. Brian Kuhlman wins the Emil Thomas Kaiser Award for novel protein design and structural modeling.
Newly identified bacterial protein helps design cancer drug delivery system
A new bacterial protein, BeeR, has been identified and its structure is being used to develop protein nanoparticles for targeted cancer drug delivery. The protein forms a hollow tube with a cavity capable of containing drug molecules.
New paper suggests cold temperatures trigger shapeshifting proteins
A new paper proposes that temperature plays a fundamental role in setting off shapeshifting in metamorphic proteins. Researchers analyzed differences in hydrophobic contacts and found significant temperature-dependent changes, supporting their theory.
SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 10, 2025
Future drugs may snap supply chain fueling breast cancer
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys have discovered a way to target the energy supply chain of cancer cells. By understanding how enzymes like ubiquitous mitochondrial creatine kinase (uMtCK) function, scientists can design new treatments that slow or stop tumor growth.
New method searches through 10 sextillion drug molecules
Researchers developed a new method to search through billions of molecules to identify potential anti-inflammatory drug candidates. The method uses computer algorithms to explore vast chemical space and has the potential to speed up the costly drug development process.
SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 26, 2025
Protein design: Flexible components allow new architectures
A team of scientists has found that some artificially designed proteins contain flexible components that can take on multiple structures, leading to surprising properties and potential applications. This discovery could open up new avenues for the development of customized proteins.
SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateFeb 26, 2025
New photochemical tools based on thioketal
A new universal photocage modification strategy based on thioketal enables real-time live cell subcellular imaging. The thioketal-based probe SiR-EDT exhibits improved dark stability and can be specifically activated by UV-visible light.
SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 25, 2025
Engineering biological reaction crucibles to rapidly produce proteins
Biomedical engineers at Duke University have developed a new technique that traps together cellular machinery to increase protein production rates. This approach uses synthetic disordered proteins to form compartments called biological condensates, which enhance the rate of protein production by bringing together biomolecular machinery...
New study reveals how RNA travels between cells to control genes across generations
Researchers at the University of Maryland discovered multiple pathways for dsRNA molecules to enter cells, challenging previous assumptions about RNA transport. They found that a protein called SID-1 plays a key role in regulating genes across generations, which could lead to better targeted treatments for human diseases.
Harnessing generative AI to treat undruggable diseases
A team of researchers at Duke University has developed a novel AI-based platform that can design and match small peptides with complex proteins, previously considered unreachable. The PepPrCLIP platform utilizes generative large language models to create peptide guide proteins and an algorithm framework to screen and test the peptides.
SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 30, 2025
AI-driven multi-modal framework revolutionizes protein editing for scientific and medical breakthroughs
Researchers developed ProtET, an AI model leveraging multi-modal learning to controllably edit proteins through text-based instructions. This approach enhances functional protein design across domains like enzyme activity, stability, and antibody binding, promising real-world applicability in biomedical research.
Designing proteins with their environment in mind
A team of scientists developed a computational design tool called SPaDES to create new membrane receptors that outperform natural counterparts. The new receptors were designed by optimizing water-mediated interactions, resulting in higher stability and signaling efficiency.
Simplified redesign of proteins to improve ligand binding
Researchers developed ProteinReDiff, an AI-powered method to redesign proteins for improved ligand binding. The approach uses initial protein sequences and ligand SMILES strings, reducing reliance on detailed structural data.
SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalStructural Dynamics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 21, 2025
Florescent probes illuminate cholesterol and Alzheimer’s research
A new study demonstrates how fluorescent cholesterol probes can visualize cholesterol in live cells, revealing its role in amyloid plaque formation and cellular signaling. The novel probes have the potential to enhance our understanding of how cholesterol imbalances contribute to neurodegenerative disorders.
A deep learning pipeline for controlling protein interactions
The EPFL team has developed a deep-learning pipeline called MaSIF to design new proteins that interact with therapeutic targets. They have successfully designed novel protein binders that can recognize and bind to drug-protein complexes, offering potential applications in cell-based therapies and biosensors.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 16, 2025
AI-designed proteins neutralize snake toxins
Researchers created new proteins using AI that bind to and neutralize deadly snake toxins, providing a safer alternative to traditional antivenoms. The study's results show an 80-100% survival rate in mice, offering potential benefits for people in developing countries.
A new geometric machine learning method promises to accelerate precision drug development
Researchers have developed a new geometric machine learning method called MaSIF, which enables the design of proteins that bind specifically to desired molecular structures. This approach accelerates precision drug development by allowing for precise dosing and control of biological drugs.
SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 15, 2025
Deep learning designs proteins against deadly snake venom
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed new proteins that can neutralize lethal snake venom toxins using deep learning computational methods. These protein designs show promise for creating safer and more cost-effective antivenoms, potentially saving millions of lives annually.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025
Major breakthrough for ‘smart cell’ design
Researchers have made a major breakthrough in synthetic biology by developing a new construction kit for building custom sense-and-respond circuits in human cells. The new approach harnesses the power of phosphorylation to amplify weak input signals into macroscopic outputs, enabling rapid response times and sensitivity to external sig...
Microelectronics Science Research Centers to lead charge on next-generation designs and prototypes
The US Department of Energy is investing $179 million in three Microelectronics Science Research Centers to develop next-generation microelectronics designed for extreme environments. PNNL will lead projects on neuromorphic computing, EUV lithography, and heterogeneous computing.
Virus that threatened humanity opens the future
Researchers developed AI-driven therapeutic platform mimicking viral structures to deliver therapeutic genes to target cells. The innovative approach achieved precise symmetrical structures and effectively delivered payloads, paving the way for breakthroughs in gene therapies and next-generation vaccines.
U of T researchers develop tool to fast-track measurement of protein interactions for drug discovery
Researchers at U of T have created SIMPL2, a platform that simplifies detection and improves accuracy of protein-protein interactions. The tool enables the rapid identification of protein interactions, including weak ones, for targeted drug therapies.
Programming cells: Revolutionizing genetic circuits with cutting-edge RNA tools
The team developed a Synthetic Translational Coupling Element (SynTCE) that enhances the precision and integration density of genetic circuits in synthetic biology. This allows for more efficient gene circuit integration, minimizing interference between biological parts and enabling precise control over multiple genes.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateDec 20, 2024
Tinkering with the “clockwork” mechanisms of life
Researchers at Université de Montréal successfully recreated two distinct mechanisms that can program the activation and deactivation rates of nanomachines in living organisms across multiple timescales. This breakthrough suggests how engineers can exploit natural processes to improve nanomedicine and other technologies.
USTC achieves breakthrough in functional protein design with deep generative models
Researchers from USTC and Harvard Medical School create PocketGen, a deep generative model for generating protein pocket sequences and spatial structures. The model achieves over 10-fold improvement in speed and demonstrates high accuracy in binding small molecules.
SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateDec 8, 2024
Method to enhance solubility of pea protein favors its use in food and beverages
A new method to enhance pea protein solubility, combining heat treatment and guarana extract, offers potential as an ingredient in plant-based beverages. The approach improves emulsion stability and vitamin D3 preservation.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFood Research International·DateDec 5, 2024
New method for designing artificial proteins
Researchers have developed a new method for designing large artificial proteins with high accuracy, utilizing AI-based software Alphafold2. The approach combines accurate structure prediction with optimization techniques, allowing for the creation of proteins with tailored properties, such as precise binding and stability.
Engineered receptors help the immune system home in on cancer
Researchers at University of California - San Francisco designed biological sensors that can ensure engineered cells are activated in tumor environments, making cancer therapies more effective. The new sensors, called SNIPRs, can bind to soluble molecules and alter gene expression, offering a promising approach for targeted therapies.
Insilico Medicine announces Pharma.AI week webinar series: Revolutionizing drug discovery with cutting-edge AI innovations
Pharma.AI Week will showcase the latest advancements in Insilico's generative AI platform, including PandaOmics and Science42, with expert speakers and hands-on demos. The event aims to empower researchers and scientists with tools for faster and more accurate discoveries.
Bioluminescent proteins made from scratch enable non-invasive, multi-functional biological imaging
Scientists have designed bioluminescent proteins that can produce multiple colors of light for real-time imaging in cellular and animal models. These proteins are small, efficient, highly stable and can be used for non-invasive bioimaging, diagnostics, drug discovery and more.
Argonne team breaks new ground in AI-driven protein design
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed an AI-driven protein design framework that uses multimodal data to speed up the design of new proteins. The framework has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious Gordon Bell Prize, recognizing breakthroughs in high-performance computing.
Nanoparticles designed to trap and neutralise large amounts of SARS-CoV2
Researchers from the IBB-UAB have developed novel nanoparticles capable of trapping and neutralizing large quantities of SARS-CoV2 virus particles. These nanostructures could be used to manufacture antiviral materials such as wastewater and air filters, and develop new tests for early Covid-19 detection.
SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2024