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Neural network detects protein-peptide binding sites to kick-start peptide drug discovery

Researchers have developed a neural network model called BiteNetPp to detect protein-peptide binding sites, enabling the design of peptide-based drugs. The model consistently outperforms existing methods and can analyze a single protein structure in under a second, making it suitable for large-scale studies.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 5, 2021

New strategy for drug design: Keeping copper atoms closer to keep bacteria away

Scientists at Tokyo University of Science developed a copper-containing polymer that greatly enhances the antibacterial activity of hydrogen peroxide. The use of these tailored polymers resulted in higher catalytic activity and more effective killing of bacteria, opening up new design avenues for antimicrobial drugs.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalMacromolecular Rapid Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2021

TSUBAME supercomputer predicts cell-membrane permeability of cyclic peptides

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a computational method to predict the cell-membrane permeability of cyclic peptides, exhibiting promising accuracy. The protocol has potential to aid in designing and discovering cyclic peptide drugs with high cell-membrane permeability.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·DateJul 13, 2021

Harnessing AI to discover new drugs

Researchers at ETH Zurich used AI to identify target molecules of natural substances, paving the way for a new class of pharmaceutical agents. The algorithm successfully predicted human receptors and enzymes that interact with natural compounds, leading to the discovery of simpler, cheaper alternatives.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 7, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

New approach todrug design yields highly promising bladder cancer drug candidate

A new approach to molecular drug design has yielded a highly promising bladder cancer treatment candidate that induces rapid shedding of tumour cells and results in significant tumour size reduction. The treatment shows potent effects on patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, demonstrating safety without side effects.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 28, 2021

Omega-3s may hold key to unlocking blood-brain barrier

Researchers have visualized the structure of the MFSD2A transporter protein, which allows omega-3s to enter the brain. The study provides insight into how this protein can be used to design drugs that mimic omega-3s and hijack the system for neurological treatment.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateJun 16, 2021

Kirigami-inspired stent offers new drug delivery method for tubular organs

A multidisciplinary team from Brigham and Women's Hospital has designed a stretchable stent based on the principles of kirigami that can support rapid deposition of drug depots. The researchers coated the design with budesonide-loaded polymeric micro-particles to support extended drug delivery, which was tested in the esophagi of pigs.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 14, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Fifty years of collaborative science

The Protein Data Bank (PDB) is celebrating 50 years of sharing scientific knowledge, with millions of users accessing its data for fundamental biology, energy, and biomedicine. The event highlights the PDB's role in understanding protein folding, including SARS-CoV-2, and structural biology's impact on medicine and drug discovery.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 22, 2021

Cerium sidelines silver to make drug precursor

Rice University chemists have developed a novel process for synthesizing fluoroketones, precursors for drug design and manufacture. The new method uses a cerium-based catalyst, which produces functional precursors under mild conditions in about 30 minutes.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 26, 2021

Sewage study shows which countries like to party hard

The study found the Netherlands recorded the highest usage of NPS, followed by Australia, New Zealand, and the US. Meanwhile, Spain, Italy, and China had the lowest incidence. Countries with higher usage included Australia, New Zealand, and the US, where substances like N-ethylpentylone were detected.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalWater Research·DateFeb 21, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Math enables custom arrangements of liquid 'nesting dolls'

Princeton University researchers have developed a new method to design and control complex mixtures with multiple phases, mimicking the arrangement of Russian matryoshka dolls. This approach uses graph theory to predict final arrangements of phases in a mixture when surface energies are known.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 30, 2020

Machine learning helps hunt for COVID-19 therapies

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a deep learning model to predict the binding sites of known protease inhibitors targeting the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. The model can help drug developers prioritize promising candidates and save time and money in the early stages of drug development.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalChemical Science·DateOct 28, 2020
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Researchers map out intricate processes that activate key brain molecule

Scientists have created a detailed map of the GABAB receptor, revealing its structure and new details of how it moves from inactive to active state. This discovery could help better understand GABA receptors and design better drugs to treat conditions like addiction and psychosis.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJun 17, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Researchers flush out worrying trend of designer drug use

A comprehensive study found synthetic cathinones and N-ethylpentylone in Australian wastewater, with users attracted to novel effects and potential risks of paranoia, hallucinations, and panic attacks

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJun 15, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

What if we could design powerful drugs without unwanted side effects?

Researchers at Stanford University School of Engineering used computer simulations to discover how to minimize side effects in a broad class of drugs targeting G protein-coupled receptors. By designing new molecules, they can alter the receptor's shape to deliver beneficial effects while avoiding side effects.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalScience·DateMay 19, 2020

Better understanding of nature's nanomachines may help in design of future drugs

A research team at McGill University has gained a deeper understanding of nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs), tiny natural machines that produce biologically active compounds. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of new potent antibiotics, immunosuppressants and other modern drugs by leveraging bacteria and fungi.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 30, 2020
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Rice chemist wins grant to simplify drug design

László Kürti, a Rice University chemist, has received a prestigious grant to speed up drug design by simplifying the synthesis of essential precursors. The five-year grant will support research into amines and their derivatives, which are present in most drug molecules. This could lead to more environmentally friendly drug development.

SourceRice University·DateApr 8, 2020

Coronavirus massive simulations completed on Frontera supercomputer

Researchers have created a massive computer model of the coronavirus, which will help design new drugs and vaccines. The model, built by Rommie Amaro's team, contains 200 million atoms and simulates the virus's interaction with human cells.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 24, 2020

Bristol pioneers use of VR for designing new drugs

Researchers at the University of Bristol used virtual reality to predict how common medications work on a molecular level. They successfully 'docked' drug molecules into proteins and were able to accurately predict their binding behavior, including for flu and HIV treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 11, 2020
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Atomic structures mapped in measles, mumps, flu and RSV

Scientists have determined the 3D atomic structure of a key enzyme complex in paramyxoviruses, a family of RNA viruses that includes measles, mumps, human parainfluenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This discovery could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs for these viruses as well as coronavirus.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2020

Understanding unexplained low blood sugar in children: More than normal variation

Researchers have identified four novel genes related to glucose metabolism that appear to explain unexplained low blood sugar in at least four families. The discovery may lead to the development of a novel drug against diabetes. However, more studies are needed to confirm the exact functional significance of these genetic mutations.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 7, 2020

New aspects of globular glial tauopathy could help in the design of more effective drugs

A study on globular glial tauopathy reveals that phosphate groups are not unique to tau protein and can lead to dysfunction in other proteins. Glial cells also play a crucial role in the disease's progression by facilitating the spread of protein inclusions. This research sheds light on potential new drug targets to stop disease progre...

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateJan 27, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Engineering artificial organisms

Scientists created artificial organisms by combining contractile and passive tissues, achieving high-performing candidates that matched predicted behaviors. The developed method can be applied to designing living machines for various applications.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 13, 2020

FDA documents analysis reveals inadequate monitoring of safe opioid use program

A risk management program for opioids may not be effective due to design and execution flaws, according to a Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health study. The program's educational materials were consistent with FDA guidelines, but assessments of its impact were often inadequate.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 7, 2020
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Multiple sclerosis: New standards required for planning clinical trials

A working group of medical organizations analyzed 29 pivotal phase III trials for disease-modifying drugs in MS, finding that patient symptoms and quality of life were often not considered. They suggest improving studies by focusing on patient-reported outcomes and long-term treatment effects.

SourceInstitute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care·JournalThe EPMA Journal·DateDec 17, 2019

Skin cancer mystery revealed in yin and yang protein

Scientists have determined the structure of the B-Raf protein, which is responsible for about 50% of melanomas. The study reveals an asymmetric organization of the complex, enabling asymmetric activation of the B-Raf dimer, a mechanism that explains the origin of paradoxical activation by small molecule inhibitors.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalScience·DateDec 17, 2019
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Artificial intelligence algorithm can learn the laws of quantum mechanics

Researchers have developed a deep machine learning algorithm that can predict the quantum states of molecules, enabling faster design of drug molecules and new materials. The algorithm can process complex quantum chemical data in seconds on a laptop or mobile phone, revolutionizing computational chemistry and molecular physics.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 19, 2019

Science snapshots from Berkeley Lab

A crowdsourcing game called Foldit allows players to design protein structures that are reproduced in labs, showing their accuracy. Researchers also discovered how cooking affects the gut microbiome and found a new material to remove toxic sulfur dioxide gas.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 1, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

A new drought-protective small molecule 'drug' for crops

Researchers have created a synthetic abscisic acid (ABA) mimic, opabactin, nearly 10 times more effective in manipulating crop water use than natural ABA. The molecule demonstrates high potency in wheat and tomato plants and provides long-lasting protection against underwatering.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 24, 2019

SLAS Discovery releases special issue

The October issue of SLAS Discovery features a two-part special issue on membrane proteins, highlighting the importance of these targets for novel drug design. The issue includes reviews and original research papers on various aspects of membrane protein biology, such as targeting specific transporters and channels.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateOct 11, 2019

Cornell researchers reveal molecular basis of vision

Researchers at Cornell University have solved the three-dimensional structure of a protein complex involved in vertebrate vision at atomic resolution, revealing how signals from photons are amplified in the eye. The study provides insights into G-protein-coupled receptors and their role in human vision, with potential implications for ...

SourceCornell University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 30, 2019
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Hook-on drugs: New delivery strategy for K-Ras disruption

Researchers have developed a new drug delivery strategy targeting K-Ras proteins, responsible for aggressive and untreatable cancers. The approach uses FTase and GGTase I inhibitors to disrupt the lipid modification of mutated K-Ras, blocking its proliferation.

SourceShinshu University·DateSep 24, 2019

Poverty as disease trap

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease affecting 200 million people worldwide, can't be cured with current approaches due to poverty's role. Researchers found that mass drug administration programs fail to eradicate the disease, as treated individuals re-expose themselves to contamination.

SourceStanford University·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateSep 3, 2019

Scientists opening the door to a new era of medicinal chemistry

Researchers at Insilico Medicine have developed a new molecular descriptor, MCE-18, which estimates molecular complexity and defines the evolution of small molecules in medicinal chemistry. The study reveals that modern drug development is becoming more qualitative and smarter, with higher degrees of 3D complexity.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJul 11, 2019
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Pharmaconutrition — Modern drug design for functional studies

Researchers have developed effective activators for the bitter taste receptor TAS2R14, which could have significant health effects. The receptors play a role in the human immune system and are found on lung and testicle cells.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalCellular and Molecular Life Sciences·DateJul 1, 2019