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What makes fireflies glow? (video)

Fireflies produce light through a chemical reaction involving luciferin and ATP, but intermediate steps were unclear. Researchers explored enzyme luciferase, finding that a single electron transfer occurs during the final step, suggesting a unifying feature of bioluminescence.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 1, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A long-standing mystery in membrane traffic was solved

Researchers at KAIST have solved the mystery of how NSF disassembles a SNARE complex. They found that NSF requires only one round of ATP hydrolysis to unwind the complex, contrary to previous theories. This discovery sheds new light on membrane fusion and vesicle traffic in cells.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience·DateMar 27, 2015

Revealing the inner workings of a molecular motor

Researchers from RIKEN Brain Science Institute have made significant strides in understanding the mechanism of dynein's movement along microtubules. The study found that specific amino acid residues on the microtubule structure play a crucial role in activating the dynein motor, enabling directional movement and cargo transport.

SourceRIKEN·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 12, 2015
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

A human enzyme (CD 39) targets the Achilles heel of sepsis

New research suggests CD39, an enzyme capable of clearing high levels of adenosine triphosphate from the bloodstream, significantly improves survival of mice in severe sepsis. This discovery holds promise for effective treatment and reduction of costs associated with septic patients in intensive care units.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 5, 2015

Cellular team players

Researchers at Technical University of Munich used FRET methodology to observe interaction between Hsp90, P23 and ATP. They found that P23 strengthens ATP bonding, increasing energy production. This breakthrough reveals the importance of cooperation in cellular energy generation.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 30, 2014
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.

Tweaking energy consumption to combat muscle wasting and obesity

Researchers discovered that ATP-sensitive potassium channels in skeletal muscle play a crucial role in regulating energy consumption even during mundane activities. By modulating KATP channel activity, new strategies may be developed to combat metabolic disorders such as muscle wasting and obesity.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateDec 16, 2013

New way to predict prognosis in patients with heart failure

A novel approach predicts heart failure outcomes in patients by targeting impaired energy metabolism, a diseased heart's underlying mechanism. This method could help tailor therapeutic interventions and improve treatment planning for physicians.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 13, 2013
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Novel drug acts in unique way to protect against kidney injury

A new drug called Bendavia has been shown to prevent acute kidney injury (AKI) in animal models and is currently being studied for kidney disease. By protecting the unique fatty compound cardiolipin, Bendavia helps preserve mitochondrial structure and function, leading to accelerated ATP recovery and reduced cell death.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 11, 2013

Researchers gain insight into key protein linked to cancers, neurodegenerative disorders

Virginia Commonwealth University researchers have gained insight into how Hsp70, a key molecular player, binds with ATP to enhance its activity and efficiency. This understanding paves the way for designing efficient small molecule drugs to specifically modulate Hsp70's function, potentially treating cancers and neurodegenerative disor...

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMay 30, 2013
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.

Random walks on DNA

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism of DNA helicase that utilizes thermal motion to move long distances along DNA, providing an energy-efficient way to unwind double-stranded DNA

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience·DateApr 19, 2013

Cancer cell metabolism kills

Researchers at the University of Helsinki discovered that the Myc oncoprotein makes cancer cells vulnerable to cell death by activating AMPK, a biochemical sensor. This leads to the activation of tumor suppressor protein p53, which promotes apoptosis in cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2013

Gene therapy may aid failing hearts

A study led by University of Washington researchers shows that genetic engineering can increase dATP levels in heart cells, leading to improved heart muscle function and greater force of contraction. The findings suggest a potential therapeutic treatment for heart failure conditions.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 2013
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.

Revealing the secrets of motility in archaea

Researchers from Berkeley Lab and Max Planck Institute analyze unique microbial motor, revealing a dynamic play among its components. The study found that the archaellum consists of two parts, with a globular C terminal domain connected to a more variable N terminal domain.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 14, 2013

Strange behavior: New study exposes living cells to synthetic protein

Researchers at Arizona State University have fabricated an artificial protein and examined its effects on living cells, revealing a peculiar set of adaptations including filamentation, ATP depletion, and the formation of endoliposomes. These findings may lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents.

SourceArizona State University·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateDec 27, 2012

What keeps a cell's energy source going

A team of scientists from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and Temple University discovered an essential mechanism that regulates calcium uptake into mitochondria, crucial for ATP synthesis. The newly described protein MCUR1 interacts with MCU to establish proper calcium levels under normal conditions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateNov 27, 2012
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.

Insights into a new therapy for a rare form of cystic fibrosis

A new therapy for a rare form of cystic fibrosis has been developed using an unconventional approach. The drug, VX-770, was found to open both normal and mutant CFTR channels without the need for ATP, a molecule that normally regulates channel activity.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 29, 2012

Energy-sensing switch discovery could have broad implications for biology and medicine

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have discovered a genetic sequence that can alter its host gene's activity in response to cellular energy levels, a finding that could have broad implications for biology and medicine. The energy-sensing switch, known as a riboswitch, detects the molecule ATP and controls global metabolic regul...

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 21, 2012
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Breakthrough technology focuses in on disease traits of single cells

Researchers at Arizona State University's Biodesign Institute developed the Cellarium, a live cell array technology that enables unprecedented insights into individual cell behavior. The system allows for dynamic measurements of live single cells, providing valuable clues to health and disease.

SourceArizona State University·DateJul 23, 2012

ATP splitting in membrane protein dynamically measured for the first time

Researchers from RUB have dynamically measured ATP splitting in membrane protein MsbA for the first time, tracking minute changes in the protein and its interaction with ATP. This study provides important clues on how the protein moves during ATP hydrolysis, laying the foundation for further investigation into whole membrane proteins.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 11, 2012
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.

Energy-saving chaperon Hsp90

Researchers from TUM proved that Hsp90 utilizes thermal fluctuations as the driving force for its conformational changes. Key findings show that the chaperone protein is highly flexible and can switch between conformations using random environmental collisions, saving valuable ATP energy.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 13, 2012
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.

NIH grant ratchets up ASU research in molecular motors

The ASU research group is studying the FoF1 molecular motor using a gold nanorod attached to the c-ring, which allows them to measure the rotary motion of the c-ring. They have found that the rotation is periodically interrupted, similar to a ratchet mechanism, and are exploring its potential for use in synthetic molecular motors.

SourceArizona State University·DateMay 27, 2011

Structure of DNA repair complex reveals workings of powerful cell motor

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have made a groundbreaking discovery about the structure of the MRN DNA repair complex, revealing its powerful molecular motor workings. The finding has implications for designing non-toxic drugs to treat disorders such as cancer and cystic fibrosis.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMar 27, 2011

Massive endocytosis in cells

Scientists identified a previously unknown mechanism for massive endocytosis (MEND) in cells, where up to 75% of the cell plasma membrane can be reversibly engulfed. MEND preferentially targets low-ordered, cholesterol-containing membrane domains.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateJan 17, 2011

WSU researchers discover key mechanism behind sleep

Researchers at Washington State University have discovered a key mechanism behind sleep, which could lead to the development of new treatments for fatigue and sleep disorders. The finding reveals how brain activity is linked to sleep and provides potential targets for medications.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateSep 13, 2010

Mount Sinai researchers discover new mechanism behind cellular energy conversion

Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine have gained atomic-level insight into how organisms synthesize their major form of chemical energy using the enzyme ATP synthase. The discovery provides a clearer understanding of how these nano-machines function, including the role of water molecules in the rotary mechanism of ATP synthesis.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 18, 2010
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.

Cells use water in nano-rotors to power energy conversion

A team of scientists has provided the first atomic-level glimpse of the proton-driven motor from ATP synthases, enzymes central to cellular energy conversion. The study revealed a water molecule in the critical rotor element of a bacterial nano-motor that shares common features with human mitochondria and bacteria.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 3, 2010

'Nature's batteries' may have helped power early lifeforms

Researchers found pyrophosphite, a molecule similar to ATP, could transfer energy without enzymes. This discovery suggests that pyrophosphite played a role in the emergence of complex biology and potentially provided power for early lifeforms.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalChemical Communications·DateMay 25, 2010

Researchers determine how ATP, molecule bearing 'the fuel of life,' is broken down in cells

A team of researchers has discovered that kinesin proteins use a string of water molecules to harness the energy of ATP breakdown. This breakthrough reveals a critical role for water molecules in cellular function and may lead to novel drugs to combat diseases. The study provides a clearer picture of how cells function and flourishes.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 1, 2010
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Chaperonins prompt proper protein folding -- but how?

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and Stanford University discovered how Group II chaperonins in archaea close folding chambers to initiate protein folding events. The molecular nanomachine requires ATP to open and close its chambers, leading to the release of functional proteins.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 20, 2010

Undergrad researchers lay groundwork for drug addiction remedy

Two Duke undergraduates, Sarah Steele and Langtian Yuan, identified compounds that inhibit the enzyme protein kinase C zeta (PKCzeta) in brain chemistry changes involved in memory and learning. Their discovery may lead to a new remedy for methamphetamine and cocaine addiction.

SourceDuke University·JournalMolecular BioSystems·DateDec 8, 2009

Atomic-level snapshot catches protein motor in action

Researchers have uncovered the critical action shapshot of an enzyme known as the Rho transcription termination factor, a remarkable class of ring-shaped protein motors. The study reveals a rotary engine-like mechanism that enables the motor to selectively terminate transcription at discrete points along the genome.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalCell·DateNov 24, 2009

Common food dye may hold promise in treating spinal cord injury

A common food additive, Brilliant Blue G, has been identified as a potential treatment for spinal cord injury. The compound stops the cascade of molecular events that cause secondary damage, allowing patients to recover from paralysis. Researchers have successfully tested BBG in rats with spinal cord injuries, showing promising results.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2009
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Is 31P MRS a useful tool for evaluating early acute hepatic radiation injury?

Researchers found that 31P MRS can detect changes in liver ATP levels related to liver damage score and pathologic changes. The study showed significant differences in ATP quantification among groups, indicating its potential as a non-invasive method for detecting early acute hepatic radiation injury.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJun 23, 2009

PDAs, more education help doctors follow cholesterol treatment guidelines

A new study suggests that patients with high cholesterol receive better care when physicians use a variety of tools, including PDAs, to learn and apply clinical practice guidelines for treating the condition. This multifaceted strategy improved guideline adherence by reducing over-treatment and increasing appropriate treatment decisions.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateApr 22, 2009

Tuberculosis drug shows promise against latent bacteria

A new study reveals that an investigational drug, R207910, is effective in killing latent tuberculosis bacteria. The drug targets a protein essential for energy production in active TB, suggesting a potential Achilles heel for dormant bacteria.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 12, 2008
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.

Researchers are first to simulate the binding of molecules to a protein

Scientists have identified a key step in ATP recycling and its low-energy counterpart ADP's interaction with the mitochondrion. The simulation reveals how ADP disrupts ionic bonds to unlock the door to mitochondrial entry.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 30, 2008

July 2008 Biology of Reproduction highlights

A new study reveals that lactate dehydrogenase C (LDHC) enzyme plays a critical role in male fertility, affecting sperm motility and ATP production. Meanwhile, research on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) suggests prenatal exposure to androgens may contribute to infertility symptoms.

SourceSociety for the Study of Reproduction·JournalBiology of Reproduction·DateJun 20, 2008

Niacin's role in maintaining good cholesterol

Researchers found that niacin works by reducing the presence of Beta chain on liver cells, which hinders HDL removal and maintains high plasma HDL levels. This new mechanism explains why niacin is especially beneficial for raising HDL while allowing other cholesterol types to be removed.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateJun 5, 2008

Researchers probe a DNA repair enzyme

The researchers studied the archaeal version of Rad3, a unique helicase involved in DNA repair. The findings revealed that the integrity of an iron-sulfur cluster is crucial for proper function of the enzyme.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 18, 2008
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

NIST announces 56 new awards for innovative technology research and development

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has awarded $138.7 million in funding to 56 innovative technology projects, including medical diagnostic techniques and alternative energy sources. The projects were selected through a competitive, peer-reviewed process and represent a total potential investment of up to $342.7 ...

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateSep 28, 2007

Researchers figure out what makes a simple biological clock tick

An interdisciplinary team of researchers analyzed the simplest known biological clock and found that the protein KaiC, combined with KaiA and KaiB, creates a complex system to regulate biochemical processes. The study reveals that the proteins form a dynamic mixture of complexes at different stages of their cycles.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 26, 2007

Why exercising muscles tire when needed most

During intense exercise, muscles rely on anaerobic metabolism for force production, leading to muscle fatigue and impaired performance. The study found that the mechanisms of muscular fatigue are similar to those discovered in laboratory research on cell and tissue samples.

SourceRice University·DateNov 7, 2006
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Lighting up the heart

Researchers at University of Bristol have made a major breakthrough in measuring energy levels inside living heart cells, real-time. This could lead to better understanding of heart disease and improved recovery of the heart during cardiac surgery or after a heart attack.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 21, 2006