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AI platform could speed peptide drug discovery

Researchers developed an AI platform, PeptiVerse, to predict key properties of peptides, enabling early assessment of drug potential. The open-source platform allows users to evaluate ordinary and chemically modified peptides, streamlining the discovery process.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 21, 2026

Single amino acid change may help viruses jump from bat to human

Researchers discovered a single amino acid change that allows coronaviruses to interact with human and bat immune systems differently, shifting the body's response to infection. This alteration enables benign animal viruses to adapt to humans and cause severe disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJun 15, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

Lighting up life: Rice scientists develop glowing sensors to track cellular changes as they happen

Researchers at Rice University have engineered living cells to use a 21st amino acid that illuminates protein changes in real time, providing a new perspective on the inner workings of life. This breakthrough addresses a long-standing challenge in biology by allowing scientists to track subtle protein changes within living systems.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 23, 2025

Can blood analyses in dogs provide insights into human aging?

Researchers analyzed blood samples from dogs in the Dog Aging Project and found that post-translationally modified amino acids are strongly linked to age, suggesting a promising indicator of physiological aging. The study also highlighted an important role of the kidney in the relationship between age and blood metabolites.

SourceWiley·JournalAging Cell·DateOct 22, 2025
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.

Meteorite-common amino acid induces formation of nanocavities in clay mineral

Researchers found that gamma-aminobutyric acid can induce the formation of nanocavities in montmorillonite clay, which could facilitate life's first chemistry. This discovery adds a new dimension to the concept of the 'warm little pond' and introduces an unusual suspect in the origin of life.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJun 23, 2025

Machine learning model to predict the fitness of AAV capsids for gene therapy

A new machine learning model accurately predicts the fitness of AAV capsids based on their amino acid sequence, enabling more efficient and cost-effective gene therapies. The model's robustness and generalizability have been demonstrated through tests on independent datasets, offering a promising tool for capsid engineering.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 17, 2025

PEPITEM sequence shows effects in psoriasis, comparable to steroid cream

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have identified a three-amino acid sequence that reduces psoriasis severity, comparable to steroid cream. The study found that topical application resulted in a clear reduction in disease and was confirmed using Psoriasis Area and Severity Index scoring.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPharmacological Research·DateApr 3, 2025
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Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New AI models possible game-changers within protein science and healthcare

Researchers developed new AI models, InstaNovo and InstaNovo+, to vastly improve accuracy and discovery in protein science. These models excel in tasks such as de novo peptide sequencing, identifying microorganisms, and discovering novel peptides, with implications for personalized medicine, cancer immunology, and beyond.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateMar 31, 2025

Study confirms fossils can retain original organic materials

A recent study published by researchers at the University of Liverpool has confirmed that Mesozoic fossils, including dinosaur bones and teeth, still preserve their original organic materials. The team used advanced mass spectrometry techniques to identify preserved collagen remnants in a well-preserved Edmontosaurus fossil.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJan 31, 2025

Keeping the steps of cell division in line

A team led by biologist Thomas Mayer found that a small binding-pocket on cyclin B helps regulate the sequence of cell division events. Without this pocket, malformations occur due to incorrect kinase phosphorylation, leading to potential tumours or infertility.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 28, 2025

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

Exploring how pheromones drive mating behavior in mice

Scientists investigated the role of ancient VR type-1 (ancV1R) receptor in pheromone detection using knockout mice. The study found that ancV1R-deficient female mice had impaired pheromone detection and exhibited abnormal sexual behavior.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 19, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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Study sheds light on the origin of the genetic code

A recent study revises our understanding of the universal genetic code's evolution, suggesting that early life preferred smaller amino acids over larger ones. The researchers found that amino acids with aromatic ring structures were incorporated into the code later than previously thought, offering clues about other extinct genetic codes.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2024

Delivery mechanism discovery resolves gene expression puzzle

Researchers have shed new light on gene expression by visualizing ribosomes in unprecedented detail. The study reveals a molecular mechanism for mRNA delivery to the ribosome, advancing our understanding of gene expression at the molecular level.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2024

How plants evolved multiple ways to override genetic instructions

Researchers found that plants have multiple enzymes for adding methyl groups to DNA, allowing them to override genetic instructions. The study reveals the evolutionary history of these enzymes and their unique structures, providing insights into plant resilience to environmental changes.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 6, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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Folded peptides are more electrically conductive than unfolded peptides

Researchers found that folded peptides are more electrically conductive than their unfolded counterparts due to the formation of a specific secondary structure called the 3_10 helix. This discovery has implications for the design and development of molecular electronic devices.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 25, 2024

Scientists devise algorithm to engineer improved enzymes

Researchers have devised an algorithm to rationally engineer enzymes for improved performance, taking into account evolutionary history. The new method successfully introduced up to 84 mutations over a sequence of 280, resulting in improved activity and stability at higher temperatures.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Fighting fat and inflammation: Scientists develop powerful new compounds

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science developed menthyl esters with potent anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity effects. The compounds outperformed menthol in inflammatory assays and suppressed genes involved in immune responses. They also inhibited adipogenesis, showing promise for addressing metabolic disorders.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalImmunology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Fast folding for synthetic peptides and microproteins

Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University developed a new method that enables the efficient production of cysteine-rich peptides and microproteins in their naturally folded 3D structure. The approach uses organic solvents to mimic nature's oxidative folding process, resulting in speeds of over 100,000 times faster than aqueous...

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2024

Efficient antibody production “wobbles”

Researchers have found that antibody sequences contain an unusual number of codons without corresponding tRNAs, which can be bridged by the inosine wobble modification. This modification allows for more efficient production of antibodies, with implications for vaccine efficacy and rationally designed vaccines.

SourceRagon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2024

Taking antibiotics back in time

A team of researchers successfully synthesized a 1.5-million-year-old antibiotic called paleomycin, which displays potent properties against human pathogens. By tracing the evolutionary path of glycopeptide antibiotics, the team gained insights into the development of new drugs and uncovered a common precursor molecule.

SourceCluster of Excellence “Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections” (CMFI)·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 30, 2023
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.

The double-edge sword of CRISPR application for in vivo studies

Researchers discuss CRISPR's limitations in generating accurate cancer models, including variable mutations and indels. Despite these challenges, the technology holds promise for cancer research due to its potential for natural selection and Darwinian evolution.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 28, 2023

KAIST-UCSD researchers build an enzyme discovering AI​

Researchers used AI to discover 464 types of enzymes in E. coli and verified their predictions through in vitro enzyme assay. The developed AI can predict a total of 5360 enzyme EC numbers, enabling accurate analysis of metabolic processes and development of eco-friendly microbial factories.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 24, 2023

Testing the limits of AlphaFold2’s accuracy in predicting protein structure

Researchers tested AlphaFold2's ability to predict protein structure changes from single point mutations. They found that AlphaFold can accurately predict deformation at the chromophore-binding site, leading to accurate predictions of fluorescence in fluorescent proteins.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 21, 2023

A potential early esophageal cancer antigen: DDX53

Researchers found that tumor-resident T-cell receptor sequences showed high complementarity with the cancer testis antigen DDX53, suggesting an immune response that selects for DDX53-negative cells. This association was correlated with worse disease-free survival rates, highlighting a potential early esophageal cancer antigen.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncoscience·TypeObservational study·DateNov 17, 2023
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.

New gene-editing technique offers path to precision therapies

A new gene-editing technique combines peptide nucleic acids and prokaryotic Argonautes to introduce targeted breaks in the genome. The approach, called PNP editing, offers advantages over CRISPR-based methods, including improved specificity and targeting.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateAug 24, 2023

An escape signal for the nematode: Artificial intelligence helps elucidate structure of a novel light sensor

A team of scientists has successfully elucidated the structure and function of LITE-1, a biomolecule used by Caenorhabditis elegans to detect danger. The researchers used artificial intelligence to predict the structure of LITE-1, which is a channel protein that forms a pore in the cell membrane allowing charged particles to pass through.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2023

Steric zipper interactions in artificial crystalline peptide β-sheets

Scientists develop a method to construct crystalline artificial steric zippers in peptide β-sheets, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies and materials. The research utilizes metal ions to prevent aggregation and form needle-shaped crystals with specific structural characteristics.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2023

Modifications to amino acids in sperm could be behind infertility

A study by Michigan Medicine researchers reveals that modifications to amino acids in sperm may be linked to infertility. The team analyzed the molecular sequence composition of protamines, finding non-arginine amino acids with unexpected post-translational modifications that affect sperm shape and function.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJul 31, 2023
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.

Drug precursor biosynthesis hinges on carrier-mediated ring formation

Researchers at Hokkaido University unveil unprecedented carrier protein-mediated ring-forming step in actinopyridazone biosynthesis. The dihydropyridazinone ring is formed through a novel machinery involving Apy3, Apy4, and Apy6 proteins.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2023

The molecular control centre of our protein factories

Scientists have identified a molecular control centre responsible for processing newly formed proteins correctly when they leave the cell's protein factories. The ribosomal gatekeeper NAC ensures the excision of methionine from specific proteins, preventing cell death.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience·DateJun 22, 2023

Now, every biologist can use machine learning

BioAutoMATED is an all-in-one AutoML platform designed for biologists, enabling easy analysis and interpretation of biological sequences. The platform uses three existing AutoML tools to generate models that can predict biological functions from sequence information.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalCell Systems·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 21, 2023

New way of identifying proteins supports drug development

Researchers have developed a new way to identify proteins based on their amino acid content, which can predict protein function and facilitate the development of new biological drugs. The method shows promise in cancer research, where it can help design more targeted treatments by linking survivin and PRC2 proteins.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournaliScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 14, 2023
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.

Fungus has a host of issues

Researchers identified four fungal proteins responsible for suppressing host plant immunity in infectious diseases, leading to distinct host specificity in over 70% of plant diseases. Understanding the mechanism of this specificity may lead to new crop protection technologies.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2023

University of Toronto researchers use generative AI to design novel proteins

Researchers have developed a system that uses generative diffusion to create new proteins, advancing the field of generative biology. The system, called ProteinSGM, learns from image representations to generate fully new proteins, which are biophysically real and functional.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 4, 2023

Russian researchers explain origins of dangerous coronavirus variants

Researchers have identified mechanisms behind the emergence of new and contagious coronavirus variants by analyzing over three million genome sequences. The study found that concordant substitutions occurring at other sites influence the likelihood of a substitution occurring at a specific site, leading to unexpected variant emergence.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournaleLife·DateApr 28, 2023
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.

‘Deep proteome’ project provides atlas for human complexity

A new study has created a comprehensive map of the human proteome, identifying over 1 million peptides from 17,717 different protein groups. The researchers also found that most alternative splicing detected at the RNA stage is also present in the proteins, validating long-held ideas about this process.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 23, 2023

Evolutionary history of detoxifying enzymes reconstructed

Scientists have reconstructed the evolutionary history of flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMOs), a class of detoxifying enzymes present in all lifeforms. The study reveals that a single ancestral gene diverged into two distinct functions, with one gene triggering a different breakdown reaction.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 27, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Researchers uncover how photosynthetic organisms regulate and synthesize ATP

A team of researchers has discovered the role of amino acid sequences in regulating ATP production in photosynthetic organisms. The study found that specific domains of the γ subunit of chloroplast F0F1 are involved in redox regulation, crucial for photosynthesis.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

AI technology generates original proteins from scratch

Scientists developed an AI system, ProGen, that can generate artificial enzymes from scratch, working as well as those found in nature. The AI model learned aspects of evolution and was able to tune its generation for specific effects, creating proteins with unique properties.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 26, 2023

Princeton Chemistry creates quantum dots at room temp using lab-designed protein

Researchers at Princeton University's Hecht Lab discovered a de novo protein that catalyzes the synthesis of quantum dots at room temperature. This breakthrough opens doors to making nanomaterials in a more sustainable way, with potential benefits for the environment.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2022

A new method for studying ribosome function

Researchers at UIC have developed a new method to study ribosome function by attaching peptides to tRNAs, providing high-resolution structures of the ribosome and its interactions with nascent chains. This breakthrough sheds light on protein synthesis and antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Beyond AlphaFold: A.I. excels at creating new proteins

Researchers developed a new software tool called ProteinMPNN to create protein molecules more accurately and quickly than before. The team used machine learning algorithms, including AlphaFold, to generate new protein shapes and sequences, paving the way for novel vaccines, treatments, and sustainable biomaterials.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 2022

Biologists glean insight into repetitive protein sequences

Researchers analyzed proteins from eight species and found that low-complexity regions (LCRs) share similar roles across species, helping proteins join larger-scale assemblies. They also discovered species-specific LCR sequences corresponding to unique functions, such as forming plant cell walls.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournaleLife·DateSep 13, 2022

Using nanopores to detect epigenetic changes faster

Scientists at the University of Freiburg have successfully characterized epigenetic modifications using nanopore analysis. The technique allows for rapid detection of protein fragments with varying levels of acetylation, enabling more accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases like cancer.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 31, 2022

New algorithm uncovers the secrets of cell factories

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology developed a computer model to predict enzyme efficiency. This helps find efficient cell factories for producing biotech products like biofuels and medicines, and studies difficult diseases.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 31, 2022
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.

Most complex protein knots

Researchers from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz used AlphaFold to predict the structures of new protein knots, discovering the most complex knot and composite knots. These findings provide insight into folding mechanisms and evolutionary processes in proteins.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalProtein Science·DateJul 14, 2022