Articles tagged with Biomolecular Structure
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Scientists at Arizona State University develop a new simulation method to predict and guide the self-assembly process, creating tiny, self-assembled crystals with unique optical properties. This breakthrough advances technologies in computer science, materials science, medical diagnostics, and more.
Researchers use a new method to analyze the structural properties of proteins under extreme pressure, revealing new insights into their native structures. The technique, which applies 3,000 bar of pressure, allows for the observation of protein states that would be invisible under normal conditions.
Researchers at Linköping University discovered a specific reaction called oxidative dearomatisation that transforms biomolecules into millions of diverse molecules, making organic matter resistant to degradation. This process explains the substantial organic carbon sinks on our planet, reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
A study published in Nature reveals that oxidative dearomatization is the key mechanism behind this transformation, resulting in millions of diverse molecules with stable structures. This process allows the organic matter to persist for long periods, preventing it from rapidly returning to the atmosphere.
Researchers discovered a crucial amino acid exchange that enables PsiM to carry out double methylation during evolution. The enzyme plays a key role in psilocybin production, with implications for biotechnological production of the active ingredient.
A research team has made a significant breakthrough in understanding the GPR156 receptor protein's role in maintaining auditory function. The study reveals that GPR156 exhibits sustained activity even without external stimuli, highlighting its potential as a target for treating congenital hearing impairments.
Researchers studied Prorocentrum cordatum to understand its molecular processes, revealing a unique photosynthetic machinery that may help it adapt to changing light conditions. The findings could lead to improved understanding of harmful algal blooms and their role in climate change.
Scientists used cryo-electron microscopy to reveal the structure of the LH1-RC complex in Allochromatium vinosum, a model species thriving in low-calcium environments. The study found calcium binding at specific sites, enabling the bacteria to detoxify hydrogen sulfide and improve photosynthesis.
Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have developed a novel method to characterize protein-binding interfaces, revealing complex protein geometries. The technique was validated by studying the homophilic interaction between LAMP2A molecules, which form a trimeric structure in mammalian cells.
Scientists in Germany developed a new analytical method to precisely elucidate the size of particles, structure, and RNA molecules in pharmaceutical products. This information can help evaluate product quality, enabling improved development of new products.
Scientists discovered that a bacterial defense system can induce self-destruction when bound to specific proteins, marking a new phenomenon in enzymatic function. This switch allows the bacteria to eliminate a vital molecule needed for survival, ultimately leading to their demise.
Biopolymer composites made from agarose and chitosan demonstrate enhanced strength, antibacterial properties, and water repellence. These sustainable materials could lead to eco-friendly packaging solutions for food and consumer goods.
Researchers have discovered a root cause of Barth syndrome, a deadly metabolic illness, by analyzing faulty cardiolipin molecules and their interaction with cytochrome c. The study used solid-state NMR technology to demonstrate the structural changes that lead to toxic oxidation in mitochondrial membranes.
Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz discovered a unique cryptochrome protein in marine bristle worms that distinguishes between sunlight and moonlight. The protein's structure reveals an unusual light-induced change from dimer to monomer arrangements, allowing it to synchronize reproduction with lunar phases.
Researchers at CNIC reveal the essential role of neuregulin-1 in transforming the delicate primordial heart structure into a powerful pumping organ. The study sheds light on the pathways of human heart formation and suggests new strategies for heart health and regenerative medicine.
Scientists identify pyroglutamination, a spontaneous chemical change, in peptide synthesis, leading to an amyloidal structure and potential implications for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The process favors aggregation of molecules, forming plaques that interrupt neuronal flow.
Researchers used molecular dynamics simulations to study how urea and alcohol induce structural changes in proteins, with a focus on stabilizing helices and coils. The team identified preferential binding parameters for both cosolvents, demonstrating opposing effects that can be predicted using computational methods.
The new resonators exhibit a record low UV light loss, enabling the development of miniaturized devices for applications such as spectroscopic sensing, underwater communication, and quantum information processing. The researchers achieved this by combining optimized design and fabrication techniques with amorphous alumina materials.
Researchers used AI to predict 3D shapes of over 215 million proteins, providing insights into their functions and evolution. The Protein Universe Atlas offers a valuable resource for scientists to explore protein diversity.
A team at Osaka University used neutron crystallography to image the atom-by-atom structure of a copper amine oxidase enzyme, revealing unprecedented structural insights. The study provided details on the protonation/deprotonation state and motions of key cofactors, facilitating single-electron transfer.
A team of researchers developed a computational simulation that explains key mechanism of DNA segregation, providing new insights into the distribution of genetic information during bacterial cell division. The study reveals fundamental biochemical principles relevant to synthetic biology and medical applications.
Scientists propose an alternative model to explain the fast onset of chemical reactions required for life. The new paradigm suggests that catalytic clusters can form rapidly and in large numbers, enabling the self-organization of molecules into living structures.
Researchers at Arizona State University successfully demonstrated the use of MicroED to analyze a DNA crystal, overcoming limitations of X-ray crystallography. The technique, combined with cryo-FIB milling, enables work with smaller crystals, opening opportunities for understanding RNA structure and developing novel nanotechnologies.
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.
Researchers have captured never-before-seen images of the CALHM1 pore, which assembles into a circular channel with flexible arms resembling octopus tentacles. The discovery reveals how fatty molecules stabilize and regulate the channel, offering potential insights into its role in taste perception and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have successfully visualized the three-dimensional structure of human tRNA splicing endonuclease TSEN, a crucial enzyme in tRNA maturation. The study reveals how TSEN recognizes and excises introns from precursor tRNAs, shedding light on its role in neurodegenerative disorders like pontocerebellar hypoplasia.
A new approach enables prediction of structure-color relationships in biomimetic materials using computational reverse-engineering methods. This allows for the design and fabrication of materials with custom, robust colorations, which could be used in various applications such as energy, optics, photonics, and biomedicine.
A new study has determined the atomic-level structure of a zinc-transporter protein, showing how it regulates zinc levels inside cells through a built-in sensor. The protein acts as a dimer, using feedback to control its activity based on zinc levels.
A team at Penn State has produced high-resolution images of SARS-CoV-2's protease protein and polyprotein complex. The research reveals a consistent order in which the proteins are cleaved, potentially supporting more efficient antiviral drugs.
Researchers at Aarhus University discover how the SUC transporter recognizes sucrose and uses acid to power its sugar delivery. This breakthrough sheds light on how plants defend themselves from pests and could lead to new ways of protecting plants from harmful bugs.
The Spitrobot simplifies sample preparation for time-resolved crystallography, allowing non-specialist groups to conduct experiments that previously required expert expertise. This technology accelerates research in enzymatic mechanisms and enables broader applications in biotechnology and disease-related problems.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have built a super-sized nanocage that could deliver larger drug cargoes, outperforming existing nanocages in terms of internal volume and stability.
Molecular biologist Shixin Liu is recognized for developing cutting-edge biophysical tools to visualize and understand biomolecular machines. His work aims to establish a quantitative input-output relationship between environmental stimuli and gene expression profiles.
Researchers at Aarhus University have found an enzyme, C-P lyase, in E. coli bacteria that can degrade highly stable chemicals, including pesticides like RoundUp. The enzyme uses energy from ATP to open and close a 'nutcracker' mechanism that traps and breaks down troublesome chemicals.
Scientists at Aarhus University and Berkeley Laboratory developed a method called RNA origami to design artificial RNA nanostructures. The technique allowed for the discovery of rules and mechanisms for RNA folding that will make it possible to build more ideal RNA particles for use in RNA-based medicine.
Researchers at Duke University have created a new approach to controlling cellular biochemical processes by building synthetic compartments that isolate biomolecules. This technique has the potential to be used to understand and fight disease, including the spread of antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
Osaka University researchers have synthesized a fluorescent protein with the shortest emission wavelength to date, enabling the simultaneous tracking of multiple processes in cells. The new protein, Sumire, exhibits improved brightness and stability compared to existing fluorophores.
Researchers from Osaka University have developed an AI-powered method to identify optimal amino acid mutations in enzymes. This approach accelerates the enzyme engineering process, allowing for tailored enzyme designs suitable for various biochemical environments.
The study reveals a specialized transport hub at the base of cilia, where trains assemble and load cargo for transport. This discovery provides new insights into molecular basis for various diseases, including cystic kidneys and blindness.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have engineered microscopic pipes made of nanotubes that can transport molecules over long distances without leaking. The team successfully directed the flow of fluorescent molecules through the nanotubes, which could potentially be used to study diseases and understand how neurons interact with ...
A team of scientists has provided an intricate blueprint of the RuvB AAA+ motor, which converts chemical energy into mechanical work to perform branch migration in DNA recombination. The research reveals that the motor uses a basic lever mechanism to generate force and moves the DNA substrate through a cyclical manner.
Researchers have identified three natural compounds that bind to a key enzyme in the coronavirus, potentially blocking its replication. Hydroxyethylphenol, hydroxybenzaldehyde, and methyldihydroxybenzoate showed reduced activity against the papain-like protease enzyme, with effects ranging from 50-70%.
The CHEETAH Center is a leading institution for HIV research, publishing over 300 papers on the virus's inner workings and potential treatments. Researchers are focusing on understanding HIV's life cycle, identifying key components essential for viral infection and replication.
Researchers determined the cryo-EM structure of IGF Ternary complex and its assembly & activation mechanism. The study reveals how IGFBP3 and ALS form a stable complex with IGF1, regulating its activity. The findings provide new insights into growth-related diseases such as growth hormone deficiency and ALS deficiency.
Researchers at Van Andel Institute and University of Freiburg have discovered an enzyme that can break down nitrous oxide into harmless nitrogen and water. This breakthrough could potentially combat one of the main contributors to climate change, which accounts for only 7% of greenhouse gases but has a much greater impact.
Researchers have discovered the process of incorporating selenium into 25 specialized proteins, essential for various cellular and metabolic processes. The study provides critical insights into the workings of these vital mechanisms, which could lead to the development of new medical therapies.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a groundbreaking microscopy technique that allows for the study of proteins, DNA, and other biological particles in their natural state. This innovation enables earlier detection of promising drug candidates and provides valuable insights into cell communication processes.
Researchers at the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology observed structural chirality in achiral conjugated polymers, which can enhance solar cells' charge capacity. This discovery introduces new opportunities for research at the convergence of biology and electronics.
A team of researchers has combined expansion microscopy and stimulated Raman scattering microscopy to create a new imaging technique called MAGNIFIERS. This allows for the high-resolution imaging of biomolecules, including proteins, lipids, and DNA, at the nanoscale.
The study reveals the structure of D13 and its role in assembling into a protein scaffold, which is critical for virus replication. The researchers discovered two ways the proteins interact to form a spherical honeycomb lattice, with a small helix structure playing a key role in assembly.
A study led by Przemyslaw Nogly at PSI has detailed insight into the mechanism of a light-driven chloride pump in bacteria, revealing how light energy converts to kinetic energy and transports chloride ions inside cells. The pump uses two molecular gates to ensure one-way transport, with the process taking around 100 milliseconds.
Researchers have created a powerful DNA-peptide hybrid that could lead to advancements in nanotechnology and the study of Alzheimer's disease. The new structure combines three-stranded DNA and peptide structures, overcoming the challenge of chirality between these biomolecules.
Scientists identified multiple enzymes involved in C-glycoside metabolism, revealing a common reaction mechanism in both intestinal and soil bacteria. This discovery could provide insight into how the body breaks down these molecules and potentially lead to new treatments for diseases.
A new analytical technique combines quantum physics and molecular biology to track biomolecule changes in less than a trillionth of a second. By analyzing the collective movement of atoms, researchers were able to reduce 6000 dimensions to four and characterize conical intersections of quantum states in complex molecules.
Researchers developed a new NMR spectroscopic method to map IDP function more easily, fast, and accurately. The method sheds light on mechanisms of diseases like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers at Arizona State University have refined cryogenic electron microscopy to produce more accurate structures of biological samples. The new method uses a statistical approach to model transitory structures, which can play a vital role in biological processes.
Researchers used complex computer simulations to study the attachment of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants to human cells. They found that the virus has two main locations where it grabs onto the host cell receptor ACE2, with early strains having a slippery interaction at one region that becomes less slippery as variants evolve.
Flipon genetics proposes that evolution happens on a faster time scale than Darwin imagined, with rapid adaptations occurring in real-time within individuals. This is achieved through the simple sequence repeats of DNA, which can adopt alternative shapes and transmit adaptations to offspring.
Scientists identified five human monoclonal antibodies that can neutralize multiple beta-coronaviruses by targeting a conserved structure in the spike protein. These antibodies showed promise in reducing viral load and enhancing immune responses in hamsters, providing potential inspiration for broadly protective vaccines.
A new study combines experimental data and molecular dynamics simulations to study the conformation of an RNA fragment involved in protein synthesis. The research led to a new method for defining biomolecule structures in their physiological environments.