A team of researchers has shed light on the mechanism of outer membrane protein assembly in bacteria, revealing key conformational changes made by a chaperone protein. The study's findings may help identify new targets for antibacterial agents and improve our understanding of Gram-negative bacteria's resistance to antibiotics.
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.
A groundbreaking study identifies a direct energy route between mitochondria and the nucleus, supporting gene regulation, chromatin remodeling, and cell differentiation. The finding challenges traditional assumptions about energy transfer in cells and has significant implications for understanding health and disease.
A recent study identified a new type of β-1,2-glucan-binding protein in bacteria, which binds cyclic β-1,2-glucans and has implications for understanding bacterial interactions with these complex molecules. The discovery opens up new avenues for developing biological pesticides to protect crops from pathogens.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati's Center for Advanced Structural Biology have visualized the structure of iRhom1 bound to the ADAM17 enzyme, shedding light on its role in regulating cell surface protein targets. This breakthrough discovery may lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating chronic inflammatory diseases.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have discovered a novel mechanism for sensing cold temperatures in a bacterial protein called SthK. This finding suggests that similar mechanisms may exist in other organisms, including humans, and could provide new insights into disorders related to faulty temperature regulation.
Scientists developed a new platform using protein-like polymers to target and degrade cancer-driving proteins like MYC and KRAS. The approach triggers cancer cell death, offering hope for treating aggressive and drug-resistant cancers.
Researchers have developed a new class of engineered nanoparticles that can bind to and degrade specific disease-related proteins. This technology has the potential to treat diseases such as dementia and brain cancer by eliminating harmful proteins.
Researchers from Shinshu University used ribosome engineering to modify probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG, resulting in increased colonization and enhanced immune stimulation. The engineered bacteria exhibit altered surface protein expression and induce higher activation of immune cells.
Researchers developed an RNA-based therapeutic strategy targeting mutant KRAS genes, stimulating the immune system to attack tumours. The treatment, combining antisense oligonucleotides and immunomodulatory RNA, effectively killed cancer cells in laboratory studies, reducing tumour burden and extending survival.
Recent studies suggest that cell cycle proteins, including cyclins and CDKs, play a regulatory role in the tumor microenvironment. Inhibiting these proteins has shown promise in converting immunologically 'cold' tumors into 'hot' tumors and suppressing tumor progression.
Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology reveal the essential role of LptM in maturing and stabilizing the LptDE complex, a key component of Gram-negative bacteria's outer membrane. This finding provides fundamental insights that may support antibiotic design and advances understanding of bacterial virulence.
AIC100 demonstrated encouraging responses and an acceptable safety profile in patients with two types of advanced thyroid cancer, including anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) and relapsed/refractory poorly differentiated thyroid cancer (PTDC). The therapy showed significant tumor shrinkage and disease control in 56% of patients.
Researchers have discovered that inhibiting the metalloprotease ADAM19 can reduce gut inflammation and cell aging markers across species. The study found that blocking ADAM19 reduced gut damage and inflammation in fruit flies, mice, and human cells, offering a promising path for creating treatments to maintain healthy tissues.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg discovered that the influenza A virus exploits a protein called AGO2 to regulate gene activity and weaken the immune system. An existing drug, arsenic trioxide, showed promise in increasing interferon production and reducing viral loads.
Scientists have developed a cutting-edge technology to analyze protein turnover in individual cells, enabling them to identify treatment-resistant cancer cells and understand the impact of specific drugs. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in disease diagnostics and treatment strategies.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science discovered that dormant breast cancer cells accumulate DNA mutations and experience widespread cellular damage, leading to dormancy. Increasing OVOL protein expression can halt cancer cell lifecycle and induce dormancy, but also enables them to reawaken more aggressively.
Researchers at UCSF's AViDD Center have developed powerful drug candidates that outperformed Paxlovid in preclinical testing against SARS-CoV-2 and MERS. The compounds could inhibit coronaviruses in general, providing a head start against future pandemics.
A team of researchers from Goethe University and Kiel University has discovered a way to prevent the formation of harmful protein aggregates in cultured cells. The study found that linking TDP-43 with SUMO prevents its aggregation, suggesting a potential new approach for treating ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Scientists developed a data science framework to understand how cells travel through the body by analyzing chemokines and G protein-coupled receptors. They found that specific positions in structured and disordered regions determine how these proteins bind, allowing for rational alteration of cell migration.
A UT Health San Antonio-led discovery could redefine drug discovery by turning IV medications into orally administered treatments for brain cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and other complex conditions. The new strategy uses a protein receptor called CD36 to efficiently deliver large molecules into cells.
Researchers developed a computational model that reproduces intricate protein structures at postsynaptic densities, crucial sites for learning and memory. The model reveals details on how these proteins organize into unique structures through liquid-liquid phase separation, enabling sustained activation of downstream signaling pathways.
Researchers have uncovered the molecular mechanism of ATG-9 in regulating lysosome integrity by modulating phospholipid distribution. This study suggests that reduced ATG-9 scramblase activity facilitates lysosome biogenesis and repair, highlighting ATG-9 as a promising therapeutic target for diseases related to lysosomal dysfunction.
A study by the University of Jyväskylä found that muscles retain a memory trace of previous resistance training at the protein level for up to two and a half months. This persistence can make it easier to start training again after a break.
Researchers analyzed inherited genomes of 1,000 cancer patients to understand how germline variants impact protein function and physiological activities. The study identified rare and common cancer-causing genetic variants associated with increased cancer risk and disease severity.
Researchers used CRISPR interference to examine every gene in the human genome and discovered a new set of genes contributing to Parkinson's disease risk. The study identified the Commander complex, which regulates lysosomal function and is implicated in PD risk, offering opportunities for new treatments.
A small protein involved in neurodegeneration leading to Parkinson's disease also drives a type of skin cancer known as melanoma, according to new research. The study suggests new avenues for drug development to reduce the risk of developing both diseases by targeting alpha-synuclein.
Scientists have discovered a novel regulator of the mitochondrial sodium-calcium exchanger (NCLX), which helps maintain calcium balance in mitochondria. The discovery of TMEM65 could lead to new therapeutic agents to combat calcium overload associated with heart failure and Alzheimer's disease.
The CombPlex technology developed at Weizmann Institute allows for the simultaneous imaging and quantification of nearly two dozen proteins within individual cells. This breakthrough enables researchers to measure lots of proteins at the same time, crucial for understanding tissue function and disease processes.
A machine-learning algorithm named catGRANULE 2.0 ROBOT identifies molecular targets for further researches and therapies in neurodegenerative diseases. The algorithm analyzes protein-RNA interaction to predict potential harm and identify early pathological signals.
Cells dynamically adjust nuclear pore complexes like a retail store opening more checkout lines to regulate genome access. Research findings suggest that protein creation and disposal systems control the amount of NPCs in cells.
Cells employ a protein network to repress TE activity and keep themselves healthy. O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) is a lead choreographer in this process, protecting cells from genomic instability by restraining TET activity.
Researchers at FAMU-FSU College of Engineering have developed a method for studying protein degradation within immune cells using engineered microparticles. This approach provides real-time insights into immune system function and dysfunction, offering valuable tools for understanding diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and a...
Researchers discovered TBX2 drives therapy resistance by shifting signaling from the androgen receptor to the glucocorticoid receptor. The study identified a strategy to target this switch, potentially predicting patient risk and offering new treatment approaches.
Researchers have identified new gateways for drugs to modulate proteins regulating cellular activity. These discoveries may facilitate the creation of new medications or improve existing ones, leading to more targeted therapies and reduced side effects.
A study using NHANES data found that inflammation, rather than diet and exercise, has the strongest association with telomere shortening. Managing chronic inflammation may be key to preserving telomere length and promoting healthy aging.
Researchers have found a previously unknown group of microbes, known as Asgard archaea, which possess structures similar to those found in eukaryotic cells. These discoveries suggest that Asgard archaea may be the missing link between archaea and eukaryotes, challenging our current understanding of the three domains of life.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that removing the 'signal jammer' protein VDAC2 can improve how tumors respond to immunotherapy. This breakthrough could lead to new ways to enhance immunotherapies and make them more effective in treating resistant cancers.
Ancient bacteria can respire carbon dioxide and hydrogen into acetic acid to produce ATP. A new mechanism involving sodium ions is activated when acetic acid is produced, driving a molecular turbine that generates energy.
Researchers used novel fluorogen imaging techniques to visualize biomolecular condensates, revealing distinct environmental and structural features. The study provides insights into the dynamic behavior of these condensates, which play a crucial role in various diseases.
A new study led by University College London researchers found that social disadvantages can accelerate ageing and increase disease risk. People with favourable socioeconomic conditions show fewer signs of biological ageing than peers of the same age.
Senescent cells can cause chronic inflammation through the secretion of inflammatory molecules, leading to age-related diseases. The study found that a cellular circuit controlling DNA repair can suppress this inflammation, offering potential ways to promote healthier aging.
Researchers at MD Anderson have made significant breakthroughs in understanding pancreatic cancer's evolutionary process and developing new treatment strategies. They also discovered that surgical resection can enhance antitumor response in patients receiving immune checkpoint therapy for advanced kidney cancer.
A new study from Weizmann Institute of Science reveals an immune mechanism involving proteasome products, which can kill bacteria and offer a promising treatment for infections. The researchers discovered that certain peptides produced by the proteasome have antibacterial properties and can be used to develop personalized treatments.
Emerging evidence highlights the significance of circRNA-encoded proteins in various types of cancer, including glioblastoma, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer. These proteins interact with critical signaling pathways, influencing cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis.
Researchers develop a potential new treatment for rare genetic diseases characterized by low levels of specific proteins. By adding an artificial poly(A) tail to mRNA, they boost protein production and aim to improve symptoms in people with protein-deficient disorders.
Scientists have identified a new target to prevent cold sores by understanding how the herpes virus triggers its own immune response. The discovery has important implications for genital herpes caused by the same virus, with potential treatments in development.
Researchers developed Janus-type supramolecules that form stable ribbon-type assemblies, guiding the arrangement of ion channels across lipid membranes. The supramolecular channels mediate efficient and selective K+ transport, disrupting cancer cell balance and inducing apoptosis.
Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo designed a protein cage system that can control and visualize orientational changes in aromatic side chains through strategic binding of fluorescent ligands. This approach enables precise control over protein dynamics while enhancing fluorescence properties, with potential applications in biomo...
Researchers have discovered several novel downstream p53 targets that could lead to improved cancer therapies. The study highlights the critical role of p53 in preventing cancer and identifies two new genes, ALDH3A1 and NECTIN4, as potential targets for cancer treatment.
Biologists have identified a new type of regulation that influences the expression of about half of all human genes by targeting specific introns. This discovery adds complexity to the process of gene expression and suggests potential therapeutic targets for diseases such as blood cancers and spinal muscular atrophy.
A team of researchers from Japan directly visualized protein translocation across membranes for the first time, providing insights into the SecYEG-SecA complex dynamics and its role in facilitating protein movement. The study estimated a protein translocation rate of 2.2 amino acid residues per second.
A team of researchers from the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson found that an FDA-approved osteoporosis treatment, risedronate, can correct a gene mutation and normalize heart function in animal models. The study provides hope for treating other rare diseases using precision treatments tailored to individual mutations.
Scientists at Brown University and Cincinnati Children's found that suppressing opsin 3 in the brain of mice makes them eat less. The study suggests that opsin 3 plays an important role in regulating food consumption via the melanocortin 4 receptor MC4R.
A study on Nigerian healthcare workers found that excessive iron levels increased the risk of catching COVID-19, while moderate deficiency didn't offer protection. The research highlights an evolutionary tradeoff between iron's benefits for immune function and its potential risk to pathogens.
Researchers have identified a protein shuttling mechanism in bacteria that enables them to pump out a wide spectrum of antibiotics. This complex of proteins, known as MacAB-TolC, forms a conduit that drains out not only antibiotics but also virulence factors.
A new study from NUS Medicine has found that the protein Spns1 plays a key role in recycling fats out of cell compartments called lysosomes, preventing diseases like lysosomal storage disorders. The research uses cryoelectron microscopy to understand how Spns1 transports fats and highlights its importance for cellular health.
A team of researchers at Queen Mary University of London discovered that disrupting a single amino acid in the vimentin protein makes breast cancer cells behave like stem cells. This mutation promotes tumour growth and increases cancer stemness in an oestrogen-independent manner.
Researchers at Yale University have successfully recoded the genome of an organism, enabling the production of new classes of synthetic proteins. The creation of a novel genomically recoded organism (GRO) with one stop codon offers promise for innumerable medical and industrial applications.
Researchers identified a link between Alzheimer's disease, cell function, and cholesterol in the brain. Lowering oxysterol levels freed trapped ABCA1, restoring its healthy state, and showed potential as a new treatment approach.