A new natural blue for food coloring
A new natural blue food coloring has been developed by converting anthocyanins in red cabbage using a custom enzyme. The discovery could provide an eco-friendly alternative to widely used synthetic blue dyes.
Enzymes
Articles tagged with Enzymes
Origins of life could have started with DNA-like XNAs
Researchers at Nagoya University discovered a DNA-like molecule called XNA that could be synthesized without enzymes, supporting the hypothesis of an XNA world before the RNA world. The findings suggest that XNAs can carry genetic code stably and potentially transfer genetic information between DNA and RNA.
Toxin in potatoes evolved from a bitter-tasting compound in tomatoes
Researchers discovered that the potato toxin α-solanine is biosynthesized from the spirosolane α-tomatine found in tomatoes. The conversion involves a dioxygenase enzyme called DPS, which can be suppressed with an inhibitor, offering a potential basis for suppressing poisonous compound synthesis in potatoes.
Scientists improve a photosynthetic enzyme by adding fluorophores
By introducing covalently linked fluorophores into a bacterial photosynthetic enzyme, researchers broadened the enzyme's band of harvestable light wavelengths. This improvement boosts energy conversion efficiency and paves the way for developing an efficient artificial photosynthesis system for solar energy conversion.
To produce more food, UF scientists look to get more mileage out of plant enzymes
Researchers at the University of Florida have discovered a way to evaluate enzyme lifespan, allowing them to identify enzymes that need improvement. This breakthrough could lead to increased crop yields by reducing energy spent on replacing worn-out enzymes.
New discoveries on deadly fungus - might be a key for treatment
Researchers have discovered an enzyme on the surface of Aspergillus fumigatus that breaks down vital molecule NAD, affecting immune cells and weakening the immune system. The discovery may lead to new treatments for fungal infections.
Not just CO2: Rising temperatures also alter photosynthesis in a changing climate
Higher temperatures can reduce photosynthesis efficiency and hinder plants' ability to regulate CO2 uptake and water loss. Plants with structural features that make them more or less susceptible to heat stress also influence how temperature affects crop yields.
Can crops become more efficient?
Researchers at Michigan State University are exploring the impact of climate change on plants' efficiency, focusing on photorespiration, a process that reduces plant productivity. By understanding this phenomenon better, they hope to develop new breeding techniques and improve crop yields.
Revealing the way a critical enzyme works in the cell
Researchers uncover key mechanism of acyl protein thioesterase APT2's membrane binding and function. APT2 binds membranes through electrostatic interactions and hydrophobic loop, enabling deacetylating proteins.
Nanoenzymes designed with a unique combination of structure and functions
Researchers at the UAB have designed minimalist biostructures that imitate natural enzymes, carrying out two differentiated and reversibly regulated activities. These peptides can be used to create 'intelligent' nanomaterials with tailor-made combinations of catalytic functions for practical applications.
Key enzymes for synthesizing natural products
Scientists at the University of Freiburg have discovered three key enzymes that play a crucial role in synthesizing natural products. These enzymes restructure a chemical precursor molecule to create the carbon backbone of these compounds, which are used for various pharmacological effects.
Periodontitis: Researchers search for a new active substance
A team of researchers has developed a new method to combat periodontitis by targeting only the bacteria that cause the disease. The approach uses a test substance that attacks glutaminyl cyclase, an enzyme in the bacteria that plays a special role in metabolism.
Common bacteria modified to make designer sugar-based drug
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute modified E. coli to produce chondroitin sulfate, a drug used to treat arthritis, in an animal-free fashion. The process allows for fast and efficient production of the drug, with potential applications in therapeutics and regenerative medicine.
How 'great' was the great oxygenation event?
Researchers found evidence of oxygen-using enzymes in ancient bacteria and archaea, dating back 3 billion years before the Great Oxygenation Event. This suggests that life forms already utilized oxygen long before the main event, which allowed for the evolution of humans and other oxygen-breathing organisms.
A Canadian success story: world-first to treat Fabry disease with gene therapy
A Canadian pilot study on gene therapy for Fabry disease shows the treatment is working and safe, enabling patients to produce normal levels of the defective enzyme. The trial, led by Dr. Aneal Khan, treated five men with a single dose of gene therapy, which resulted in stable patients who are no longer requiring replacement therapy.
A combination therapy for treating severe neurological childhood disorders
Sanfilippo syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that causes childhood dementia and premature death. Researchers are developing a new combination therapy using gene therapy and stem cells to restore metabolic defects in brain cells.
Scientists use DNA origami to monitor CRISPR gene targeting
Researchers used DNA origami to analyze ultra-fast movements of CRISPR enzymes, enabling them to understand how they recognize target sequences. This technique will help optimize CRISPR for fewer off-target matches and improve gene editing processes.
New turntable-like catalytic reactor promises more sustainable chemical manufacturing
The Spinning Disc Mesh Reactor (SMDR) creates chemicals by reacting enzymes on a spinning cloth-covered plate, like a vinyl record. It offers flexibility and scope for batch production, making pharmaceutical companies more responsive to emerging health issues.
The chemistry lab inside cells
A team of scientists at Osaka University has discovered a new protein called QhpG that enables the conversion of amino acid residues on polypeptides into an enzyme cofactor. This finding may lead to the development of novel bioactive peptides and enzymes for bioremediation purposes.
Metabolism: Researchers first to shed light on structure of huge enzyme complex
A new method has enabled scientists to study the natural structure of large enzymes, revealing that they function differently than previously thought. This discovery could help better understand certain diseases, including Alzheimer's and those caused by viruses, and potentially lead to new treatment options.
Lactobacillus manipulates bile acids to create favorable gut environment
Researchers found that Lactobacillus bacteria use enzymes to manipulate bile acids, creating a favorable gut environment. The type of bile acid and the presence of specific enzymes affect the toxicity of the acids and bacterial survival.
A research team from Denmark discovers new control mechanism in the innate immune system
A Danish research team has discovered a new control mechanism in the innate immune system, involving the ITIH4 protein. The study found that ITIH4 inhibits proteases via an unknown mechanism, preventing damage to healthy cells.
Researchers develop promising way to find new cancer drugs
A new method has been developed to identify peptides that inhibit histone deacetylases (HDACs), enzymes that play a role in cancer development and treatment. The researchers hope to use this method to develop more specific HDAC inhibitors with fewer side effects, leading to improved cancer therapy.
NIH researchers identify new genetic disorder that affects brain, craniofacial skeleton
A new genetic disorder, LINKED, has been identified by NIH researchers, characterized by developmental delays and malformations of the brain, heart, and facial features. The disorder is caused by mutations in the OTUD5 gene, which interferes with key molecular steps in embryo development.
Scientists discover key enzyme responsible for skin blistering in the elderly
Researchers discover that a gel containing GzmB inhibitor VTI-1002 reduces skin blistering by 50% and protects skin integrity, offering hope for targeted treatments for pemphigoid diseases. Current corticosteroids often cause severe side effects, making alternative therapies needed.
Expanding the boundaries of CO2 fixation
Researchers have engineered a new-to-nature metabolic connection, the TaCo pathway, which fixes CO2 instead of releasing it in photorespiration. This synthetic pathway is more energy-efficient than any other proposed alternative, with potential applications in improving crop yield and recycling polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
$3.9M project on self-deleting genes takes aim at mosquito-borne diseases
A new Texas A&M AgriLife Research project aims to enable temporary genetic changes in mosquitoes, which then remove themselves from the population. The goal is to test and fine-tune a self-deleting gene technology to control mosquito populations and prevent disease transmission.
Switching DNA functions on and off by means of light
Researchers at the University of Münster developed a strategy to switch DNA functions on and off using light. This allows for better understanding and control of cellular processes, such as epigenetics. The method involves transferring photocaging groups to DNA using protein engineering.
Scientists pinpoint molecular cause for severe disorder in children
Researchers at the University of Ottawa have identified the molecular defects associated with LIC Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that causes mortality in young children. The study found that small mutations in the NSMCE3 gene affect the Smc5/6 complex's ability to compact DNA, leading to severe defects in DNA repair.
New discovery opens novel pathway for high-titer production of drop-in biofuels
Engineers from Aarhus University and MIT have enabled the biological synthesis of high-yield industry-relevant production of climate-neutral drop-in fuels from biowaste using an unusual light-dependent enzyme. The discovery proves that fatty acyl-CoA is the preferred reactant for the enzyme, leading to a 89% conversion rate into alkanes.
Ensuring a proper body plan
The discovery sheds light on how a subtle deviation in the development process can be detrimental to individual survival and reproductive success. The study reveals that Kdm7a regulates Hox gene expression, which is crucial for embryonal morphogenesis and vertebrate body plan development.
Carrots are healthy, but active enzyme unlocks full benefits
A study by University of Illinois researchers found that beta-carotene's full health benefits require an active enzyme to produce vitamin A. The active enzyme BCO1 converts beta-carotene into vitamin A, which helps lower bad cholesterol and protect against atherosclerosis.
Memory deficits resulting from epigenetic changes in Alzheimer's disease can be reversed
A preclinical study by University at Buffalo researchers has identified new genes that could be key therapeutic targets for treating Alzheimer's disease. The study found that inhibiting certain enzymes involved in abnormal gene transcription can reverse memory deficits associated with the disease.
Understanding bacteria's metabolism could improve biofuel production
A new study by UC Riverside and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory has revealed how bacteria control metabolic intermediates, enabling more efficient biofuel production. By understanding this regulation, scientists can design cells that produce desired chemicals while preventing excessive buildup of unwanted products.
Potential means of improving learning and memory in people with mental illnesses
A recent study has identified a genetic variation that influences cognition and IQ in people with schizophrenia, suggesting the possibility of developing new therapies to target learning and memory problems. Higher levels of a specific brain chemical were found to be associated with better visual and working memory.
Chemical compounds in foods can inhibit a key SARS-CoV-2 enzyme
Researchers found that green tea and muscadine grape extracts can inhibit the Mpro enzyme in SARS-CoV-2, while dark chocolate and cacao powder showed reduced activity. The study suggests that these plant compounds could be used to develop new treatments for COVID-19.
Defined blockade
A new method enables specific inhibition and removal of DNA methylation at targeted locations using enzymatic photocaging. This technique involves attaching photocages to AdoMet analogues, which are then transferred to methylation sites, allowing for precise control over gene regulation.
Tackling metabolic complexity
Researchers applied CRISPRi technology to understand metabolic robustness in E. coli, revealing mechanisms that buffer enzyme knockdowns. The study identified specific buffering mechanisms across multiple metabolic pathways, paving the way for developing industrially useful microbes with controlled metabolism.
Ribosome assembly - The final trimming step
Researchers have uncovered new details of human ribosome maturation, revealing a crucial step in protein synthesis. The study identifies key enzymes and proteins involved in the final trimming step, which is essential for producing functional ribosomes.
Newly discovered enzyme helps make valuable bioactive saponins
A research team at Osaka University has discovered a new enzyme that helps make valuable bioactive saponins, including glycyrrhizin, a potent natural sweetener with antiviral properties. The enzyme discovery opens novel routes for producing these high-value products commercially.
C4 rice's first wobbly steps towards reality
Researchers have successfully installed part of the C4 photosynthetic pathway in rice, paving the way for more efficient and water-use-friendly crop varieties. The breakthrough could increase photosynthesis efficiency by 50% and improve nitrogen use efficiency.
How cell processes round up and dump damaged proteins
A team of researchers has discovered how an enzyme called UCH37 helps cells get rid of damaged proteins. By removing branchpoints from ubiquitin chains, UCH37 allows proteins to be degraded more efficiently, which could lead to new cancer treatments.
For quick COVID-19 testing, iSCAN can
The iSCAN test kit combines virus amplification with a CRISPR-Cas system for effective SARS-CoV-2 detection. It can be completed in under an hour and requires locally manufactured reagents.
The order of life
Researchers develop model that links movement of predators and prey to segregation of oil and vinegar, expanding theoretical framework from inanimate matter. The model reveals universal characteristics of active living matter, including bacteria, enzymes, and motor proteins.
Beetroot peptide as potential drug candidate for treating diseases
Researchers at MedUni Vienna's Institute of Pharmacology have isolated a beetroot peptide that inhibits prolyl oligopeptidase, an enzyme involved in the breakdown of protein hormones in the body. The study suggests that this peptide could be a promising drug candidate for treating neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases.
Bacilli and their enzymes show prospects for several applications
The study highlights the potential of microbial enzymes in addressing global challenges such as Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular therapy and biofilm-related infections. Bacillary proteases have been shown to exhibit fibrinolytic and thrombolytic properties, making them promising alternatives to existing drugs.
Neutrons chart atomic map of COVID-19's viral replication mechanism
Researchers at ORNL used neutron scattering to create a three-dimensional map of the SARS-CoV-2 enzyme molecule critical to virus reproduction. The study reveals the location of every atom in the protease enzyme, enabling the design of more specific and effective drug inhibitors.
How bats excel as viral reservoirs
Researchers found that bats lack AIM-2 receptors, which could reduce inflammation and allow viral reservoirs. In vitro experiments showed partial restoration of inflammasome signaling when human AIM-2 genes were introduced into bat cells.
Enzyme biofactories to enhance cord blood transplants
Researchers developed a more efficient way to produce fucosyltransferase VI (FTVI) enzyme, which enhances the homing ability of cord blood stem cells. This breakthrough could improve the effectiveness of cord blood transplants for treating various life-threatening conditions.
Enzymatic DNA synthesis sees the light
Scientists at Harvard's Wyss Institute have created a new method for enzymatic DNA synthesis that uses photolithographic techniques to write digital data into DNA. The approach enables the simultaneous writing of multiple DNA strands with varying sequences, paving the way for high-capacity data storage in DNA.
During COVID, scientists turn to computers to understand C4 photosynthesis
Researchers compared the DNA of four C3 grass crops and four C4 grass crops to identify regions that control the expression of four enzymes involved in photosynthesis. They found 'activators' that trigger expression in bundle sheath cells and 'repressors' that restrict expression in mesophyll cells.
Viral 'molecular scissor' is next COVID-19 drug target
Researchers developed two molecules that inhibit SARS-CoV-2-PLpro, an enzyme used by the virus for production and immune system disruption. This discovery provides a framework for anti-COVID-19 drug design.
Planting parasites: Unveiling common molecular mechanisms of parasitism and grafting
A study on the Orobanchaceae parasitic plant Phtheirospermum japonicum reveals that β-1,4-glucanase enzyme is crucial for both plant parasitism and cross-species grafting. The enzyme facilitates cell-cell adhesion and transport of water and nutrients between the parasite and host plants.
NREL, UK university partner to dive deeper into how enzymes digest plastic
A collaboration between NREL and the University of Portsmouth has led to breakthroughs in understanding how enzymes like PETase and MHETase work together to degrade polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic. The research reveals that combining these two synergistic enzymes significantly improves their ability to break down PET.
Repurposed anti-malarial compounds kill diarrheal parasite, study finds
Researchers repurpose anti-malarial compounds to target the intestinal parasite Cryptosporidium, killing it in cell cultures and immunocompromised mice. The compounds work by inhibiting an enzyme responsible for protein production within the parasite.
Blocking enzyme's self-destruction process may mitigate age-related diseases
Researchers at Penn University found that autophagy, a cellular process, causes SIRT1 enzyme to degrade over time. Treating mice with an autophagy inhibitor restored SIRT1 levels, suggesting a new approach to treating age-related diseases.
Common antioxidant enzyme may provide potential treatment for COVID-19
Researchers found that catalase can regulate cytokine production, protect alveolar cells from damage, and repress SARS-CoV-2 virus replication in rhesus macaques. The study suggests a potential therapeutic solution for hyperinflammation caused by COVID-19.
Plastic-eating enzyme 'cocktail' heralds new hope for plastic waste
Scientists have created a new enzyme 'cocktail' that can digest plastic up to six times faster than existing methods. The combination of two enzymes, PETase and MHETase, breaks down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into its building blocks, enabling recycling and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Surplus sugar helps whiteflies detoxify plant defenses
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology have found that surplus sugar from honeydew secretions by whiteflies is used to detoxify plant toxins. The discovery of a novel glucosylation pathway reveals how whiteflies prevent activation of mustard oil bomb in cruciferous plants.
Enzymatic breakdown of PET plastic
Researchers successfully degrade PET plastic using a two-enzyme system and engineered chimeric enzyme that works synergistically to break down the plastic pollutant. The discovery could lead to new methods for plastics depolymerization, offering an alternative to traditional recycling methods.