Articles tagged with Enzymes
A new chewing gum-based diagnostic test can detect inflammation in the oral cavity within five minutes, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment. The test uses bittering agents to identify inflammatory conditions, which can help prevent serious complications such as bone loss.
Research provides molecular blueprints for bacterial enzymes, enabling targeted drug development. Key differences between bacterial and human enzymes offer a potential solution to antibiotic resistance.
Scientists at the Francis Crick Institute and University of Manchester have developed a new method to screen compounds that is more sensitive than existing methods. This technique, called CoSPI, can help identify allosteric compounds that regulate enzyme activity, which could lead to new treatments for diseases like tuberculosis.
A team of Vanderbilt University researchers has worked out the molecular details of Yatakemycin (YTM), a potent bacterial toxin that prevents DNA replication. The study reveals how YTM stabilizes DNA, making it resistant to repair mechanisms, and could be used to fine-tune its antimicrobial properties.
Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism used by brown rot fungi to break down biomass, using chelators and generating hydroxyl radicals to produce simple building-block chemicals. This method has potential use in bio-refineries for biomass conversion into platform chemicals.
Scientists from the University of Freiburg successfully elucidated the three-dimensional structure of phytoene desaturase, a crucial enzyme in carotene production. This breakthrough offers insights into herbicide binding and reaction mechanisms, which may lead to new agents for crop protection and Golden Rice development.
A NASA-supported experiment on the International Space Station is growing large crystals of pure enzyme to develop improved antidotes for nerve poisons. By harnessing microgravity conditions, researchers hope to create better countermeasures that can quickly reactivate the enzyme and deliver them orally.
Researchers at Caltech and USC identified how to accelerate calcite dissolution in seawater, enabling the ocean to safely lock away carbon dioxide. By adding a common enzyme, they increased the reaction rate by 500 times, opening up new possibilities for mimicking natural processes.
Scientists at USC and Caltech have accelerated calcite dissolution in seawater, which could neutralize carbon in deep ocean waters. This process, known as buffering, naturally occurs billions of years and can help mitigate atmospheric CO2.
Scientists at Imperial College London discovered a way to reprogram macrophages, immune cells that cause inflammation, by blocking a single enzyme. By targeting this broken metabolism, they reduced inflammation in rats and mice with human-like diseases.
Researchers have discovered how certain enzymes in living organisms can repair damaged DNA caused by prolonged exposure to UV light. The enzymes, called (6-4) DNA photolyase, use electrostatic interactions to bind to the damaged DNA and keep it separate from the rest of the cell.
Researchers have identified heparanase, an enzyme present in the cornea, as a key factor in promoting and sustaining inflammation after HSV-1 infection. Elevated levels of heparanase trigger damage to tissue junctions and lead to pro-inflammatory cytokine production.
Experts at Rutgers University-New Brunswick and Michigan State University have designed a way to reduce enzyme use in biofuels production. The new approach enables the recycling of enzymes, lowering production costs and making biofuels more affordable.
Researchers found that sulfide-producing bacteria, particularly Halanaerobium, dominate fractured well ecosystems in hydraulically fractured oil and gas wells. These microbes convert thiosulfates to sulfide through a poorly understood pathway, causing problems for drilling operations.
A new study reveals that particle-induced cell death depends on multiple redundant cathepsins, which can be blocked by inhibiting or silencing these enzymes in macrophages. The researchers found that several key proinflammatory events induced by sterile particles are blocked, including cell death.
Researchers discovered that CP12 regulates enzymes GAPDH and PRK, allowing plants to respond to changing light levels. Removing all three forms of the protein results in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and smaller plant yield.
Exosomes, nanoscale sacs containing biomarkers, can capture changes in enzyme expression due to smoking, disease status, and environmental exposure. Researchers aim to use this non-invasive method to achieve personalized medicine for children and teens with varying levels of individual variability.
Researchers at Kazan University have found that ficin, an enzyme derived from fig latex, is effective against Staphylococcus biofilms, a major obstacle in wound treatment. The study suggests that treating wounds with ficin can accelerate healing and improve outcomes.
A human enzyme, cyclophilin 40, unravels protein aggregates contributing to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Experimental expression preserves brain neurons and rescues cognitive deficits in a mouse model.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a new way that legumes, including peanuts, produce an essential amino acid called tyrosine. The team found that a single mutation in a plant enzyme is responsible for this unique pathway, which could lead to increased production of morphine and other valuable chemicals.
Researchers at Oregon State University have identified a new therapy target for gonorrhea, an enzyme crucial for bacterial respiration in biofilms. A peptide that inhibits this enzyme's activity shows promise in killing the bacteria without promoting resistance.
Harvard Medical School researchers studied chicken embryos to understand the formation of high-acuity spot in the retina, which enables crisp daytime vision. They found that suppression of retinoic acid plays a crucial role in this process.
Scientists at McGill University Health Centre develop novel enzyme technology that prevents and breaks down biofilms, exposing microbes to antibiotics and host defenses. This approach has huge potential to combat biofilm-associated infections responsible for thousands of deaths across North America.
New research reveals the role of enzyme-catalyzed decomposition in the antitumor effect of oxazaphosphorines. Activated oxazphosphorines are decomposed into phosphoreamide mustard and 3-hydroxypropanal, causing DNA damage that can lead to apoptosis.
Researchers found that blocking yeast-bacteria interaction may prevent severe biofilms that cause early childhood caries. The team identified surface molecules on the fungus that interact with bacterial-derived protein, impairing biofilm formation.
Researchers have discovered that a gene called Mt2 in Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes produces an enzyme that blocks the transmission of deadly diseases. The study suggests that this mechanism can be replicated without Wolbachia, potentially opening new avenues for disease control without releasing modified insects into the wild.
UNC researchers discovered that Set2 enzyme is essential for maintaining proper transcription during cellular stress, preventing mis-expression of genes and promoting cancer initiation. The study's findings have implications for understanding cancer development and potential therapeutic strategies.
A Cornell University study reveals genetic adaptations to plant-heavy diets led to increased frequency of FADS1 gene variants, crucial for omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid production. This discovery has implications for personalized dietary recommendations based on individual genetic backgrounds.
Scientists develop new fluorescent imaging agents to detect enzyme activity in healthy and diseased tissues, enabling early disease identification and direct measurement of drug treatment effectiveness.
Researchers have discovered a new complex of enzymes in herbivore gut fungi that can break down plant biomass into sugars, offering potential for sustainable fuels and chemicals. The unique structure of these enzymes, called cellulosomes, has the potential to be engineered for industrial use, reducing the need for current enzyme mixtures.
Researchers have created a method to produce P450 enzymes in bacterial cell factories, which are also involved in the biosynthesis of active ingredients used in cancer drugs. The process could facilitate large-scale production of these enzymes, allowing for more efficient treatment of diseases such as cancer and psoriasis.
The study reveals that Echinolittorina snails have a unique enzyme structure that enables them to maintain protein stability at high temperatures, allowing them to thrive in hot environments. The researchers found that subtle differences in amino acid sequences between the snail proteins enabled them to remain functional and stable at ...
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a method to synthesize ß-lactone peptides, a new class of antibiotics, by copying bacterial enzymes. These peptides inhibit serine hydrolases and may be useful in treating cancer, obesity, and infectious diseases.
Plant biologists at Utrecht University have discovered how the plant metabolises jasmonic acid, issuing the signal 'safe'. The discovery of four related enzymes that break down jasmonic acid reveals a crucial mechanism for controlling its levels.
Researchers have discovered that early lineages of fungi can form protein complexes capable of degrading plant biomass, teaming up to work more efficiently. The findings, enabled by a collaborative science initiative, could help advance sustainable biofuels production.
Scientists at Northwestern University have developed a lightweight, porous crystal with unprecedented structural complexity using uranium and organic linkers. The new material has a high surface area, pore volume, and water stability, making it suitable for separating small molecules and enzymes.
A Scripps Institution of Oceanography research team discovered bacteria in marine sponges produce toxic compounds nearly identical to man-made fire retardants. The study uses genome mining and environmental DNA sequencing to identify specific genes and enzymes involved in the production of these compounds.
A team of scientists has found that bacteria living in marine sponges can produce toxic compounds nearly identical to man-made fire retardants, also known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). The discovery could help understand the human health implications of these additives.
Scientists discovered that salicylic acid can improve a crop's ability to deal with drought by increasing the levels of three enzymes involved in the stress response. The treatment allows for more selective planting of drought-tolerant cowpea varieties, enabling them to grow in areas with limited water.
Researchers have discovered an enzyme that can break down small amounts of gluten within the digestive system, reducing symptoms in gluten-sensitive patients. The study found that taking the enzyme tablet while consuming gluten-containing foods prevented a significant amount of it from entering the small intestine.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have made a breakthrough in converting lignin, plant waste from biofuel production, into useful products like renewable plastics and fabrics. The discovery of LigM enzyme has opened a path toward new molecules and marketable products, potentially making biofuels competitive with petroleum.
The KAIST team discovered a new molecular signal triggered by IPMK enzyme in mediating innate immune response to sepsis. This finding suggests a potential therapeutic target for treating serious medical conditions like neuroinflammation and polymicrobial sepsis.
Researchers identified DNA-dependent protein kinase, an enzyme that promotes fat accumulation and exercise capacity loss with age. The study's findings suggest a genetic program driving mid-life weight gain and lower fitness levels.
Researchers found that knocking out a key enzyme improved post-heart attack healing and reduced chronic inflammation. The study suggests that a short-term dietary excess of polyunsaturated fatty acids may also play a role in promoting healing.
Researchers found a genetic explanation for how smoking contributes to coronary heart disease, revealing a single gene variant that loses its protective effect in smokers. This discovery opens doors to new therapeutic targets and personalized approaches to preventing CHD.
The University of Konstanz's biological chemistry working group has decoded a molecular mechanism that inhibits bacterial populations' swarming motility. This mechanism enables bacteria to produce various natural substances using minimal resources, which may aid in combating infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance.
Scientists at Joslin Diabetes Center have found that healthy individuals with diabetes develop protective enzymes against damage from high blood sugar levels. The researchers identified an enzyme called PKM2 and showed that activating it can stop abnormalities in mouse podocytes and delay diabetic kidney disease progression.
Researchers have created a promising mouse model for the devastating genetic disorder NGLY1 deficiency. The double-deletion mice survive and exhibit symptoms analogous to humans with the condition, making them useful for testing potential therapies.
When an insect touches the Venus flytrap's sensory hairs, it triggers a chain reaction involving calcium and hormone jasmonate. The plant's glands then produce acidic vesicles filled with hydrochloric acid to decompose the prey.
Researchers at UCSF discovered a specialized enzyme that destroys chitin, a tough natural material found in the environment, which accumulates in the lungs and triggers inflammatory lung disease. Mice with this enzyme deficiency developed severe lung disease, but restoring its activity cleared up symptoms.
A Washington State University researcher has found that the uterus in female mice contains enzymes that break down semen, making it less gel-like and easier to swim. The study highlights an underappreciated complication in semen liquefaction and could lead to diagnostic tools for unexplained infertility.
Researchers have synthesized and evaluated three novel aldose reductase inhibitors, showcasing a spirobenzopyran scaffold that inhibits the target enzyme without affecting ARL1. These results suggest a promising tool for developing effective ARIs to treat diabetic complications.
A group of giant viruses, called Klosneuviruses, were identified as acquiring components from many other viruses and proteins in an evolutionarily recent timeframe. The analysis suggests that these whopper viruses did not evolve from a cellular ancestor but rather are derived from a much smaller virus through extensive gene gain.
Researchers have successfully tested a new drug that considerably weakens the recollection of a negative experience in humans. In the study, participants who received doxycycline beforehand showed a reduction of two thirds in their emotional responses to traumatic stimuli.
Scientists uncover a potent genetic element in microorganisms that enable them to self-mutate, expanding the diversity of the tree of life. The discovery reveals how rapid evolution happens in some of Earth's smallest and most common microbes.
Researchers have discovered a molecule sent by fat cells to the fly brain that signals when energy stores are sufficient, inhibiting feeding behavior. This finding suggests a potential appetite-suppression mechanism in humans and may lead to new weight management strategies.
A new fluorescent probe developed by Michigan Technological University researchers has the potential to improve cancer surgery outcomes. The probe uses a near-infrared fluorescence that can penetrate deep tissues, reducing background noise and increasing precision for surgeons.
Scientists developed a unique type of wheat that can increase the digestibility of phosphorus and other minerals, improving health for undernourished populations. The new wheat, HIGHPHY, was tested in broilers and demonstrated improved digestion coefficients for calcium and phosphorus.
Researchers at EPFL develop synthetic methods to introduce chemical modifications on huntingtin, reducing its toxicity and aggregation. The study reveals key findings on the relationship between post-translational modifications and huntingtin structure, function, and toxicity.
Scientists at WashU Medicine have implicated SARM1 in the self-destruction of axons, a process that leads to nerve cell damage in neurodegenerative diseases. The study suggests that blocking this pathway could slow or prevent disease progression and has implications for treating peripheral neuropathy.