Research on enzymes and the reactions they drive. Covers enzyme evolution, plastic-degrading enzymes, brain immune cells, and molecular imaging.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute discovered that a human enzyme has evolved to change its shape and function without major architectural changes. This unique ability allows the enzyme to carry out new roles in humans, shedding light on diseases linked to mutations in aminoacyl tRNA synthetases.
Researchers found that a SNAP23 inhibitor increases insulin secretion in mice, suggesting a novel therapy for diabetes. The study also showed that SNAP23 promotes vesicle fusion in nonneuronal cells, including pancreatic cells.
Scientists at Cornell University developed a system where enzymes are attached to nanoparticles to mimic the efficient energy-producing mechanism of sperm tails. The tethered enzyme system processes glucose to lactate more efficiently than free-floating enzymes, with potential applications in powering devices that carry out various jobs.
Researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 to remove an enzyme that regulates the diabetes-associated TXNIP gene, leading to reduced cell death and increased insulin production in genetically modified pancreatic beta cells. The study also found that histone acetyltransferases play a crucial role in regulating the TXNIP gene.
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt discovered a new ubiquitination mechanism in Legionella bacteria that affects cellular processes and causes cell death. This mechanism reveals a broader role of ubiquitin in regulating life processes and may lead to new strategies for developing antibacterial agents.
Researchers found that individuals lacking the CYP2C19 enzyme have a lower risk of depression and larger hippocampi in adulthood. Increased expression of the enzyme is associated with higher suicidal incidences in depressed patients, suggesting that early life influences may contribute to depression's development.
Researchers at Caltech use directed evolution to persuade bacteria to create silicon-carbon bonds, which are found in pharmaceuticals, agricultural chemicals, and computer screens. The new process has the potential to be more environmentally friendly and less expensive than current methods.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis isolated an enzyme GH3.5 that regulates the levels of two plant hormones, auxin and salicylic acid, simultaneously. The study reveals how this single enzyme controls distinct classes of hormones, providing new insights into the molecular pathways for growth and defense.
A new study reveals an efficient means of attaching lipids to peptides, which can improve the molecules' drug-delivery capabilities. This breakthrough enables peptides to be more druglike, overcoming issues with poor absorption and breakdown.
Researchers found that starving gut microbes of natural fiber leads to erosion of the mucus layer, making them vulnerable to infection. A high-fiber diet helps maintain a healthy mucus barrier, protecting against invasive bacteria.
Researchers at the Max-Planck-Institute developed a novel pathway for effective carbon fixation, using a new CO2-fixing enzyme nearly 20 times faster than nature's most prevalent enzyme. This breakthrough enables the efficient capture of CO2 and its conversion into valuable products.
Research reveals that mutations in succinate dehydrogenase lead to distinct disease phenotypes, with tumors showing loss of complex I and impaired cellular fitness. Neurodegeneration, on the other hand, does not result in loss of complex I, leading to a metabolically different phenotype.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum and Malmö University created a hybrid fuel cell and capacitor using biocatalytic processes, generating and storing energy efficiently. The new biosupercapacitor combines energy production and storage, offering high capacity and low weight for potential use in implantable devices.
Researchers have developed artificial cells that use enzymes to move like real cells, maintaining homeostasis like living cells. The lab-made cells can sustain speed based on sugar supply availability.
Researchers found that people living at high altitudes with chronic mountain sickness produce significantly more red blood cells than those without the condition. This is due to an overproduction of the SENP1 enzyme, which boosts levels of other proteins promoting cell division and survival.
Scientists investigate RNA's ability to replicate itself under prebiotic conditions, revealing unexpected non-Watson-Crick pairings that might have hindered early replication. The findings suggest a more trial-and-error approach to the emergence of life.
Researchers created small-molecule probes to discover and characterize novel protein modifications, including a previously unknown glyoxylyl group attachment. The study uncovered dozens of proteins with apparent electrophiles that have never been characterized.
A research team at CRCHUM discovered that the ABHD6 enzyme in certain brain neurons plays a key role in controlling body weight. Blocking this enzyme disrupts normal metabolism and prevents mice from losing weight, even under ideal conditions.
Hokkaido University researchers have identified a key enzyme involved in chlorophyll degradation and the formation of autumn colors. By understanding this process, scientists may uncover novel mechanisms for photosynthesis and discover new enzymes with potential applications.
A recent study suggests that an enzyme deficiency in Krabbe's disease could contribute to mechanisms underlying Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. The protective myelin coating around nerve cells is compromised due to galactosylceramidase deficiency, a condition with currently no cure.
Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum have successfully combined enzyme and chemical catalysts using a gel matrix to overcome the challenge of different reaction conditions. This approach enables more efficient and cost-effective synthesis of polyphenols, with potential applications in cancer therapies.
Researchers at Australian National University are developing next-generation food crops that can produce bigger yields and resist drought better than current crops. Crops like sorghum and millet use a more efficient form of photosynthesis, allowing them to thrive in extreme conditions.
Researchers discovered vitamins A and C enhance epigenetic memory erasure by increasing TET enzyme activity, a crucial step for regenerative medicine. The study provides insights into the mechanisms of vitamin A and C action, with potential implications for treating vitamin A-resistant acute promyelocytic leukemia.
Researchers have discovered peculiarities in the NS3 protease of the Zika virus, a key enzyme that can be targeted for effective inhibition. This understanding may lead to the development of highly specific inhibitors with minimal effects on nonviral proteases.
Researchers at University of Cambridge identify a competing pathway that diverts electrons away from the electrode, reducing efficiency and potentially damaging the system. The study offers insights into how to address this issue and enhance the performance of artificial photosynthetic devices.
Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered a feedback mechanism that protects photosystem II from damage caused by light and oxygen. This new regulatory mechanism involves the release of bicarbonate, which slows down water-splitting reactions and prevents enzyme damage.
Researchers used existing compounds to target the critical CHIKV protease enzyme, showing potent activity against the virus. Several compounds proved to be effective inhibitors of RNA synthesis and virus replication.
Scientists found that adding a viscous solvent, or thickener, to a primordial mixture could facilitate the self-duplication of RNA and DNA strands. This discovery provides evidence for the origins of life on Earth, suggesting that gene replication may have occurred in environments with varying concentrations.
A team of researchers has unraveled the mechanism of a key enzyme involved in bacterial antibiotic resistance. The study, published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry and PLOS One, reveals the structure of Rifampicin monooxygenase and provides detailed information on its mechanism of action.
A new study from the University of California, Berkeley, reveals that calcium plays a major role in regulating bone growth and development. By understanding the signaling mechanisms involved, researchers hope to develop regenerative therapies for conditions such as Treacher Collins Syndrome, which can lead to dozens of surgeries during...
Scientists have created a potential nerve agent antidote that can be taken before an attack, offering hope for soldiers and others exposed to these molecular weapons. The enzyme-based antidote was encapsulated in a porous metal-organic framework, enhancing its staying power and effectiveness.
Lignin can be efficiently separated from sawdust using eutectic solvents, retaining its natural chemical structure. This breakthrough enables various industrial applications, including forest, food processing, pharmaceutical and mining industries.
Researchers at UTA have discovered a method to deactivate caspase-3 enzymes by removing water molecules, which could lead to the development of new treatments for autoimmune diseases like arthritis. This breakthrough, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, provides a database of caspase-3 variants with varying le...
Researchers discovered a rare enzyme called 5NAA-A in bacteria Bradyrhizobium sp. JS329 that breaks down the toxic compound 5-NAA, rendering it harmless to potatoes. This mechanism could inspire future work to engineer an enzyme or bacterium to detoxify thaxtomin.
Researchers at Lund University have discovered the binding mechanism of DNA building blocks to an enzyme, a key step in controlling its function. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new antibacterial drugs targeting nosocomial infections, with potential applications for treating chlamydia.
A study published in Molecular Psychiatry identified an enzyme whose production is turned off in nerve cells of the frontal lobe when alcohol dependence develops. This deficiency leads to continued use of alcohol despite adverse consequences. The research team hopes to develop effective medicines for treating alcoholism and contributin...
A team of researchers has identified an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the formation of compounds giving aged wines their distinct aroma. The discovery, published in New Phytologist, sheds light on how common plant molecules are transformed into specific odorants in wine.
Researchers discovered a metabolic enzyme that acts as a gatekeeper for the innate immune system, triggering strong inflammatory responses against harmful bacteria. This finding may help explain why obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and coronary artery disease are often accompanied by inflammation.
Researchers found the proton pump enzyme activates to regulate blood pH levels in stingrays by transporting excess acid from cells to the bloodstream. This study's findings suggest a potential link between the enzyme's role in humans, particularly in regulating blood and urine functions.
Researchers at Salk Institute identify a connection between ApoE4 and protein build-up associated with Alzheimer's, providing a possible biochemical explanation for extra ApoE4 causing the disease. They also found that ApoE4 keeps the enzyme HtrA1 from breaking down tau protein, responsible for tau tangles associated with Alzheimer's.
Scientists at MIT and the University of São Paulo have identified the structure of an enzyme that targets parasites responsible for spreading these diseases. The distinctive structure of the class I fumarate hydratase enzyme makes it a promising target for new medical therapies.
Changes in intestinal flora caused by antibacterial drugs can reduce enzyme activity in the liver and kidneys, affecting drug metabolism and transport. This study suggests that altered intestinal flora may lead to reduced drug efficacy and increased side effects.
Research identifies ACMSD enzyme as key player in regulating inflammation and its byproducts, which may contribute to depression and suicidal tendencies. The study found reduced activity of the enzyme in patients who have attempted suicide, suggesting a potential biomarker for identifying individuals at risk.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have shown that early exposure to the human IDUA protein increased immune tolerance, allowing for widespread expression of the enzyme and resolution of brain lesions. The study informs the planning of first-in-human trials for MPS I treatment.
A new study has discovered a diverse range of plant enzymes, including Rubisco, that have superior characteristics for improving crop photosynthetic efficiency. The research found that some plant species produce more effective Rubiscos than major crops like wheat and soybean, which could help address global food security.
Researchers at Osaka University identified a new drug target by inhibiting the SPP enzyme, reducing HCV particle production and improving pathological liver conditions. The discovery also revealed a protein quality control mechanism that could be useful for treating other diseases.
Researchers developed self-healing polyelectrolyte coatings that can repair themselves and neutralize chemicals, protecting users from toxic substances and hazardous environments. The coatings are thin, micron-sized and can increase material strength while being reusable and rewearable after laundering.
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have harnessed carbon dioxide to neutralize toxicity in ionic liquids, streamlining the biofuel production process and reducing costs. The process could significantly lower production expenses and make biofuels more sustainable.
A team of researchers studied four filamentous Ascomycete fungi to understand their role in carbon degradation. They identified a wide variety of carbohydrate-active enzymes that can directly oxidize labile and recalcitrant carbon, suggesting these species play a key role in lignocellulose conversion.
Researchers found that a specific enzyme is necessary to turn off genes after physical activity ceases, leading to faulty brain wiring and impaired learning. The inability to shut off these genes can affect motor skills and learning abilities, even in adults.
Scientists have identified a regulatory system in collagen that regulates enzyme activity, potentially shedding light on disease processes. The study reveals that collagen defects can spontaneously form and heal, with tension eliminating defects in tendons.
Researchers have identified a potential target for treating insulin resistance by inhibiting the protein PKD1, which limits AMPK's activity. This discovery may lead to effective treatments for obese and diabetic individuals, including lifestyle interventions such as exercise and diet modifications.
Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center discovered a novel way to control SETDB1 protein activity through monoubiquitination, which inhibits target gene expression and could lead to new cancer therapeutics. This breakthrough suggests E2 enzymes as attractive targets for cancer treatment.
Researchers at the Buck Institute discover metformin reduces toxic acid levels associated with Maple Syrup Urine Disease, a disorder identified 1 in 180,000 births. Metformin treatment significantly reduced ketoacid buildup in skeletal muscle of mice and toxic acid levels in human skin cells.
Researchers have visualized how immune cells create networks of DNA traps called NETs to capture and destroy microbes. The process, known as NETosis, involves the transformation of histones and release of digestive enzymes into the extracellular space.
Researchers from Hiroshima University have identified a new prebiotic, derived from fermented burdock root, that improves colon health in rats by increasing beneficial bacteria. The enzyme, produced during fermentation, has a stronger effect on Bifidobacterium in the colon than previous varieties of prebiotics.
Scientists at Hokkaido University and Duke University discovered the structure of MraY enzyme and its interaction with natural inhibitor MD2. This finding could lead to the development of new antibacterial drugs targeting bacteria.
Scientists discovered that itaconate, a natural substance produced by macrophages, acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It reduces the activity of immune cells and may be used to treat pathologies caused by excessive inflammation or oxidative stress.
Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory engineered a novel enzyme to alter lignin structure in aspen trees, resulting in increased access to biofuel building blocks without inhibiting plant growth. The modified trees released up to 62% more simple sugars and had an almost 50% increase in ethanol yield
Researchers at Clemson University are working on a sensor that can detect tributyl phosphate, a solvent used to enrich uranium. The goal is to create a reliable and long-lasting sensor that can be deployed remotely to investigate potential nuclear threats.