Articles tagged with Enzymes
Researchers at UCLA have discovered that the drug AT2101 improves motor function, stops inflammation, and reduces alpha-synuclein levels in mouse models of Parkinson's disease. This finding suggests that further investigation into the compound's potential for treating Parkinson's is warranted.
Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a method to increase the oil accumulation in plant leaves, which can lead to higher energy content of crops grown for fuel. The research reveals that disabling a specific enzyme has no negative effects on plant growth and results in high oil accumulation.
Scientists have identified two enzymes responsible for the formation of terpenes, which contribute to a wine's bouquet. The study could lead to the development of new grape varieties with improved aromas.
Researchers warn that sildenafil, used to treat erectile dysfunction, can cause visual responses in people with a common mutation for eye disease. Studies on mice found heightened effects and signs of cell death in those with the mutation, raising concerns about long-term vision impact.
Researchers found compounds in Camelina sativa seed that increase liver detoxification enzymes fivefold, showcasing its potential as a nutritional supplement and anti-cancer agent. The bioactive ingredients work synergistically when combined, similar to sulforaphane in broccoli.
Scientists at LA BioMed have discovered a way to bypass the blood-brain barrier and deliver an enzyme replacement therapy to treat MPS IIIB, a devastating genetic disease. The treatment has shown promising results by reducing the accumulation of waste products in brain cells.
Researchers describe a novel liver-directed gene therapy approach that corrects heart symptoms in a model of rare enzyme disorder MPS I. The treatment, using an AAV vector, achieves sustained serum enzyme activity and reduces glycosaminoglycan storage in tissues.
Researchers found that caterpillars of fall armyworm and two other Spodoptera species deploy a gut enzyme to attach a sugar to the toxic free DIMBOA, rendering it non-reactive to plant enzyme. This detoxification strategy explains the success of these pest insects in overcoming maize defenses.
Researchers identified a compound called dequalinium chloride (DECA) that can prevent a metabolic enzyme from going to the wrong location within a cell. This prevents primary hyperoxaluria 1 (PH1), a rare and deadly genetic kidney disease, by ensuring the enzyme goes to its proper destination.
Termite fungus farmers developed a sophisticated system of cooperation between fungi and gut bacteria to break down complex plant components. The symbiotic community optimized for efficient plant decomposition involves division of labor, with fungi handling carbohydrates and gut microbes contributing enzymes for final digestion.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that human gut microbes can digest fiber and ferment it into nutrients for human cells. The microbes appear to have enzymes that break down complex plant fiber components more efficiently than cow rumen microbes, which could aid in biofuels production.
Researchers describe cassava, also known as tapioca, as an ideal alternative to corn for starch sweeteners due to its high yields and accessibility. The article highlights the potential of converting tapioca starch into sugars using various enzymes and processing steps.
Researchers identify Pex22p module as key component in peroxisomal Ub machinery, boosting enzyme import and degradation of pollutants. This discovery sheds light on peroxisomal disorders like Zellweger syndrome and highlights the importance of reevaluating familiar proteins.
A team from EPFL Brain Mind Institute finds that chronic stress activates an enzyme that reduces nectin-3 cell adhesion proteins, leading to social skills loss and impaired memory. External treatments can restore sociability and normal cognitive skills.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a new halogenation enzyme that can selectively replace inert C-H bonds with C-X bonds, enabling the creation of tailored molecules with improved pharmacological profiles. This breakthrough is expected to revolutionize the fields of pharmaceutical and agricultural industries.
The team determined the high-resolution structure of Dbr1 enzyme, which breaks loops of ribonucleic acids and could be a new target for treating most cases of ALS. By inhibiting this enzyme's activity, researchers hope to prevent TDP-43 aggregates from forming in motor neurons.
Researchers have engineered E. coli bacteria to generate renewable propane, providing a potential alternative to fossil fuels. The production of propane is achieved through the use of specific enzymes that convert fatty acids into hydrocarbons.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered a non-addictive and safe-for-the-heart compound called Alda-1 that reduces inflammatory pain. The compound was found while searching for the reason behind moderate drinkers' less-severe heart attacks.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have successfully treated lysosomal storage disease MPS I using gene therapy, reducing harmful protein accumulation and improving symptoms. The treatment involves direct gene transfer into glial and neuronal cells in the brain and spinal cord.
Researchers successfully constructed an adenovirus that induces DHCR24 specifically in neuronal cells, demonstrating its neuroprotective effects against amyloid beta-induced apoptosis. This breakthrough paves the way for further studies on DHCR24 gene therapy and neuronal functional research.
Researchers discovered that commonly used NSAIDs alter the activity of enzymes within cell membranes, which can lead to unwanted side effects. This finding provides a basis for a test to predict and avoid these side effects in new medicines.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine found that aspirin prompts the production of 15-HETE, which converts to lipoxin to reverse inflammation. This discovery may lead to new anti-inflammatory therapies by developing drugs based on lipoxin analogues.
Over-the-counter enzyme supplements can aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and even have anti-cancer effects. However, evidence is limited, and potential side effects include gastrointestinal upset and increased risk of bleeding in certain individuals.
Researchers found that early enzyme replacement treatment was most effective in mice with very early-stage disease, while late-stage disease proved ineffective. Continued research is crucial to understand the reversibility of disease-based degenerative changes.
A team of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory scientists describe how Dis3l2 uses recognition sites to capture and degrade specific RNAs that are marked for decay. This mechanism helps preserve the character of stem cells and maintain their identity.
A study by Yale researchers has identified a crucial role for prolyl endopeptidase enzyme in regulating glucose sensing in the brain. The findings suggest that this enzyme plays a key role in controlling blood sugar levels, and could eventually lead to new treatments for diabetes.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine identified an enzyme called FBP1 that regulates metabolism and restrains energy production in cells. The enzyme is missing from all kidney tumor tissue, leading to rapid cell growth. This discovery may lead to personalized approaches for treating clear cell renal cell carcino...
Researchers have discovered an enzyme that stimulates the overproduction of fatty acids and triglycerides, leading to insulin resistance and diabetes. A new drug candidate is being developed to target this enzyme, potentially treating metabolic syndrome.
Researchers found over-activity of enzyme HDAC6 exacerbates ALS symptoms in fruit-flies, highlighting potential therapeutic avenues. Inhibition of HDAC6 may offer protective effects against the disease.
Researchers discovered the protein SerRS acts as a brake on new blood vessel growth and pairs with c-Myc to promote proper vascular development. The study found that SerRS suppresses VEGFA transcription by recruiting SIRT2, a partner enzyme that had never been linked to angiogenesis.
Researchers at UGA report that Tpl2 plays a key role in directing immune system components, which may lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases. The study found reduced chemokine receptor activity in mice lacking the enzyme.
Researchers at the University of Tennessee have made significant progress in engineering enzymes that can break down nerve agents, potentially creating a prophylactic drug. The study uses neutron scattering and computational sciences to improve the efficiency of these bioscavengers, which could lead to safer use of chemical weapons.
Researchers developed a nanoshell to protect foreign enzymes used in chemotherapy, shielding them from the immune system. The nanoshell acts like a filter in the bloodstream, allowing amino acids to feed cancer cells while trapping enzymes that starve cancer cells.
Researchers from RIKEN and the University of Tokyo identified a surprising mechanism for accurate protein synthesis through crystallographic studies. The enzyme alanyl-tRNA synthetase precisely identifies proper tRNA molecules using a geometric feature, allowing cells to accurately translate genetic code into essential proteins.
Researchers from the University of York have provided new information on how LPMOs work, enabling the degradation of hard-to-digest biomass into its constituent sugars. This breakthrough aims to improve second-generation biofuel production by fermenting cellulose into bioethanol.
A Purdue University-led research team has figured out how to disable the SARS virus's ability to hide it from the immune system. By removing specific proteins, the enzyme serves as a biological cloaking system, allowing the virus to live and replicate undetected.
Scientists have observed the process by which CRISPR enzymes bind and alter DNA structure, paving the way for correcting genetic diseases in humans. The study provides a vital piece of the puzzle for genome editing tools to be used in humans.
Researchers develop 3-D artificial enzyme cascade using DNA nanotechnology, mimicking a crucial biochemical pathway that could lead to future biomedical and energy applications. The system consists of multiple enzymes attached to a DNA scaffold, with each arm serving as a 'swinging' catalyst, speeding up chemical reactions.
Researchers at Norwich BioScience Institutes have found ways to improve the efficiency of turning straw into biofuel. By varying pre-treatment stages, they increased cellulose conversion and sugar yield.
Researchers have resolved the crystal structure of sulfamidase, a key enzyme in Sanfilippo A syndrome. The discovery provides insights into the molecular consequences of genetic mutations and will aid in developing novel therapeutic molecules to manage the devastating disease.
Researchers discovered that RIPK1 acts as an umpire to make tough life-or-death calls in cells. By removing different components of two pathways, the study showed that RIPK1 helps maintain a balanced response to signals promoting either pathway. This finding resolves long-standing questions about RIPK1's role in cell survival and provi...
Researchers identified a mutated enzyme called LovD9 that produces simvastatin 1,000 times more efficiently than the natural enzyme. The team used computer simulations and X-ray crystallography to determine the molecular structures of both enzymes, revealing subtle variations in their behavior when immersed in water.
University of Missouri researchers have completed a 3D map of the Proline utilization A (PutA) enzyme, which facilitates metabolism by adding oxygen to molecules. This understanding will help drug manufacturers create more effective treatments for diseases like h. pylori infection.
Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have found that certain desaturating fatty acid enzymes can link up to efficiently pass intermediate products from one enzyme to another. This process, known as metabolic channeling, enables the efficient production of useful plant products, such as healthful polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Flea beetles sequester glucosinolates without triggering the plant's defense mechanism. They utilize the compounds for their own communication and defense against predators.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that women with high gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels before pregnancy were twice as likely to develop gestational diabetes. The study also suggests a potential risk model to identify women who could benefit from pre-conception interventions.
Researchers have discovered how the HIV-fighting enzyme SAMHD1 works, allowing for potential new treatments to prevent HIV infection. By understanding its dual role in breaking down nucleotides and regulating its activity, scientists may be able to develop more effective prevention strategies.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a novel mechanism by which the protein Botch regulates the Notch signaling pathway, crucial for healthy organ development. This discovery may lead to a better understanding of developmental biology and potential therapeutic applications for certain leukemias.
Researchers discovered an enzyme pathway that safeguards against genome errors and cancer. Cdc14 activates Yen1 to repair breaks in DNA, helping to prevent devastating errors like chromosome loss.
Researchers have identified a potential new class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that target the mPGES-1 enzyme, which reduces oxidative damage and slows atherosclerosis in macrophages. This could lead to safer pain relief options without increasing heart disease risk.
Researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine have identified a target for treating Dengue fever and other flavivirus diseases. The team discovered that the virus produces a unique RNA molecule with an unprecedented 'knot-like' structure, making it resistant to an enzyme that normally destroys RNA.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have identified SGK1 enzyme as a potential target for treating asthma and boosting the effects of certain cancer therapies. The enzyme's role in regulating immune system T cells suggests that blocking it could inhibit asthma symptoms and enhance cancer treatment.
Scientists have discovered the atomic-scale mechanism of action for NpmA, an enzyme that imparts chemical changes to bacterial ribosomes, making them resistant to aminoglycoside antibiotics. This finding poses a significant threat to public health, but also reveals potential targets for developing new drugs.
Syracuse University chemists discover enzyme-like activity in seven amino acid peptides, shedding light on the origins of life and potential new catalysts for metabolic reactions. The breakthrough supports the theory that amyloid fibrils may have triggered early forms of life.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified a new way of treating cancer by inhibiting the MTH1 enzyme, which cancer cells require for survival. This approach differs from previous treatments that target specific genetic defects and offers a potential breakthrough in fighting the disease.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a key molecule, elafin, that could lead to new therapies for people with celiac disease. Elafin decreases the enzymatic reaction that increases the toxicity of peptides derived from gluten, protecting the intestinal lining.
Researchers developed a hydrogel that delivers enzyme inhibitors to damaged heart tissue, minimizing long-term damage and improving heart function. The gel's responsive design allows it to release inhibitors in response to the activity level of the enzyme.
Researchers found a strong link between the AMY1 gene and obesity, with individuals having fewer copies of the gene at higher risk. This discovery highlights the importance of tailoring dietary advice based on an individual's digestive system.
A team of researchers has discovered a cellular factor called Rif1 that regulates the timing of DNA replication, ensuring proper cell division and preventing tumor formation. The study suggests that Rif1 prevents 'DNA replication stress', a process causing genome instability.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new way to image a reporter gene that turns on or off to signal events in the body using MRI. This approach allows scientists to determine when and where the gene is turned on, providing insights into brain function and memory formation.