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 reveal new insights into nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase (TH), a metabolic enzyme found in most forms of life, shedding light on its structure and function. The discovery sheds light on TH's dynamic structure and how it alternates functions to maintain cell health.
A team of researchers at Georgia State University has made groundbreaking discoveries in the tryptophan kynurenine pathway, a metabolic pathway linked to psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. The study reveals an unexpected enzymatic activity that could lead to new drug design for these diseases.
Enzymes linked to diabetes and obesity play key roles in arthritis and leukemia, potentially opening new avenues for treating these diseases. Targeting ether lipids may reduce neutrophil levels, allowing the immune system to return to normal.
Scientists have found that the MMP12 enzyme travels to the center of cells, contradicting previous assumptions. This discovery may lead to the development of treatments to turn off this enzyme and others like it when they cause damage.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have discovered a safety lock mechanism in the enzyme RAG that prevents helter-skelter clipping of DNA. This discovery provides new insights into how the immune system regulates gene expression and could lead to better understanding of immunodeficiency and cancer.
Scientists create a molecular 'GPS' to precisely locate metal ions in enzymes, which play key roles in metabolism and synthesis. This innovation uses spin-labeled amino acids to track metal ion positions, enabling better understanding of biochemical reactions.
Researchers at Centenary Institute used a super-resolution microscope to study the role of DPP9 in cell movement. They found that inhibiting this enzyme can slow down living cancer cells and prevent tumors from growing or spreading.
Researchers discovered that enzymes dissipate heat by rapidly accelerating immediately after a reaction, generating a pressure wave called a chemoacoustic wave. This finding explains how proteins cope with the immense heat generated during enzyme reactions without breaking apart.
Researchers at the University of Southampton have identified a genetic variation in the ERAP1 enzyme that increases an individual's susceptibility to Ankylosing Spondylitis. Genetic testing for this variation may enable earlier diagnosis and improved management of the condition.
A team of researchers has identified an enzyme that inhibits the breakdown of progesterone, a hormone linked to PMS. This discovery could lead to targeted therapy with minimal side effects.
Researchers at Mainz University have discovered that a psoriasis medication may be effective in treating Alzheimer's disease by stimulating the activity of the enzyme ADAM10, which could lead to reduced accumulation of Alzheimer's plaques. The medication was well-tolerated and showed promise in enhancing learning and memory capacity.
Researchers discover penicillin works by setting in motion a toxic malfunctioning of the cell's wall-building machinery, which depletes cells of resources. This finding could lead to new ways to thwart drug resistance.
Researchers found that humans are susceptible to typhoid fever due to the absence of enzyme CMAH, which reconfigures sugar molecules on cell surfaces. This discovery has implications for developing new therapies for typhoid fever.
A new approach uses a comb-shaped polymer to protect enzymes from the immune system, reducing allergic reactions and maintaining efficacy. The method has potential applications in treating allergies and protecting rapidly degraded therapeutic molecules.
Researchers revised classical enzymatic theory by incorporating long-lasting protein-water coupled motions into models of functional catalysis. The study revealed a new biological phenomenon where water motions adapt to substrate binding, critical for effective binding.
A new study identifies TET1 as a master regulator in cancer progression by silencing tumor suppressor genes. Adding TET1 back to cancer cells reactivates these genes, reducing abnormal proliferation.
Researchers have developed a potent and systematic AC inhibitor, tilting the balance between pro-aging/death and pro-life chemical signals in favor of death. The compound may be used as 'chemosensitizers' to enhance anti-tumoral drug efficacy.
MU researchers have catalogued the effects of abnormal enzymes responsible for one type of glycogen storage disease in humans. Their study, published in The Journal of Biological Chemistry, provides promising early-stage results that could aid in patient prognosis and therapeutic development.
Researchers have discovered a novel enzyme production strategy in shipworms that breaks down wood, shedding light on the potential for these bivalves to produce biofuels. The study's findings could provide valuable insights and tools for biomass-based industries.
A team of researchers has discovered a novel digestive strategy in shipworms, which could be a game-changer for the industrial production of clean biofuels. The study found that shipworms use enzymes made by symbiotic bacteria stored in their gills to break down wood for nutrition.
Researchers from RIKEN found that a subtle change in the Lon enzyme allows bacteria to quickly adapt between low-oxygen gut environments and high-oxygen outside conditions. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic targets for enteric diseases.
Researchers found that DNA Methyltransferase 3b enzyme prevents Pax3 gene from turning on, leading to neural tube defects. Dr. Loeken's discovery sheds light on a biochemical pathway and may lead to better stem cell therapy.
Researchers found that knocking out a single enzyme is responsible for changing blue penstemon flowers to red. The study reveals a predictable genetic change behind the evolution from blue to red, with reverse changes unlikely.
A landmark study provides a detailed working image of the PRC1 enzyme in action on a chromosome unit, revealing previously unknown information about its interaction with nucleosomes. The research offers new paradigms for understanding how chromatin enzymes function and has implications for understanding cancer-related diseases.
Researchers developed a miniature device that measures methotrexate levels in patient blood, providing accurate results in under 1 minute and costing around $10,000 compared to traditional equipment at $100,000.
A recent study published in Nature Neuroscience found that digoxin, a medication used to treat heart failure, may have a strong effect on treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by blocking an enzyme that destroys nerve cells. The research suggests that reducing the activity of this enzyme or limiting its production can prevent th...
Gerald F. Joyce, a renowned physician scientist, has been elected to the Institute of Medicine at the National Academy of Sciences. He joins Novartis as Director of the Genomics Institute, focusing on developing novel RNA and DNA enzymes for clinical diagnostics and therapeutics.
Researchers are working to develop a therapy for Sanfilippo disease, a devastating inherited disorder that affects the brain. The $223,102 grant will be used to create an enzyme replacement therapy to treat the underlying causes of the neurologic symptoms of MPS III.
Researchers at the University of Bristol used computer simulations to study how bacteria destroy antibiotics, identifying enzymes that break down carbapenems quickly and slowly. This insight will help scientists develop new antibiotics with lower resistance rates.
Researchers will screen proprietary enzymes for digestibility of common ingredients found in Canadian pork and poultry feed and develop commercial products to improve feed conversion and producer profit margins. The project aims to reduce strain on the environment due to decreased animal waste and improve overall animal growth and health.
Researchers have gained new insight into the complex molecular process of cholesterol production by mapping the structure of a key enzyme involved in the process. The study revealed two pockets within the enzyme's architecture that help spark the synthesis of cholesterol, with potential implications for the treatment of high cholesterol.
Researchers found that Pin1, a small enzyme, modifies the number of postsynaptic receptors and regulates signal transmission. This discovery sheds light on the biochemical mechanisms of synaptic plasticity, offering insights into healthy mechanisms and potential treatments for pathological conditions.
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 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 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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.