Research on enzymes and the reactions they drive. Covers enzyme evolution, plastic-degrading enzymes, brain immune cells, and molecular imaging.
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.
Scientists have successfully used a novel approach called bioretrosynthesis to produce the HIV drug didanosine. This method leverages natural selection to create specialized enzymes that can manufacture complex molecules from simple sugars, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional chemistry.
Researchers developed an algorithm to identify functional modules and relationships between metabolites, reactions, and enzymes in biochemical pathways. The tool enables life scientists to target their research efforts on critical groups most likely to improve our ability to understand and control important biological processes.
A new study suggests that the enzyme Cbl-b could be a target for drugs used to treat allergic asthma and other autoimmune disorders. Mice lacking Cbl-b exhibited severe allergic asthma symptoms, highlighting its vital role in controlling immune response.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University and MIT have identified a key enzyme necessary for a disease-causing bacterium to survive, which may lead to the development of new antibiotics. The study found that eliminating this enzyme or its manganese-attachment protein prevents the bacterium from causing heart valve disease.
A new study by Rutgers researchers reveals that eliminating the eEF2K enzyme could strengthen healthy cells, making them resilient to cancer treatment. This breakthrough may lead to more powerful treatments with fewer debilitating side effects, paving the way for improved cancer therapies.
Researchers have developed a method of insect control using plants that emit sex pheromones mimicking those naturally produced by moths. The study, published in Nature Communications, shows that plants can be engineered to produce these pheromones, attracting male moths and effectively trapping them.
Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine have identified a rare genetic disease caused by the misplacement of a normal protein, phosphotransferase. The protein ends up in the lysosomes, causing a shortage of enzymes and leading to skeletal and heart abnormalities.
Researchers discovered how gut bacteria produce an enzyme that modifies signaling in cells lining the gut and breaks down phytate, a crucial nutrient. The enzyme is packaged in outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) which allow for cross-kingdom communication with human cells, influencing calcium signaling and potentially improving health.
A new study has strengthened the link between alcohol consumption and breast cancer development. Researchers found that a particular enzyme, CYP2E1, plays a role in controlling the growth of breast cancer cells.
Researchers at Aarhus University have developed tiny, degradable 'medicine factories' inside the body that can produce specific medicines in response to specific enzymes. The technology, funded by a €2 million ERC grant, has the potential to revolutionize pain relief and cancer treatment.
Cedars-Sinai researchers found that genetically targeting immune cells to overproduce ACE breaks down beta-amyloid plaque, preventing cognitive decline in laboratory mice. The study identifies a novel role for ACE in the clearance of beta-amyloid in brain blood vessels.
A Virginia Tech research team has developed a battery that runs on sugar, boasting an unmatched energy density and potentially replacing conventional batteries. The new battery could power cell phones, tablets, and other electronic gadgets in as little as three years.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have identified a key player in triggering brain inflammation and nerve cell death in severe forms of Gaucher disease. This discovery may lead to new treatments, including those that can cross the blood-brain barrier to target neurological symptoms.
Researchers at the University of York have discovered how one group of gut bacteria, Bacteroidetes, digest complex sugars found in fruits and vegetables. This understanding sheds light on nutritional issues like prebiotics and probiotics.
Researchers at McGill University have identified the cIAP2 enzyme as a key player in resisting flu infections by protecting lung tissue from damage. By enhancing body resistance to the virus, this discovery opens up new possibilities for controlling and treating influenza.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have identified a gene associated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia, a life-threatening birth defect. The discovery reveals the genetic root of the physical defect and offers potential routes for intervention.
The study reveals that E6AP is composed of three distinct protein molecules, controlling nerve cell function and viral replication. This breakthrough provides potential drug targets for autism and cervical cancer treatment.
Researchers have determined the molecular structure of a Tet family member from Naegleria gruberi, providing insights into its role in regulating gene expression and potential therapeutic targets for cancer. The study sheds light on how Tet enzymes interact with DNA, enabling scientists to design drugs that manipulate them.
The new strategy enables rapid selection of chemical compounds with a desired effect on cells and highlights the underlying biological mechanisms. Researchers identified a compound, WWL113, that shows promise for treating obesity-linked diabetes and also inhibits a previously untargeted enzyme, Ces3.
Researchers identified three proteins that target a key enzyme in the phenol synthesis reaction, reducing its levels and lower plant phenols. This finding could improve biofuel production and lead to increased synthesis of antioxidant-rich compounds.
Research finds that suppressing fidgetin enzyme regrows injured nerve cells and their connections, potentially offering a new therapeutic approach for tissue regeneration and repair. The study's findings have implications for treating spinal cord injury, myocardial infarction, and chronic cutaneous wounds.
Scientists have identified a biological pathway linking Gaucher disease and Parkinson's disease. The connection is attributed to the accumulation of defective proteins, leading to an overload of cellular machines that dispose of defective proteins. This cascade triggers cell death in dopamine-producing cells, resulting in PD symptoms.
Researchers discovered a genetic variation that predisposes mice to severe, inflammatory arthritis. The study implicates a lysosomal enzyme as a contributor to the development of the disease.
Researchers found elevated BACE1 activity in mild cognitive impairment patients, suggesting it may be an early indicator of Alzheimer's disease. Increased BACE1 enzymatic activity correlated with plaque numbers and cognition status.
Rhomboid proteases, involved in Parkinson's disease and parasite infections, are extremely slow and show no attraction to proteins, making it difficult to design drugs. These enzymes 'stop and frisk' all unstable proteins indiscriminately, allowing stable proteins to escape without injury.
Researchers have discovered a potent natural antibiotic, pyridomycin, that targets two key enzymes in tuberculosis bacteria. The molecule's unique three-dimensional structure allows it to simultaneously inhibit the production of the bacterium's lipid membrane, drastically reducing the risk of resistance.
Researchers are working on an injectable compound that can block enzymes that further break down the tendon, reducing injury severity or promoting healing. The therapy aims to treat tendon injuries at an early stage, potentially benefiting athletes and industrial workers.
Northwestern University researchers have developed a new technique to profile enzyme activities in cell lysate, providing a fast, low-cost, and label-free method for studying post-transcriptional processes. By using peptide arrays and SAMDI mass spectrometry, the researchers were able to identify patterns of enzyme activities and shed ...