Articles tagged with Enzymes
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A study found that quails fed an omega-3 fatty acid-rich diet for 6 weeks showed significant increases in aerobic capacity, similar to those seen in migrating sandpipers. The birds' muscle membranes revealed even distribution of the fatty acids, suggesting a non-selective allocation.
Researchers at Emory University have discovered that DNA repair enzymes can relocate to specific areas of the cell in response to oxidative stress, which is linked to various human diseases. This finding could lead to the development of anti-cancer drugs that target DNA repair mechanisms.
Researchers have created a new 'green' hair treatment that uses an enzyme to naturally lighten hair without damaging it. The enzyme degrades melanin and combats free radicals produced by traditional hydrogen peroxide-based bleaches, making it a potential solution for reducing hair damage and environmental impact.
Researchers at Caltech developed 15 new highly stable fungal enzyme catalysts that efficiently break down cellulose into sugars at high temperatures. This breakthrough is crucial for creating cost-efficient processes to extract sugars from cellulose, a key material in producing renewable fuels like ethanol or butanol.
Researchers found that acetylation affects yeast lifespan through the NuA4 enzyme complex, which also controls sugar production in cells. This discovery may have implications for understanding aging and human diseases, as the mechanisms identified are conserved across species.
Researchers found that inhibiting the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11βHSD2) with licorice extract or by silencing its gene prevents colorectal cancer progression in mice. This approach produces effects specific to the colon and kidney, unlike existing preventive therapies.
Scientists warn that East Asians who drink heavily may be at increased risk of esophageal cancer due to an enzyme deficiency. Heavy drinking in these individuals can lead to a significant increase in the risk, particularly among those with two copies of the inactive gene variant.
Researchers in Colorado discovered a way to disrupt Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm formation by targeting protein and DNA with specific enzymes. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment strategies for infections caused by this bacteria, which are prevalent in burns, wounds, and cystic fibrosis patients.
Researchers identified acyl CoA: monoacylglycerol acyltransferase 2 as a critical enzyme in fat absorption. In mice genetically modified to lack this enzyme, high-fat diets failed to induce obesity and related symptoms.
A team of researchers has discovered that the enzyme AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is crucial for the survival of neural stem cells that produce new brain cells. This finding opens up new avenues for improving brain function and health by modifying AMPK activity.
Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that cells have a second chance to correct errors in protein production, which could lead to new insights into neurodegenerative disorders and the development of targeted antibiotics. This discovery gives scientists a better understanding of the mechanism behind protein synthesis mistakes.
A UCLA study found that broccoli sprouts triggered an increase in antioxidant enzymes, offering protection against free radical damage and inflammation. The researchers discovered a significant increase in these enzymes after consuming 100g or higher of broccoli sprouts.
The new technology uses self-replicating RNA molecules to detect specific chemicals, allowing for precise measurements of drugs, toxins, and other substances. This method has the potential to revolutionize fields such as medicine, environmental monitoring, and molecular computing.
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have discovered an enzyme that enables yeast cells to ferment xylose into ethanol, a waste sugar in the cellulosic ethanol production process. This single-step conversion technology has the potential to increase biofuel production efficiency and reduce competition with food and feed production.
A new enzyme developed by CSIRO Australia successfully removes over 90% of atrazine from contaminated water in a trial, providing a promising solution to reduce off-farm water contamination. The enzyme works against various triazine herbicides and is expected to benefit farmers worldwide.
A Duke University-led team has developed a computer program that can redesign enzymes to produce natural antibiotics. The algorithm, called K*, sorts through possible shapes and changes of the key enzyme that produces gramicidin S, a natural antibiotic. This new technique may pave the way for more automated redesign of old drugs.
Gladstone scientists discovered that the DGAT1 enzyme plays a crucial role in regulating retinoic acid levels in the skin. Mice lacking this enzyme experienced increased retinoic acid levels, leading to skin sensitivity and hair loss, which could be prevented by restricting retinol intake.
A team of scientists has developed an enzyme-based process that converts cellulose from wood chips and water into high-quality hydrogen fuel. The breakthrough could enable the production of renewable hydrogen for transportation, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Scientists have developed a method to produce biodegradable plastics from plants, which can be used to replace petroleum-based plastics. The new plastic, called polyhdroxybutyrate-co-polyhydroxyvalerate (PHBV), is flexible and moldable, and can be naturally degraded into water and carbon dioxide by bacteria in the soil.
Researchers from DOE/JGI and FPL have deciphered the genetic mechanisms behind brown-rot fungi's ability to break down cellulose in wood. This breakthrough may lead to more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally-friendly strategies for biofuels production.
Researchers identified eighteen new genetic changes in rats from four continents that enable resistance to warfarin. VKORC1 gene mutations may cause heritable resistance by preventing coumarin derivatives from interfering with the reductase enzyme activity.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine identified a gene that causes obesity when mutated, affecting metabolism without impacting appetite. The study's findings provide new insights into epigenetics and open possibilities for novel pharmacologic approaches to treating obesity.
Researchers at UTSA have made a breakthrough discovery in the fight against tularemia, a deadly bio-warfare agent. They identified a unique metabolic pathway and enzyme, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide synthetase (NMS), that is specific to Francisella tularensis, making it a potential target for therapeutic development.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in developing a new gene-targeting therapy that uses an RNA enzyme to inhibit strains of the herpes simplex virus. The technique has shown promise in experiments with mice and rabbits, but further research is needed before it can be attempted in people infected with herpes.
A team of researchers has discovered a new enzyme in Shewanella that works together to oxidize lactate, a food and energy source for many microbes. The discovery suggests that dozens of bacteria use this multi-protein enzyme instead of the single-protein version, which could help clean up toxic pollutants.
Research published in the journal Genetics shows that fruit flies and humans regulate their circadian rhythms through similar cellular machinery. This discovery provides a viable animal model for circadian research and sheds light on the potential treatment of seasonal affective disorder, insomnia, and possibly some cancers.
Researchers have synthesized RNA enzymes that can replicate themselves without proteins, a breakthrough in understanding the origins of life. The system, which involves two enzymes that assemble each other, has been shown to sustain molecular information and give rise to variations through Darwinian evolution.
Dr. Debashis Ghosh's groundbreaking work has determined the three-dimensional structure of aromatase, a key enzyme in estrogen production. This breakthrough opens doors to customized, comprehensive medical treatment for breast cancer patients.
Researchers have discovered two enzymes involved in DNA demethylation, which could lead to targeted therapies aimed at slowing or preventing cancer. The enzymes control an 'on-and-off switch' for critical genes that trigger cancer and other diseases.
Researchers have developed a genetic modification that modifies the connections in lignin, making it easier to break down and access cellulose for ethanol production. The modified plants show increased sugar yields without compromising plant strength or lignin content.
Researchers find AID causes genetic malfunctions leading to Burkitt's lymphoma and potentially other cancers. The enzyme, responsible for immune system adaptation, also targets a cancer-promoting gene.
A team of researchers at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center discovered a new enzyme that plays a primary role in how cancer tumors expand and spread. The enzyme, called sFAP, helps create scaffolding for cancer cells to attach, divide, and migrate.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered how a lowly fungus regulates its version of cholesterol, gaining new insight into the target and action of cholesterol-lowering drugs. In humans, Insig limits cholesterol production by inactivating the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase through phosphorylation.
Researchers from Thomas Jefferson University reported that IDO2 enzyme is overexpressed in pancreatic cancer cells, potentially leading to targeted immunotherapy. Genetic analysis revealed that about 75% of patients have an active IDO2 enzyme, suggesting a novel therapeutic strategy.
An experimental TB drug called PA-824 has been found to work by producing nitric oxide gas, which kills the bacteria. The discovery could lead to the development of new drugs against other disease-causing bacteria, as humans lack the bacterial enzyme needed for the drug's effect.
A Queen's University study has shed new light on the control of a cell enzyme implicated in tissue damage after heart attacks and strokes. The research team discovered a way to block the enzyme's activity, which could lead to new drug treatments for stroke and heart disease.
Scientists have discovered an enzyme that can convert sugars into a precursor of acrylic glass, a plastic used in various applications. This breakthrough could make the production of acrylic glass more environmentally friendly and potentially increase its demand in the coming years.
Scientists have discovered a biological transformation that occurs in the absence of an enzyme, taking 2.3 billion years to complete. This finding highlights the importance of enzymes as catalysts in life processes and has implications for drug design and molecular studies.
A new study from the University of Iowa found that lung airway cells can activate vitamin D, leading to the expression of genes involved in immune defense. The active form of vitamin D helps fight bacterial infections and reduces inflammation.
Hydrogen sulfide is produced in the endothelial lining of blood vessels and regulates blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. The discovery has potential applications for designing drug therapies to enhance its formation as an alternative to current hypertension treatments.
Scientists at Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease have identified a new approach to destroy amyloid-beta proteins, which are linked to Alzheimer's disease. By reducing the natural inhibitor cystatin C, they can unleash potent enzyme cathepsin B to clear AB proteins from the brain.
A team led by UC San Diego professor Joseph Wang will create an automated sense-and-treat system that monitors biomarkers and administers treatment in real-time, aiming to improve soldier survival rates.
A study mapped the clan of mobile selfish genes Alu retrotransposons in the human genome, revealing that around 10,000 elements are still capable of jumping around and posing a major threat to human genetics. The research provides valuable insights into the behavior of these elements and their potential impact on personalized genomics.
Researchers have created a new therapy for preventing heart failure by developing a highly selective drug that blocks the production of aldosterone. The compounds were synthesized and tested in cell cultures and rat models, showing promising results.
Researchers at University of Southern California reveal the atomic structure of APOBEC-3G, an enzyme that stops HIV replication. The discovery suggests new directions for developing anti-HIV drugs by targeting a viral protein that blocks the enzyme.
Researchers at the University of Illinois College of Medicine discovered a novel enzyme linked to anencephaly, a rare fatal birth defect. The study suggests that a genetic test may be developed to diagnose the condition early in pregnancy.
Researchers at University of Missouri-Columbia used paramagnetic resonance relaxation enhancement to directly visualize HIV-1 protease maturation into an active infection. The 'tail' amino acid residues form a temporary tunnel where the virus becomes infective, enabling researchers to better understand and target novel therapeutics.
The Conaway Lab identifies a new way in which the proteasome helps regulate gene expression through its interaction with the chromatin remodeling complex INO80. This mechanism involves the deubiquitinating enzyme Uch37, which can remove protein tags from other proteins.
Researchers identified acylated steryl-beta-glucosides as the active compounds behind germinated rice's health benefits, including improved cognitive function and anti-diabetic properties. These unique sterol-like molecules are concentrated in the rice bran and may be specific to rice.
Researchers have identified a coral gene called STPCA that responds to light cycles and produces bicarbonate to buffer against acidity. This adaptation allows corals to survive in shallow waters with limited food resources.
Researchers at Indiana University have discovered a molecule that could lead to new treatments for heart attacks and protect hearts during open heart surgery. The compound, Alda-1, was found to activate an enzyme that reduces cell death caused by lack of blood flow to the heart.
Researchers identify aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) as a crucial enzyme in reducing cellular damage from free radicals. Activation of ALDH2 increases its activity during heart attacks, leading to a significant drop in associated damage and potential applications for treating various diseases.
A study at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that a bacterial molecule must be inactivated, not just killed, for an animal to regain full health after infection. The 'signal' molecule, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), triggers the immune response and causes inflammation, but also suppresses it temporarily.
A Florida State University researcher has discovered a molecular mechanism that gives scientists a better understanding of how evolution occurs at the molecular level. The study reveals an enzyme with two pathways dedicated to the same task, one of which is an evolutionary vestige left over from an ancient enzyme.
Brookhaven researchers modified a desaturase enzyme to produce three new products, including two variations of an allylic alcohol and a fatty acid with two double bonds. The discovery expands the potential for engineering designer plant oils as biofuels and raw materials.
Scientists at Emory University School of Medicine have identified a crucial protein called UHRF1 that acts like a bookmark to maintain the correct pattern of DNA methylation. This process is essential for normal development and preventing cancer, as alterations in methylation patterns can lead to gene silencing at the wrong times.
Bacteria use multifunctional enzymes to save energy and produce cell wall components, making them resistant to fluoroquinolone antibiotics. This 'moonlighting' activity protects the enzyme DNA gyrase from attack by antibiotics.
Researchers have discovered a key to cold tolerance in corn, allowing it to thrive in colder regions. By increasing PPDK enzyme production during cold weather, corn yields can be extended and growth seasons lengthened.
Researchers at Queen's University have found a new approach to regulating enzymes involved in blood clotting, potentially leading to novel treatments for heart attacks and strokes. The study targets the enzyme PDE5, which is also used in Viagra, and shows its selective inhibition could prevent platelet activation.
Researchers at Caltech developed a novel way to produce large quantities of drugs, including antiplaque toothpaste additives and antibiotics, using genetically modified yeast. The yeast produces reticuline, a precursor for benzylisoquinoline alkaloid molecules with various pharmacological activities.