Research on enzymes and the reactions they drive. Covers enzyme evolution, plastic-degrading enzymes, brain immune cells, and molecular imaging.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have made a breakthrough in developing a new class of cancer drugs that target the Aurora B enzyme, which helps cells divide and can lead to uncontrolled cell growth in cancer. Early clinical trials suggest the drug's toxicity is mild, offering a revolutionary new way to treat cancer.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine identified an enzyme that degrades a key component of brain plaques characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. The enzyme, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), breaks down abnormally aggregated proteins known as amyloid fibrils, which are the main ingredient of brain plaques.
Researchers found that a specific gene variation is associated with lower pain sensitivity and reduced risk of chronic pain. The study suggests that individuals with this genetic marker may be less sensitive to pain and have a lower risk of developing neuropathic pain.
A Scripps Research study has identified a key regulator of lipid signaling networks that contributes to cancer. The findings suggest that the enzyme KIAA1363 may be a critical factor in tumorigenesis and could serve as a potential diagnostic marker for ovarian cancer.
Researchers at the University of Virginia are exploring how nutrients in broccoli prevent cancer by bonding with a specific enzyme. This enzyme is linked to inflammatory diseases and cancer, and understanding its role could lead to anti-cancer compounds.
A study found that patients with NAFLD have a significant risk of developing end-stage liver disease, cardiovascular complications, and diabetes. Lifestyle modifications are recommended to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and improve liver histology.
Researchers found that an enzyme called Cathepsin B breaks down the amyloid plaque protein in Alzheimer's disease, offering a potential new treatment approach. Increasing CatB activity reduced plaque deposits in mice with human APP, suggesting it could be a protective mechanism against AD.
Researchers used NMR to detect higher energy structural sub-states of E. coli dihydrofolate reductase, finding that dynamic fluctuations channel the enzyme through its reaction cycle by minimizing energetic barriers. This challenges the traditional 'induced fit' hypothesis and highlights the importance of protein motion in catalysis.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have found that deleting an inflammation enzyme in mice slowed the development of atherosclerosis. The study suggests that a new class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may benefit the heart and reduce its risk of disease.
Researchers have discovered a new approach to develop antibiotics, which is more efficient and environmentally friendly. This breakthrough could help create powerful new drugs to combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.
Researchers found a new pathway for building neurotransmitter lipids using enzyme Abh4, which could lead to more selective treatment options for metabolic and central nervous system disorders.
Researchers found that a gene for an anti-insect enzyme is up to 250 times more active in people with severe sinus inflammation. The enzyme's presence was linked to chronic sinusitis, which affects an estimated 32 million Americans.
A team of Wisconsin scientists has found a simple process to expand on nature's chemical creativity, making critical anticancer agents and antibiotics. The discovery opens the door to a variety of new opportunities in the natural product drug arena.
Researchers discovered that a switch in just two amino acids can make a difference between functioning at moderate temperatures and adapting to extreme heat. This finding has implications for adjusting crops to climate conditions and improving enzyme efficiency in industrial processes.
Researchers found that modified versions of bisphenol A stimulate breast tumor cell growth and are absorbed by breast cancer cells. The study suggests human enzymes convert BPA into a more toxic form, increasing the risk of breast cancer. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have successfully restored normal memory and synaptic function in mice suffering from Alzheimer's disease. By increasing the levels of ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (Uch-L1), they were able to improve the animals' ability to create new memories.
The study reveals that water molecules trapped inside RNA enzymes form hydrogen bonds with other water molecules or parts of the molecule, creating a domino effect that modifies the structure elsewhere. This network-like behavior is essential for the enzyme's activity.
Researchers at NIST determined the three-dimensional shape of class IV adenylyl cyclase, an enzyme found in plague bacteria Yersinia pestis. The unusual configuration may play a role in disrupting cell processes in infected hosts, highlighting the importance of molecular data for developing defenses against plague and other pathogens.
Researchers discovered a mutation in the zebrafish that causes copper distribution disorders similar to those in humans. The discovery suggests new potential treatments for structural birth defects and confirms similarities between zebrafish and human genetics.
Ohio State University researchers used mathematical simulations to study chemical reactions in cells, finding that many graphs indicate quirky behavior. This 'quirkiness' may be essential for biology and could help explain why cells sometimes react unexpectedly to medicines.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found a surprising connection between the energy usage of yeast cells and their genetic material. Removing an enzyme involved in energy production led to the shutdown of 70% of genes and cell death. This study could lead to new strategies for slowing aging and treating cancer.
Researchers identified a group of gene mutations that cause 'broken hearts' in fruit flies, which could help identify genes responsible for human heart defects. The study found that mutations in enzymes involved in lipid synthesis play a crucial role in heart formation.
Researchers have developed an enzyme inhibitor that targets betaine-homocysteine-S-methyltransferase (BHMT), slowing cancer growth by reducing methionine production. The BHMT inhibitors show promise as a potential treatment for cancer, with the possibility of enhancing efficacy when combined with other drugs.
UM researchers discover benzodiazepine-423 inhibits F1F0-ATPase enzyme, reducing ATP production while selectively targeting disease-causing cells. This mechanism may open new avenues for treating various conditions including lupus, arthritis, and psoriasis.
A new enzyme, prolyl endoprotease (PEP), has been identified that can efficiently degrade gluten in the human stomach, a process previously impossible. This breakthrough offers potential relief to those with celiac disease, who currently rely on a strict gluten-free diet.
New nanomaterials created using naturally occurring enzymes can be broken down into biologically compatible building blocks, enabling applications in tissue engineering and drug delivery. The materials have potential uses in delivering pharmaceuticals and preserving food and cosmetics.
Researchers have developed a new oral enzyme therapy that allows celiacs to safely consume low-to-moderate levels of gluten. The therapy, which involves the use of EP-B2 and PEP enzymes, has shown promise in breaking down gluten proteins and preventing inflammation.
Sirtuins have been implicated in the health benefits of calorie restriction, which is known to lengthen life span. The discovery reveals that sirtuins directly control specific metabolic enzymes called AceCSs, transforming them into a form that allows the body to utilize acetate as an energy source.
Evolutionary biologist Jianzhi Zhang discovers parallel evolution of pancreatic enzyme RNASE1 in Asian and African colobine monkeys, showing identical amino acid changes despite separate duplication events. The study reveals a division of labor between old and new genes after duplication.
Researchers used high-intensity x-ray beams to create crystal structures of enzymes and their cofactors, revealing an alternating binding mechanism that enables continuous turnover of toxic compounds. This discovery may help understand metabolic disorders and develop corrective measures.
Researchers at UCLA have made an important advancement in protein engineering by developing a new method to control proteins using nanotechnology. They successfully replaced the natural chemical mechanism controlling protein function with mechanical control, opening up possibilities for reduced side effects and improved treatment options.
A study by Joslin researchers found that the PKC-beta enzyme is responsible for fluid retention and weight gain associated with popular type 2 diabetes drugs. The study suggests a potential treatment using PKC-beta inhibitors to prevent these side effects.
UT Southwestern researchers found that a Yersinia outer protein called YopJ cripples host enzymes, preventing the immune response and allowing the bacteria to survive. The study presents a new paradigm for how cells regulate signaling and could lead to a better understanding of host-pathogen interactions.
A genetic disorder causing hypoglycemia, congenital hyperinsulinism is linked to defects in insulin secretion by pancreatic cells. Mutations in the glutamate dehydrogenase gene impair enzyme sensitivity, leading to excessive insulin release and hypoglycemia.
Scientists have confirmed experiments that chemical chaperones can partially correct the genetic defect responsible for most cases of Gaucher's disease. This could lead to a cost reduction of at least 100-fold compared to current enzyme replacement therapy.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have discovered a key mechanism that regulates blood vessel growth and regression. By targeting this process, new drugs may be designed to dismantle existing vessels or promote vessel regression in diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
Schepens scientists identify the intracellular switch that regulates angiogenesis, a process that can be both beneficial and detrimental to the body. The discovery may lead to more targeted drugs for diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
In the absence of MT1-MMP, preadipocytes fail to break through extracellular matrix, disrupting fat cell development. However, MT1-MMP is essential for remodeling the surrounding matrix to facilitate normal fat formation. The enzyme may also regulate collagen in white adipose tissue and act as a protein-degrading rheostat.
Researchers Montasir Abbas and Y. H. Percival Zhang received the Powe award to develop models for optimizing traffic signal timing to reduce vehicle emissions. They will also explore ways to improve ethanol production processes using enzymes that break down cellulose into biofuel.
Researchers found that inhibiting heme oxygenase-1 activity reduces tumor growth in mice with Kaposi's sarcoma lesions. The study offers a potential new treatment for the disease.
Researchers have provided new insight into enzyme function through detailed experimental observations and theoretical analysis. Their findings suggest that enzymes use quantum mechanical tunnelling to overcome energy barriers, which could lead to improved pharmaceuticals and manufacturing processes.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have made a significant breakthrough in producing a chemical precursor of artemisinin, the best drug available today to cure malaria. The team's goal is to develop a low-cost alternative that can be widely distributed in developing countries, where the current cost is a major barrier.
Researchers found that St. John's wort and Echinacea can alter the metabolic capacity of enzymes that process medications, potentially leading to reduced therapeutic efficacy. This interaction is particularly concerning for commonly used pharmaceuticals like oral contraceptives and antihistamines.
Researchers have identified a molecular road map for designing new drugs to treat SARS-infected patients, potentially expanding treatment options beyond just COVID-19. The breakthrough was made by unlocking the three-dimensional structure of the papain-like-protease enzyme, essential for viral replication and infection.
A new study uses racemization, the conversion of an optically active compound to a racemic form, as a potential marker for extraterrestrial life. Researchers also developed more sensitive polarimeters that can detect smaller concentrations of optically active compounds in samples from outer space.
Researchers have discovered a plant enzyme called Mir1-CP that protects corn from pests by degrading insects' peritrophic matrix. The enzyme accumulates at feeding sites within an hour of caterpillar feeding, causing impaired nutrient utilization and inhibiting growth.
Researchers at Cornell University and Harvard Medical School found that Pin1 enzyme accelerates amyloid precursor protein (APP) toggle between its good and bad forms, preventing plaque buildup and tangles. This discovery opens up new therapeutic approaches to treating Alzheimer's.
A new screening technique using tandem mass spectrometry can detect seven devastating diseases with enzyme deficiencies in lysosomes. Early diagnosis enables the administration of treatments to repair the biochemical chain and minimize damage, offering improved quality of life for affected children.
A team from Harvard Medical School found that matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) helps remodel brain tissue seven to 14 days after a stroke, potentially aiding recovery. High levels of MMPs were detected in the peri-infarct cortex, an area involved in stroke recovery.
Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new, eco-friendly method for producing Taxol, a top-selling cancer-fighting drug. By harnessing enzymes from the Pacific yew tree and using water-based chemicals, they aim to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact.
Researchers from UW-Madison reveal that protein stability under severe confinement is a delicate balance between energy and entropy. This finding has significant implications for numerous applications, including laundry detergent engineering where enzymes must withstand high temperatures.
Researchers identify key proteins in Salmonella metabolic paths, finding that blocking certain enzymes may not be effective against the bacteria. Only a few essential enzymes are necessary to keep Salmonella alive, and these are also present in other pathogens or human organisms.
Researchers are testing LY450139, a gamma secretase inhibitor, to prevent amyloid plaque build-up and stop Alzheimer's disease progression. The study aims to determine the safety, efficacy, and optimal dosage of the drug in 45 participants.
Scientists successfully synthesized nisin, a peptide antibiotic, in a test tube using just two enzymes. The compound's unique structure and properties make it a potential candidate for developing new antibiotics with reduced resistance.
A new study published in Pharmacogenetics and Genomics found significant variability in pesticide susceptibility among Latina women and their newborns. The researchers used PON1 enzyme activity as a marker for pesticide resistance and discovered that genetic variants can significantly affect enzyme levels, particularly in children.
Researchers discovered significant variations in enzyme expression between adults and children, impacting drug treatment effectiveness. Enzyme levels change dramatically during early life stages, affecting individual susceptibility to drug reactions.
Researchers at Emory University Health Sciences Center have engineered a more efficient variant of the RuBisCO enzyme, which could lead to faster plant growth and more effective carbon dioxide conversion. The new enzyme produces up to 500% more enzyme than existing variants, paving the way for potential solutions to global warming.
Research finds elastases cause emphysema through generation of pro-inflammatory elastin fragments. Blocking elastin fragment activity prevents emphysema in both mouse models. Elastin fragments are chemotactic, attracting inflammatory cells.
Scientists discovered that mice lacking the DNA repair enzyme NEIL1 develop severe obesity and metabolic syndrome, with enlarged livers and insulin resistance. The study suggests an important role for NEIL1 in preventing metabolic disorders.
Researchers have gained a detailed understanding of Dicer's molecular structure, which serves as a 'molecular ruler' for processing RNA fragments. This discovery has significant implications for gene-silencing processes and could lead to new treatments for diseases.