Articles tagged with Enzymes
A recent study published in the journal Hypertension has found a significant association between fatty liver and an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The research suggests that GGT levels are strongly affected by weight and body fat distribution, particularly in overweight participants with central obesity.
A Brandeis University study advances understanding of protein dynamics, proposing that enzymes are more mobile than previously thought. The research linked low-energy and high-energy states to enzyme function, shedding light on improving rational drug design through docking to dynamic targets.
Researchers have found that mice lacking iNOS live twice as long and develop fewer brain lesions than those with iNOS. This could lead to a new treatment approach for Alzheimer's disease, which currently only temporarily improves cognitive function.
Researchers at UVa have isolated a natural compound, INS2, that works by sending a message inside cells to respond to insulin, helping cells dispose of excess glucose. The study found that the more compound injected, the more blood sugar decreased in diabetic rats.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill have discovered a new enzyme that can break down chloroacrylate pesticide residue in just 10,000 years, significantly longer than other environmental pollutants. This enzyme is found in bacteria that thrive on the pesticide and has implications for designing more efficient enzymes.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a novel method for proofreading and error-correction in nanomaterials, utilizing catalytic DNA to detect and remove incorrect particles. This approach mimics nature's accuracy mechanisms in protein synthesis and holds promise for precise control over nanoparticle assembly.
Researchers discovered a specific endometrial target gene, GlcNAc-6-OST, plays a crucial role in the implantation process. Increasing estrogen and progesterone levels enhances this gene's expression, facilitating L-selectin ligand production and successful implantation.
Researchers create three-dimensional topography on DNA surfaces using enzyme-driven process. The method combines enzyme-driven 'carving' and vertical length addition, enabling precise control over structure and composition of DNA nanostructures.
A study by Duke University Medical Center discovered a gene that is more active in obese individuals, causing skeletal muscle tissue and cells to store excess fat. Exercise can potentially change this gene's activity, improving energy balance and enhancing fat burning.
A study has identified a new molecular chaperone involved in assembling the enzyme complex I of mitochondria. The research found that B17.2L is a key protein required for this process and that it is mutated in patients with progressive encephalopathy.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University discovered that plant-derived compounds can block the activity of an enzyme that triggers inflammation in joints. These phytochemicals, also known as phase 2 enzyme inducers, may provide a new approach to treating arthritis and preventing joint pain.
The Northeast Sun Grant Institute at Cornell is a regional hub for researching plant biomass in energy and chemical production. The institute aims to develop sustainable industries and communities by producing bio-economy goods such as biopower, biofuels, and bioproducts.
Rokach's research focuses on designing and synthesizing radio- and photo-affinity ligand molecules to bind to the disease-causing enzyme, which contributes to asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriasis. The grant will support his work on identifying the structure of the enzyme.
Researchers discovered that photolyase uses energy from visible light to repair UV damage in plants and animals, with water playing a key role in the process. This enzyme is missing in humans and other mammals, making them more vulnerable to skin cancer.
Researchers have captured a molecular movie of the sperm's fusion with the egg's coating, revealing a tightly regulated process that enables fertilization. The study found that calcium release triggers membrane fusion, and loose SNARE formations precede the final tight configuration.
Chemists at Ohio State University have successfully tested molecules against HIV and Hepatitis C virus RNA, mimicking natural enzymes to break apart target molecules. The complexes could produce fewer side effects and combat drug resistance, potentially leading to the development of multi-functional drugs
Researchers have purified the enzyme and identified its structure using X-ray crystallography, paving the way for developing drugs that target quorum-sensing pathways. The enzyme disrupts bacterial population sensing, preventing genes from triggering increased virulence.
Researchers are developing an in vitro model to evaluate the ability of several inhibitors to block protein aggregation by TGases. Several compounds show positive effects, including creatine and cystamine hydrochloride.
A team of researchers has discovered a molecular missing link that explains why fasting brings on acute attacks of the genetic disease hepatic porphyria. Fasting increases levels of PGC-1a, which regulates the activity of an enzyme in the heme production pathway, leading to toxic buildup of precursor molecules.
Researchers at UCLA have identified Rpe65 as a crucial enzyme in the regeneration of rhodopsin visual pigment in the retina after light exposure. This breakthrough could lead to a gene therapy cure for Leber congenital amaurosis, an inherited disease causing up to 20% of childhood blindness.
A new technique called piggyBac has been developed to systematically inactivate genes in the mouse genome, enabling researchers to understand the functions of individual genes. This method uses a reliable gene-transposing tool that can insert itself into the genomes of human and mouse cells.
UT Southwestern researchers discovered how a protein called nicastrin is involved in the production of beta-amyloid, a key suspect in Alzheimer's disease. By targeting just this portion of the enzyme, they hope to create treatments that block the formation of amyloid plaques without affecting other essential functions.
Researchers found that knocking out laccase-2 enzyme prevents tanning in red flour beetle, revealing protein responsible for hardened exoskeleton. The discovery opens possibilities for developing new insecticides and bio-rational methods to control pest populations.
Researchers have identified three small molecules that can inhibit the enzyme CDK5, which contributes to the development of Alzheimer's disease. The discovery is promising news for the development of new treatments for the disease.
A team of researchers developed a microreactor that continuously regenerates essential cofactors through enzyme-catalyzed reactions, driving favorable reaction equilibria. This innovation enables the efficient biocatalytic synthesis of chiral fine chemicals in larger quantities.
A study analyzing reports of suspected drug-induced liver injury found that AST and bilirubin levels are key predictors of death or liver transplant in patients with severe drug-induced liver disease. Patients with hepatocellular liver damage had a higher mortality rate, highlighting the importance of monitoring these biomarkers.
Researchers found a unique salt-tolerant enzyme in algae that shares structural similarities with human kidney enzymes. This discovery may lead to the development of new drugs targeting enzyme-based treatments.
Researchers found that the p16 gene inactivates key enzymes JNK 1 and JNK 2, keeping them from activating proteins that promote cell growth. A small protein mimicking p16 has been designed to mimic its action, showing promise for anti-cancer activity.
Researchers at UT Southwestern discovered that WNK1 activates SGK1, leading to sodium ion channel activation and increased blood pressure. The study suggests that genetic factors may play a role in salt-sensitive hypertension., Genetic factors may contribute to hypertension in certain population groups.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered a vicious cycle of protein formation involving alpha-synuclein, leading to fibril formation and further protein clumping. The study suggests that inhibiting the malicious form of an enzyme could potentially lead to new treatment avenues for Parkinson's disease.
Researchers have discovered a new enzyme family that plays a role in Alzheimer's disease, generating toxic molecules called amyloid-beta peptides. The study uses genetically-engineered mice to show that the toxic activity of this enzyme can be separated from its other benign activities.
Researchers used genetic engineering techniques to develop mice with overexpressed PKC-beta 2, demonstrating its role in the progression of diabetic kidney disease. The study found that albumin levels were tenfold higher and oxidative stress three times higher in these mice compared to normal mice.
Researchers at UIC are developing protease inhibitors to block the SARS virus's advance, aiming to reduce viral load and ameliorate disease. The targeted approach, focusing on the backbone of enzymes, is designed to evade mutations that may hinder drug effectiveness.
The new process, developed by Michael Wong and his team, involves mixing polymer, salt, and tiny silica particles to create hollow spheres that can encapsulate drugs, flavor compounds, and other molecular cargo. The microcapsules have potential applications in drug delivery, medical imaging, and enzyme protection.
A new enzyme group has been identified that attaches an unusual molecular tag to microtubules, directing motor proteins to specific destinations. This discovery paves the way for further research on polyglutamylate modification and its role in cellular traffic.
Researchers have solved the co-crystal structure of the Dam enzyme in complex with DNA, revealing its role in regulating bacterial virulence. The study offers a potential target for designing rationally designed drugs to inhibit this enzyme's chemical reaction or DNA binding process.
A new study suggests that eliminating the enzyme ACAT2 could dramatically reduce cardiovascular disease risk. Research in animals shows that cholesterol altered by ACAT2 is more likely to build up in blood vessel walls and cause atherosclerosis.
Researchers from Imperial College London identified an enzyme called IKKá, which acts as a 'brake' on immune cell pathways. By inhibiting IKKa activity, the body's ability to fight off infection increased, but also led to higher inflammatory responses.
Researchers discovered that a 'fickle' enzyme plays both protective and detrimental roles in the heart. When its cofactor is present, it helps regulate blood flow and heart function, but without it, the enzyme produces factors contributing to oxidative stress.
Researchers identified cathepsin B and L as essential enzymes for Ebola virus reproduction, shedding light on its infection mechanism. Inhibiting these enzymes could lead to the development of a broad-spectrum antiviral therapy against multiple hemorrhagic fever viruses.
Researchers have identified the KMO enzyme as a potential therapeutic target for Huntington's disease, with a chemical compound already available to inhibit its activity. The discovery could take research in a new direction towards microglial cells, which are thought to play an important role in the progression of the disease.
A high-throughput screening method using automated imaging and bioinformatics has identified a novel compound with promising potential as an anticancer agent. The compound, hydroxy-PP, targets carbonyl reductase 1, an enzyme involved in chemotherapy-related cardiotoxicity.
Researchers have identified a missing enzyme in M. tuberculosis that plays a crucial role in the bacterium's ability to acquire iron through mycobactin synthesis. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding the iron scavenging pathway in TB and provides new avenues for developing effective anti-TB drugs.
A recent UCSF study has identified a genetic mutation in the casein kinase1 delta (CK1 delta) gene that is associated with familial advanced sleep phase syndrome (FASPS), a rare sleep disorder. The research, published in Nature, also suggests that circadian rhythm variants may contribute to psychiatric disorders such as depression.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have successfully reversed glycogen buildup in heart and skeletal muscle of genetically altered mice using a muscle-targeted gene therapy. This approach shows promise as a potential treatment strategy for Pompe disease patients who fail to respond to enzyme replacement therapy.
Cancer cells' DNA is tightly compacted, making it resistant to enzyme digestion, unlike healthy tissue. The study's findings suggest new diagnostic and therapeutic tools for distinguishing different types of tumors.
Researchers at Imperial College London have solved the structure of the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus enzyme, revealing its atomic details and potential target for anti-viral drugs. The discovery could lead to the development of a vaccine that can be administered quickly to control outbreaks.
Researchers discovered RNA loops and knots play a crucial role in A-to-I RNA recoding, enabling species-specific editing of proteins. By understanding these molecular structures, scientists can gain insights into the genetic code and improve our ability to interpret genome information.
Researchers have discovered a method to store biomaterials in cells' natural vaults, enabling targeted drug delivery and gene editing. This approach may prove safer than traditional methods by minimizing the risk of an immune response.
Tufts-NEMC researchers have discovered a key enzyme responsible for cancer cell growth and invasion, which can be blocked by new compounds called pepducins. The finding provides a novel therapeutic approach for treating invasive cancers.
Researchers at UT Southwestern have discovered that aconitase, an enzyme involved in energy production, plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the mitochondrial genome. This finding reveals a new function for the enzyme, independent of its metabolic activity.
Researchers discovered that a lack of enzyme ACC2 turns fat cells into fat burners, leading to increased oxidation of fatty acids and glucose. This transformation contributes to improved energy maintenance and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.
Researchers isolated a highly reactive iron-sulfur complex from a bacterium, which outperforms current industrial catalysts in reactivity. The discovery could lead to the development of new, more efficient chemical processes and materials.
Researchers found that increasing one skill can significantly impact others, with some activities dropping and others increasing in levels. The primary function of the enzymes remained largely unchanged despite changes in other promiscuous traits.
Researchers at Stanford University have solved part of the puzzle on how Botox works by binding to specific sites on proteins called SNAREs, preventing muscle contraction and paralysis. The study could help develop alternative treatments for botulism and find new medical applications for Botox and other neurotoxins.
Scientists found that animals with extra copies of the AMP-1 enzyme lived 13% longer than controls, while environmental stressors activating AMP-1 also led to longer lives. The study's findings have broad implications for understanding human aging and potentially extending lifespan through exercise and therapeutics.
Scientists have discovered a defense mechanism in certain plant species that were believed to be bred out of existence due to human selection. The study found that a specific enzyme and protein complex work together to defend against insect attacks, but their activity is suppressed in plants bred for desirable traits.
Researchers found that sperm motility and ATP production depend on a metabolic pathway called glycolysis, which uses sugar to produce energy. Without the enzyme glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase-S (GAPDS), sperm movement is severely impaired, making it a potential target for non-hormonal male contraceptives.
Researchers at Cardiff University have identified an oxygen-sensing molecule, hemoxygenase-2, which helps the brain adjust breathing rates in response to low oxygen levels. The discovery has important implications for understanding and treating conditions where oxygen levels are scarce, such as following a stroke or during birth.
New research from Newcastle University found that green and black tea inhibit the activity of certain enzymes in the brain linked to memory decline. The study suggests that drinking regular cups of tea may help improve memory and slow the development of Alzheimer's disease.