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JCI online ahead of print table of contents for April 17, 2014

Researchers developed a double-stapled peptide that prevents RSV infection by stabilizing its structure, allowing for effective prevention in both cell culture and murine models. Additionally, intranasal and intratracheal delivery methods were found to be effective in preventing nasopulmonary infection.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 17, 2014

A paper diagnostic for cancer

A new paper diagnostic for cancer has been developed by MIT engineers, which can detect the disease in minutes using a urine sample. The technology relies on nanoparticles that interact with tumor proteins, releasing biomarkers that are easily detectable in urine.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 24, 2014

Cancer drugs hitch a ride on 'smart' gold nanoshells

Researchers have developed 'smart' gold nanoshells that target cancer cells specifically, delivering anticancer drugs and converting near-infrared light into heat. This breakthrough could lead to more effective cancer treatments by overcoming the limitation of traditional chemotherapy techniques.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBiomedical Materials·DateFeb 13, 2014

New test targets salmonella

Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel biosensor that can detect multiple strains of salmonella pathogens in food quickly and easily. The sensor uses microcantilevers decorated with peptides to identify the presence of specific bacteria, delivering results within minutes and outperforming existing standard tests.

SourceRice University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJan 21, 2014

Breaking the code

Researchers developed a diagnostic method that reveals factors behind conditions thought to have environmental triggers by decoding an individual's immune system. The process identifies disease-specific antibodies and their corresponding antigens, providing insight into conditions like Type-1 diabetes, autism, and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 21, 2013

Researchers gain fuller picture of cell protein reactions

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 ...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateNov 21, 2013

Light triggers death switch in cancer cells

Researchers at Cardiff University have created a peptide linked to a light-responsive dye that triggers cell death in cancerous cells. The new pathway activation technology, called transient photoactivation, enables scientists to precisely define the area where peptides should act, leading to more effective treatment strategies.

SourceCardiff University·JournalMolecular BioSystems·DateOct 16, 2013

New drugs to find the right target to fight Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have developed two new classes of compounds that target the gamma-secretase enzyme to treat Alzheimer's disease. These compounds produce shorter forms of amyloid peptide 38, which do not aggregate into neurotoxic plaques. Early-onset hereditary forms of Alzheimer's may be linked to mutations in the APP protein gene, leading...

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 2, 2013

Pioneering breakthrough of chemical nanoengineering to design drugs controlled by light

Researchers have synthesized peptides that change shape upon irradiation with light, allowing control of protein-protein interactions and endocytosis. These molecules have immediate applicability for studying cancer cells and developmental biology, paving the way for optopharmacology and personalized medicine.

Alzheimer's leaves clues in blood

Researchers at Araclon Biotech have developed a blood test to measure beta amyloid peptides, which are associated with Alzheimer's disease. The test shows a high level of association between peptide levels and the disease, suggesting a potential biomarker for early diagnosis.

SourceKaizo·DateJun 3, 2013

Linking insulin to learning

Harvard researchers show that insulin-like peptides play a crucial role in regulating learning and memory by fine-tuning neuronal activity. The study reveals a bidirectional regulation of learning, with some peptides inhibiting learning while others facilitate it.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 26, 2013

Slow-release 'jelly' delivers drugs better

Duke University engineers developed a novel delivery system that overcomes the limitations of peptide drugs, which are used to treat diseases like diabetes and cancer. The new system, called POD, uses a fusion protein that releases the drug slowly and steadily, reducing side effects.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2013

JCI early table of contents for Jan. 9, 2013

Researchers found a small peptide that blocks antibody recognition of desmogleins, improving cell-cell adhesion and preventing skin blistering in pemphigus vulgaris. Additionally, spironolactone reduced vascular calcification in kidney disease mice, increasing their life span. A glioblastoma fusion gene promoted tumor growth and progre...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 9, 2013