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Optimizing antiviral peptide vaccines

Researchers have developed optimized antiviral peptide vaccines that exhibit enhanced efficacy against various viral infections, including HIV and SARS-CoV-2. These improvements are attributed to the incorporation of specific amino acid sequences that enhance immune responses.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 28, 2001

Harnessing the autoimmune response

Researchers develop a technique to conjugate peptides to virus-like particles, generating high-titer antibodies that inhibit disease-causing cytokines. This approach shows promise in blocking or delaying onset of autoimmune diseases such as arthritis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2001

Double headed hydra

Jan Lohmann and Thomas Bosch report a discovery of the novel peptide HEADY, which acts as a potent inducer of head formation in lower metazoans. Grafting experiments show that HEADY induces a secondary head in Hydra tissue, revealing its role as a developmental switch for axis specification.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 31, 2000

Brain contains cocaine-like chemical

A study published by Emory University researchers found that a naturally occurring neurotransmitter called CART peptide produces behaviors associated with cocaine and methamphetamine. The finding suggests a role for the brain chemical in modulating or mediating the actions of drugs and potentially treating addiction.

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics·DateJul 18, 2000

New drugs target HIV's deep pocket

Researchers have developed a new family of chemicals that bind specifically to the gp41 pocket, halting HIV's ability to infect cells. The compounds, created using mirror-image phage display, show promise as potential oral treatments for HIV, with advantages including reduced cell membrane penetration and lower likelihood of resistance.

NYU And Rockefeller Scientists Design Molecules That Stymie A Notorious Bug

Researchers discover the structure of a key compound enabling the bacterium's deadly mechanism and create molecules that block its effects in mice. The study provides a novel way to combat Staphylococcus aureus infections without killing the bacteria, potentially addressing antibiotic resistance.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 16, 1999

New Compound May Aid Hunt For Stroke Drugs

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a peptide that closes an NMDA glutamate receptor, potentially aiding the development of stroke treatment drugs. The peptide, known as Mag-1.5, can help regulate communication between nerve cells and may provide insights for potential new therapies.