Warm milk makes you sleepy — peptides could explain why
Scientists have identified specific peptides in milk that relieve stress and enhance sleep. The study found that one of these peptides, YPVEPF, increased sleep duration by over 400% in mice.
Peptides
Articles tagged with Peptides
TTUHSC researcher investigates ways to enhance neurolysin activity in the brain
Researchers at TTUHSC have identified novel targets for treating stroke, focusing on enhancing neurolysin activity. The study discovered small molecules that can selectively enhance the activity of neurolysin, which showed promise in reducing damage to the brain after a stroke.
A peptide-drug conjugate that targets the acidic environment of cancer cells may improve the efficacy of immunotherapy
A peptide-drug conjugate called CBX-12 has been shown to enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in preclinical cancer models by targeting the acidic environment of cancer cells. The treatment exhibited significantly delayed tumor growth, improved survival, and complete tumor regressions compared to immunotherapy alone.
More effective treatment of Alzheimer’s
Researchers at Uppsala University have designed new antibodies that bind to both large and small aggregates of the amyloid-beta protein, potentially providing a more effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease. The new antibody format is stronger in binding to clumps and can also target smaller aggregates.
Molecular burdocks: peptides guide self-assembly on the micrometre scale
Scientists use specific self-assembling peptides to organize silica nanoparticles into larger structures, demonstrating a new approach to self-assembly. The researchers' method enables the creation of novel materials with various applications, including drug delivery systems and nanocatalysts.
Protease shows promise as feed additive for poultry farming
A new study found that a subtilisin-like proteinase from Bacillus pumilus 3-19 exhibits proteolytic activity in Pichia pastoris, dependent on incubation time and signal peptide choice. The production of this enzyme makes the system promising for developing new feed additives for animal husbandry.
Discovery of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro peptide inhibitors from modelling substrate and ligand binding’
Researchers designed novel molecules that bound tightly to SARS-CoV-2's molecular scissors, inhibiting the virus's replication. The breakthrough could lead to new treatments for COVID-19.
Mimicking nature to provide long-lasting local anesthesia
A new biomimetic system mimics the body's own receptors for anesthetics, providing prolonged nerve blockade with minimal toxicity. The system consists of nanostructures that bind to tetrodotoxin and slowly release it, allowing for long-lasting pain relief without systemic toxicity.
How migraines protect against diabetes
Researchers found that certain peptides associated with migraine pain can regulate insulin production in mice, potentially preventing type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that these peptides could be developed into therapeutic strategies to control blood sugar levels, while minimizing the risk of migraines.
Possible new antivirals against COVID-19, herpes
Scientists have developed stable peptide mimics called peptoids to treat viruses and prevent infections. Peptoids, such as those tested against SARS-CoV-2 and HSV-1, could one day cure or prevent many kinds of infections, including COVID-19.
Peptide-based biosensor for biochemical express-testing
Researchers from ETU LETI and Institute of Highly Pure Biopreparations proposed a new-generation biochip for multiparametric express-testing using molecular recognition and direct fluorimetry. The device selectively detects cardiac markers without fluorescent labels, reducing background fluorescence to 30%.
Virginia Tech scientists distill cow’s milk into nano-capsules for drug delivery
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a scalable method to harvest exosomes from unpasteurized cow's milk, enabling the production of purified exosomes for oral drug delivery. The new protocol advances pharmaceutical applications for fragile drugs and opens up a wide range of clinical applications.
Russian scientists investigate the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 variants
Researchers assessed effectiveness of T-cell immune response to 11 SARS-CoV-2 variants, identifying HLA gene variants with significantly changed virus peptides. The T-cell COVID-19 Atlas portal (T-CoV) provides a comprehensive resource for understanding the impact of viral mutations on immunity.
Gel drops for regenerative medicine
Researchers developed gel drops from four amino acid peptides that support cell growth and induce blood vessel formation. The microgels were successfully used to grow endothelial cells on their surfaces, which then extended into tubular blood vessels.
Neural network detects protein-peptide binding sites to kick-start peptide drug discovery
Researchers have developed a neural network model called BiteNetPp to detect protein-peptide binding sites, enabling the design of peptide-based drugs. The model consistently outperforms existing methods and can analyze a single protein structure in under a second, making it suitable for large-scale studies.
Metal-based molecules show promise against the build-up of Alzheimer's peptides
Researchers at Imperial College London have created a metal-based molecule that inhibits the build-up of amyloid-β peptides associated with Alzheimer's disease. The molecule was shown to be non-toxic to human brain-like cells and cross the blood-brain barrier in mice using focused ultrasound.
TSUBAME supercomputer predicts cell-membrane permeability of cyclic peptides
Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a computational method to predict the cell-membrane permeability of cyclic peptides, exhibiting promising accuracy. The protocol has potential to aid in designing and discovering cyclic peptide drugs with high cell-membrane permeability.
Putting a load on: Load stimulates bone formation via expression of osteocrin
Researchers discovered that physical load stimulates bone growth through the expression of osteocrin (OSTN), a peptide produced by osteoblasts. OSTN is critical to regulating bone growth and physical endurance, with its expression decreasing when load is reduced and increasing with load stimulation.
MaxDIA -- taking proteomics to the next level
The new MaxDIA software provides a computational workflow for data-independent acquisition proteomics, combining library-based and library-free approaches. This enables highly sensitive and accurate data analysis for thousands of proteins, opening up new possibilities for medical applications in personalized medicine.
In a supramolecular realm: Advances in intracellular spaces with de novo designed peptide
Researchers develop a de novo peptide Y15 that readily forms secondary structures to enable bottom-up synthesis of functional protein assemblies in live cells. The peptide enables the formation of fibrous structures and clusters in test tubes and live cells, facilitating protein assembly and reconstitution of natural complexes.
Study seeks to understand, prevent ice recrystalization
Scientists at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture are working on developing biobased peptides to restrict ice crystal growth in freezing temperatures. Successful methods could improve frozen food quality, increase crop resistance to freezing temperatures, and enhance biomedical research.
Human molecule blocking toxic forms of Parkinson's-related protein identified
A human endogenous peptide called LL-37 has been identified as a powerful blocker of toxic α-synuclein oligomers, which are responsible for neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease. The discovery suggests that this naturally occurring molecule could be a safe and effective therapy to slow down the progression of the disease.
Sunflower peptide as 'template' for potential analgesic
A naturally occurring peptide in sunflower seeds has been identified as a potential drug for treating abdominal pain or inflammation. The peptide selectively activates pain transmission pathways without causing opioid side effects, reducing the risk of dependency and overdose.
Striking gold: Synthesizing green gold nanoparticles for cancer therapy with biomolecules
Researchers have developed a novel synthesis method using peptides to create green gold nanoparticles, which can target and destroy cancer cells using near-infrared light. The findings provide an easy and eco-friendly protocol for Au nanoparticle synthesis, opening doors to non-toxic nanoparticle therapeutic agents.
The very venomous caterpillar
A team of researchers from the University of Queensland has discovered a venomous caterpillar that produces peptides with high potency against nematode parasites and disease-causing pathogens. The study also unlocks a source of bioactive peptides with potential uses in medicine, biotechnology, and scientific tools.
Skeletal scaffold supports bone cells and blood vessels
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) create a biomaterial that supports the growth of bone marrow precursor cells and forms tubular blood vessels, mimicking natural bone tissue architecture. This breakthrough enables the development of 3D disease models for tissue engineering and biomedical research.
Scientists unravel the function of a sight-saving growth factor
Researchers have determined how peptides derived from PEDF protect neuronal cells in the retina layer, which could lead to treatments for degenerative retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration. The study found that these peptides work by binding to a protein receptor and processing omega-3 fatty acids like DHA.
VUMC Team Develops Potential Treatment for Life-threatening Microbial Inflammation
Researchers developed a cell-penetrating peptide to prevent septic shock in animal models. The treatment shows promise in protecting patients with metabolic syndrome and those at risk of severe COVID-19 complications.
Clever biomolecular labelling enables identification of immune cells
Researchers at the University of Göttingen have developed a non-toxic method to label peptides and investigate their mechanism of action. The new technique allows for efficient screening of molecules important for the adaptive immune system, which can help fight infections and cancer.
Peptide nanoparticles marked for in vitro visualization
Researchers at Kazan Federal University and Chinese Academy Sciences have developed peptide nanoparticles that can be visualized in living cells using hyperspectral microscopy. These nanoparticles have the ability to scatter light efficiently, allowing for non-fluorescent labeling of cells.
Deciphering structure of a toxic matter that destroys the nerves in the brain
A research team identified the structure of hetero-oligomers causing Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases to overlap. The study reveals that these aggregates have more degrees of freedom, allowing peptides to be loosely packed on their surface.
New insights on animals in the African past
Researchers have developed new peptide markers to identify African bovid species, enabling more accurate analysis of ancient animal remains. The discovery sheds light on subsistence strategies and paleoenvironments in Iron Age Zambia.
Chemical changes to peptide siRNA-carrier enhance gene silencing for future cancer drugs
MUSC researchers develop peptide siRNA carriers that improve gene silencing and deliver siRNA into cancer cells. The modified carriers, such as RD3AD, use filopodia entry to efficiently deliver the therapeutic molecules.
Stanford bioengineer aims to turn nature's virus fighters into powerful drugs
A Stanford bioengineer has developed peptide-like molecules called peptoids that can retain therapeutic properties against viruses, offering a new approach to treating infectious diseases. The peptoids work by disrupting the virus's outer membrane, making them promising antiviral agents.
A peptide that allows cannabis-derived drugs to relieve pain without side effects
A team of scientists from Pompeu Fabra University has developed a peptide that allows delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to fight pain in mice without cognitive side effects. The peptide, which interrupts the interaction between THC and serotonin receptors, improves memory capacity while providing analgesia.
A hairpin to fight cancer
Researchers have developed a bicyclic peptide that binds to and inhibits the oncogenic protein beta-catenin, which is associated with certain types of tumor. The peptide's unique hairpin shape and cyclic nature mimic natural protein structures, making it an attractive starting point for developing new antitumor drugs.
Peptide could allow medical marijuana to relieve pain without side effects
Researchers have developed a peptide that enables THC to fight pain without the cognitive side effects associated with cannabis. In mice, the optimized peptide showed improved memory and reduced immune response, making it an ideal drug candidate for reducing cognitive side effects from cannabis-based pain management.
Using phage to discover new antifreeze proteins
A team of scientists from the University of Warwick used phage display to discover a small peptide that can bind to ice, which has potential applications in preserving frozen cells and foods. The discovery highlights the power of biotechnology tools in discovering new materials with unique properties.
Monash study may help boost peptide design
Scientists have discovered a crucial aspect of peptide machinery, providing a breakthrough in re-engineering peptides. The study sheds light on how selectivity is achieved in the assembly lines that produce peptides, enabling single amino acid changes without altering multiple components.
Scientists develop better way to block viruses that cause childhood respiratory infections
Researchers have improved a method to prevent human parainfluenza virus attachment to cells, leading to 30% to 40% of childhood respiratory illnesses. The new peptide is more effective and persistent in rodent models.
Journal publishes research review by TTUHSC pharmacy investigator
Research suggests that bradykinin, substance P, and neurotensin may contribute to severe COVID-19 complications through mechanisms involving vascular permeability and cytokine storms. The review aims to bring awareness to these often-overlooked peptides, which may play a crucial role in disease management.
Toward painless oral insulin administration
Researchers from Kumamoto University have successfully developed oral insulin using DNP peptides and zinc insulin hexamers. This breakthrough aims to improve the quality of life for diabetics who struggle with painful self-injection therapy.
Researchers have identified a novel autoantigen in narcolepsy, a mimic of a protein from H1N1 virus
Researchers have identified a novel autoantigen in narcolepsy, which mimics a protein from the H1N1 virus. Immune cells in narcolepsy patients mounted stronger responses against viral peptides and human proteins, leading to the discovery of a self-protein that triggers an autoimmune response.
Researchers uncover activation mechanism of a cell growth protein that can trigger cancer
Researchers have identified the activation mechanism of SHP2, a key player in cancer development. The study reveals that flexible beta sheets, not previously thought to be crucial, open in the presence of a peptide, triggering SHP2 activation.
Newly-discovered molecule provides dual protection against vascular inflammation
A new mitochondrial peptide called MOCCI regulates inflammation of blood vessels and immunity after viral infection. Researchers discovered that MOCCI dampens the activity of Complex IV in mitochondria to reduce inflammation.
Picosecond electron transfer in peptides can help energy technologies
Scientists have observed unusually fast picosecond electron transfer in peptides mediated by hydrogen bonds, a rate 1 million times faster than previously known. This discovery has the potential to improve chemical transformations, energy conversion, electronic devices, and photonic technologies.
How the fly selects its reproductive male
A team of scientists from UNIGE has identified a crucial role for a micro-peptide in determining the sperm that will fertilize an egg in Drosophila females. The peptide plays a key part in the competition between spermatozoa from different males, and its absence leads to reduced fertility in subsequent matings.
Ultrashort peptides go a long way for tissue engineering
Researchers develop a new bioprinting process using ultrashort peptides, overcoming challenges in cell survival and creating complex scaffolds that facilitate long-term cell growth. The technology enables the creation of tissue models for high-throughput drug screening and diagnosis.
Unusual mechanism in rare mutation associated with Alzheimer's uncovered
A novel mechanism has been identified that might explain why a rare mutation is associated with familial Alzheimer's disease. The presence of the S198P mutation resulted in elevated levels of A? peptides due to rapid folding of APP, leading to faster production and deposition of A? peptides.
Bacteria may aid anti-cancer immune response
Researchers have discovered that bacteria residing within tumor cells can be harnessed to provoke an immune reaction against the tumor. The findings suggest that bacterial peptides presented on tumor cells can serve as potential targets for immunotherapy, enabling immune T cells to recognize and attack cancer cells more precisely.
Amyloid plaque mutation map opens new avenues for early detection of Alzheimer's disease
A comprehensive mutation map of the amyloid beta peptide has been developed to predict whether specific mutations increase an individual's risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The study found that certain mutations accelerate protein aggregation, leading to the formation of toxic plaques in the brain.
Nanoenzymes designed with a unique combination of structure and functions
Researchers at the UAB have designed minimalist biostructures that imitate natural enzymes, carrying out two differentiated and reversibly regulated activities. These peptides can be used to create 'intelligent' nanomaterials with tailor-made combinations of catalytic functions for practical applications.
Tricking the novel coronavirus with a fake "handshake"
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed protein fragments called peptides that effectively bind to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, blocking the virus's ability to access host cells. The team envisions delivering these peptides in nasal sprays or aerosol disinfectants to prevent viral entry.
Screening for macrocyclic peptides
Researchers designed a simple screening assay based on competitive binding to identify peptide candidates with high binding affinity for ubiquitin. The dimers of cyclic peptides were found to be more potent than control peptides and induced cell death in live cancer cell lines.
A peptide that inhibits virus transmission among ferrets may point to a promising treatment
A newly engineered peptide has been shown to prevent virus transmission among ferrets when given two days prior to co-housing with infected animals. The peptide's stability and effectiveness in reducing infection rates make it a promising candidate for developing an intranasal prophylaxis treatment against SARS-CoV-2 in humans.
The therapeutic potential of peptides
Researchers are harnessing the power of peptides to develop new therapeutics, leveraging vast libraries and animal venom to discover novel leads. Recent studies have shown promising results in pain relief and biopesticides, highlighting the potential for peptides to revolutionize the pharmaceutical landscape.
Brain protein that causes Alzheimer's also protects against the disease: USask research
A new study by USask researchers found that a shorter form of a brain protein, Aβ38, halts damage-causing mechanisms of its longer counterpart, Aβ42. This discovery could help identify people at highest risk for developing Alzheimer's and slow or prevent its onset.
Biobased anti-thrombosis agent
Researchers created potent trivalent inhibitors of thrombin from anticoagulation peptides in insect saliva, demonstrating improved efficiency over natural agents. The new agent showed 385-fold inhibition in human plasma and reduced fibrin accumulation, offering potential for efficient anticoagulation drugs.
Mitochondrial mutation increases the risk of diabetes in Japanese men
A new study found that a mitochondrial gene variant increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes in Japanese men, particularly in sedentary individuals. Exercise was shown to mitigate this risk, highlighting the importance of physical activity in preventing the disease.
Fishing out the bad apples: Novel quantitative method to assess the safety of food
Researchers at Chung-Ang University have created a novel quantitative method to assess the safety of food, particularly for fish samples. By using fluorescent carbon nanoparticles and a protein that binds strongly to histamine, the team can accurately quantify histamine levels in fish samples with high sensitivity and specificity.