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'Kick-starting' male fertility

Researchers found that eggs that don't fertilise due to defective PLCz protein can be treated with human PLCz, initiating fertilisation and improving pregnancy chances. The study strengthens potential use of PLCz in treating male infertility.

SourceCardiff University·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateSep 21, 2012

Chain reaction in the human immune system trapped in crystals

Researchers at Aarhus University have determined the atomic structures of MASP-2 and its substrate C4, shedding light on the complement system's activation process. The findings may lead to more intelligent ways of developing drugs that attenuate undesired activation of the complement system.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 2012
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

UNC team describes novel inflammatory protein function

A UNC-led team describes a previously uncharacterized protein NLRC3 that inhibits NF-Kappa B activation and forms a novel TRAFasome complex. This discovery provides insight into mechanisms controlling inflammation and identifies potential therapeutic targets.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Immunology·DateAug 6, 2012

OHSU discovery may lead to new treatment for ALS

Researchers at OHSU School of Dentistry discovered that TDP-43, linked to ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases, activates multiple molecular pathways when genetically manipulated. The study found that the loss of TDP-43 results in widespread gene activation and altered splicing, which can be reversed by restoring TDP-43 expression.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateJul 18, 2012

Newly identified protein function protects cells during injury

Scientists have identified a new protein function that protects heart cells from damage during extreme hypertension and cardiac pressure overload. The discovery could lead to the development of treatments for conditions like cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCell·DateJun 7, 2012

New strategy directly activates cellular 'death protein'

Researchers have identified a prototype compound that can directly activate the BAX protein, leading to apoptosis in cancer cells. This new paradigm for designing cancer drugs may lead to new therapeutic strategies.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMay 31, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Study: Heart damage after chemo linked to stress in cardiac cells

A new study suggests that a protein called heat shock factor-1 (HSF-1) is involved in chemotherapy-related heart damage. Researchers propose targeting HSF-1 in the heart as a potential therapy to prevent cardiac damage, potentially leading to improved outcomes for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 21, 2012

Long-held genetic theory doesn't quite make the grade, NYU biologists find

Researchers shed light on how physical traits are arranged in body plans by studying fruit fly Drosophila. They found that a single gradient of proteins is not sufficient to form the same body plan in each member of a species, but multiple gradients working against each other create a robust system for normal development.

SourceNew York University·JournalCell·DateApr 26, 2012

Diabetic kidney failure follows a 'ROCK'y road

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discover that ROCK1 protein activates mitochondrial fission, leading to diabetic kidney disease. The study reveals a key metabolic pathway involved in the progression of kidney disease in diabetes.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 7, 2012
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Researchers describe how critical protein activates plant immune system

Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding how the EDS1 protein, a central component of plant defense, interacts with other proteins to activate an immune response. The study reveals that EDS1 is attacked by virulence proteins from pathogens and triggers the activation of distinct immune responses to isolate the infection.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2011

Caltech researchers find pulsating response to stress in bacteria

Researchers at Caltech found that bacterial cells respond to stress by continuously flipping genes on and off, similar to a heater switching on and off. This pulsating mechanism, triggered by molecular fluctuations, could drive other cellular processes and reveal more about how life works.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateNov 2, 2011

Eating green veggies improves immune defenses

Researchers found that green vegetables stimulate a key immune system function by regulating cell surface proteins in the gut and skin. This helps maintain healthy intra-epithelial lymphocytes (IELs), which are crucial for fighting off infections.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateOct 13, 2011
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Activating your ABCs might help prevent AD (Alzheimer disease)

Researchers have identified a way to reduce beta-amyloid in mouse brains with AD, suggesting that activating ABCC1 transport protein could impede amyloid plaque formation. The approach uses thiethylperazine to activate ABC transporters and has potential for treating Alzheimer's disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 1, 2011

Cell rigidity linked to activity in proteins associated with cancer

Researchers discovered a link between cell rigidity and proteins associated with cancer activity, using innovative collaboration between physics and cell biology. Exerting mechanical force on cells activates Rho GEF proteins, leading to tumor growth and metastasis.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMay 16, 2011
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

A new drug target in atherosclerosis: The anaphylatoxin C5a

Scientists have discovered that anaphylatoxin C5a contributes to the development of atherosclerotic disease by causing plaques to break free and block blood vessels. Inhibiting C5a may provide a new therapeutic tool for preventing heart attacks and strokes.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 4, 2011

JCI online early table of contents: Dec. 13, 2010

Researchers have identified a mechanism that could explain why flu infections may help prevent asthma in children. Infection with influenza A virus protects mice from asthma by expanding NKT cells, which are immune cells that play a key role in the body's response to infection.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 13, 2010

There's a new 'officer' in the infection control army

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered a new regulatory protein, GAKIN, that oversees the activity of CARD11, a key player in immune cell activation. This finding presents opportunities to develop new treatments for autoimmune diseases and cancer by targeting hyperactive immune cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 9, 2010
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Possible new drug targets for the genetic disorder Noonan syndrome

A study has identified two key signaling pathways - Ras/MAPK and Rac/Stat3 - that are activated in the hearts of mice with a Noonan syndrome-associated Sos1 mutation. These pathways may be crucial for understanding the development of heart defects in individuals with the disorder.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2010

New research finds major activation themes in denture-stomatitis

Research finds key gene expression pathways involved in Candidiasis-associated denture stomatitis, with significant up-regulation of TLR2 and CD28 signaling. Saliva analysis reveals six extracellular protein genes linked to stomatitis.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJul 16, 2010

First step to new therapy for chronic bowel disease

Scientists discover A20 protein plays a protective role in chronic bowel inflammation, making it a promising therapeutic target. The study confirms genome-wide analysis results showing defects in A20 associated with Crohn's disease development.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 5, 2010

New function discovered in cancer-prevention protein

Researchers found that p53 is activated during the formation of spermatozoa and ova, controlling the creation of gametes to prevent mutations. This discovery suggests a new role for the tumour suppressor gene in evolution, potentially leading to new approaches in cancer research.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalScience·DateJun 10, 2010
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Hopkins researchers put proteins right where they want them

Researchers expanded a method to move proteins inside cells to specific organelles, enabling rapid manipulation of protein activities. By studying the signaling protein Ras, they gained insights into how proteins contribute to cellular responses and signal division and growth.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 14, 2010
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Hindering HIV-1-fighting immune cells

A new study reveals that HLA B*35-Px molecules cripple killer T cell responses, allowing HIV to progress more rapidly. This finding highlights the importance of inhibitory dendritic cell receptors in HIV-1 vaccine and therapy design.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateDec 14, 2009

Protein interaction network can respond Helicobacter pylori infection?

A study found that protein interaction networks respond to Helicobacter pylori infection by activating immune-related proteins and interacting with cancer-related proteins. The network construction reveals potential drug targets for gastric inflammation and cancer, including hub and bottleneck proteins.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateOct 16, 2009

Piece from childhood virus may save soldiers' lives

A harmless shard from a childhood virus's shell may halt the complement response, a primordial part of the immune system that kills oxygen-deprived victims. This discovery could help save soldiers' lives and reduce brain damage caused by reperfusion injury.

SourceEastern Virginia Medical School·DateSep 6, 2009
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Antibody targeting the protein FGFR3 inhibits cancer cell growth

A team of researchers developed an antibody targeting FGFR3, which showed potent antitumor activity against human bladder cancer cells and t(4;14)-positive multiple myeloma cells. The antibody also demonstrated activity against normal FGFR3 and mutated forms associated with cancer.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 20, 2009

Protein helps immune cells to divide and conquer

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine identified CD98hc protein as essential for B lymphocyte division and antibody secretion. The protein supports integrin signaling, which controls cell migration, survival, and proliferation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 8, 2009
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

New step in DNA damage response in neurons discovered

Researchers have identified a crucial biochemical step involved in nerve cells' response to DNA damage. Cdk5 activation is necessary before ATM can function in neurons, suggesting it as a potential drug target for neurodegenerative diseases. This discovery sheds light on the underlying mechanisms of ataxia telangiectasia and other neur...

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 18, 2009

JCI online early table of contents: Dec. 15, 2008

Researchers have identified a new genetic cause of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), also known as 'Boy in the bubble syndrome'. A mutation in the DNA-PKcs gene has been found to be associated with T-B SCID, where patients lack both T and B cells. Further analysis revealed that the mutant protein retained kinase activity but was...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 15, 2008
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

A mechanism for the development of obesity-associated conditions

A new study found that targeting liver CB1 receptor may treat obesity-related conditions without brain-side effects, reversing severe insulin resistance and fatty liver in mice fed high-fat diets. The research indicates liver-specific CB1 is necessary for high-fat diet-induced fatty liver and related hormonal changes.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2008

Hyperactive immune resistance brings blindness in old age

Researchers have discovered that hyperactive immune resistance contributes to age-dependent macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in Western countries. The study found that patients with AMD had an entire immune system hyperactive, which may lead to permanent inflammation and vision loss.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2008

New discovery on role of vital protein that fights meningitis

Researchers have discovered that Properdin, a protein linked to defence against meningitis, plays a more vital role than previously understood in the body's immune defence system. The study also found that Properdin can aggravate organ damage in certain conditions.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateMay 6, 2008

Gene predicts heart attack response and cardiac damage

A protein called macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has been found to activate AMPK, a key regulator of cellular energy balance, protecting the heart from injury during a heart attack. MIF may help identify individuals at higher risk for cardiac damage during a heart attack based on their genetic characteristics.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 2008
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Exercising our immune system

Research finds that elite rowers show a significant reduction in lactoferrin concentration after five months of sedentary lifestyle, but experience an increase in salivary proteins following moderate and high-intensity exercise. This study aims to test the effectiveness of nutritional interventions on the immune system.

SourceResearch Australia·DateDec 3, 2007

Glue inside the cell

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have found that ubiquitin attaches to Malt1 protein in T cells upon antigen stimulation, regulating immune defense. This process is reversible and helps prevent over-activation of T cells, a common cause of chronic diseases.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateOct 19, 2007

Mercury's link to heart disease begins in blood vessel walls

Mercury has been shown to activate phospholipase D enzyme in cells lining blood vessels, causing damage and contributing to vascular disorders. Chelation therapy and antioxidants have been found to suppress this activity, suggesting potential preventive measures against mercury-induced cardiovascular disease.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Toxicology·DateMay 30, 2007
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

News tips from the Journal of Biological Chemistry

Researchers identified a new protein involved in egg activation and its role in fertilization. A chemical has been found effective against anthrax by blocking spore germination. A new protein also controls the growth of the hepatitis C virus, which could lead to new drug development.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 20, 2007

Cooling analgesia harnessed to relieve chronic pain

Researchers have identified a protein called TRPM8 that mediates sensations of coolness and is expressed in nerve cells in the skin, responding to both cool temperatures and cooling chemicals like mint oil. This discovery has great potential for relieving chronic pain patients with approaches using cooling compounds

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 21, 2006

Protein plays broader role than originally thought in neurofibromatosis

Researchers found that restoring Ras-GAP activity through expression of the human NF1 GAP-related domain restored normal cardiac development in mice with Neurofibromatosis type I disease. However, this approach did not fully restore all pathologies associated with neurofibromin loss, indicating a more complex role for the protein.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 10, 2006

Long airplane flight does not appear to increase risk of blood clots

A study by William D. Toff and colleagues found no significant difference in markers of coagulation activation between long-haul flights and controlled environments. The researchers tested the effects of hypobaric and hypoxia on healthy volunteers, but found that prolonged sitting did not enhance clot formation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 16, 2006
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Newly discovered small molecules

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have discovered small molecule activators of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT), which could minimize dosage and reduce resistance. The findings hold promise for increasing the clinical efficacy of BoNT, a toxin with a range of therapeutic uses.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 14, 2006

New insight into machinery of immune cells' 'tentacles'

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have discovered a crucial signaling pathway involving the protein Abi, which regulates actin filament formation in T cells. This process is essential for the T cell to attach to and target infected cells.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 9, 2006