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How proteins bind to RNA: the dual mechanism of zinc fingers and disordered regions

Researchers discovered that disordered regions enhance specific RNA interactions in FUS protein-RNA complexes, revealing a breakthrough strategy for nucleic acid binding. The study suggests that intrinsically disordered regions actively contribute to the RNA-binding mechanism.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 28, 2025
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Ångström-scale optical microscopy deciphers conformational states of single membrane proteins

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light developed a new method to resolve specific sites within mechanosensitive protein PIEZO1 in its native cell membrane state. The technique, using cryogenic conditions and rapid freezing, sheds light on how the protein flexes and expands in response to mechanical stimuli.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalScience Advances·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 21, 2025

Researchers develop new in-cell ultraviolet photodissociation top-down mass spectrometry method

A new in-cell characterization method allows for the direct analysis of protein structures and conformations within living cells. The study reveals three main conformational forms of calmodulin, with the extended form being significantly more abundant than in purified form.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 3, 2025

Controlling conformational changes in protein aromatic side chains

Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo designed a protein cage system that can control and visualize orientational changes in aromatic side chains through strategic binding of fluorescent ligands. This approach enables precise control over protein dynamics while enhancing fluorescence properties, with potential applications in biomo...

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2025
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Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

USTC develops deep learning model to predict protein conformational changes

A new deep learning model predicts protein conformational changes by leveraging a large-scale database of protein dynamics. The PATHpre model demonstrates robust predictive capabilities across proteins with varying sequence lengths, revealing new insights into protein function and regulation.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 28, 2024

U of T researchers develop deep-learning model that outperforms Google AI system to predict peptide structures

Researchers at U of T have developed a deep-learning model called PepFlow that can predict the full range of conformations for peptides, which are shorter than proteins but perform similar biological functions. The model combines machine learning and physics to capture precise and accurate conformations within minutes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateJun 27, 2024

Accelerating AI-driven molecular modeling with COSMIC

Researchers at Insilico Medicine developed COSMIC, a new framework for molecular conformation space modeling that provides accurate insights into molecule positioning and activity. This enables faster and more efficient drug design decisions.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·DateApr 29, 2024
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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

New toolkit makes molecular dynamics simulations more accessible!

Researchers have developed PaCS-Toolkit to facilitate accessible parallel cascade selection MD (PaCS-MD) simulations. The software package automates the simulation process via a single configuration file, allowing users to explore different conformations and investigate molecular interactions more efficiently.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

How a protein fights off bacteria

Researchers have unraveled the activation mechanism of GBP1, a protein that encapsulates bacterial pathogens with an antimicrobial coat. The study reveals how GBP1 forms a protein coat around invaders, destroying their membrane and preventing multiplication.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateJan 24, 2024

Molecular simulation × AI reveals unresolved structure of transporter protein

Researchers have unveiled a previously unknown conformational state of OxlT transporter protein using advanced computational methods. This discovery offers new insights into the protein's function and potential therapeutic targets for preventing kidney stone formation.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2024

Modulation of protein stability: a new approach to studying cosolvent effects

Researchers used molecular dynamics simulations to study how urea and alcohol induce structural changes in proteins, with a focus on stabilizing helices and coils. The team identified preferential binding parameters for both cosolvents, demonstrating opposing effects that can be predicted using computational methods.

SourceOkayama University·JournalProtein Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 19, 2023
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Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Solid-state NMR unveils fluoride ion channel permeation mechanism

Researchers used solid-state NMR to study the Fluc channel protein and discovered a new fluoride ion permeation model. The findings provide insights into the gating mechanisms in the Fluc channel, shedding light on its functionality.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 22, 2023

Fastening enzyme seals the deal in genome repair

Researchers at KAUST have discovered the molecular mechanisms of DNA repair by studying the interaction between two enzymes, Lig1 and PCNA. Lig1 seals nicks in DNA by attaching to a ring-shaped protein called PCNA, which dislodges another enzyme FEN1 to prepare for sealing.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 24, 2023
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.

New data suggests COVID vaccine design ideas with better variant resilience

Researchers found that antibodies against one of the two main domains of the SARS-CoV-2 viral entry machinery elicit a broad antibody response against many variants. This suggests strategies for clinical development of variant-resistant vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022

Researchers reveal the structure of the IFT-B complex, which is essential for formation of the cilium organelle

The study reveals the structure of the 15-subunit IFT-B complex, a crucial component in cilia formation and maintenance. The complex's elongated and flexible nature is consistent with previous low-resolution reconstructions, and two configurations are identified that may drive bi-directional movement.

SourceAarhus University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2022

USTC reveals the mechanism of auxin transport

A USTC research team has elucidated the high-resolution structures of the PIN1 protein and its interaction with auxin and inhibitor NPA, shedding light on the mechanism of auxin transport. The study provides a new method for studying auxin transport using mammalian HEK293F cells.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature·DateAug 3, 2022

Review highlights potential of structural proteomics for treating neurodegenerative diseases

A recent review highlights the potential of structural proteomics in understanding pathological processes and predicting drug candidates for neurodegenerative diseases. The field combines protein chemistry and mass spectrometry to determine protein structure and interactions, which can lead to breakthroughs in treating serious health c...

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalChemical Reviews·DateJan 27, 2022
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.

Endangered deer's prion gene could protect it from chronic wasting disease

Researchers found two prion gene variants in Père David's deer that may reduce susceptibility to CWD. The genetic variants were surprising given the population's small founder size and conserved prion protein gene. Studies are needed to confirm whether these variants provide protection against CWD.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalConservation Genetics·DateNov 24, 2021

Rice web server helps identify COVID-19 drug candidates

Researchers developed a new online portal, DINC-COVID, to speed up the identification of potential pandemic treatments. The platform incorporates models of three drug targets and uses ensemble docking to score ligands' success in binding.

SourceRice University·JournalComputers in Biology and Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 1, 2021
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.

Improvements in microscopy home in on biology’s elusive details

Researchers at Arizona State University have refined cryogenic electron microscopy to produce more accurate structures of biological samples. The new method uses a statistical approach to model transitory structures, which can play a vital role in biological processes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalMatter·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2021
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.

Scientists present pre- and postfusion cryo-em structures of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein

The researchers report two new cryo-EM structures representing the pre- and postfusion conformations of the full-length SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The findings suggest that current vaccine strategies may be relying on limited information about the natural state of the protein, highlighting the need for further evaluation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2020

About TFE: Old and new findings

Researchers review TFE's role as a structuring agent for unfolded peptides, inducing helical conformations, while also enhancing protein denaturation. The study details recent applications of TFE in conformational studies, including antimicrobial and aggregation-prone peptides.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Protein and Peptide Science·DateApr 4, 2019

Islands in yeast membrane revealed by extreme microscopy

Researchers discovered tiny islands in yeast cell membranes where transport proteins are stored before use. The study reveals how these proteins move slowly through the membrane and provides new insights into protein localization and trafficking.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2018
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.

Slowly pulling proteins apart reveals unexpected path to stability

Researchers at Duke University used single-molecule force-spectroscopy to study Protein S, a large protein found in nature. They discovered a previously unknown stable conformation made possible by the interaction between two domains, which may help explain why some proteins are more stable than others.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 9, 2016

2016 Protein Science Best Paper Awards

Tracy Clinton and Michael Thompson received the Protein Society's Year 2015 'Best Paper' awards for their work on Ebola drug target mimics. The researchers, who came from diverse backgrounds, were chosen for their innovative approaches to solving complex protein problems.

SourceThe Protein Society·DateMar 17, 2016
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.

Deeper insights into protein folding

Scientists develop a new statistical mechanics model to explain protein folding and unfolding in an aqueous environment. The study confirms the validity of their calculations using experimental measurements for two proteins, providing insights into high-energy ions therapy on biological cells.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJun 26, 2014

The origin of the evil conformation

Researchers at SISSA investigated the structural elements of prion proteins, finding that misfolding originates in the N-terminal region. This knowledge is crucial for developing drugs and therapeutic strategies against diseases like Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 24, 2014
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

NMR advance brings proteins into the open

Researchers at Brown University used a novel approach to nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to resolve the key interaction between two proteins. The study reveals that the GroEL chaperone is a permissive captor, allowing the smaller protein to bind at two hydrophobic sites and detach, resulting in conformational heterogeneity.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2013

Comparing proteins at a glance

Researchers developed a structural comparison map for small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), enabling quick identification of protein structures under various conditions. This technique highlights factors making the biggest difference in structural conformations, allowing for high-throughput screening and tracking of trends.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 29, 2013

Proteins in detail

Researchers have successfully studied the shape of proteins using a novel strategy combining computational modeling and experimental techniques. This breakthrough has implications for understanding protein functions and diseases such as cancer, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2013

New path discovered for future generation of glucose-measuring biosensors

Researchers at CIC bioGUNE have developed a new pathway to create more reliable glucose-measuring biosensors that can detect glucose in various fluids, including urine. The discovery challenges the long-held paradigm of protein binding mechanisms and offers a promising avenue for improving diabetes diagnosis.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 15, 2013
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Combined molecular study techniques reveal more about DNA proteins

Scientists have developed an instrument that tracks protein conformation and translocation with nanoscale precision. This breakthrough enables researchers to study proteins that regulate DNA replication and transcription, revealing new insights into their mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 2, 2011

New Argonne study may shed light on protein-drug interactions

A recent Argonne National Laboratory study found that proteins can move in more configurations than previously thought, especially in dilute solutions. The researchers discovered that environmental conditions influence which state a protein prefers to enter, and this knowledge may help understand how proteins interact with drugs.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateJan 15, 2008

New cancer fighter may help ICU patients beat infections

Researchers find that HSP 90 inhibitors can degrade proteins perpetuating inflammation, restoring lung function and reducing blood vessel leakage in ICU patients. The study suggests a potential new treatment for sepsis using these cancer-fighting compounds.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 27, 2007
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

UCLA physicists report advance toward nanotechy approach to protein engineering

Researchers at UCLA have made an important advancement in protein engineering by developing a new method to control proteins using nanotechnology. They successfully replaced the natural chemical mechanism controlling protein function with mechanical control, opening up possibilities for reduced side effects and improved treatment options.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 9, 2006

Structure of viral harpoon protein reveals how viruses enter cells

Researchers solved the structure of a viral harpoon protein, revealing its role in viral entry and fusion with host cells. The discovery sheds light on how viruses hijack cellular machinery to produce and spread more virus, and may lead to new treatments for infections caused by enveloped RNA viruses.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateJan 4, 2006

Six Central European scientists awarded EMBO/HHMI startup grants

The EMBO/HHMI Startup Grants will provide resources and ongoing support for six promising scientists in Central Europe. The initiative aims to strengthen the scientific pipeline in the region, building on previous programs that supported established science.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·DateDec 7, 2005
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Central European scientists awarded EMBO/HHMI startup grants

The EMBO/HHMI Startup Grants program aims to establish promising young scientists in Central Europe with resources and space. The joint initiative provides ongoing support for researchers after the grant period ends, helping to strengthen science in the region.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·DateDec 6, 2005

Nano mechanism to control protein may lead to new protein engineering

Scientists create artificial mechanism of allosteric control based on mechanical tension, allowing for controlled switching of proteins in living cells. The breakthrough could lead to targeted pharmaceutical drugs with reduced side effects and improved understanding of protein molecular architecture.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 15, 2005