Research on how proteins bind and work together. Covers membrane-protein assembly, viral infection, molecular imaging, and drugging difficult targets.
Researchers at Florida State University have discovered new genetic variants that cause heart disease in infants, revealing novel insights into the role of a protein affecting blood pumping force. Understanding these interactions could lead to new treatments for both the specific disease and general heart disease.
Researchers developed a new technique called zombie scanning to study peptide-receptor interactions on the cell surface. This method hijacks cell machinery to simplify the creation of peptides, allowing for rapid studies and lower production costs.
Researchers at University of Helsinki identified tropomodulin as a key player in maintaining the balance between protrusive and contractile actin-filament machineries. The protein's depletion leads to severe problems in cell shape and force production, associated with various cancers.
Researchers create molecular 'fishing' technology using customized receptors to detect specific proteins in blood, offering a precise diagnostic tool for diseases and drug discovery applications.
Scientists have resolved the structure of an essential protein for insect smell, suggesting that millions of odor receptors evolved to suit different lifestyles and habitats. The protein Orco forms a common channel with many odor receptors, allowing for diverse adaptations.
A new study uses artificial intelligence to identify groups of disease-related genes from huge amounts of gene expression data. The researchers found that the AI model discovered relevant patterns that agree well with biological mechanisms in the body, suggesting potential applications in precision medicine and individualized treatment.
A new UNLV study found that a high-carbohydrate diet nearly eliminated symptoms of Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections in mice, whereas high-fat/high-protein diets exacerbated the infection. The research suggests that diet may promote microbial groups that can be protective against C. diff even after antibiotics.
Researchers at Florida State University discovered a fungus that stabilizes key proteins involved in cancer and neurological disease signaling pathways. The natural product fusicoccin has been identified as a tool to study these networks, leading to the discovery of 14 promising protein-protein interaction targets.
Researchers at University of Groningen develop novel artificial enzyme using unnatural amino acid and copper complex, demonstrating potential for improved industrial chemical catalysis. The study showcases the power of combining abiological components to achieve active site creation, paving way for new enzymatic options.
Researchers resurrected Wrangel Island mammoth's mutated genes to test their functionality. They found the genes did not function normally, suggesting the last mammoths were genetically unhealthy and unable to smell, providing a cautionary tale for endangered species.
Researchers at Aarhus University used a combination of spectroscopy methods and X-ray scattering to study the interactions between soap molecules and proteins. They found that one class of soap molecules induces unfolding of proteins, while another class helps them fold back into their correct shape. The study provides deeper insight i...
A team of Thomas Jefferson University researchers identified a specific region on brain-cell receptors that helps dock proteins at synapses, potentially leading to better treatments for chronic pain and other diseases. The discovery opens the door for developing new medical interventions by targeting this docking site.
Researchers at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center have identified the specific region of serotonin type 3A receptor that interacts with the RIC-3 chaperone protein. This discovery could lead to more effective treatments for diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and schizophrenia.
Researchers at Michigan State University developed a new method to detect protein density in blood plasma using magnetic levitation. This technique could lead to improved disease diagnosis and treatment by identifying distinct patterns of proteins associated with various health conditions, such as opioid abuse and multiple sclerosis.
Scientists use molecular motors to manipulate protein structure, directing stem cells to differentiate into bone cells. The movement of motor molecules induces subtle structural changes, affecting cell attachment and behavior, ultimately leading to altered cell fate.
Researchers identified mutant tumor protein 53 (mtp53) and poly-ADP-Polymerase (PARP) proteins as key drivers of growth in triple negative breast cancer cells. Suppressing these proteins with combined PARP-inhibiting therapies may offer a targeted treatment for this aggressive form of the disease.
A protein complex of Teneurin, Latrophilin, and FLRT attracts neighboring neurons during development, enabling synapse formation and information exchange. In early brain development, however, the same proteins repel migrating nerve cells, guiding them to their target brain area.
Researchers from Harvard Medical School and Columbia University discovered that a protein called Rad dampens the activity of voltage-gated calcium channels, which are responsible for heart contraction. When adrenaline stimulates these channels, Rad releases, increasing channel activity and heart beating.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University and The Hebrew University of Jerusalem developed a powerful tool that streamlines the development of disease therapies, transforming a multi-year process into just a few days. The new approach simultaneously evaluates thousands of mutations in protein-protein complexes, increasing understanding of m...
Researchers mapped protein-drug interactions in rat organs and blood, revealing potential drug targets. The study represents a significant advancement for translational research, allowing direct monitoring of biological changes in an organ.
Biomaterials Science and Engineering Fellow Anson Ong recognized for outstanding contributions to biomaterials research, education, and service. His primary focus areas include implant surface modifications and tissue-engineered bioceramic scaffolds.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a novel approach using deep learning and 3D technology to model protein interactions. This innovation aims to create more accurate structure models of proteins involved in various diseases, ultimately leading to the design of targeted drugs that block specific protein-protein interactions.
A machine learning tool has identified 12 new human proteins carrying functional leucine-aspartic acid (LD) motifs, which play a significant role in cell adhesion and morphogenesis. The researchers also found that LD motif signaling evolved over 800 million years ago, possibly by co-opting ancestral interaction sequences.
Researchers developed a mathematical framework to simulate molecular interactions, making it easier to develop new therapies. The study found that controlling three key parameters can affect how molecule chains interact, leading to new insights into disease mechanisms and potential treatments.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a novel mechanism by which snake-like proteins, known as coiled coils, interact with DNA to form loops that regulate genetic messages. These loops are formed through a braiding process, where the coiled coils writhe and twist around each other, bringing together sites on DNA.
Researchers aim to understand how biomolecules fold and interact to inform better drug design. The lab combines computer programming with biochemistry to model protein folding, nucleic acid dynamics, and lipid interactions.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have discovered that jumping genes, such as B2 and ALU, cut themselves in response to stress. This discovery has significant implications for understanding stress responses in the body, particularly in relation to developing new treatments for infections, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.
Lehigh University professor Brian Chen is developing software that can predict protein interactions, reducing the need for human interpretation. The software has already successfully demonstrated the ability to predict something completely unknown in a collaboration with Rutgers University.
A new 'experimental evolution' method, called 3Dseq, can determine the interactions that proteins use to fold into functional three-dimensional shapes. This technique may aid in understanding cancer-related proteins and pinpointing mutations contributing to disease progression.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh found that amyloid beta and tau proteins work together to hamper key genes responsible for brain messaging in people with Alzheimer's disease. This damage can be reversed by reducing the presence of tau proteins, according to the study.
Researchers developed MaSIF, a machine learning-driven method to predict protein interactions and biochemical activity based on surface appearance. The algorithm analyzes chemical and geometric properties of proteins, creating a unique 'fingerprint' for each, enabling the prediction of behavior patterns.
Scientists discovered a new protein, Mai1, that plays a central role in plant immunity by linking host recognition of pathogens to defense mechanisms. The protein is involved in activating the cell death response, ensuring only a few host cells die when attacked.
Scientists have discovered a novel protein function involved in the brain's reward circuit, which plays a major role in drug dependence and psychological disorders. The study found that this protein, Npas4, interacts with other proteins to facilitate neural changes and promote gene expression.
Chaperone proteins protect α-Synuclein from cell damage in healthy cells. Impaired chaperone binding leads to α-Synuclein accumulation and mitochondrial destruction, characteristic of Parkinson's disease. The study provides new insights into the role of molecular bodyguards in neurodegenerative disorders.
The CF LINK technology allows for selective preparation of protein conjugates through tryptophan residues and post-translational modification of aromatic amino acids. It can also be used to map protein surfaces and study protein-protein interactions.
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have worked out the details of key molecular interactions involved in antigen selection and processing by MHC-I proteins. The new findings help explain puzzling differences among MHC-I proteins and suggest ways to manipulate them for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a hydrogel that stiffens 1,800-fold when exposed to heat, inspired by thermophilic proteins. The material, composed of polyelectrolyte poly(acrylic acid), transforms from soft to rigid upon heating and can be reversed with cooling.
Researchers made progress in understanding protein conformation and accumulation in familial ALS, a devastating neurodegenerative disorder affecting 1-3 individuals per 100,000. The study sheds light on the interaction between normal and mutant Sod1 proteins, revealing misfolding as a central problem in ALS.
A team of scientists has developed an artificial intelligence approach to engineer improved AAV capsids for gene therapy delivery. The research reveals the existence of a previously unknown protein and demonstrates the potential to transform gene therapy. The study's findings have significant implications for the future of gene therapy.
A team of researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder has solved the structure of the Facilitates Chromatin Transcription (FACT) protein, a key player in DNA packaging and gene expression. The discovery sheds light on how this protein maintains the integrity of chromatin during transcription, replication, and DNA damage repair.
The December issue of SLAS Discovery features articles on new screening tools and assays for medically relevant membrane protein targets. The special issue also includes reviews and original research papers on emerging protein-lipid reconstitution methodologies.
Researchers at the National University of Singapore have found that cells can attach to the fibrous protein meshwork surrounding them only if the fibres are spaced close enough. This finding has implications for understanding abnormal motility patterns in cancer cells and could lead to the development of new therapeutic targets.
Researchers clarify how RNA molecules fold during assembly of ribosomes, a complex process previously believed to be tightly controlled. The discovery opens up possibilities for designing targeted antibiotics with fewer side effects and better understanding of cancer growth.
Researchers found that prion proteins form liquid droplets modulated by DNA sequences, turning into solid and toxic states. These structures are related to Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and other spongiform encephalopathies.
At low concentrations, carbon monoxide has a beneficial effect by interacting with signaling proteins, suppressing inflammation and protecting tissues from oxidative stress. Researchers are exploring safe and effective delivery methods to harness its therapeutic potential for diseases such as sepsis and cancer.
Emerging methods aim to simulate the net-forming molecule behind clots, highlighting advances in understanding vWF behavior and potential therapies targeting platelet aggregation and ADAMTS13 enhancement. Researchers collaborate across biology and computer science to build an improved model for predicting thrombus formation.
Researchers discovered a chitin-binding protein in the soilborne fungus Verticillium nonalfalfae that abolishes the host plant's chitin-triggered immune response. This finding highlights convergent evolution of similar functions among structurally unrelated fungal effectors.
Researchers have developed a new assembly that enhances photodynamic inactivation of bacteria, achieving significantly improved efficiency against gram-negative E. coli. The assembly combines a photosensitizer and a membrane-intercalating peptide, resulting in nearly 0% survival rate of E. coli upon light irradiation.
Researchers have developed a new tool to study how mitochondrial protein synthesis is affected by disease, pharmaceuticals, ageing and different physiological situations. The MitoRibo-Tag mice provide a valuable tool for future studies on how mitochondrial function regulates human health.
A new co-regulation map of the human proteome has been created, enabling the prediction and assignment of functions to uncharacterized human proteins. The map reveals unexpected partnerships between proteins, including peroxisomal membrane protein PEX11β with mitochondrial respiration factors.
Researchers at Linköping University have successfully captured the instantaneous image of the MYC protein bound to TBP, shedding light on its role in cancer. The study reveals that MYC's adaptability and dynamic structure enable it to interact with over 300 proteins, making it a promising target for new cancer therapies.
A new AI-powered computational tool, NucleicNet, has been developed to infer RNA-binding properties of proteins. The software provides additional biological insights that could aid in drug design and development, by revealing detailed RNA-binding properties of these proteins.
MIB2 promotes proteasomal degradation of CYLD, activating NF-κB signaling and enhancing inflammation. Mib2-knockout mice show reduced serum IL-6 and suppressed inflammatory responses.
Rice University scientists have developed a strategy to make polymer membrane-based separation of proteins more efficient using salt. The researchers identified competing forces at the nylon surface that could be tuned by salt concentration, allowing for improved separation efficiencies.
Salk scientists discovered how microprotein PIGBOS contributes to mitigating cell stress, which can lead to cancer and neurodegeneration. The study suggests that targeting PIGBOS could provide new therapies for human disease.
Researchers at MIT have engineered signaling proteins that can interact with specific partners without interfering with cells' existing pathways. This allows for the creation of artificial circuits for applications such as disease diagnosis and cancer treatment.
Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina have obtained 3D structural snapshots of the enzyme Cdc34, a key regulator of cell growth and activity. The team found unique features that could be targeted to develop novel cancer therapeutics with precision.
A team of researchers has revealed the structure of P-Rex1 bound to Gbg, providing a detailed understanding of how this protein complex promotes cell movement and metastasis. The findings offer important insights into cancer cell migration and regulation, paving the way for potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have successfully created a self-assembling material that forms predictable and reproducible 2D networks. This breakthrough has far-reaching implications for various fields, including targeted drug delivery, printing, and electronic applications.
The study reveals that the compound eyes of fruit flies play a crucial role in synchronizing their circadian clocks with light exposure. As daylight periods increase, the evening activity peak is delayed and the 'siesta' period is extended, highlighting the flexibility of the circadian clock mechanism.