Research on how proteins bind and work together. Covers membrane-protein assembly, viral infection, molecular imaging, and drugging difficult targets.
A study by University of Texas Medical Branch researchers found that protein UNC-45A is linked to increased cell proliferation in breast cancer specimens and cell lines. High levels of UNC-45A also drive enhanced myosin and actin activity, leading to increased rates of cell proliferation and migration.
Researchers at MIT and Carnegie Mellon used molecular modeling and simulation to study the behavior of lamin A protein tails, finding that mutant protein tails are actually more stable than healthy counterparts. The discovery validates the application of civil engineering methodology to studying diseased cells.
Researchers identified FOBISIN, a compound that targets 14-3-3 proteins, which are dysregulated in multiple cancers. X-ray analysis showed FOBISIN permanently bonds to the protein when exposed to radiation, triggering potent anticancer activity
Researchers have discovered how p53 binds to Hsp90, revealing new insights into cancer development and potential therapeutic targets. The study found that p53 binds to both the middle and C-terminal domains of Hsp90, with negatively charged amino acids playing a crucial role in stabilizing the bond.
The Biophysical Society has honored five researchers with its top awards for 2012, recognizing their innovative work on membrane proteins, lipid interactions, and single-molecule biology. The awardees include Charles R. Sanders, Huey W. Huang, Lucy R. Forrest, Sunny Xie, and Vijay Pande.
Scientists discover large RNAs regulate embryonic development by physically interacting with proteins, suggesting a critical role in developmental decisions. The study reveals that lincRNAs may play similar roles in most cells and could be engineered to target key genes in disease.
A team of researchers has reconstructed and tested a trafficking pathway for hundreds of cell proteins, finding that they can be delivered to the membrane via a simple three-part system. This discovery could have significance for the development of new drugs and bioengineering methods.
Scientists at Gladstone Institutes have gained new insight into the delicate relationship between two proteins that regulate stem cells in the heart and may contribute to certain types of cancer. The study reveals an unexpected cross-talk between Notch and Beta-Catenin, which together control cell growth and fetal development.
A new imaging tool has been developed to help understand and predict the structure of nanometer-sized pieces in living cells and devices. The technique, called phase-modulation 2D fluorescence spectroscopy, allows researchers to study complex molecular structures at the nanoscale.
The new microscope combines light-sheet microscopy and single molecule spectroscopy to record fluorescence and take snapshots every millisecond. It allows scientists to observe and measure fast processes like molecular diffusion across entire samples.
Researchers at IBEC used a computational model to study the effect of external loading on two important cell solutes related to disc metabolism: oxygen and lactate. They found that the effect of loading was greater when compressing a healthy disc than a degenerated one, promoting fluctuations in solute concentration.
Geneticists at the University of Montreal have discovered a key gene involved in pain perception, which could lead to new pain relief drugs. The study identified a genetic mutation that causes hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type II, a severe disorder characterized by degeneration of sensory neurons.
Researchers found that prolonged estrogen deprivation in aging rats reduces brain receptors for the hormone and its ability to prevent strokes. Early estrogen replacement therapy can forestall this damage. The study's results suggest a critical window for estrogen therapy, either right before or right after menopause.
Researchers have uncovered a huge network of genes that help plants defend against pests and diseases, making it possible to explore new avenues for crop improvement. The study's findings suggest that looking for single genes is not sufficient and instead, breeders should work together to produce plants with robust networks of genes.
Researchers from Salk Institute and Dana Farber Cancer Institute mapped thousands of protein-to-protein interactions in Arabidopsis thaliana, revealing networks and functional groups. The dataset provides new insights into plant evolution and potential for breeding more resilient agricultural plants.
A new study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reveals that plant pathogens employ a surprisingly limited number of cellular targets to infect plants. By mapping the interactome for Arabidopsis thaliana, researchers found that these targets are shared among multiple pathogens, suggesting a coordinated attack strategy.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have found a complex molecular relationship between ERK and CHK2 proteins, which could lead to new treatments for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The study showed that inhibiting both proteins simultaneously killed more cancer cells than treating them separately.
A newly synthesized protein is fragile and requires chaperones for proper folding, which also escort it to its destination and aid in membrane insertion. The researchers identified key components responsible for TA protein sorting, including Get3 ATPase and receptors Get1 and Get2.
Researchers create the world's first three-dimensional plasmon rulers, capable of measuring spatial changes in macrmolecular systems, providing a new tool for understanding critical biological events. The 3D plasmon rulers enable scientists to retrieve complete spatial configuration and track dynamic evolution of complex processes.
Recent studies have identified specific protein targets in the brain that are affected by alcohol, with distinct binding sites that interact with amino acids to alter normal function. Understanding these molecular mechanisms is crucial for developing new medicines to address alcohol abuse.
Researchers at UCLA have discovered a sugar-binding protein called galectin-9 that traps PDI on T-cells' surface, making them more susceptible to HIV infection. This finding may lead to the development of new anti-HIV therapeutics by inhibiting PDI or galectin-9.
Cancer cells exploit a unique metabolic pathway fueled by sugar consumption to survive. Researchers identified HIF-1 as controlling gene expression in low-oxygen conditions, with PKM2 playing a crucial role in this process.
Researchers developed a new technique to identify self-proteins targeted in autoimmune diseases. Using phage display technology, they created a proteome library to examine molecular details of immune responses.
Scientists have discovered how bacteria produce and secrete pili, which help them attach to human cells and cause infection. The research provides new insights into the mechanism of pilus formation and suggests potential targets for antibacterial drugs.
Researchers at UCI have identified a unifying mechanism responsible for multiple sclerosis, suggesting personalized therapies based on genetic factors. Vitamin D3 and GlcNAc supplements can reverse the effects of four human MS genetic factors, restoring normal protein modification and potentially treating the disease.
P&G is pioneering the 'Omics' revolution in beauty and grooming by applying genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics tools to map the entire biological system. This approach enables scientists to identify molecular pathways associated with common concerns in skin and hair biology.
Researchers designed two new protein molecules that can target specific surfaces of flu virus molecules, blocking viral replication. The study's findings suggest the potential for novel antiviral therapies against multiple influenza subtypes.
Researchers used Foerster resonance energy transfer (FRET) imaging to measure protein interactions on breast cancer cells, revealing a 'signature' representing functional molecular biology. This signature may help predict patient outcome in terms of likelihood of recurrence and response to treatment like lapatinib.
Researchers at Brown University have discovered new molecular interactions in stem cells that control their versatility, using a technology called MEGAShift. The study found that proteins compete and cooperate to produce complex bindings along DNA sequences.
A study by Dr. Udai Pandey's lab at LSU Health Sciences Center found that blocking the abnormal movement of a mutated FUS protein in fruit flies can block the ALS disease process. The research provides a valuable resource for performing drug screens to identify potential therapeutic interventions.
Two studies provide the first detailed view of the chemical and mechanical interactions between the ribosome and membrane proteins. The researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to image the insertion process, revealing a
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified a connection between Merlin and angiomotin, two proteins involved in cell signaling pathways. This discovery may lead to a new therapeutic approach for NF2 by targeting tumor cells directly and starving them of nutrients.
A Kansas State University biochemist is using computer models to study the protein p21, which plays a key role in regulating cell division and has connections to cancer and aging. The study provides insights into how structural flexibility influences the function of this intrinsically disordered protein.
DNA can alter protein structure and function, leading to targeted therapies for diseases like osteoporosis and cancer. The study used HDX mass spectrometry to detect these long-range structural effects, revealing a complex biochemical dialogue between receptor, ligand, coregulatory proteins, and DNA.
Researchers found that Hsp90, a common 'chaperone' protein, helps loose p53, contradicting its previous role in folding other proteins. This discovery adds to the growing knowledge of proteins' adaptability and activity in unfolded states.
Researchers deciphered a molecular code that regulates brain channel protein activity, modulating neuronal excitability. SNX27 distinguishes GIRK channels from similar proteins, targeting them for destruction and affecting substance abuse behaviors.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a tool that uses light to move and interact with individual molecules in living cells. This allows for greater control over cellular processes, enabling scientists to study the role of specific proteins and their interactions in cell behavior.
A new laser technique, called backscattering interferometry (BSI), measures the binding force between proteins and biological molecules in a natural environment. This technology has potential applications in drug discovery, particularly for targeting membrane proteins.
UC researchers determined the structure of human HDL cholesterol, revealing a cage-like protein structure that encapsulates its fatty cargo. The study suggests that proteins like apolipoprotein A-I play a dominant role in HDL's protective effects against cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found that signals from cerebrospinal fluid help drive neural development, while elevated CSF protein levels are associated with glioblastoma. The study identifies a potential link between CSF signaling and brain tumor growth, offering new insights into treating this malignant brain tumor.
A team of researchers has made significant strides in understanding the life cycle of flaviviruses, including the dengue fever virus, which causes viral hemorrhagic fever and affects millions worldwide. The study provides new insights into the molecular details of viral replication and interactions with host cells.
Researchers at Iowa State University have discovered a protein pathway that may hold the key to understanding and treating Parkinson's disease. By modifying the production of a specific protein, they believe it is possible to inhibit the destructive effects on dopamine-producing cells.
Researcher Ron Kopito shows that mutant misfolded protein responsible for Huntington's disease can move from cell to cell, recruiting normal proteins and forming aggregations in each cell it visits. This ability could explain the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's through the brain.
A study published in Cell identified the motors driving non-infectious prion proteins up and down long neuronal transport pathways. The research sheds light on how these proteins interact with infectious forms to cause disease, potentially aiding therapies for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
The study provides the first detailed atomic model of tropomyosin bound to actin, significantly advancing our understanding of this key cellular protein. The researchers found that the interaction between tropomyosin and actin is weak enough that it can be readily perturbed by regulatory proteins, acting as a molecular switch.
Scientists at TUM have developed a novel method to observe hydrogen bond formation in protein binding processes. Their model system showed that protein recognition takes place via hydrophobic interaction of the S-protein with two spatially clearly defined areas of the unstructured S-peptide.
Researchers have created a novel technique to detect transiently folded protein structures in intrinsically disordered proteins, such as α-synuclein. This method enables scientists to study the mechanism of plaque formation in neurodegenerative disorders and potentially develop new ways to regulate these complex proteins.
Researchers at University of Michigan and University of California, Irvine discover DNA's building blocks 'rock and roll,' forming alternative structures with Hoogsteen base pairs. These fleeting states contain new layers of information stored in the genetic code, shedding light on critical interactions between DNA and proteins.
Mutations in INF2 gene are a major cause of autosomal dominant FSGS, leading to kidney failure. Screening for INF2 mutations may be warranted in patients with an autosomal dominant familial history.
Researchers at Imperial College London have identified a protein called IRF5 that acts as a molecular switch controlling whether macrophages promote or inhibit inflammation. Blocking IRF5 production may treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
A recent study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry has shed light on how human papillomavirus (HPV) proteins evade the human immune system. The research reveals that HPV's E6 protein can latch onto and inhibit human protein SAP97, preventing its normal function.
Researchers have developed a 3D picture of a herpes virus protein interacting with human cellular machinery, revealing how the virus hijacks cells to spread infection. This discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms of viral replication and opens up possibilities for preventing or treating viral diseases.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have discovered how HIV binds to and destroys APOBEC3F, a specific human antiviral protein. By converting this protein to a more effective antiviral agent, they found that shielding of a common feature shared by related proteins may yield similar outcomes.
The Biophysical Society honored 11 minority students with the Minority Travel Award for attending its 55th Annual Meeting. The award aims to encourage participation in biophysics research among underrepresented groups.
The Biophysical Society has announced the winners of its 2011 International Travel Awards, recognizing researchers from around the world for their outstanding scientific contributions. The award aims to promote interaction between American biophysicists and scientists in countries experiencing financial difficulties.
Researchers found that approximately 90% of protein-protein interfaces have close structural neighbors, and most interfaces are roughly planar. The study suggests that the interfaces' structures depend on simple physics principles and are primed for promiscuity, which could help explain biological phenomena and inform drug discovery.
Researchers have identified a molecular cause of post-traumatic stress syndrome and developed a treatment that calms brain chemicals. The new drug, MPEP, was found to prevent the condition when administered within five hours of a traumatic event, offering hope for early intervention.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified the molecular mechanisms underlying antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), a potentially life-threatening condition that causes blood clots. The study's findings suggest that targeting specific proteins may lead to new therapies for APS and its associated pregnancy complications.
Researchers used computer models to illuminate protein behavior in crowded cells, revealing enzyme activity was 15 times more active. This discovery can aid in designing efficient therapeutic means for diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer.
The Glavy Lab team identified the Werner Helicase Interacting Protein 1 (WHIP), a disease-related protein outside its known range, within nuclear pore complexes. WHIP may play an independent role in maintaining genome stability and detecting genetic damage, offering new avenues for understanding gene repair and expression.