Research on how proteins bind and work together. Covers membrane-protein assembly, viral infection, molecular imaging, and drugging difficult targets.
Researchers discover a new strategy to combat type 1 diabetes by blocking the interaction of RAE-1 with its immune receptor, NKG2D. The treatment has shown complete effectiveness in preventing diabetes development in mice and promises potential as an effective human treatment.
Researchers recreated mammalian cell self-organization patterns in a test tube using mathematical formulas dictating cell interactions. This may help improve tissue regeneration methods and understand mechanisms behind birth defects and heart disease.
Researchers have identified two types of hub proteins, 'party' and 'date', which interact with partner proteins in different ways. The study's findings suggest that removing non-hub proteins has little effect, while eliminating hubs causes a significant increase in connection length, implying a more complex network structure.
Researchers found that condensin proteins cause DNA to extend in stepwise 'clicks' like Velcro unzipping, with the process reproducing identically every time. The energy-containing molecule ATP plays a regulatory role, allowing the bound protein to recondense DNA when tension is lowered
Researchers have developed an antigen-specific ELISA test to diagnose lichen sclerosus by detecting circulating autoantibodies to extracellular matrix protein 1. This breakthrough diagnostic tool has the potential to improve disease management and treatment outcomes.
Researchers have discovered a new way in which mutated Ras proteins contribute to cancer progression. They found that Ras interacts with an enzyme essential for the synthesis of GPI-anchored proteins, regulating their production on cell surfaces.
Scripps researchers successfully engineered E. coli to produce myoglobin proteins with 22 amino acids, including unnatural O-methyl-L-tyrosine and L-homoglutamine. This breakthrough demonstrates the genetic code can be expanded beyond 20 amino acids, opening doors for novel protein designs.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have discovered a new target for human papillomaviruses, which could lead to specific antiviral drugs for treating precancerous cervical lesions. By blocking the protein BRD4, they prevented infected mouse cells from becoming cancerous.
Researchers create peptide coatings that disguise particles, allowing them to track proteins in live cells. This technology enables molecular-level studies and has potential applications in biology, medicine, and electronics.
The National Academies Keck FUTURES INITIATIVE provides seed funding to researchers to pursue new ideas and connections. The grants aim to bridge the gap between bold new ideas and federal funding programs, enabling researchers to develop a line of inquiry and compete for larger awards.
Researchers at U.Va. Health System devise method to extract membrane proteins by using chemicals that allow them to be reversibly folded and refolded. This allows for structural and functional studies of the proteins using crystallography or nuclear magnetic resonance imaging.
Researchers have developed a new biological sensor platform that uses phospholipids to detect specific ions and molecules in real-time. The sensors can safely hold water-soluble dyes and enzymes, allowing for detailed analysis of cellular chemistry.
A new method for determining protein structure uses a supercomputer chip to analyze forces between atoms, reducing computation time by a factor of 1000. This technique is particularly useful for studying proteins that are difficult to crystallize, allowing scientists to gain more insights into their functions.
Researchers found that HDAC inhibitors and DPDTB can inhibit aggresomes formed by mutant SOD protein, suggesting a potential new therapeutic approach for ALS. This study may lead to alleviating ALS symptoms and prolonging life span in transgenic mice models.
The study found that protein p27 uses flexible arms to bind to the Cdk2-cyclin A complex, which is crucial for regulating cell division and preventing cancer. The researchers discovered how proteins like p27 can identify and bind to different types of complexes, allowing them to regulate various cellular processes.
Scientists identify site-specific growth signals that promote capillary formation in the developing retina and inner ear, providing a potential new approach for treating blinding diseases and improving treatment outcomes for conditions like cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
A study found that mutated tumor suppressor genes, particularly p53 and p21, play a significant role in bladder cancer development. Eighty bladder cancer patients were evaluated, and the researchers discovered that these genes are altered in 83 percent of patients.
Researchers identify Twist proteins as transient inhibitors of osteoblast differentiation, negatively regulating Runx2. This finding provides insight into the complexity of osteoblast differentiation and its initiation by the relief of inhibition.
Scientists have found a possible way to rescue damaged neurons from death by targeting a specific protein. The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, suggests that a proNGF antibody can prevent the interaction between two cellular proteins that cause neuron damage.
Researchers found that gene regulation is bipolar, with a small set of genes relying on the TATA box for proper function, while most genes rely on the TFIID complex. This discovery provides clues about how to understand gene function and regulation in yeast and potentially applicable to human genetics.
Scientists have developed a method to simultaneously track gene transcription, RNA splicing, and protein translation in living cells. The technique reveals fundamental information about how genes are switched on and off in the context of living cells.
Virginia Tech biologist Virginia Tyson earns top scientist award for his work in computational cell biology and mathematical models of molecular mechanisms controlling cellular growth and division. His research aims to understand and treat medical problems caused by molecular dys-regulation, such as cancer and nerve-cell regeneration.
Researchers have created a computational tool to mine genomic data and identify biologically meaningful gene regulatory networks. The tool uses a probabilistic framework that integrates data from various sources, including microarrays, DNA sequences, and protein-protein interactions.
In a breakthrough study, UCSD researchers discovered that Cdk5 phosphorylates and inactivates the protein doublecortin, leading to defective neuronal migration and lissencephaly. The findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying this severe brain disorder.
Researchers have identified a complex mechanism of translational repression in Drosophila oogenesis, involving proteins Cup, Bruno, and eIF4E. This study reveals how these proteins work together to repress the translation of critical mRNAs, ensuring precise localization and function in germline cells.
Researchers are studying Sulfolobus solfataricus, an extremophile from the Archaea domain, to understand protein phosphorylation networks. By identifying key proteins and enzymes involved, they hope to create a molecular map describing how these networks function.
Researchers found that gamma-secretase cleaves both amyloid precursor protein (APP) and Notch interchangeably, treating them as interchangeable substrates. The study suggests a new approach to inhibiting gamma-secretase activity without interfering with its role in Notch signaling.
Researchers identified a new link in the chain allowing HIV to overcome cellular resistant factor and infect human cells. Disruption of Cul5-SCF function reduces HIV infectiousness by 90%, paving the way for new therapies.
A comprehensive human protein database has been launched, featuring 3,000 entries on protein roles in health and disease. The database includes protein interactions, disease genes, and other information, making it easier for researchers to connect observations and create new hypotheses.
Researchers use CD technology to detect biological interactions by exploiting errors in digital data. They attach molecules to a CD surface, allowing proteins to bind and introduce errors in the reading process.
Researchers at TSRI introduce a revolutionary method to add unnatural amino acids to the genetic code of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast. This allows for unprecedented control over protein structure and function, enabling new insights into biological processes and potential therapeutic applications.
Researchers measured DNA's torsional stiffness, finding it 40% more resistant than previously reported. This breakthrough enables understanding of energy costs and mechanical behavior in biological processes.
Researchers identified a new gene, inversin, associated with nephronophthisis type 2, a deadly kidney disease in children. The discovery may lead to treatments and connections between the childhood disease and adult polycystic kidney disease.
The study reveals that nitric oxide alters protein interactions, leading to new insights into the underlying causes of disease and potential new therapies. The findings suggest that NO regulates a broad spectrum of cellular reactions, potentially underlining some disease symptoms.
Researchers discover that the HAP1 protein plays a crucial role in brain damage caused by Huntington's disease. The protein's interaction with mutant huntingtin leads to apoptosis in neurons, particularly in the hypothalamus. This finding offers new hope for therapeutic strategies aimed at bolstering HAP1 function.
The Binding Interface Database is an extensive, searchable internet site that brings together all known information on protein interactions. The database currently contains 245 interacting protein pairs and over 1,500 key interaction areas, providing a valuable resource for researchers to study complex biological systems.
Researchers identify key genes and cellular pathways contributing to schizophrenia, providing new insights into the disorder's complex biology. The study's findings hold promise for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
Researchers discover a new class of proteasome inhibitors that change the shape of the protein-digesting enzyme, leading to reduced activity and selective protein degradation. This finding has implications for treating diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Researchers at UCSD have identified a molecule called GAIP interacting protein N terminus (GIPN) that plays a key role in degrading G proteins, which regulate various cellular activities. The discovery has implications for the pharmaceutical industry and highlights the importance of the ubiquitin system in protein turnover.
The Von Liebig Center has awarded funding to six University of California, San Diego (UCSD) faculty projects, focusing on commercializing innovative technologies. Two projects in the Bioengineering department aim to improve cooling fan efficiency and detect infectious agents using electric field-induced fluctuation methods.
Researchers use unzipping force analysis of protein association (UFAPA) to study protein-DNA interactions, predicting applications in genomic sequencing and drug development.
A mutated protein combination is responsible for excessive sugar production in the liver, leading to high blood glucose levels. Researchers have identified PGC-1alpha and FOXO1 as key proteins that form a powerful switch for gluconeogenesis, and blocking their interaction may lead to effective diabetes treatment.
Researchers used 3D imaging to study ALS mutant proteins, finding they interact incorrectly and form toxic complexes that interfere with nerve cell function. The study supports two theories: oxidative damage from mutant SOD1 protein and aggregation of protein complexes.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered a protein that reaches an unprecedented folding speed of one to two microseconds, significantly faster than previously thought. By studying this phenomenon, they were able to determine the speed limit of protein folding and challenge existing theories.
Researchers discovered that tau and alpha-synuclein proteins interact to form brain lesions in both diseases, potentially leading to effective treatments for both conditions. The study found that inhibiting the formation of one type of amyloid lesion may also prevent the other.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation reveals that M-CSF and alphaV beta3 integrin collaborate to regulate osteoclast differentiation. The discovery brings scientists closer to understanding the mechanisms behind osteoporosis, a condition affecting 50% of Caucasian and Asian women after age 65.
Researchers developed a microchip with light-impeding holes to observe individual enzymes interacting with other molecules. This technique enables detailed analysis of fluctuations and variability in enzyme behavior, crucial for understanding molecular movement and predicting less predictable behavior.
The UCR Genomics Institute will establish a proteomics laboratory to study plant, insect, and pathogen interactions essential for enhancing the world's food supply. The grant will provide key equipment for researchers to develop new strains of crops that will be the basis of sustainable agriculture and food production.
A new antibody library developed by PNNL scientists can identify antibodies in days, reducing labor costs and improving the design of medical treatments. The library, which contains 1 billion human antibodies, uses a yeast surface display method to quickly screen for useful antibodies.
Researchers use firefly protein to visualize cellular communication pathways in mice, revealing potential for non-invasive cancer treatment and disease research. This breakthrough enables scientists to watch proteins in their natural setting, improving understanding of human diseases.
The UniProt database will consolidate existing protein databases SWISS-PROT, TrEMBL, and PIR to provide a non-redundant source of protein information. The new database aims to facilitate research on human disease and translate basic science into clinical applications.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is launching a $20 million effort to pinpoint environmental triggers of Parkinson's disease. Three centers will conduct independent research, including the University of California at Los Angeles, Emory University, and The Parkinson's Institute.
Researchers have determined the structure of the HER3 receptor, providing a blueprint for designing new drugs that target this protein. The discovery has significant implications for cancer treatment, particularly for breast cancer patients who may benefit from alternative strategies to Herceptin.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered kinks in the aggrecan protein, a submolecular root of arthritis. The study shows that these kinks may be more susceptible to enzymes that degrade cartilage in osteoarthritis, providing a link between structure and function.
Researchers at UCSD identified a gene called Six6 and its co-factor Dach2, which enable normal eye size by controlling cell growth. The study provides insights into the developmental role of these proteins in other organ systems.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have found that a defective form of vWF causes chemical bonds to persist longer than they should, leading to a bleeding disorder. The defect in the vWF protein changes the kinetics of the chemical bonds between the protein and platelets, resulting in the disease.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered a signaling mechanism in yeast cells that controls cell growth and differentiation, with potential implications for cancer treatment. The study found that pheromone triggers cells to stop dividing and orient their growth toward the source of pheromone.
Scientists at UC Davis have found a gene in nematode worms Caenorhabditis elegans that matches a gene altered in one form of dystonia. The discovery may lead to new insights into the disease and potential treatments. Researchers plan to study how OOC-5 interacts with other proteins to better understand its role in human nerve cells.
Scientists have identified a family of six proteins, called ZIGs, responsible for maintaining the wiring of the nervous system. The discovery was made in C. elegans and suggests that analogous human ZIG proteins may play a role in neurological disease pathology.
The CF Foundation is leveraging proteomics research to accelerate the discovery of new therapies for cystic fibrosis. By analyzing protein interactions and identifying novel targets, scientists aim to develop effective treatments that can correct faulty cells and prevent disease progression.