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Buttoned up biomolecules

Researchers have introduced a novel click reaction suitable for living cells and organisms, enabling the labeling of biomolecules without affecting physiological processes. The reaction uses linear, terminal alkynes and N,N-dialkylhydroxylamines to form biocompatible enamine-N-oxides.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 30, 2021

Connective tissue protein fights bacterial infection

A new study reveals that the connective tissue protein lumican promotes immune responses against bacterial infections while restraining overactive immune responses in sepsis. Lumican interacts with toll-like receptors on immune cells, stabilizing their interactions to increase activity and production of TNF-alpha.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 28, 2021

Genome study reveals East Asian coronavirus epidemic 20,000 years ago

A recent study has found evidence of a large coronavirus epidemic that occurred in the East Asia region more than 20,000 years ago. The researchers used genetic data from the 1000 Genomes Project to discover changes in human genes that suggest ancestors of East Asian people experienced an epidemic similar to COVID-19.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 24, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Novel interactions between proteins that help in recovering from brain injury

Researchers discovered a novel interaction between proteins hevin and calcyon, which promotes synaptic contacts and reorganization in the brain. This interaction helps to improve recovery from brain injury, particularly in adults, by reducing neuroinflammatory response-induced proteases and promoting early stages of recovery.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·DateJun 19, 2021

New study uncovers details behind the body's response to stress

A new study uncovers the interplay between proteins involved in controlling the body's stress response and points to potential therapeutic targets. The research, led by McLean Hospital investigators, reveals how key proteins interact to regulate the body's response to stress.

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 18, 2021

Evolution -- two routes to the same destination

Researchers found that fruit flies Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila virilis use different mechanisms for dosage compensation. The primary components MSL2 and CLAMP are present in both species, but their binding sites on the X chromosome have evolved differently.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 18, 2021

LIM domain only 1: One gene, many roles in cancer

The LMO1 gene codes for a protein that regulates RNA production and is implicated in cancer formation. Researchers found that overexpression of LMO1 is associated with poor patient outcomes in different cancers. Further study of LMO1 may lead to targeted therapies for various types of cancer.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·DateJun 10, 2021

Health benefits of low protein-high carbohydrate diets depend on carb type

A low-protein diet with mostly resistant starch produces the healthiest outcomes, while a 50:50 glucose-fructose mixture leads to obesity and poor metabolic health. This study builds on previous findings that low protein-high carbohydrate diets in mice result in long lifespan and cardiometabolic health.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Metabolism·DateJun 9, 2021
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.

Not just a phase for RNAS

Researchers uncover how an RNA named NORAD drives a protein to form liquid droplets that tightly regulate its activity. This phenomenon, known as phase separation, protects against disease by preventing chromosomal abnormalities and promoting cellular homeostasis.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature·DateJun 9, 2021

How COVID-19 wreaks havoc on human lungs

Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed an atomic-level model of the SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein bound to a human lung-cell-junction protein. The findings reveal how the virus causes extensive lung damage by hijacking cell-junction proteins, leading to a cytokine storm and promoting viral spread.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2021

The molecular underpinnings of immune cell migration

Researchers at Osaka University identified a molecular mechanism governing immune cell motility, involving the lysosomal Ragulator complex. This process enables immune cells to migrate and elicit an immune response, with implications for treating autoimmune disorders and cancer.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 2021

NIH grant boosts computational search for cancer drugs

A new approach to model and analyze protein-ligand interactions in cancer research is being developed through a $1.2 million NIH grant. Researchers will use the proteomics toolkit PROTEAN-CR to understand key biological mechanisms of cancer and suggest novel cancer therapies.

SourceRice University·DateJun 7, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Protein identified as new therapeutic anti-viral target for COVID-19

Researchers have identified a novel interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and galectin-3-binding protein (LGALS3BP), which could be a new therapeutic anti-viral target. The presence of detectable viral RNA in blood is strongly associated with increased risk of severe illness.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 2021

How to retard time for cells

Heavy water significantly reduces cellular dynamics without damaging cells, a finding with implications for organ transplants and tissue storage. The study's results suggest increased interaction between structural proteins and reversible effects, paving the way for further research into this phenomenon.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 4, 2021

"Mexican variant" and monitoring actions of SARS-CoV-2 genome

A new SARS-CoV-2 variant, T478K, has been identified in over 50% of viruses in North America, particularly in Mexico, where it spreads rapidly among all age groups. The mutation in the Spike protein alters its interaction with the human receptor ACE2, potentially hindering drug efficacy and immune system antibodies.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalJournal of Medical Virology·DateJun 4, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

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.

How hepatitis C virus evades the immune system

Researchers discovered a novel molecular mechanism by which HCV interferes with the host's immune system, leading to chronic infection. The study found that HCV core protein is degraded via SPP and MHC class I proteins, impairing proper immune response and allowing infection to become chronic.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Rogue antibodies wreak havoc in severe COVID-19 cases

Researchers at Yale University found that autoantibodies in severe COVID-19 cases can attack healthy tissue and organs, leading to increased disease severity. The study also suggests that long-lived rogue antibodies may contribute to lasting medical symptoms, or long COVID cases.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateMay 19, 2021

Compound may prevent risk of a form of arrhythmia from common medications

A multi-institutional team has identified a compound that prevents the lengthening of the heart's electrical event, preventing cardiac arrhythmia. The compound, C28, enhances the IKs potassium ion channel function without affecting normal action potentials.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2021
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.

A hairpin to fight cancer

Researchers have developed a bicyclic peptide that binds to and inhibits the oncogenic protein beta-catenin, which is associated with certain types of tumor. The peptide's unique hairpin shape and cyclic nature mimic natural protein structures, making it an attractive starting point for developing new antitumor drugs.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 12, 2021

How proteins control information processing in the brain

Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg studied protein interactions in synaptic vesicles, uncovering how they mesh like cogs in a clockwork mechanism. This understanding helps recognize and understand malfunctions that could trigger diseases such as Alzheimer's.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 9, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Blocking viruses' exit strategy

Researchers develop a novel antiviral targeting Marburg virus, blocking its departure from infected cells. Preliminary results also show potential against SARS-CoV-2, with ongoing studies underway.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMay 6, 2021

Coral symbionts have a genome like no other

Researchers have discovered an alternative way of organizing genes in coral symbiont dinoflagellates, with alternating unidirectional blocks and a 3D chromosome structure dependent on transcriptional activity. This unique genome organization challenges traditional understanding of eukaryotic genetics.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 29, 2021
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.

Biophysicists found an Achilles heel of a cancerogenic virus

A team of scientists found that the human 14-3-3 protein family has a universal binding site for the E6 oncoprotein from different subtypes of cancer-causing Human Papillomaviruses (HPV). This discovery suggests that targeting this site could lead to the development of novel antiviral therapies.

SourceFederal Research Centre «Fundamentals of Biotechnology» of the Russian Academy of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 25, 2021

VR visualization supports research on molecular networks

Researchers developed a VR platform to display huge amounts of data and analyze complex protein interactions. This enables the identification of correlations and rare genetic defects responsible for diseases.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 23, 2021
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.

Protein can release trapped histones in the cell

Researchers discovered that protein DNAJC9 actively engages cellular protein folding machinery to release trapped histones. This process is crucial for proper chromatin organization and is essential for cancer cell viability.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 14, 2021

Massive fragment screen points way to new SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors

Scientists identify 234 fragment compounds directly binding to SARS-CoV-2's Nsp3 Mac1 protein, mapping chemical motifs for potential antiviral drug development. The study lays out the next steps in designing and synthesizing more elaborate molecules with promising biological effects.

SourceDiamond Light Source·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 14, 2021

Lighting the way to folding next-level origami

Scientists at EMBL Hamburg use X-ray beams to study artificial protein nanostructures, confirming their ability to fold into desired shapes. The findings advance understanding of synthetic origami-like protein folding for therapeutic applications.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 12, 2021

A multidimensional view of the coronavirus

A team from TUM and Max Planck Institute analyzed over 1200 samples of human lung cells reacting to SARS-CoV-2 proteins, identifying 1484 interaction points between viral and cellular proteins. This knowledge will help identify vulnerability hotspots for new therapies.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateApr 12, 2021

To nodulate or not? Uncovering how nitrate regulates gene expression in legumes

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have discovered that interactions between proteins and nitrate control gene expression in legumes, leading to nodulation. The team found that specific proteins with varying DNA-binding properties regulate symbiotic genes involved in nodulation, which is induced by nitrate presence.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateApr 9, 2021
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.

Corals carefully organize proteins to form rock-hard skeletons

Scientists discovered that coral structures consist of a biomineral containing organized organic mix of proteins. This process is critical to forming a rock-hard coral skeleton. The research suggests that corals will withstand climate change due to their impressive biomineralization process.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateApr 8, 2021

A novel form of cellular logistics

Researchers at LMU München found that diffusiophoresis can facilitate directed particle transport in cells, even without motor proteins. The mechanism sorts particles by size and has implications for understanding cellular processes and potential applications in artificial minimal cells.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 6, 2021

Deep dive into key COVID-19 protein is a step toward new drugs, vaccines

A recent study has deepened our understanding of the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein's interactions with genetic material, offering potential avenues for developing effective treatments. The research reveals how the N protein binds to RNA and protects it, and highlights its flexibility as a key factor in this process.

SourceOregon State University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateApr 5, 2021
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.

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.

Another Martini for better simulations

The Martini forcefield offers fast but accurate coarse-grained simulations for soft matter systems, such as lipid membranes and proteins. The new version has been recalibrated with more reference data, enhancing its accuracy and usability in materials science and biophysics research.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 29, 2021

Demystifying the 'Parkinson Protein'

A team led by Professor Malte Drescher successfully observed the membrane binding of α-synuclein in living cells using a new measurement method. The study provides direct evidence that α-synuclein interacts with intracellular membranes, which may play a role in Parkinson's disease development.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMar 10, 2021
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.

The 3Rs of the genome: Reading, writing, and regulating

A high-resolution map of protein binding locations in yeast has produced two distinct gene regulatory architectures, challenging traditional models of gene regulation. The study revealed unique protein assemblages and absence of specific regulatory control signals at housekeeping genes.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateMar 10, 2021

Deciphering the impacts of small RNA interactions in individual bacterial cells

Researchers deciphered the impacts of sRNA interactions on individual bacterial cells, revealing minor effects from base-pairing interactions and significant effects from disruptions in Hfq binding. The study used high-throughput sequencing and quantitative super-resolution imaging to understand the regulation of gene expression under ...

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 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.

Searching for novel targets for new antibiotics

Scientists at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin have identified a promising target for new antibacterial agents in the formation of ribosomal components. The study, published in Molecular Cell, reveals that a helper protein called ObgE plays a key role in guiding the process, which could be inhibited to stop bacterial growth.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 1, 2021

Velcro-like cellular proteins key to tissue strength

Specialized proteins called cadherins join forces to make cells stick together, forming bonds 30 times stronger than individual strengths. This discovery could lead to more life-like artificial tissues and tumor-busting drugs.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 1, 2021

Identifying patient-specific differences to treat HCM with precision medicine

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a complex disease characterized by thickening of the left ventricle. Researchers have identified patient-specific protein networks using RNA-seq and tissue samples from HCM patients. This study offers a path toward individualized medicine for treating HCM.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 25, 2021

Cone snail venom shows potential for treating severe malaria

Researchers discovered that cone snail venom can disrupt protein-protein interactions contributing to P. falciparum malaria's persistence. The study found six fractions of venom inhibit adhesion of infected erythrocytes to endothelial microvasculature and placenta.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Proteomics·DateFeb 18, 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.

Cells use concentration gradients as a compass

Researchers at LMU have developed a theory explaining how cells perceive their own shapes and use this information to direct protein distribution. A concentration gradient within the cell encodes shape information, which is decoded by self-organized protein patterns.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 16, 2021

Green tea compound aids tumor-suppressing, DNA-repairing protein

A study published in Nature Communications found that green tea compound epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) preserves the tumor-suppressing protein p53 from degradation. This interaction increases p53 levels, which can aid in DNA repair and destroy cancerous cells.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 12, 2021

Anti-cancer drug's mode of operation deciphered

Immunologists at the University of Freiburg have solved a mystery about how Rituximab, an anti-cancer drug, targets B tumor cells. The researchers found that CD20 organizes nanostructures on the B cell membrane, and its absence or binding to Rituximab activates resting B cells.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2021
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.