Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Cell biology - Overseers of cell death

New study reveals that N-terminal acetylation shields proteins from degradation and inhibits programmed cell death, opening up new approaches for cancer therapy. IAPs play a wider role in protein quality control, recognizing defective proteins for destruction, and triggering apoptosis in tumor cells.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 10, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers develop promising way to find new cancer drugs

A new method has been developed to identify peptides that inhibit histone deacetylases (HDACs), enzymes that play a role in cancer development and treatment. The researchers hope to use this method to develop more specific HDAC inhibitors with fewer side effects, leading to improved cancer therapy.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 25, 2021

Brief encounters: How fleeting protein interactions shape health

A new research hub will be established at the University of Leeds to map dynamic protein interactions. Professor Sheena Radford's work focuses on understanding the fleeting interactions between proteins that shape or destroy memories, with implications for diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateJan 14, 2021
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.

Designer protein patches boost cell signaling

Researchers designed proteins to form honeycomb structures that block uptake of receptors from cell surfaces. This discovery could enable new materials for modulating cell behavior and treating diseases such as sepsis, COVID-19, heart disease, and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 6, 2021

The brain's protein factories at work

Researchers at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin have visualized the structure of ribosomes in nerve cells at near-atomic resolution, revealing a new key factor Ebp1 controlling brain development and protein synthesis. This study provides insights into the regulatory processes involved in maintaining neuronal proteostasis.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 22, 2020

January issue ofSLAS Discovery"Cryo-EM: The Resolution Revolution and Drug Discovery"

The January issue of SLAS Discovery features the cover article 'Cryo-EM: The Resolution Revolution and Drug Discovery', which explores how Cryo-EM is influencing drug discovery projects. The journal also includes 13 articles on original research topics, such as high-throughput screening methods and protein-ligand interactions.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateDec 21, 2020

The human helpers of SARS-CoV-2

Scientists from Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin discovered numerous variants of human helper proteins influencing the amount or function of viruses. The study reveals potential target structures for new drugs and helps understand risk factors for severe COVID-19 courses.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 16, 2020
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.

RNA molecules are masters of their own destiny

RNA molecules have been found to play a key role in regulating their own production through feedback loops. This discovery provides insight into the complex process of transcription, where proteins and DNA interact to create messenger RNA molecules. The research suggests that low levels of RNA encourage droplet formation, while high le...

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell·DateDec 16, 2020

How does pathogen sense environment? Scientists identify key proteins' structures

Researchers have discovered a new two-component system (TCS) in bacteria that helps sense environmental stimuli and trigger cellular responses. The study reveals the molecular mechanism of G6P signal transduction by HptRSA sensor complex, providing important clues for nutritional sensing mechanisms in bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2020

'Fun size' Cas9 nucleases hold promise for easier genome editing

Researchers have discovered two new, compact Cas9 nucleases that can work in human cells and may expand the toolbox for genome editing. The new nucleases have relatively short PAMs, making them suitable for delivery via adeno-associated viral vectors.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateDec 10, 2020

New and unexplored dimension in the study of protein-protein interactions

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered that certain molecules can promote the self-assembly of sliding clamps into structures containing many stacked doughnut shapes, resembling tubes of doughnuts. These findings suggest a new mechanism by which cells may control DNA replication under stress conditions.

SourceArizona State University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateDec 9, 2020

Visualisation reveals how a protein 'hunkers down' to conserve energy

A team of scientists has developed a visualization technique that reveals the intricate mechanism by which a key protein involved in muscle activity shuts itself down to conserve energy. This discovery provides new insights into how genetic mutations in this protein can lead to various diseases.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 2020
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.

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.

Dormant threat: Abnormal proteins unleash latent toxicity in neurodegenerative diseases

Researchers have discovered a mechanism of action by which abnormal proteins cause indirect damage to neurons, leading to dendrite defects in fly models of neurodegenerative diseases. The study identifies a problematic transcription factor called NF-κB, which becomes improperly regulated due to the presence of abnormal proteins.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateNov 20, 2020

Insights on a mechanism to stop COVID-19 replication

Researchers from Politecnico di Milano identified EBSELEN as a potent inhibitor of Mpro protein in SARS-CoV-2, which blocks virus replication. The study elucidates key aspects of the binding mechanism, highlighting selenium's role in inhibiting viral replication.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNew Journal of Chemistry·DateNov 19, 2020

Vibrations of coronavirus proteins may play a role in infection

Researchers suggest that the mechanical properties of spike proteins can account for a strategy used by coronaviruses to trick cells into letting the viruses inside. The study found strong correlations between the rate and intensity of the spikes' vibrations and infectivity, as well as lethality rates.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMatter·DateNov 19, 2020

A change of heart -- new drug for HCM reduces heart mass

A new medication, mavacamten, has been shown to reduce heart muscle thickness and improve cardiac structure and function in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The study found significant reductions in heart mass and improvements in blood flow, exercise capacity, and markers of fibrosis.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCirculation·DateNov 16, 2020
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.

Dynamic risk management in cell populations

Scientists at AMOLF and Yale University have discovered a mechanism that enables cell populations to tune their diversity much faster, by combining physical and chemical interactions between existing proteins. This allows cells to quickly adapt to new environmental signals, rather than relying on time-consuming gene expression changes.

SourceAMOLF·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 13, 2020
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.

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.

Can scientists take the STING out of common respiratory viruses?

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine found that most rhinoviruses require human protein STING to infect cells and cause disease. The discovery opens a new avenue for controlling infection and could lead to targeted therapies for treating common colds and acute wheezing episodes.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateOct 26, 2020
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.

Scientist develops new way to test for COVID-19 antibodies

Scientists have developed a new diagnostic method that uses cell-free testing to measure neutralizing antibodies against the novel coronavirus. The test has shown promising results, with 92% of participants having antibodies and demonstrating effectiveness in blocking viral binding.

SourceSeattle Children's·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateOct 22, 2020

A promising discovery could lead to better treatment for Hepatitis C

A team of Canadian virologists identified a critical role played by the RTN3 protein in the progression of Hepatitis C virus infection. This discovery could lead to better treatments and potentially effective vaccines for the disease, which affects over 130 million people worldwide.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 22, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Repairing the photosynthetic enzyme Rubisco

The study elucidated how Rubisco activase works, revealing that it grabs the N-terminal tail of Rubisco and releases inhibitory sugar molecules using ATP energy. This dual function enables Rca to recruit into carboxysomes, where CO2 is generated, making photosynthesis more efficient.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell·DateOct 20, 2020

Scientists map the human proteome

Researchers have mapped 90% of the human proteome, revealing key interactions between proteins that influence human health. This breakthrough has implications for understanding COVID-19 and developing precision medicine.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 19, 2020
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.

DNA-peptide interactions create complex behaviours which may have helped shape biology

New research reveals that simple DNA-peptide interactions can generate a surprising diversity of compartmentalised higher-ordered phase behaviours, suggesting these polymers' primordial interactions may have helped create modern complex biological structures. The study found that changes in environmental conditions, such as salinity or...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 14, 2020

Two molecular handshakes for hearing

Researchers create detailed models of tip links, crucial components of the inner ear, to shed light on how hearing works. The study reveals key dynamics and interactions between proteins that form tip links, providing new insights into hearing loss and balance disorders.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 1, 2020

Optics and photonics researcher receives $1.7 million nih grant

Kyu Young Han, an assistant professor at the University of Central Florida, has been awarded a $1.7 million NIH grant to develop a novel bioengineering tool and imaging system for super-resolution microscopy. This technology could enable researchers to image multiple proteins in a single cell in just 24 hours, revolutionizing the under...

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateOct 1, 2020
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.

New mechanism for anti-infection effects of dietary fiber

Researchers found that dietary fiber-derived fatty acids activate macrophage activity against Salmonella infection by binding to apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), triggering inflammasome activation. This new mechanism provides insights into the effects of dietary fiber on the immune system.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 29, 2020

Anti-convulsant drug can modify DNA conformation and interact with chromosome proteins

Researchers from UNICAMP found that valproic acid can modify DNA conformation and interact with chromosome proteins. The compound causes changes in the conformation of histones H1 and H3, as well as DNA superstructure and molecular order. This discovery paves the way for novel pharmaceutical research.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·DateSep 28, 2020

New national imaging center has potential to transform medicine

A $22.7 million NIH grant will create a national research hub at UW-Madison, providing access to cutting-edge cryo-EM and cryo-ET technologies for scientists across the US. The center aims to train a new workforce and improve these imaging techniques, which hold potential for breakthroughs in medicine and life sciences.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·DateSep 21, 2020
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Unlocking the mystery of tau for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases

Researchers discovered a novel role of tau specific to FTLD spectrum diseases, contributing to conditions like ALS, PSP, and CBD, but not AD and Pick's disease. The study proposes an imbalanced accumulation of tau model, where FUS and SFPQ regulate MAPT processing, leading to increased 4-repeat tau levels.

SourceNagoya University·JournalBrain·DateSep 9, 2020

More than just genetic code

A team of scientists has made a breakthrough in understanding the complex process of photosynthesis by discovering that mRNAs transport proteins to thylakoid membranes. This finding opens up new avenues for research into photobiotechnology.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Plants·DateSep 8, 2020
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Investigational drug stops toxic proteins tied to neurodegenerative diseases

A pre-clinical study suggests that an investigational drug reduces the buildup of toxic poly(GR) proteins and TDP-43 clumps, which contribute to neurological decline in patients with ALS and FTD. The study found that treatment with a pipeline drug reduced neurodegeneration in mouse models.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 8, 2020

Blood breakdown product commandeers important enzyme

The study found that heme can be commandeered by activated protein C (APC), which can reduce the toxic effect of heme while also reducing the risk of clot formation in the bloodstream. This interaction may provide new insights into blood coagulation disorders and hemolytic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAntioxidants and Redox Signaling·DateSep 4, 2020

Two ERC Starting Grants for MDC scientists

Two MDC scientists, Dr. Kathrin de la Rosa and Dr. Ilaria Piazza, have been awarded European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grants to fund their innovative projects in proteomics and immunology.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·DateSep 3, 2020

Portland State lab finds finds new levels of detail about key membrane proteins

Researchers at Portland State University used cryo-electron microscopy to image connexin-46/50 membrane proteins at an unprecedented level of resolution, revealing new insights into their structure and function. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more effective targeted treatments for diseases.

SourcePortland State University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 28, 2020
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Researchers create nanoclusters that mimic biomolecules

A research team at Cornell University created nanoclusters that can self-assemble and mimic the complex structures of DNA, RNA, and proteins. The clusters have three levels of organization with an interlocking, chiral design, making them potential candidates for metabolic and enzymatic processes.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2020

How viral infections associated with cancer become persistent?

Researchers have discovered a region of viral protein LANA that is crucial for KSHV persistence in human cells, which could potentially be used to develop therapy for KSHV tumors. The study found that this LANA region interacts with p53 and other unacetylated proteins, allowing the virus to persist in tumor cells.

SourceInstituto de Medicina Molecular·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Scientists identify hundreds of drug candidates to treat COVID-19

Researchers at UC Riverside developed a drug discovery pipeline to identify effective drugs for treating COVID-19. The team used a powerful machine-learning approach to screen millions of chemicals and identified hundreds of promising candidates, including some that are already FDA-approved.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalHeliyon·DateAug 12, 2020
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.

Reducing the adverse impact of water loss in cells

A University of Houston researcher has discovered a mechanism for a protein called Nuclear Factor of Activated T cells 5 (NFAT 5) that regulates tonicity and protects cells against cell death. NFAT 5 produces protective osmolytes, which help maintain cellular integrity.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 4, 2020