Articles tagged with Protein Structure
Scientists have added millions of protein complex structures to the AlphaFold Database, shedding light on how proteins interact. The dataset prioritizes human health and disease research, enabling researchers to test, refine, and build upon it.
Researchers developed a free-to-use software tool, PSBench, to verify the accuracy of artificial intelligence-based protein structure predictions. The database includes 1.4 million annotated protein models, verified by experts, and provides reliable information for building more accurate AI systems.
Researchers have developed a device that cuts sample consumption by as much as 97% while producing high-quality structural data for X-ray crystallography. This innovation enables the study of rare proteins and accelerates drug discovery, unlocking new insights into disease mechanisms.
Researchers uncover a unique structural motif in the tail region of kinesin-2 that acts as a molecular 'connector,' allowing the motor to correctly recognize and transport its cargo inside cells. The discovery provides new insights into brain transport and diseases, paving the way for diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Researchers have unraveled the structure of two key malaria parasite proteins, offering opportunities for new vaccines that block mosquito transmission. The discovery is a significant step towards eradicating the deadly disease.
Researchers used NMR spectroscopy to capture enzyme dynamics, discovering a 'crossover loop' structure that plays a crucial role in catalyzing reactions. This new method promises unprecedented access to biomolecule mechanisms and potential pathologies.
Researchers discovered that the functional splitting of transposon-derived RNAs drove the emergence of Type V CRISPR-Cas immunity. This innovation enabled the development of compact nucleases with flexible guide RNAs, offering design principles to create smaller and more versatile CRISPR tools.
The study reveals that four units of ZapA protein form an asymmetric ladder-like structure with FtsZ protofilaments, impacting the alignment of the Z-ring. The interaction between ZapA and FtsZ is dynamic, with cooperative binding and structural alterations, enabling the maintenance of FtsZ mobility.
A team from Kyushu University has discovered that the smallest known protein-based tRNA-processing enzyme, HARP, forms a star-shaped complex to cut both ends of tRNA. This finding sheds light on how HARP processes the 5' leader sequence and reveals a new mechanism for RNA processing.
A study reveals that ultra-small nanoparticles can induce abnormal protein conformation and have the potential to cause pathological conditions like Alzheimer's disease. The researchers used spectroscopy-based experiments to analyze the interactions between bovine serum albumin and silica nanoparticles.
Researchers discovered that CsrA gathers in droplet-like structures inside cells to control bacterial gene activation. These compartments help bacteria adapt to environments and switch between harmless and virulent states.
Researchers trained a machine learning algorithm to identify over 30 viable treatments for diseases caused by bat-borne Nipah and Hendra henipaviruses. The study used Rhodium software to virtually screen compounds based on the protein structure of the measles virus.
Research reveals DHX36 plays a crucial role in normal chromatin architecture and rRNA homeostasis during oocyte growth. DHX36 deficiency impairs meiotic maturation, post-fertilization embryonic development, and disrupts ribosome assembly.
Researchers developed a computational model that reproduces intricate protein structures at postsynaptic densities, crucial sites for learning and memory. The model reveals details on how these proteins organize into unique structures through liquid-liquid phase separation, enabling sustained activation of downstream signaling pathways.
Researchers from ICTER have determined the 3D structure of RBP3, a key molecule in the visual cycle, shedding light on its role in retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy. The study reveals conformational changes upon binding to ligands, providing new insights into its functional mechanisms.
A novel AI tool, RibbonFold, predicts the structures of amyloids, revealing previously overlooked nuances in their formation and evolution. This breakthrough may reshape how researchers approach neurodegenerative disease treatment and offers a scalable method for analyzing harmful protein aggregates.
Researchers at Pitt have produced the most detailed image of a bacteriophage, revealing its structural makeup and enabling the design of phages to target specific bacterial strains. The high-definition images reveal intricate interactions between proteins in the tail tip, which binds to bacteria cells.
A research team has identified a key protein suspected to be involved in benzodiazepine-related inflammation, which could inform strategies to improve benzodiazepine drug design and treat inflammation-related conditions. The findings may lead to new treatments for diseases such as Alzheimer's, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have designed a new drug framework that selectively targets the CYP3A4 enzyme, reducing off-target effects. The discovery provides a roadmap for future drug developers to better evaluate drug interactions and selectively target CYP proteins.
Researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to visualize the dynamic motion of a human chromatin remodeler in action, capturing 13 distinct structures that reveal the full picture of nucleosome sliding. This comprehensive view sheds light on how chromatin remodeling affects gene access and expression.
Researchers have gained detailed insights into RBP3's structure and mechanism of action, shedding light on its role in protecting the retina from diseases. The study suggests potential therapies to slow or stop retinal degeneration, including RP and myopia.
A machine-learning algorithm named catGRANULE 2.0 ROBOT identifies molecular targets for further researches and therapies in neurodegenerative diseases. The algorithm analyzes protein-RNA interaction to predict potential harm and identify early pathological signals.
The Protein Society recognizes five award winners in 2025 for their groundbreaking research in protein science and technology. Professor Jan Steyaert receives the Christian B. Anfinsen Award for pioneering nanobody technology, while Dr. Brian Kuhlman wins the Emil Thomas Kaiser Award for novel protein design and structural modeling.
Researchers at Kyoto University have captured the first high-resolution structure of Ebola's nucleocapsid using single-particle cryo-electron microscopy. This visualization reveals sophisticated interactions between structural components, including VP24 and NP proteins, which govern virus assembly, RNA synthesis, and transport.
Researchers directly observed DNA formation into rod-shaped chromosomes during cell division, revealing the role of condensin complexes and their looping process in compaction. This discovery provides insights into the molecular mechanism of chromosome segregation.
A team of scientists has successfully developed a novel platform for diabetes treatment utilizing bioink derived from pancreatic tissue and 3D bioprinting technology. The HICA-V platform replicates the structure and function of the human endocrine pancreas, supporting islet maturation and functional enhancement.
The study found that tunneling nanotube-like structures connect cells in the heart, enabling long-distance intercellular communication essential for heart formation. Disruption of these structures resulted in impaired ventricular wall morphogenesis and defective myocardial growth.
A new bacterial protein, BeeR, has been identified and its structure is being used to develop protein nanoparticles for targeted cancer drug delivery. The protein forms a hollow tube with a cavity capable of containing drug molecules.
A new study introduces Aloe vera as a natural scaffold for cultured meat production, enhancing the taste and texture of alternative proteins. The research also highlights a novel bioprocessing approach using Aloe vera scaffolds in a macrofluidic single-use bioreactor.
Researchers have uncovered two major genes responsible for sorghum's double-grain spikelet, leading to a significant increase in grain number and crop yield. The study found that the DG1 gene regulates floret meristem formation and differentiation, restoring fertility to the lower floret and resulting in the double-grain trait.
The TTUHSC Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences hosted the 37th Student Research Week, showcasing student researchers' work and presentations from distinguished national speakers. The event featured an increase in abstract submissions and lightning talk sessions.
A new paper proposes that temperature plays a fundamental role in setting off shapeshifting in metamorphic proteins. Researchers analyzed differences in hydrophobic contacts and found significant temperature-dependent changes, supporting their theory.
Researchers developed an efficient way to predict structures of human proteins that were previously challenging to observe. The algorithm, AlphaFold-Metainference, outperformed existing methods in accuracy and can be applied to other biomolecules like DNA and RNA.
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys have discovered a way to target the energy supply chain of cancer cells. By understanding how enzymes like ubiquitous mitochondrial creatine kinase (uMtCK) function, scientists can design new treatments that slow or stop tumor growth.
A new in-cell characterization method allows for the direct analysis of protein structures and conformations within living cells. The study reveals three main conformational forms of calmodulin, with the extended form being significantly more abundant than in purified form.
Researchers have developed a palladium-mediated reaction to precisely modify peptides and proteins, overcoming challenges in bioconjugation. The method targets dehydroalanine-containing peptides and proteins, enabling efficient synthesis of structurally unique peptides.
Researchers developed Janus-type supramolecules that form stable ribbon-type assemblies, guiding the arrangement of ion channels across lipid membranes. The supramolecular channels mediate efficient and selective K+ transport, disrupting cancer cell balance and inducing apoptosis.
Researchers at Kobe University discovered that the molecule afadin plays a crucial role in cell adhesion by facilitating droplet formation. This process is essential for organs to form properly and tissues to develop, with significant implications for cancer metastasis and tissue engineering.
Researchers at POSTECH developed a super-photostable organic dye, PF555, to track proteins in cells over extended periods. This breakthrough enables observation of endocytosis and protein interactions, revealing EGFR's active navigation in its environment.
A new integrated 3D imaging approach has revealed exquisite detail of the virus assembly process used by herpes simplex virus during replication. The research identified previously unknown functions of HSV-1 structural proteins and provided insights into the unmutated gene's usual role in viral assembly.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered a human antibody called mAb 3A6 that may prove useful against deadly outbreaks. The antibody was isolated from an Ebola survivor and found to block infection by binding to the viral stalk, offering protection at a very low dose.
Researchers from Nagoya Institute of Technology have shed light on the mechanisms of bacterial flagellar motors, which propel bacteria through fluids. The study used CryoEM to capture high-resolution images of stator complexes and identified key molecular cavities for sodium ions.
Researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to determine the atomic structure of collagen assemblies with an unexpected right-handed superhelical twist. This discovery could reshape biomedical research by revealing greater structural diversity in collagen.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a new method for customizing engineered living materials (ELMs) by altering protein matrices. The study revealed that small genetic changes can significantly impact the behavior of these materials, making them ideal for applications like tissue engineering and drug delivery.
A team of researchers has developed a novel model of the Blood-Brain Barrier, which mimics the complex structure of cerebral blood vessels. This breakthrough enables scientists to study neuroinflammation and develop new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
ApoB100 protein structure revealed for the first time, allowing for more precise testing and treatment of high cholesterol and heart disease. The discovery may lead to new drugs targeting LDL particles, reducing side effects of statin drugs.
Researchers use generative AI to predict chromatin structures in single cells, overcoming limitations of existing experimental methods. The technique can generate thousands of structure predictions in minutes, enabling faster study of how 3D genome organization affects gene expression.
A team of researchers at Duke University has developed a novel AI-based platform that can design and match small peptides with complex proteins, previously considered unreachable. The PepPrCLIP platform utilizes generative large language models to create peptide guide proteins and an algorithm framework to screen and test the peptides.
Proteins form complexes to fulfill their functions, with assembly often beginning during synthesis. Misfolded proteins can lead to cellular dysfunction and diseases; understanding co-translational assembly may help develop new therapeutic approaches.
Researchers at the Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology found that fava bean protein nanofibrils alter the activity of receptor genes and interact with cell membranes, influencing texture perception. The study aims to develop sensorially appealing plant-based foods with improved texture.
Researchers have created a detailed structural map of GABA A receptors in the human brain, revealing how they assemble and interact with drugs. The study provides new insights into treating epilepsy, anxiety, depression, and insomnia, and paves the way for customized therapies.
Researchers developed ProteinReDiff, an AI-powered method to redesign proteins for improved ligand binding. The approach uses initial protein sequences and ligand SMILES strings, reducing reliance on detailed structural data.
Researchers at EMBL Grenoble identified significant differences between the trypanosomal and human nuclear cap-binding complex, a key player in cellular RNA metabolism. The study reveals major differences that could serve as a potential drug target for treating neglected tropical diseases.
A deficiency of TLE6 protein, associated with female infertility, was also linked to abnormal sperm morphology and reduced motility in male mice. The study suggests that TLE6 plays a crucial role in energy production in sperm cells.
A new approach combines genomic and structural data to resolve deep evolutionary relationships, reducing the impact of saturation in traditional phylogenetic methods. This allows for more accurate trees that can inform disease research, vaccine development, and insights into complex traits.
The study reveals how the Balbiani body transforms from liquid droplets into a stable core, guiding early embryonic development. The team uncovered the role of microtubules in regulating Bucky ball protein granule movement and organization.
Researchers from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem have pioneered the use of metamaterials to replicate the texture and structure of traditional meat. Their novel approach enables the mass production of whole cuts of meat at a cost of $9 per kilogram, making sustainable protein alternatives more accessible.
Researchers developed AI-driven therapeutic platform mimicking viral structures to deliver therapeutic genes to target cells. The innovative approach achieved precise symmetrical structures and effectively delivered payloads, paving the way for breakthroughs in gene therapies and next-generation vaccines.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have uncovered a mechanism behind cancer progression: the stiffening of tumor cell's environment. This spreading causes increased cell proliferation and tumor growth.
Dr. Gail Cornwall is investigating the structure of the brain extracellular matrix, a network of proteins and polysaccharides found in the space between neurons and glia. Her research aims to identify novel structural elements and mechanisms that enable brain plasticity and sex-specific responses.