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A twisted cell-cell adhesion molecule complex structure revealed by single-molecule fluorescence microscopy and high-speed atomic force microscopy

Researchers have elucidated the mechanism of CELSR cadherin dimerization, revealing a twisted cell-cell adhesion molecule complex structure. The extracellular domains of CELSR cadherins exhibited strand- and globule-like portions, which bound through strand-like structures in an antiparallel orientation.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2023

Reinforcement learning: From board games to protein design

Researchers successfully applied reinforcement learning to protein design, creating proteins with improved antibody generation and accurate nano-structures. The approach may lead to more potent vaccines and novel applications in regenerative medicine.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 20, 2023

How “master regulators” of cells make DNA accessible for gene expression

Researchers from Penn State and Ohio State University used structural biology, biophysics, and cell biology to understand how pioneer factors interact with nucleosomes. They found that a specific region of the protein helps it access DNA, making it accessible for proteins involved in gene expression.

SourcePenn State·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2023
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.

Study compares de novo proteins with randomly produced proteins

A team of researchers compared 1,800 de novo proteins from fruit flies and humans with computer-generated proteins, revealing small but significant differences in their stability and solubility. The study suggests that natural selection may play a role in the early emergence of these proteins.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2023

Study reveals the 3D structure of a protein involved in genome editing

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered the 3D structure of TnpB, a protein involved in genome editing and a probable precursor to the CRISPR-Cas12 enzyme. The study reveals how TnpB recognizes and cuts DNA using a unique pseudoknot shape similar to that found in guide RNAs of Cas12 enzymes.

SourceSchool of Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 6, 2023
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.

Impact of cortactin in cancer progression

Researchers discuss cortactin's impact on cancer progression by modulating the Wnt5a/ROR1 signaling pathway. Cortactin expression is found in various cancers, including breast and chronic lymphocytic leukemia, suggesting its potential role in promoting metastasis.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 4, 2023

WPI-led team uncovers new details of SARS-COV-2 structure

A WPI-led team used computational modeling to create a detailed picture of the SARS-COV-2 virus envelope, revealing its elliptical shape and changing structure. This discovery could lead to more effective therapies and vaccines, as well as a better understanding of the virus's properties.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalStructure·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 30, 2023

Global analysis of coronavirus protein research reveals how countries respond to disease

A global analysis of coronavirus protein research found that countries with larger economies generated more 3D structure determinations for the protein components of coronaviruses. However, there were many outliers, with some advanced and prosperous countries publishing few or no structures, while others strongly affected by COVID-19 p...

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateMar 26, 2023

Cryo-electron microscopy captures structure of a protein pump

Researchers at Tohoku University used cryo-electron microscopy to determine the high-resolution 3D structure of human SPCA1a, a protein pump involved in calcium and manganese ion transport. The study provided insights into how the protein works and how mutations can cause Hailey-Hailey disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 24, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

The complete respiratory supercomplex identified

The study resolves a long-standing question about the structure of respiratory supercomplexes in unicellular eukaryotic organisms. Complex II is found to be part of the supercomplex in these organisms, optimizing ATP formation and revealing a surprising variety in supercomplex construction.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature·DateMar 22, 2023

Neural network learns how to identify chromatid cohesion defects

A cross-disciplinary team developed a convolutional neural network to analyze microscopy images of chromosomes with cohesion defects. The algorithm achieved 73.1% accuracy in classifying new images, streamlining experiments with chromosome analysis.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 11, 2023

Like a flexible Lego railway track: How stable microtubules form within cells

Scientists discovered the molecular basis of CAMSAP3's role in stabilizing microtubules, which is critical for cell survival and various cellular processes. The findings provide a key concept to understanding how microtubule dynamics control cellular phenomena.

SourceSchool of Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalLife Science Alliance·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2023

Guarding the genome: Researchers uncover full 3D structure of p53 protein

Scientists have defined the full-length structure of p53, a crucial protein that regulates cell growth and division. The study reveals how mutations in p53 can lead to cancer by disrupting its ability to grasp DNA, highlighting potential new therapeutic approaches.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 1, 2023
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.

Artificial intelligence conjures proteins that speed up chemical reactions

Researchers used machine-learning algorithms to design new light-emitting enzymes called luciferases that can efficiently recognize specific chemicals and emit light. This breakthrough could lead to custom enzymes for a wide range of applications in biotechnology, medicine, environmental remediation, and manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 22, 2023

Study in Nature discovers causal mechanism behind rare hereditary diseases

Researchers discovered a causal mechanism behind BPTA syndrome by identifying a change in the HMGB1 protein that disrupts cellular self-organization. This disruption leads to developmental disorders and predisposition to cancer, with hundreds of comparable genetic changes associated with various conditions.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature·DateFeb 8, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Solving the structure of a functional amyloid protein provides new clues to the origin of a rare disease

Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona solved the structure of a functional amyloid protein, hnRNPDL-2, which forms stable and non-toxic fibres in humans. The discovery changes the concept of disease origin and treatment, suggesting that molecules stabilising or facilitating fibre formation could be the key to therapy.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2023

LJI scientists uncover the structure and function of Inmazeb, the first FDA-approved drug for Ebola virus infection

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered the detailed mechanism of action of Inmazeb, a three-antibody cocktail designed to combat Ebola virus infection. The study reveals new information about how the drug interacts with the virus and its potential effectiveness against additional species of Ebolavirus.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023
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.

Mind your Qs: polyQ-binding protein 5 scaffolds the nucleolus

Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that PQBP5/NOL10 is a core structural element of the nucleolus, forming a meshwork that supports other nucleolar substructures. It remains in the nucleolus under osmotic stress conditions and anchors reassembly of the nucleolar structure.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 12, 2023

Clinical trial shows boiled peanuts could help overcome child peanut allergy

A clinical trial found that boiling peanuts for up to 12 hours can desensitize children with peanut allergies. The therapy involved sequential doses of boiled and roasted peanuts, achieving high success rates in participants. While promising, the study's findings require confirmation in larger trials.

SourceFlinders University·JournalClinical & Experimental Allergy·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 11, 2023
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.

Structural studies offer “how-to” guide for designing cancer drugs

Researchers have discovered the three-dimensional structure of phosphoinositide 3-kinase alpha (PI3Kα) and how it changes with cancer-associated mutations. This knowledge enables the design of targeted drugs that can specifically bind to mutated versions, potentially eliminating side effects associated with current PI3Kα inhibitors.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2022

Why synonymous mutations are not always silent

Researchers modeled how genetic changes affecting protein synthesis speed can lead to misfolding and altered activity levels in proteins. This finding suggests the importance of kinetics alongside sequence for determining protein structure and function, with potential implications for fields such as biopharmaceutics and medicine.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 5, 2022

Protein shapes indicate Parkinson’s disease

Researchers at ETH Zurich have identified 76 proteins that could serve as biomarkers for Parkinson's disease, with their molecular structures differing between healthy and diseased individuals. The study uses a unique method to analyze protein shapes in cerebrospinal fluid, providing a promising new approach for diagnosis and potential...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateNov 25, 2022
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.

How animals find their way

A Collaborative Research Centre investigates animal navigation using the Earth's magnetic field. The study focuses on vertebrates, including birds and fish, aiming to protect endangered migratory species.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateNov 25, 2022

Cryptic drug-binding sites discovered in the dance

Scientists at KAUST have identified dynamic regions, called cryptic binding sites, that can be targeted by drugs to treat cancer. The study reveals how molecular motion influences ligand binding to BTB domains, a critical part of many proteins involved in disease.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 21, 2022

Researchers reveal the structure of the IFT-B complex, which is essential for formation of the cilium organelle

The study reveals the structure of the 15-subunit IFT-B complex, a crucial component in cilia formation and maintenance. The complex's elongated and flexible nature is consistent with previous low-resolution reconstructions, and two configurations are identified that may drive bi-directional movement.

SourceAarhus University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2022
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.

How to study ‘big’ molecules without breaking them apart

A new technological advancement at the University of Oklahoma will enable scientists to study whole macromolecular structures without deconstructing them. This breakthrough, supported by a $50,000 NIH grant, aims to analyze proteins as intact molecules, improving our understanding of their modifications and interactions.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateNov 10, 2022

A new method for studying ribosome function

Researchers at UIC have developed a new method to study ribosome function by attaching peptides to tRNAs, providing high-resolution structures of the ribosome and its interactions with nascent chains. This breakthrough sheds light on protein synthesis and antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2022

The three-dimensional structure of PAPP-A has been determined

The research reveals PAPP-A's heart-shaped structure and its interaction with STC2, a key regulator of IGF conversion. The study suggests that complex formation between PAPP-A and STC2 is highly regulated, influencing height by up to 2.1 cm.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 31, 2022

A key regulator of cell growth deciphered

A team from the University of Geneva has identified the structure of the SEA complex, a key regulator of cell growth, and how it controls the activity of the major regulator of cell growth, mTOR. The discovery provides new insights into how cells perceive nutrient levels to regulate their growth.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateOct 27, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

NTU Singapore scientists’ discovery of the structure of a key part of our chromosomes could improve understanding of how humans age and develop cancer

Scientists from NTU Singapore have discovered that telomeres are stacked in columns like a spring, leaving DNA exposed to damage. This finding could improve understanding of how humans age and develop cancer, with potential treatments for diseases caused by dysfunctional telomeres.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature·DateSep 29, 2022

Seeing antibiotics in action inside a pathogenic bacterium

Researchers observe atomic-level structural changes in bacterial ribosomes and their response to antibiotics, shedding light on mechanisms of action and potential off-target effects. The study provides new insights into the complex interactions between ribosomes and other cellular complexes.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateSep 28, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Tiny sea creature’s genes shed light on evolution of immunity

Researchers have identified a complex of proteins in a tiny marine invertebrate that share similarities with the human immune system, suggesting an earlier origin for the building blocks of our immune system. The study could ultimately guide the development of new immunotherapies and improve understanding of transplant rejection.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 26, 2022

New study explains mechanisms of salt transport and could help treat cystic fibrosis

A recent study by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center researchers has shed light on the mechanisms of salt transport across membrane barriers. The findings have significant implications for treating cystic fibrosis, a disease caused by mutations in three types of sodium-potassium pumps.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2022
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.

Bird’s enzyme points toward novel therapies

Researchers create mammalian cells that synthesize a noncanonical amino acid, which can be used to make therapeutic proteins. The discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for various diseases.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2022

Beyond AlphaFold: A.I. excels at creating new proteins

Researchers developed a new software tool called ProteinMPNN to create protein molecules more accurately and quickly than before. The team used machine learning algorithms, including AlphaFold, to generate new protein shapes and sequences, paving the way for novel vaccines, treatments, and sustainable biomaterials.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 2022

New study reveals mechanism for how disease-spreading prions can jump from one species to another

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have identified the structure of protein fibrils linked to a hereditary form of human prion disease, revealing the mechanism for interspecies transmission. The study suggests that disease transmission between species can be predicted based on structural information.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 12, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

SARS-CoV-2 protein caught severing critical immunity pathway

Scientists at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have seen the critical interaction between SARS-CoV-2 protein Mpro and human immune system protein NEMO. The study reveals that Mpro can cut NEMO, slowing down the immune response and allowing the virus to evade the body.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·DateSep 8, 2022

Analyzing the potential of AlphaFold in drug discovery

A new study from MIT reveals that computer models predicting molecular interactions, like AlphaFold, need improvement to help identify drug mechanisms of action. Researchers improved the performance of these models using machine-learning techniques, but more work is needed.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateSep 6, 2022

How a single protein could unlock age-related vision loss

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys have discovered the flexible structure of a key blood protein involved in macular degeneration and other age-related diseases. The study reveals how this protein adapts to changing pressure, leading to calcified plaque deposits characteristic of these conditions.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateSep 6, 2022
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.

New technology offers pathways to finding treatments for kidney disease

Researchers at Washington University have developed a hydrogel system that preserves biochemistry and mechanical environments of cultured podocyte cells. This allows researchers to identify new ways to control mechanisms used by cells to heal themselves, potentially leading to therapies for currently incurable diseases.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2022

Miniaturized lab-on-a-chip for real-time chemical analysis of liquids

A new mid-infrared sensor chip can accurately monitor liquid concentrations in real-time, enabling precise monitoring of chemical reactions. The sensor combines customized infrared technology and chemical robustness to deliver data within fractions of a second.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2022
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.

UBC researchers discover ‘weak spot’ across major COVID-19 variants

Researchers at UBC have discovered a key vulnerability across all major COVID-19 variants that can be targeted by neutralizing antibodies. The 'master key' identified is the antibody fragment V H Ab6, which effectively neutralizes SARS-CoV-2 by attaching to the epitope on the spike protein.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 18, 2022

Road signs for immune defense cells

A recent international study has shed light on the inner workings of the adaptive immune response, revealing how killer T cells recognize viral invaders using molecular road signs. The study highlights the crucial role of chaperones in ensuring the stability and longevity of these road signs, allowing for more effective detection and d...

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 15, 2022

Proteins and natural language: Artificial intelligence enables the design of novel proteins

A research team led by Prof. Dr. Birte Höcker applied a computer-based natural language processing model to protein research, creating new proteins capable of stable folding and defined functions. The ProtGPT2 model generates proteins with differentiated structures, eliminating the need for functionalization processes.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateAug 4, 2022
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.

Chemists create artificial protein that peers into Earth’s chemical past

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed an artificial protein that could provide new insights into chemical evolution on early Earth. The protein, inspired by a key enzyme in energy production, has been shown to build molecules one step at a time, shedding light on how organic chemistry matured on the planet.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2022

Visualization of binding processes of cell-cell adhesion molecules in solution

The study reveals multiple dimeric structures of cadherins in solution, including W-, cross-, and S-shaped dimers. The researchers propose a novel conformation, the S-shaped dimer, and suggest that binding mechanism progresses through sliding motion followed by flipping motion to form stable SS-dimers.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022
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.