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Biochemists feed 'poison pill' to deadly virus with a funny name

Researchers at Colorado State University have designed a genetic modification that strips the ability of coxsackievirus B3 to replicate and cause disease. By changing a specific amino acid in the RNA polymerase enzyme, they aim to create a live-attenuated vaccine to protect against this virus and others like it.

SourceColorado State University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 15, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Researchers unveil new, detailed images of DNA transcription

The study provides unprecedented molecular views of the critical early events in gene expression, positioning RNA polymerase to start transcription. The researchers captured human PICs in three functional states, revealing new structural elements and insights into DNA engagement, promoter melting, and transcription bubble stabilization.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalNature·DateMay 11, 2016

Scientists reveal how cell corrects errors made in gene transcription

Researchers at HKUST elucidated the dynamics of backtracking in RNA polymerase II, revealing a stepwise process that detects mis-incorporated RNA and corrects errors. The study provides insight into fundamental mechanisms of transcription and may help understand human diseases and aging related to transcription infidelity.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 3, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Exact pol(e) position -- precisely where the polymerase is changed

Researchers at Helmholtz Zentrum München developed a method to analyze protein modifications, including the phosphorylation of RNA polymerase II. This helps regulate gene expression by controlling enzyme activity at precise sites.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 21, 2016

A glimmer of hope for patients with leukodystrophies

A new crucial gene, POLR1C, has been identified as the cause of nearly 10% of cases with 4H leukodystrophy, a common form of the disease. This discovery sheds light on the molecular mechanism behind the disease and may lead to new diagnostic tools and therapeutic options.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2015
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.

Ebola virus may replicate in an exotic way

A study by University of Utah researchers found a unique mechanism used by the Ebola virus and other related viruses to replicate. The discovery, which was made possible through computer simulations, may lead to new targets for antiviral drugs within five to 10 years.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateDec 11, 2014

In full view

Scientists have determined the complete structure of the influenza virus polymerase, a key machine that makes copies of the virus' genetic material and reads out instructions. The high-resolution structure reveals how the polymerase works as a whole, providing new insights into its function and potential targets for drug design.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 2014

Molecular engines star in new model of DNA repair

Researchers at NYU Langone Health discover how RNA polymerase patrols the genome for DNA damage and recruits partners to repair it, leading to fewer mutations and less disease. The study's findings have major implications for our understanding of DNA repair and its role in cancer and aging.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 8, 2014

Bigger, better, faster

Researchers at EMBL have determined the 3D structure of RNA polymerase I, revealing a unique 'Swiss-army knife' strategy that allows it to produce RNA molecules faster than its counterpart, RNA polymerase II. The protein's larger size and efficiency are due to its built-in modules, which prevent the need for external recruitment.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateOct 24, 2013
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.

Molecular biology: Designer of protein factories exposed

Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have solved the structure of RNA polymerase I, a crucial enzyme in cell growth. The study reveals details on how the enzyme regulates protein synthesis and provides potential targets for cancer treatment.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateOct 24, 2013

Urgent! How genes tell cellular construction crews, 'Read me now!'

A new study reveals that DNA sequences at the beginning of genes in fruit flies contain complex instructions for RNA polymerases to read and transcribe essential genes. The findings suggest that these instructions play a crucial role in regulating gene expression during early embryonic development.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·DateAug 13, 2013

Cellular patterns of development

A new paper in Cell Reports found that paused RNA polymerase plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression during embryonic development. The study revealed that the paused state is regulated over time rather than by tissue type, and that proteins called Polycomb group help keep it in check.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 20, 2012
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

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.

IRCM researchers fuel an important debate in the field of molecular biology

A team of IRCM researchers confirmed the universality of essential cellular process phosphorylation of RNA polymerase II, contradicting recent genome-wide analyses. The study provides critical insights into genetic regulation and may lead to new treatments for genetic diseases and cancer.

SourceInstitut de recherches cliniques de Montreal·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 26, 2012

For every road there is a tire

Stowers researchers find that each class of genes transcribed by RNA polymerase II has a specific class of elongation factors, controlling which genes are transcriptionally regulated. This discovery adds a new dimension to transcriptional elongation control and has significant implications for understanding gene expression.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 22, 2011

Structure of a molecular copy machine

Researchers have determined the architecture of the mitochondrial RNA polymerase, revealing its molecular copy machine mechanism. The discovery provides new insights into the evolution of mitochondria and their genome, shedding light on how they produce energy for cells.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2011
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.

NYU Langone researchers reveal a new mechanism of genomic instability

Researchers at NYU Langone Health have discovered the cellular mechanisms that generate chromosomal breaks in bacteria. They found that collisions between major gene expression lead to chromosomal breaks, which may explain stress-driven evolution in bacteria and certain human diseases.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateAug 18, 2011

Proteins enable essential enzyme to maintain its grip on DNA

Researchers at Ohio State University identified a family of proteins that close a critical gap in RNA polymerase, enabling it to maintain its grip on DNA and activate genes. This discovery has implications for antibiotic development and could contribute to understanding gene expression in all living organisms.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 21, 2011
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.

Novel mechanism for control of gene expression revealed

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have identified a novel mechanism for controlling gene expression, which is evolutionarily conserved in humans. This process, called transcriptional attenuation, involves the blocking of premature termination complexes to allow genes to be expressed under certain stress conditions.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateMar 4, 2011

UM scientists demonstrate role of RNA polymerase in gene transcription

Researchers at University of Maryland provide new insight into the initiation phase of bacterial gene transcription, showing a three-step process involving RNA polymerase and DNA bending. The study confirms experimental observations and establishes an active role for RNA polymerase in the process.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2010

How RNA polymerase II gets the go-ahead for gene transcription

Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have detailed the process of RNA polymerase II initiating gene transcription. The complex recognizes signals in the DNA sequence and uses TFIIB to bind to the TATA box, producing a sharp kink in the DNA.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateOct 9, 2009
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.

Molecular typesetting -- proofreading without a proofreader

A team of researchers at the University of Leeds has developed a model that explains how errors are corrected during protein synthesis. The study suggests that a molecular machine called RNA polymerase uses a unique mechanism to remove incorrect letters from the growing RNA chain, allowing copying to resume.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 23, 2009

New piece found in the puzzle of epigenetics

Researchers at Helmholtz Zentrum München have identified the enzyme TFIIH kinase as responsible for selectively phosphorylating RNA polymerase II, regulating the production of specific RNA molecules. This discovery sheds light on epigenetic mechanisms and their significance in cancer and disease.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJun 16, 2009

TRAPping proteins that work together inside living cells

Researchers have developed a new crosslinking method called TRAP to study protein interactions in living cells. The method uses small crosslinkers that can be controlled with light to identify proteins working together, revealing new details about RNA polymerase in bacteria.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalChemBioChem·DateJun 15, 2009

New gene-silencing pathway found in plants

A team led by Craig Pikaard discovered a new mechanism by which plant cells silence potentially harmful genes, involving the non-coding region of DNA and two plant-specific RNA polymerases. The research has major implications for gene therapy, where RNA-centric approaches show promise for controlling diseases such as cancer and HIV.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalCell·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

How 'molecular machines' kick start gene activation revealed

Researchers have uncovered the mechanism by which specialized activator proteins kickstart the RNA polymerase machine, allowing genes to be activated at specific times. This process is crucial for protein production and bacterial adaptation, making it a potential target for developing novel antibacterial compounds.

SourceImperial College London·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 6, 2008

Study shows how antibiotic sets up road block to kill bacteria

Researchers have discovered the mechanism behind how a specific antibiotic, myxopyronin, kills bacteria. The study found that the antibiotic binds to RNA polymerase, interfering with its ability to use DNA to start gene expression, effectively creating a road block that halts bacterial growth.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2008

How cell's master transcribing machine achieves near perfection

Pol II selects correct NTPs to add to mRNA chains with exquisite precision, using a kinetic selection mechanism that involves the trigger loop. The study reveals how Pol II discriminates against incorrect NTPs and sheds light on the mechanisms of fidelity in cellular genetic copying machines.

SourceCell Press·DateJun 5, 2008

Scientists identify key roadblock to gene expression

Researchers have mapped nucleosome organization along genes in Drosophila melanogaster, revealing a critical stop sign for transcription. This discovery highlights the importance of nucleosomes in regulating gene expression and has implications for developing effective anti-viral drugs against HIV.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateMay 8, 2008

Evolution with a restricted number of genes

Researchers have shed new light on the role of RNA polymerase II in gene expression, revealing a complex mechanism that allows for efficient use of existing genes. The study found that phosphorylation of serine 7 at the carboxyterminal domain is essential for processing and maturation of specific gene products.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007
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.

Pol3 mutation disrupts organ growth

A mutation in RNA polymerase III enzyme disrupts organ growth in zebrafish, with specific tissues like the intestine being severely affected. The study provides hope for a therapeutic application against cancer by targeting the enzyme's role in protein production.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 26, 2007

Researchers watch antibiotics, bacteria meet at atomic level

Researchers used powerful imaging techniques to study the atomic level interactions between bacteria and antibiotics, revealing a key enzyme structure that enables gene expression. The findings provide insights into potential new antibiotic designs that can prevent bacterial resistance.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature·DateJul 25, 2007
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.

Genome circularization and RNA virus replication

A novel mechanism of dengue virus replication has been discovered, involving the circularization of its genome. This process allows the viral RNA polymerase to interact with a distant site on the genome, initiating replication. The study's findings suggest a widespread strategy for viral RNA replication.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJul 31, 2006

Gene loops

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified a new mechanism for gene regulation known as 'gene loops', which play a crucial role in controlling the expression of genes. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of gene function and regulation.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 7, 2005
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.

Lasers help scientists delve into understanding

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory used fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) to study the transcription of genes in DNA. They found that the initial and final stages of this process occur simultaneously, contradicting earlier theories that proposed separate processes for these stages.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 15, 2005

New RNA polymerase discovered in plants

A fourth kind of RNA polymerase, Pol IV, has been found in plants, playing a crucial role in maintaining genome integrity. It helps direct DNA methylation to specific sequences, ensuring proper gene expression and preventing developmental problems. The discovery sheds light on the unique features of plant biology.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalCell·DateFeb 10, 2005

RNA inner workings partly unveiled in Stanford study

Researchers at Stanford Medicine have made groundbreaking discoveries about the structure of RNA polymerase, a crucial enzyme in gene expression. The team's findings reveal intricate details about the enzyme's interactions with helper molecules and DNA, providing a deeper understanding of transcription and protein production.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2004

New class of antibiotics stops pathogens in their genetic tracks

A new class of compounds called CBR703 series inhibit RNA polymerase, a key enzyme in gene expression, and hinder the ability of bacteria to perform crucial catalytic functions. The compounds render RNA polymerase useless by binding to a specific place on the enzyme.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·DateOct 23, 2003
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.

Protein is shown to aid cell's reading of genetic code

Researchers at Cornell University have confirmed a theory about how a protein complex known as FACT helps cells read their genetic code. By studying the activation of a heat-shock gene in fruit fly cells, they found that FACT and other proteins quickly move to chromosomal sites where transcription occurs.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2003

Three-D images shed light on first steps of RNA synthesis

Rockefeller University scientists have discovered how transcription begins in bacteria, a crucial step for developing new antibiotics. The structure of the RNA polymerase holoenzyme reveals a novel protein-protein interaction that regulates transcription initiation.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateMay 16, 2002
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.