Articles tagged with Structural Biology
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
The new CRC 1551 will study the polymer properties of DNA, RNA, and proteins to understand their interaction in cells. The researchers aim to describe and understand nonequilibrium processes in cells triggered by complex interplay of cellular polymers.
The German Research Foundation renewed CRC 1361 for an additional four years to explore mechanisms of DNA repair and genome stability. The consortium aims to elucidate how cells safeguard genetic information and promote human health by understanding DNA damage signaling pathways.
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz has been awarded funding for three Collaborative Research Centers in the life sciences, including CRC 1551 and CRC/Transregio 355. The centers will focus on investigating polymer concepts in cellular function and heterogeneity of regulatory T cells in distinct microenvironments.
Researchers studied the larynx of Daubenton's bats and found that different structures are used for high-frequency echolocation calls and lower-frequency social calls. The study reveals that bat vocalizations can be compared to death metal growls, highlighting the animals' unique ability to produce a wide range of sounds.
Researchers at the University Hospital Bonn have discovered a new function of CRISPR/Cas9 gene scissors, which produce small signal molecules that bind to proteins, activating an emergency response. This discovery opens up new possibilities for treating diseases using CRISPR technology.
Researchers created a detailed map of the hippocampus's connections to the rest of the brain, finding fewer links with frontal lobes but more with visual networks. This discovery may change how we think about human memory and cognition, potentially shedding light on why some primates excel at certain memory tasks.
Researchers have made a surprising discovery that liquid smoke can enhance plant defense against pests and diseases, leading to new farming practices. The study found that sunflowers grown in soil treated with liquid smoke had larger, thicker, and greener leaves and appeared less prone to pests and disease.
Plant cells use a complex 'hub and spoke' system to recycle organelles, involving specialized vesicles and molecular mechanisms. The discovery sheds light on the role of autophagy in plant stress tolerance.
Scientists have clarified the structure of a new protein complex that catalyses energy conversion processes in photosynthesis, known as Photosystem I. The research reveals that two monomers can join together as a dimer, leading to improved hydrogen production in certain plant species.
Researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to visualize the structure of mouse TRPM8 channels, revealing the molecular mechanism for activation by cooling agonists and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2). This discovery has implications for neuroinflammatory diseases and pain management.
Scientists developed a novel cell-free protein crystallization (CFPC) method that allows rapid and direct formation of protein crystals without purification processes. The technique has enabled the analysis of unstable proteins, increasing knowledge of cellular processes and functions.
A recent study found that mechanical ventilation can cause irreversible tissue damage in premature lungs, leading to impaired lung cell function. The study showed that even low pressure can result in structural changes on the cell surface, disrupting molecule transport and water balance.
Researchers at POSTECH have developed a method to observe single molecules at room temperature, revealing their structural dynamics and conformational heterogeneity. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding the origin of life, identifying causes of incurable diseases, and developing treatments.
A team of researchers from Ritsumeikan University in Japan has elucidated the mechanism behind the liquid-solid phase transition of FUS protein that leads to ALS. They discovered a new therapeutic target, arginine, which suppresses FUS aggregation and could delay ALS progression.
A team of scientists has provided an intricate blueprint of the RuvB AAA+ motor, which converts chemical energy into mechanical work to perform branch migration in DNA recombination. The research reveals that the motor uses a basic lever mechanism to generate force and moves the DNA substrate through a cyclical manner.
Researchers have identified three natural compounds that bind to a key enzyme in the coronavirus, potentially blocking its replication. Hydroxyethylphenol, hydroxybenzaldehyde, and methyldihydroxybenzoate showed reduced activity against the papain-like protease enzyme, with effects ranging from 50-70%.
The study reveals that environmental conditions cause RNA structures to change, affecting plant flowering times and potentially leading to more desirable traits. This technology can also be applied to human cells, enabling the design of RNA-based therapies for diseases like SARS-COV-2.
Scientists at Scripps Research have identified antibodies that induce broad immunity against SARS viruses, including emerging variants. The discovery reveals the antibody structures that produce this more comprehensive immune response and could inform the development of next-generation vaccines.
A new study provides critical insights into the pGC-A membrane receptor, a vital component of cardiovascular regulation. The research offers a clearer understanding of this complex receptor and its signaling mechanisms, paving the way for new anti-hypertensive drugs.
Researchers discovered that giant viruses, known as bacteriophages, construct a shielded compartment that acts like a nucleus in human cells, protecting their genetic material. The nuclear-like structure allows certain components inside while serving as a defense mechanism against bacterial threats.
Scientists at University Hospital Bonn compared PELDOR and FRET spectroscopy methods to measure distances in protein molecules. While most results were comparable, inconsistencies were found in two cases, highlighting the importance of re-measurement with another nano ruler.
Researchers have created a photoacoustic imaging endoscope probe that can fit inside a medical needle, resolving subcellular-scale tissue structural and molecular information in 3D. The device has an ultra-thin design, allowing for real-time 3D characterization of tissue during minimally invasive procedures.
Researchers from Tokyo University of Science create new method for producing heterolayer coordination nanosheets with improved properties and controllability. The study expands the diversity of 2D materials, enabling potential applications in optoelectronics and renewable energy.
Researchers discovered a new prion structure using electron microscopy, revealing key similarities and differences between distinct strains. This finding could lead to better understanding of how shape variations affect disease outcomes.
A team of scientists discovered a mathematical principle explaining how cells connect to form tissues and organs, shedding light on embryonic development and organ formation. The study found that epithelial cells can adopt complex three-dimensional shapes like scutoids, which determine cellular connectivity and tissue properties.
A team of researchers at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft developed METIS, a modular software system for optimizing biological systems using machine learning. The tool allows users to optimize their already discovered or synthesized biological systems and can be used with different lab equipment.
Researchers investigated radiation exposure among health professionals performing structural heart interventions, revealing higher doses for echocardiographers and cardiologists compared to sonographers. The study highlights the need for safer procedures and protective measures to mitigate radiation risks.
Using nearly two decades of research and ultrabright X-ray beams, scientists have created a detailed structural map of the nuclear pore complex (NPC), a key regulator of cellular operations. The results provide significant implications for understanding disease mechanisms and developing new treatments.
Researchers have identified a family of proteins called PIN-FORMED as essential for auxin transport, guiding plant growth and development. The discovery provides the first structural basis of auxin transport by PIN proteins and sheds light on how herbicides can be recognized by these proteins.
A new study explores the characteristics of 36 basic variants of the Holliday junction, a fundamental building block used in DNA nanoforms. The results show that sequences forming the four protruding arms of the junction can enhance or hinder crystallization processes.
Researchers used X-ray crystallography to reveal the structure of HIV-1 matrix protein at 2.1 angstroms resolution, advancing understanding of viral assembly and envelope protein incorporation. The study showed that molecular details at this level can help develop new therapeutic agents inhibiting HIV-1 assembly and virus production.
Researchers elucidated the protease-inhibitory mechanism of A2ML1 using cryo-EM structures, shedding light on its role in severe autoimmune blistering diseases. The study improves understanding of related proteins and their function.
Researchers at the Kosinski Group used a combination of cryo-electron tomography, single particle cryo-EM, and integrative modelling to create the most complete model of the human NPC to date, covering over 90% of its core. This breakthrough enables scientists to understand the NPC's structure and function in greater detail.
Researchers have identified a regulatory network controlling zinc accumulation in marine cyanobacteria, allowing them to vary their internal zinc levels by over two orders of magnitude. This network is unique among bacteria, enabling the extraordinary capacity to accumulate zinc.
A new time-resolved instrument measures circular dichroism changes in fractions of a picosecond, enabling the capture of photoexcited molecules' chirality and conformational motion. This resolves the deactivation mechanism of iron-based spin-crossover complexes, crucial for magnetic data storage.
The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Pathogenic Trypanosomatids will bring together experts from different fields to discuss the fight against leishmaniasis and Chagas disease. Researchers will share state-of-the-art science and results of new research on epigenetics, drug discovery, and molecular biology.
Researchers at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology have developed a new bioinformatics pipeline, CRESSP, to investigate the mechanism underlying autoimmune diseases following SARS-CoV-2 infection. The tool identified potential epitopes responsible for COVID-related autoimmune diseases and predicted cross-reactive epitopes of di...
Researchers find NLRP3 protein forms filament that grows in one direction, allowing for targeted treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. The discovery could potentially stop inflammation at the 'growing end', bringing relief to those suffering from conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
A study by Rice University bioscientists has revealed the presence of a central metal ion critical to DNA replication and implicated in misincorporation. The research found that three metal ions are involved in the process, with the first supporting nucleotide binding and the second stabilizing the binding of loose nucleotides. This di...
Researchers have developed a new approach to studying RNA molecules using nanotechnology and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), enabling the analysis of RNA subunits with unprecedented resolution. This breakthrough has significant implications for fundamental research, drug development, and RNA therapeutics.
Researchers unlocked the structure of an enzyme that regulates plant growth in response to strigolactone hormone. The enzyme, MAX2, targets repressor proteins for destruction when it's unlocked, allowing genes to be expressed and activating various growth processes. This discovery sheds light on how plants adapt to their environment.
Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences have developed a method to overcome the tradeoff between rice yield component traits, including panicle number and size. By modifying the cis-regulatory region of the Ideal Plant Architecture 1 gene, they increased grain yield by 15.9% while maintaining tiller number.
A new study identified a protein similar to eukaryotic tubulins in Asgard archaea, which may represent an evolutionary intermediate between prokaryotic FtsZ and eukaryotic microtubule-forming tubulins. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of chromosome segregation in eukaryotes.
Researchers have studied the atomic structures of KaiC, a cyanobacterial clock protein, to understand its role in regulating circadian rhythms. The study reveals that allostery drives the clock, with phosphorylation and ATP hydrolysis cycles working like two gears.
Researchers developed new method to visualize CNS fibroblasts and their intercellular interactions in the CNS. The technique provides a detailed picture of CNS fibroblasts, including their location, size, morphology, and gene/protein expression patterns.
Researchers used new techniques to uncover the Tetrahymena electron transport chain, revealing gaps in our knowledge of a major branch of life. The study highlights the power of structural biology and shows potential as a discovery tool for biodiversity research.
Researchers fill in gaps in Human Reference Genome, discovering repetitive sections are a major source of human variation and genetic diversity. The Telomere-2-Telomere project reveals complex architectural features with significant consequences for understanding human evolution and biological function.
The study reveals the structure of D13 and its role in assembling into a protein scaffold, which is critical for virus replication. The researchers discovered two ways the proteins interact to form a spherical honeycomb lattice, with a small helix structure playing a key role in assembly.
Researchers at Van Andel Institute have discovered a new, detailed molecular structure of PhyB, a vital photoreceptor in plants, which allows them to sense light and regulate their lifecycles. The findings may lead to breakthroughs in agricultural and bioengineering practices.
Researchers at Boston University have developed optoacoustic neurostimulation with single neuron and subcellular level precision. Optoacoustic neuromodulation may offer advantages over ultrasonic neuromodulation, including higher spatial temporal resolution.
Scientists at Van Andel Institute and Rockefeller University have revealed the structure of the 911 DNA checkpoint clamp, which loads onto DNA to repair damage. The novel finding shows that the 911 clamp is loaded onto DNA from the opposite end, a surprise in the field of DNA replication.
Autophagy is induced when ER-bound ribosomes are stalled, rescuing them from cellular harm. The ERC grant aims to decipher the role of Autophagy in rescuing stalled ER-bound ribosomes.
Researchers have discovered how bacteria clean up after molecular crashes, revealing a universal rescue mechanism that works in both bacteria and yeast. The study identifies a molecule called SmrB as the key player in this process.
Researchers have identified an important element for electrical communication in plants: the ion channel TPC1. The study reveals how this channel is switched on and off, controlling electrical excitation in plant cells. Understanding TPC1-dependent processes can help better understand similar mechanisms in animal cells.
Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin have redesigned a key component of the widely used CRISPR-based gene-editing tool Cas9 to be thousands of times less likely to target the wrong stretch of DNA. The new version, called SuperFi-Cas9, is as efficient as the original but reduces off-target interactions, making it potentially ...
Researchers developed a new technique called dual-detection impulsive vibrational spectroscopy (DIVS) to measure two distinct types of vibrational signals. DIVS enables synchronous measurement of THz- and fingerprint region vibrations, offering high temporal resolution for real-time chemical analysis.
Mutations in SARS-CoV-2's spike protein can resist neutralizing antibodies and therapeutics, highlighting the need for improved vaccines and treatments. The study mapped out these 'escape variants' to understand their molecular mechanisms.
A team of scientists from Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg and the Max Planck Institute discovered the essential final step in mRNA production. The process involves 16 proteins that precisely control the structure of mRNA, which determines protein function and disease risk.
Researchers have solved atomic-level structures of the muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, a crucial step in understanding its function. The new findings could lead to breakthroughs in treating neurological disorders such as congenital myasthenic syndrome and myasthenia gravis.
Scientists created new material design principles by studying the complex structure of starfish skeletons. The unique lattice architecture offers mechanical protection, enabling high strength and flexibility while maintaining buoyancy regulation.