A new technique uses ESR to measure distances between atoms in proteins, revealing the overall structure of a molecule. This method is particularly useful for studying larger protein assemblies and membrane-embedded proteins, which are challenging to study using traditional methods.
The NIH is funding three new synchrotron beamlines at Argonne National Laboratory to aid in the structural study of biological molecules. These facilities will be used to analyze protein structures that can help develop targeted cancer treatments.
The University of Chicago has been awarded a $2.4 million grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute to expand its programs in immunology and structural biology. The grant will be used to fund six new junior faculty members, support pilot projects, and establish shared facilities.