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Evolution: Revelatory relationship

A new study supports the idea that hydrogen played a crucial role in the emergence of eukaryotes, the first nucleated cells. The research suggests that the Lokiarchaeota, an enigmatic group of microorganisms, use hydrogen for metabolism, providing evidence for the 'hydrogen hypothesis' of eukaryote evolution.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Microbiology·DateDec 27, 2019

SDHI pesticides are toxic for human cells

Researchers discovered eight SDHI pesticide molecules harming earthworms, bees, and human cells by blocking succinate dehydrogenase activity. The study found these pesticides induce oxidative stress in human cells, leading to cell death, threatening human health.

SourceCNRS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 7, 2019

Scientists identify rare evolutionary intermediates to understand the origin of eukaryotes

A new study by Yale scientists identifies ancient prokaryotes with compartmentalized nuclei, shedding light on the origin of eukaryotic cells. They found ribosomal proteins in Archaea with NLS-motifs similar to those in eukaryotic species, suggesting a transitional phase.

Dyes for 'live' extremophile labeling will help discover life on Mars

Researchers have discovered a fluorescent dye that allows them to observe the life cycle of bacteria in real time, enabling the study of microorganisms in their natural environment. This method will help locate halophiles, ancient salt-loving organisms that thrive in extreme conditions and may hold clues to the origin of life on Earth.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2018

Green light for clever algae

Guillardia theta's unique phycobiliproteins have distinct biosynthesis and assembly processes compared to cyanobacteria and red algae. Researchers gained insight into the complex transport mechanism of these pigments using docking enzyme GtCPES.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 26, 2014

A cellular housekeeper, and potential target of obesity drugs, caught in action

Scientists have obtained the closest look yet at how a gargantuan molecular machine breaks down unwanted proteins in cells, a critical housekeeping chore that helps prevent diseases such as cancer. The research provides valuable clues on how the enzyme, tripeptidyl peptidase II, keeps cells tidy and disease-free.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateAug 2, 2010

Prion leaves lasting mark on memory

A new report reveals that a prion-like protein called CPEB may participate in memory in higher eukaryotes, including sea slugs. The protein's ability to switch between distinct conformational states suggests it could maintain stable states with unstable biological molecules.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateFeb 4, 2010

Biologists at UC San Diego identify key protein in cell's 'self-eating' function

UC San Diego researchers have identified a novel protein called Atg30 that controls peroxisome degradation, a process linked to cell growth, aging, and homeostasis. The discovery allows scientists to control this aspect of cellular autophagy, potentially leading to new insights into aging, immunity, neurodegeneration, and cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 11, 2008