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Body clock found to control inflammatory responses in macrophages

Researchers from Kyushu University discovered that the circadian clock protein BMAL1 drives macrophages towards a pro-inflammatory M1 state by activating inflammatory signaling pathways. This mechanism links the body clock to intracellular metabolism and immune function, offering new insights into treating inflammatory diseases.

SourceKyushu University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2026

More polar ocean turbulence due to planetary warming

New research suggests that ocean turbulence and horizontal stirring will dramatically increase in the Arctic and Southern Oceans due to human-induced Global Warming. The study uses ultra-high-resolution simulations to investigate how mesoscale horizontal stirring (MHS) responds to warming, revealing a pronounced future intensification ...

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 5, 2025

New research gives insights into how organelles divide in cells

Scientists have identified a new pathway for peroxisome division, independent of Mitochondrial Fission Factor (MFF). The study, led by Professor Michael Schrader, reveals that PEX11β and FIS1 cooperate to divide peroxisomes, restoring normal morphology. This discovery offers potential therapeutic options for diseases caused by defects ...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Cell Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022

The ABS of molecular engines

A team of researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum has identified a crucial role for a sixth transport step in the regulation of peroxisome function. The study reveals that this step is essential for maintaining the balance between import and export of enzymes, preventing diseases such as infant mortality

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalBiochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular Cell Research·DateMar 8, 2019

Breakthrough by Exeter cell biologists

Researchers at the University of Exeter have discovered how peroxisomes and endoplasmic reticulum interact at the molecular level, crucial for lipid production and cell survival. Loss of this interaction leads to severe disorders, prompting hope for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 20, 2017

The accelerator of molecular motors

Researchers identify Pex22p module as key component in peroxisomal Ub machinery, boosting enzyme import and degradation of pollutants. This discovery sheds light on peroxisomal disorders like Zellweger syndrome and highlights the importance of reevaluating familiar proteins.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 22, 2014

Some motor proteins cooperate better than others

Researchers at Rice University have found that motor proteins cooperate differently, with myosinVa producing more force than kinesin-1. This cooperation is crucial for regulating the transport of organelles within cells, and breakdowns in motor function are implicated in human diseases.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2014

Shuttle service in cells

Researchers at Ruhr University Bochum discovered a new enzyme, Ubp15p, that collaborates with motor proteins to convert the protein transport machinery back into its initial condition. The enzyme detaches a specific signal sequence from a protein, allowing for recycling and reuse.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 25, 2011

Researchers discover how natural drug fights inflammation

Scientists at Virginia Tech uncover how abscisic acid, a natural plant hormone, fights inflammation by interacting with the lanthionine synthetase C-like 2 protein. This alternative mechanism avoids known adverse side effects of existing drugs, paving the way for new treatments.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 9, 2010

U of Alberta researchers find mechanism that could prevent or treat deadly peroxisome diseases

Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified a universal mechanism that ensures peroxisomes transfer into cells after division, potentially leading to prevention or treatment of deadly disorders. The discovery has implications for screening carriers and could help babies born with peroxisome disorders survive longer.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 7, 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