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So many proteins, so much promise

A team at Northwestern University has developed a new method to identify thousands of protein molecules quickly, which could lead to the discovery of biomarkers and early disease detection. The approach, known as top-down proteomics, measures proteins intact instead of breaking them down into smaller parts.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateOct 30, 2011

Scientists discover the proteins that control development of varicose veins

Scientists have identified a protein that controls the development of varicose veins, offering new hope for prevention and treatment. By inhibiting this protein, researchers were able to stall the progression of varicose veins and reduce the need for surgery, potentially improving quality of life for those affected.

Mutated muscle protein causes deafness

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics discovered a genetic cause of progressive hearing impairment: mutations in the SMPX gene. The disease affects both males and females, although women are usually less severely affected.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 30, 2011

Evolution by mistake

Researchers Joanna Masel and Etienne Rajon found that tiny populations evolve global solutions to prevent errors, while large populations rely on local solutions to tolerate mistakes. This discovery reveals the importance of 'cryptic variation' in natural selection, allowing organisms to adapt to new challenges.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2011

Scientists reveal how biological activity is regulated in fruit fly and roundworm genomes

Researchers have discovered hundreds of new protein-coding genes and thousands of new non-protein coding RNAs in the fruit fly and roundworm genomes. The studies also identified specific chromatin signatures associated with the regulation of protein-coding genes, revealing how genes work in concert to produce complex biological processes.

JCI online early table of contents: July 1, 2010

Researchers have identified biomarkers for life-threatening conditions in preterm infants, such as late-onset septicemia and necrotizing enterocolitis. Additionally, studies on leptin's role in childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes have shed light on the importance of hypothalamic signaling in preventing obesity development, while also...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2010

Genetic code 2.0

Researchers at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft successfully integrated three synthetic amino acids into a single protein, allowing for systematic improvement of existing protein qualities. This breakthrough has significant implications for industry and science, enabling the creation of new biological features and tailored proteins with novel p...

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJun 30, 2010

Protecting nerve cells the job of the protein NFI-A

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University discovered NFI-A's role in protecting nerve cells from death due to neurologic disorders and stroke. Knocking down NFI-A reduced the neuroprotective effects of sublethal doses of NMDA, supporting its central role in nerve cell survival.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 1, 2010