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How a protein stops cells from attacking their own DNA

Researchers at EPFL uncover key role of Barrier-to-Autointegration Factor (BAF) in preventing cGAS-STING pathway activation, which stops cells from attacking their own DNA. This discovery sheds new light on complex processes involved in the body's inflammatory response.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2020

Bringing RNA into genomics

Researchers have identified many genome locations that code for RNA molecules influencing gene expression, using techniques like eCLIP and RNA Bind-N-Seq. The study reveals the functions of these RNA sequences and their interactions with RNA-binding proteins.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2020
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

UMMS scientists lead effort to annotate human genome

Researchers identified nearly 1 million potential functional genomic elements in the human genome, which control gene expression and promote health or disease. The UMMS team's registry of these elements can be used to study links between regulatory switches and genetic diseases.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2020

Cheese making relies on milk proteins to form structure

A recent study in the Journal of Dairy Science reveals that milk protein composition plays a crucial role in cheese production. The researchers found that non-coagulating milk has higher concentrations of certain proteins, leading to lower cheese yields and economic impacts.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateJul 20, 2020

Pest resistance to transgenic insecticidal crops

A study from 2011 to 2016 found that transgenic corn can be less damaged by the western corn rootworm through crop rotation. The research suggests using multiple transgenic corn varieties as a strategy for reducing resistance.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020

Megaphages harbor mini-Cas proteins ideal for gene editing

Researchers have discovered a compact Cas protein, CasΦ, in megaphages, which could make gene editing easier and more efficient. This protein targets specific regions of DNA with high accuracy and can cut both single-stranded and double-stranded DNA, making it a promising tool for crop improvement and disease treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Surprisingly many peculiar long introns found in brain genes

A study of human and mouse genes reveals a link between intron phase and length, shedding light on the functioning of brain cells. Long phase 1 introns found in genes involved in nerve impulse transmission may play a key role in this process.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 2020

New structural 'map' solves mysteries of gigantic gene regulator

Researchers have solved the structure of a critical protein region in SMCHD1, which plays a key role in 'switching off' genes. The new map reveals how inherited changes in this region cause certain diseases, including muscular dystrophy and developmental disorders.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalScience Signaling·DateJun 17, 2020

Did life emerge in the 'primordial soup' via DNA or RNA? Maybe both

Scientists found that building blocks of DNA and RNA can spontaneously form and co-exist in early Earth conditions, challenging the 'RNA world' theory. The research discovered four building blocks for DNA and RNA that can arise from the same reagents and conditions.

SourceUK Research and Innovation·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 2020

Researchers track how bacteria purge toxic metals

Researchers at Cornell University used single-molecule tracking and protein quantitation to study the mechanism of bacteria's resistance to toxic metals, revealing a complex series of steps that lead to detoxification. The discovery could lead to the development of more effective antibacterial treatments.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 28, 2020

Missing component of innate immune signaling identified

Researchers at CeMM have identified a new key element, TASL, responsible for sorting out pathogen challenges and modulating inflammatory responses. The discovery highlights potential new targets for treating autoimmune diseases and overreaction to infections.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·DateMay 13, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Gene mutation enhances cognitive flexibility in mice, NIH study suggests

A recent NIH study has identified a genetic mutation that improves cognitive flexibility in mice by modifying a protein regulating potassium channels. The mutation was found to enhance the ability of mice to adapt to changing situations, such as finding a relocated platform.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 27, 2020

Found in mistranslation

Researchers at NCBS found that mistakes in protein synthesis increase the production of a quality control molecule, triggering an early DNA repair response and enhancing mutational resistance. This general advantage of mistranslation persists due to its occasional benefits under stress.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 25, 2020
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

How 'pioneer' protein turns stem cells into organs

A new study led by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals that the pioneering protein FoxA2 simultaneously binds to chromosomal proteins and DNA, opening gates for gene activation. This discovery helps untangle mysteries of embryonic stem cell development into organs, moving regenerative medicine forward.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 18, 2020

Genes tell a story about diabetic kidney disease

Scientists have identified several genes that may be involved in the development of diabetic kidney disease. By analysing Finnish samples with diabetes, researchers found connections between specific proteins and the condition. The study's findings suggest new potential targets for treating diabetic kidney disease.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 12, 2020

Scientists find functioning amyloid in healthy brain

Researchers found that a protein called FRX1 functions in an amyloid form in healthy brains, contradicting the idea that only diseased brains store amyloids. This discovery has significant implications for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 2, 2020

Rare diseases - Key insights from small samples

A team of researchers has identified a membrane-associated protein crucial for human T-cell development and immune function. The study, published in Nature Communications, sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying rare genetic diseases that cause severe immune deficiencies.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 27, 2020
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Study: Disease-causing repeats help human neurons function

A study by Michigan Medicine team discovered that repeat expansions cause neurodegenerative diseases but also found normal functions of these repeats in regulating protein production in healthy nerve cells. The research suggests a potential pathway for treating Fragile X syndrome and other disorders.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 17, 2020

Study surveys molecular landscape of endometrial cancer

A comprehensive molecular study has defined key genes and proteins contributing to endometrial cancer. The research suggests tailored treatments for each patient and potential biological targets for future drug design.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateFeb 13, 2020

Circular reasoning

Researchers discovered that lower circHomer1a levels in the brain's frontal cortex are correlated with schizophrenia symptoms and impaired cognitive flexibility in mice. The study suggests that circular RNAs play a crucial regulatory role in gene expression, potentially serving as biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment targets.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 12, 2020

Build-up of brain proteins affects genes in Alzheimer's disease

New research found that the accumulation of tau and amyloid proteins in the brain significantly alters gene expression, particularly in genes related to inflammation. The study provides new insights into the progression of Alzheimer's disease and highlights potential pathways for treatment.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 11, 2020
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Phantom genes keep diabetes at bay

A recent study published in Nature Communications discovered that a specific Long noncoding RNA called LincIRS2 is essential for maintaining healthy metabolism. Mice lacking this gene developed metabolic complications, while those with activated LincIRS2 maintained normal blood sugar levels even in obesity.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2020

Researchers identify mechanism that triggers a rare type of muscular dystrophy

A research team has identified a mechanism that triggers a rare type of muscular dystrophy, Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) 1G. The study reveals that a specific protein isoform with two domains is prone to forming toxic aggregates, while another isoform with three domains can prevent aggregation through phase separation.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 29, 2020

BPA activates immune response in mice that passes down through generations

Researchers found BPA exposure triggers an immune response that passes down through generations, leading to increased risk of allergic asthma. The study suggests that even after removal from the environment, descendants may still inherit changes in DNA expression that cause aberrant immune system activation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateJan 15, 2020
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Opening up DNA to delete disease

Researchers have developed DNA-binding editorial assistants to open up genes obscured by chromatin packaging, enabling CRISPR editing. This breakthrough enhances CRISPR efficiency and moves towards genetic-based assaults on diseases.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateJan 14, 2020

Malnutrition linked with increased risk of Zika birth defects

A recent study by University of Oxford researchers has found a strong link between maternal malnutrition and the severity of Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS), a devastating condition caused by Zika virus infection. The study suggests that poor diets, particularly those lacking in protein, can exacerbate the effects of CZS, highlighting t...

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 10, 2020

Resurrected protein reveals structure of important enzyme

University of Groningen scientists have successfully reconstructed the ancestral genetic sequences for three FMO genes, revealing the structure of these enzymes and their role in metabolizing toxic substances. The results provide insight into how FMOs work, which could lead to the design of drugs activated by these enzymes.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateDec 23, 2019

Scientists discover a new mechanism in childhood kidney cancer

Researchers found that a problem in gene-regulatory process can cause normal cells to turn malignant and produce Wilms' tumor. The implicated reader protein causes problems by acquiring a new property and being too active, leading to abnormal gene expression and tumor formation.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2019
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Different mutations in a single gene can wreak many types of havoc in brain cells

A study found that different mutations in a single gene can cause various problems in brain cells. Researchers discovered that even healthy proteins may interfere with mutant proteins' actions, leading to irregular neuronal firing. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding each mutation for personalized medicine.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 18, 2019

Study highlights potential for 'liquid health check' to predict disease risk

A study published in Nature Medicine reveals a potential 'liquid health check' that uses proteins in blood to predict disease risk and improve preventative medicine. The technique, involving large-scale measurement of proteins, has shown promise for identifying health states and conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 2, 2019
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

New approach to treating incurable leukemia in children discovered

Researchers at the University of Zurich have identified a new target for treating incurable leukemia in children by analyzing the molecular causes of the disease. They found that an abnormal protein activates genes at the wrong time, triggering the formation of malignant white blood cells and causing leukemia.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 25, 2019

Animal study finds link between MAP2 mutation and hereditary hair diseases

A recent animal study found a link between a MAP2 mutation and hereditary hair diseases, such as alopecia and thinning hair. The researchers identified a missense mutation in the MAP2 gene that led to decreased hair follicle density and abnormal hair formation.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 21, 2019

Malaria parasite lives on the edge

The malaria parasite expresses genes for proteins needed in later stages using two separate schemes of translational repression, which could be exploited to fight the disease. Researchers identified two programs that operate simultaneously and independently, allowing the parasite to quickly respond to changes in its environment.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 31, 2019
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Engineered protein crystals make cells magnetic

Researchers have engineered protein crystals that can generate magnetic forces many times stronger than previously reported. By introducing these crystals into living cells, scientists can move the cells around with a magnet, offering potential applications in fields such as biotechnology and biomedical engineering.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 25, 2019

Chinese scientists update soybean genome to a golden reference

Researchers from China have updated the soybean genome to a golden reference, improving its assembly quality and completeness. The new genome has increased accuracy in gene annotation and expression profiling, facilitating fundamental research and molecular breeding.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateSep 12, 2019

Key gene behind hallmark of Lou Gehrig's disease identified

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have pinpointed the RPS25 gene as a key player in the formation of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) protein aggregates. Inhibiting this gene's function reduced toxic protein levels by 50 percent, suggesting a potential target for treating ALS and extending lifespan.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 29, 2019
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Designed protein switch allows unprecedented control over living cells

Researchers develop LOCKR, a dynamic designer protein that can modify gene expression, redirect cellular traffic, and control protein binding interactions. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize synthetic biology and enable new therapies for diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2019
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Fetal genome involved in triggering premature birth

A study of over 600 infant genomes found that variations in the SLIT2 gene may contribute to premature births by activating the mother's immune system. The researchers also discovered a link between the SLIT2-ROBO1 signalling pathway and multiple pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia and ectopic pregnancy.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 13, 2019

Translation of genes more complex than expected

Researchers at the Hubrecht Institute developed a new microscopy method to visualize gene translation in living cells, revealing out-of-frame translation occurs surprisingly frequently. This discovery suggests thousands of previously unknown proteins may be encoded in our DNA with unknown functions.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalCell·DateJun 6, 2019

Role of circadian clock regulator

Researchers identified TIMELESS as a potential circadian clock regulator involved in minor sleep phase changes. A mutation in the TIMELESS gene causes accumulation of the protein, leading to phase advances in mice and advanced sleep phase in humans.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Circadian clock plays unexpected role in neurodegenerative diseases

Researchers found that inducing jet lag in fruit fly models of Huntington disease protected the flies' neurons. The team identified a circadian clock-controlled gene that also protected the brain when knocked down. This study suggests that targeting this gene could potentially slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 2, 2019

Traffic jam in the cell: How are proteins assigned to specific transporters?

Heidelberg University researchers have comprehensively analyzed the composition of COPI and COPII transport vesicles, revealing specialized subtypes that transport specific types of proteins. This breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of diseases caused by mutations in vesicular transport mechanisms.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 1, 2019
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

BridgIT, a new tool for orphan and novel enzyme reactions

Researchers developed BridgIT, a tool that annotates proteins for 93% of enzymatic reactions, filling gaps in metabolic networks. The tool correctly predicts enzymes for 211 out of 234 non-orphan reactions and 334 out of 379 hypothetical reactions.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 2019

Engineering cellular function without living cells

Researchers at EPFL's LBNC have developed a quantitative, replicable method for studying gene expression using a cell-free system in combination with high-throughput microfluidic devices. This approach allows them to build synthetic biological logic gates that can be used to modify cellular functions and introduce new therapeutic purpo...

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 2019

Genes that evolve from scratch expand protein diversity

A new study reveals that random DNA sections can evolve into novel proteins, contributing to biodiversity and challenging classic assumptions about protein evolution. At least 175 de novo genes were detected, with 57% translating into new peptides.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 11, 2019