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Researchers identify enzyme that removes molecular modifications from transfer RNA

Scientists have discovered an enzyme called ALKBH1 that can remove molecular modifications from transfer RNA (tRNA), causing a measurable effect on protein translation in the cell. This finding sheds new light on how cells control gene expression and suggests that tRNA influences cellular processes beyond protein translation.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCell·DateOct 13, 2016
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.

The life cycle of proteins

Researchers discovered that around one-tenth of proteins remain stable and live longer than expected as they age. This finding could explain why additional gene copies don't automatically result in more protein production.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCell·DateOct 6, 2016

Reactome announces annotation and release of 10,000th human protein

The Reactome project has released its 10,000th human protein, marking a significant milestone in its annotation and expansion. This achievement enables researchers to better understand genomic variation leading to diseases like cancer and develop more effective treatments.

SourceOntario Institute for Cancer Research·DateOct 6, 2016

Researchers modify yeast to show how plants respond to a key hormone

Researchers have developed a novel toolkit based on modified yeast cells to tease out how plant genes and proteins respond to auxin, the most ubiquitous plant hormone. The system revealed the basic 'code' of auxin signaling, including how specific combinations of repressing or activating proteins can bind to auxin, DNA, and one another.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A minimalist theory to predict protein movements

Researchers developed a novel simulation technique called eBDIMS to predict protein movements, which can be done on standard PCs. This approach uses low-resolution models, simplifying the structure of proteins, allowing for precise predictions in minutes, not months.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2016

Researchers at the CNIO discover a gene that is essential for the DNA-replication process

The discovery of POLD3's critical role in DNA replication reveals its necessity for both tumor and healthy cells, casting doubt on its use as a therapeutic target for cancer treatment. The study used genetic engineering to eliminate the gene in mice, showing its essential function in cell division and survival.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 6, 2016

Successful recycling: Protein quality control in the cell

Researchers have discovered how the Doa10 ligase complex forms a ubiquitin chain to mark faulty proteins for degradation. This process is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis and preventing diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The study sheds light on the importance of protein quality control in cells.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 25, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Two proteins safeguard skin stem cells

Researchers have identified two proteins that safeguard skin stem cells, which are essential for skin renewal and regeneration. The study reveals that without these proteins, skin stem cells collapse and disappear from the tissue.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 28, 2016

Red meat consumption linked with increased risk of developing kidney failure

A new study found a strong association between red meat intake and increased risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), with soy and legumes appearing slightly protective. Substituting one serving of red meat with other protein sources can significantly reduce the risk of ESRD by up to 62%.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 14, 2016
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

In the firefly's flash, seeking new insights on evolution

Researchers analyzed firefly flash signals to understand how new mating signals arise through evolution. They found variations in luciferase and opsin genes didn't correlate with signal color changes, suggesting natural selection may be acting on unknown DNA sequences.

SourceGenetics Society of America·DateJul 13, 2016

New technique targets gene that causes neurodegenerative disease

Scientists have developed a new technique to selectively block the disease-causing protein in mice with spinocerbellar ataxia type 6 (SCA6). The method uses a modified virus to deliver micro RNA that prevents SCA6 from developing, offering a potential treatment for other diseases caused by mutations in bicistronic genes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 13, 2016

Life at the extremes

Researchers studied Euplotes focardii's genes and proteins for survival in cold, oxygen-rich waters. The organism produces protective proteins against oxidative stress and adapts quickly through flexible RNA decoding.

SourceGenetics Society of America·DateJul 13, 2016

'Amazing protein diversity' is discovered in the maize plant

Researchers found a vast array of previously unknown RNA transcripts and alternative splicing patterns, revealing new functional parts of the maize gene. This discovery has great importance for agriculture, as it can help breed corn to adapt to climate changes.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2016

Researchers explore epigenetic influences of chronic pain

A study published in Epigenetics & Chromatin identified a critical role for methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) in regulating gene expression involved in pain perception. MeCP2 was found to be increased after nerve injury, leading to changes in downstream genes that can cause pain.

SourceDrexel University·JournalEpigenetics & Chromatin·DateJun 21, 2016
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.

Cancer-preventing protein finds its own way in our DNA

Geneticists at KU Leuven have discovered that tumour protein TP53 can autonomously locate and bind to specific DNA sequences, activating the right genes to repair damaged cells. This finding sheds light on the mechanisms controlling gene expression and holds promise for future cancer therapies.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalGenome Research·DateJun 16, 2016

Unexpected function of small nucleolar RNAs explains cause of some diseases

Research reveals snoRNAs control ribosome modification and regulate alternative splicing, leading to wrong protein variants. This discovery explains the cause of diseases like Prader-Willi syndrome and cancer, and offers a possible therapy for genetic hyperphagia.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Cancer cell immunity in the crosshairs: Worth the expense?

Researchers at Kyoto University have identified a genetic mechanism that could predict effectiveness of cure for certain cancers. Genetic alterations affecting the PD-L1 protein allow cancer cells to escape immune detection, but these abnormalities were found in many common cancer types.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

UMass Amherst researchers untangle disease-related protein misfolding

A UMass Amherst research team discovered the folding mechanism of serpin antithrombin III, a key protein in the blood coagulation pathway. They found that this protein folds to a higher-energy state, allowing it to function as a 'molecular mousetrap' and generate the work required for physiological functions.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 2016

Scientists discover the evolutionary link between protein structure and function

Researchers discovered a crucial connection between protein structures and molecular functions by analyzing ancient genetic sequences. They found that tiny gene segments determine the formation of active sites in proteins, enabling them to perform specific functions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 18, 2016

Steps that lead to genes being switched on revealed in atomic simulation

Researchers at Imperial College London have created a computer simulation of gene expression interactions, revealing the sequence of events that lead to genes being switched on. This breakthrough could lead to the design of molecules that interfere with or disrupt the process, potentially tackling diseases.

SourceImperial College London·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMay 13, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Discovery of a fundamental limit to the evolution of the genetic code

A study by IRB Barcelona reveals the genetic code stopped evolving at 20 amino acids due to limitations in tRNA molecules. The researchers explain that new amino acids can't be introduced without causing problems with protein synthesis and translation.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 2, 2016

Newly discovered proteins may protect against aging's illnesses

Researchers have identified six newly discovered proteins that may help prevent diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and other age-related illnesses. The tiny proteins are produced in the mitochondria of cells and play a significant role in metabolism and cell survival.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateApr 11, 2016

Function of mysterious RNAs may often lie in their genes

A team co-led by Penn Medicine researcher discovers that a mysterious lncRNA has no obvious function in regulating its neighbor's gene expression, but the DNA from which it originates does. The study reveals a new mechanism for enhancer functions in the genome, pointing to a broader role of non-coding DNA and RNA.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 7, 2016
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New target makes end run against therapy-resistant prostate cancer

Researchers have found that suppressing the nuclear receptor protein ROR-γ with small-molecule compounds can reduce androgen receptor levels in castration-resistant prostate cancer, stopping tumor growth. This novel approach targets the root cause of the problem - the overexpression of the AR gene and its protein.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 28, 2016

Brad Pitt's and fruit flies' cowlicks controlled by cancer protein

A study led by Michigan State University reveals that the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein controls cell migration in fruit flies and humans, contributing to cancer metastasis. The researchers also found that this protein regulates polarity genes important for maintaining proper cell organization and specialized functions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 23, 2016

Unlocking the secrets of gene expression

Researchers have made a major breakthrough in understanding how cells find the right DNA to copy, revealing the role of TFIID and its ability to recognize different sequences for different genes. This finding paves the way for understanding and treating various malignancies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 23, 2016
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Plant's morning calls to prepare for the night

A study published in The Plant Cell reveals that clock genes produced during the evening are regulated by clock proteins produced in the morning. This discovery sheds light on how plants adapt to their environment through a complex biological clock system.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 22, 2016

How an artificial protein rescues dying cells

Researchers at Princeton University discovered how a synthetic protein called SynSerB promotes cell growth in serine-depleted E. coli cells. By inducing overexpression of a protein called HisB, SynSerB enables the production of essential amino acid serine, allowing cells to survive.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2016

2016 Protein Society Awards

The 2016 Protein Society Awards recognized Dr. Gary Pielak, Dr. Rachel Klevit, Dr. H. Eric Xu, and Dr. Andreas Plückthun for their groundbreaking contributions to protein science. The winners received prestigious awards sponsored by Rigaku Corporation, Genentech, The Neurath Foundation, and The Protein Society.

SourceThe Protein Society·DateMar 8, 2016

New research adds additional layer of complexity to human protein landscape

Researchers have discovered alternative protein versions, known as proteoforms, which are stable and tightly regulated, challenging the single gene-single protein theory. This study adds an extra dimension to the human protein landscape, potentially affecting gene editing techniques.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateFeb 26, 2016
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.

Protein that limits the severity of genetic kidney disease found

Researchers from Kumamoto University have identified the protein p53, which plays a crucial role in slowing down the progression of Alport syndrome. The study suggests that recovering the function of the p53 gene could help inhibit symptom progression and develop new treatment strategies for genetic diseases.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 9, 2016

Growth factor in brain tied to slower mental decline

A study published in Neurology found that individuals with higher BDNF protein levels had slower cognitive decline than those with lower levels. The researchers discovered a 50% reduction in cognitive decline for those in the highest 10% of protein expression compared to the lowest 10%.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJan 27, 2016

Scientists shed new light on workings of genetic regulation

A team of scientists has uncovered greater intricacy in protein signaling than previously understood, shedding light on the nature of genetic production. The research found that both protein synthesis and mRNA production are highly regulated processes, with different patterns and responses to outside stimuli.

SourceNew York University·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateJan 25, 2016
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.

A new twist in genetic switches

Rice University researchers found that a master regulator's activity is determined by kinetics, not thermodynamics. The study revealed the 'molecular stripping' process, which quickly stops protein production.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2015

Watching the ribosome at work

A new method called RiboTaper helps to clarify the function of unknown genes by analyzing sequencing data. By filtering out background noise, researchers can determine which genes are actively producing proteins and identify specific points on RNA where significant events occur.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 18, 2015

Researchers find out cause of mutations which are not in genetic material

A recent study published in Oncogene reveals that alterations in an intermediate molecule called RNA can lead to protein mutations without DNA damage. This discovery highlights the importance of RNA editing enzyme ADAR1 in regulating gene expression and contributing to tumor growth.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalOncogene·DateDec 16, 2015
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.

Protein factors tie the genome up in a bow for gene expression

Researchers mapped the topological structure of the human genome, revealing how proteins like CTCF and cohesin organize genes for proper transcription. The findings provide new insights into the relationship between genome architecture and gene regulation, with potential implications for understanding genetic diseases.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalCell·DateDec 10, 2015

New massive dataset of bacterial proteins

Scientists from Switzerland and the Netherlands have identified over 2,300 bacterial proteins in 22 different growth conditions, representing half of the bacterial genes. The dataset provides insight into protein function, expression levels, and post-translational adaptations.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 7, 2015

Stanford engineers invent process to accelerate protein evolution

Researchers have invented a technique to dramatically accelerate protein evolution, allowing them to test millions of variants in hours or days. The technology, called µSCALE, enables the identification of promising variants and their DNA sequences, paving the way for breakthroughs in medicine, industry, and biosensors.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 7, 2015
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Dartmouth researchers shed light on protein-related diseases

Researchers found that certain proteins undergo a transition from liquid droplets to toxic, fibrous solids on their way to becoming harmful. Cells may use this liquid state for normal physiology, but under certain conditions the proteins can transition again.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 29, 2015

Floppy but fast

Flexible, spaghetti-like proteins can bind to their receptor within billionths of a second, retaining high specificity. This discovery explains the transport paradox in cellular communication, enabling efficient proof-reading while maintaining speed.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell·DateOct 9, 2015

Researchers probe the physical forces involved in creating the mitotic spindle

Scientists at Rockefeller University uncover new insights into mechanical forces governing mitotic spindle formation. They describe how kinesin-5 acts as a molecular motor to organize the spindle, generating forces that tune its balance. This research has medical implications for cancer therapies and understanding cell division.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateOct 2, 2015
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.

Scientists identify key morphine regulator that may reduce risk of pain-killer abuse

A new study by the Scripps Research Institute has identified a specific molecule called RGS7 that controls morphine receptor signaling in brain cells. Without this protein, animals were more prone to morphine addiction. The findings suggest that RGS7 could be a potential drug target for developing less-addictive pain medications.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateSep 22, 2015

Proteins assemble and disassemble on command

Researchers at Duke University have deciphered the genetic code that instructs proteins to assemble or disassemble in response to environmental stimuli. This discovery provides a new platform for designer proteins and investigations into nanotechnology, biotechnology, and medical treatments.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 21, 2015
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Combination of genes explains Inuit's adaptation to high-fat diet

A study of Inuit DNA reveals how their unique genetic makeup helps them thrive on a high-fat diet, with genes associated with fat metabolism, height and weight, and cholesterol playing key roles. The research suggests that the Inuit population has undergone significant adaptation to its extreme climate environment.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 17, 2015

Dually noted: New CRISPR-Cas9 strategy edits genes 2 ways

Researchers at Harvard and MIT have developed a new approach that allows for both genome editing and gene regulation to be achieved using the same Cas9 protein, opening up possibilities for understanding diseases and designing synthetic gene circuits. The method uses engineered guide RNAs to control gene expression.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 7, 2015

Gene therapy fully restores vision in mouse model of Leber congenital amaurosis

Scientists have successfully used gene therapy to fully restore vision in a mouse model of Leber congenital amaurosis-1, a genetic disorder causing severe visual impairment. The treatment, which replaced the deficient retGC1 protein, showed long-lasting results and supports clinical testing for human patients.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateAug 31, 2015
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.