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Carnegie Mellon-led team identifies structure of tumor-suppressing protein

A team led by Carnegie Mellon University physicists has discovered the structure of PTEN, a key tumor-suppressing protein. The findings reveal how PTEN regulates cell growth and suppresses tumor formation through dimerization, providing new insights into cancer development and potential therapeutics.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalStructure·DateAug 20, 2015

Team finds a better way to engineer therapeutic proteins into antibodies

A team of scientists at Scripps Research Institute has devised an improved method to engineer therapeutic proteins into antibodies, which can persist long enough to be useful. The technique mimics evolution and harnesses the power of large numbers to select rare junction segments that allow inserted proteins to fold and function normally.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalChemistry & Biology·DateAug 13, 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.

Type 1 diabetes patients have lower blood levels of 4 proteins that protect against immune attack

Researchers found that type 1 diabetes patients have significantly lower levels of four proteins (IL8, IL-1Ra, MCP-1, and MIP-1β) that help protect against immune attack. These findings suggest a potential protein cocktail that could aid in disease diagnosis and management, as well as new therapeutic strategies.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 29, 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.

DNA protection, inch by inch

Researchers at EMBL Grenoble have found a way to identify and silence 'jumping genes' that can alter the genetic code, using tiny RNA molecules called piRNA. These piRNAs guide proteins to destroy the genes, preventing uncontrolled changes in DNA.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 9, 2015

The artificial enzyme that 'acts' natural

Researchers have created an artificial enzyme that can stimulate genes to work harder in specific tissues, offering hope for treating genetic diseases. The hybrid enzymes, which are fully synthetic and recognize target genes via RNA decoys, amplify gene expression in a limited way and only when the gene is active.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJul 8, 2015

First comprehensive analysis of the woolly mammoth genome completed

The study identifies extensive genetic changes responsible for woolly mammoths' adaptations to arctic life, including genes linked to fat metabolism, insulin signaling, and temperature sensation. Researchers resurrected a mammoth gene involved in temperature sensation and characterized its protein product in the laboratory.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 2, 2015

TSRI team gets new close-up view of key part of Ebola virus life cycle

A new study by TSRI researchers provides a higher-resolution view of the Ebola virus life cycle, revealing key vulnerabilities that can be targeted with antiviral therapeutics. The findings also shed light on how the virus assembles its genetic material, which is critical for understanding its structure-based design.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 25, 2015
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.

Researchers find molecular mechanisms within fetal lungs that initiate labor

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified two proteins responsible for initiating the labor process, which control genes for pulmonary surfactant components that promote labor. Surfactant is essential for normal breathing outside the womb. Understanding these molecular mechanisms may help prevent preterm birth.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 22, 2015

Cataract culprits

University of Delaware researchers have identified two genes linked to cataract formation. Deficiency in these genes leads to lens clouding and cataract development without aging or radiation exposure required. The study could contribute to interventions that delay or prevent cataract formation.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalHuman Genetics·DateJun 18, 2015

Vinculin protein boosts function in the aging heart

A team of researchers found that the contractile function of fruit flies' hearts is improved when overexpressing vinculin, a protein that accumulates at higher levels in aging rats and humans. This improvement leads to longer lifespans in genetically modified flies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 17, 2015

Scientists discover a protein that silences the biological clock

Researchers found that PASD1, a protein associated with cancer cells, suppresses the circadian clock. The discovery offers new insights into the molecular mechanisms of the biological clock and its potential role in driving cancer growth. Understanding how PASD1 regulates the clock could lead to developing new therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJun 2, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

A tale of two roads into protein unfolding

Researchers used nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering to study the effects of high pressure and urea on protein unfolding. They found that while both methods cause proteins to unfold, they do so through different mechanisms, leading to distinct intermediate proteins.

SourcePublicase International·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2015

Scientists uncover gene 'architects' responsible for body's blueprint

Researchers have discovered two protein 'architects', MOZ and BMI1, which play opposing roles in guiding embryonic development. These proteins regulate Hox gene expression, ensuring the correct formation of body segments and tissues. The study sheds new light on how environmental factors can impact early embryo development.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

Organisms can keep gene expression in check: York U biologist

Researchers at York University found that Tup1 protein is regulated by Small Ubiquitin-like Modifier (SUMO) to prevent over-expression of active genes. This discovery may help understand the uncontrolled gene expression found in many cancers.

SourceYork University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 13, 2015

Researchers pin down genetic pathways linked to CF disease severity

A study by UNC School of Medicine researchers identified genetic pathways that play a major role in determining the severity of cystic fibrosis. The findings may lead to new personalized treatments to lessen pulmonary symptoms and increase life expectancy for people with CF.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 23, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Synthetic biology yields new approach to gene therapy

Researchers at UT Dallas have created a novel gene-delivery system that shuts down after delivering a gene, offering a potential new strategy for treating diseases. The approach sidesteps health problems associated with permanent gene alteration.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateFeb 17, 2015

An extra protein gives naked mole rats more power to stop cancer

The discovery of pALTINK4a/b in naked mole rats could explain their resistance to cancer. The protein is better at stopping cells from dividing than the human version of the INK4 gene locus, which only encodes three proteins.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2015

Getting yeast to pump up the protein production

Scientists at Northwestern University have found a way to harvest industrially useful protein from yeast in greater quantities without increasing its production. By genetically knocking out proteins responsible for reabsorption, the team increased protein yields by two- to three-fold.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalBiotechnology and Bioengineering·DateFeb 2, 2015

Dartmouth researchers determine key element in circadian clock speed

Researchers at Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine have identified a determinant of the circadian clock's period, suggesting that protein structure plays a crucial role in determining clock speed. This finding may lead to new treatments for sleep disorders and other health problems tied to circadian rhythms.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 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.

To trigger energy-burning brown fat, just chill

Researchers found that exposure to cold temperatures increases levels of the protein Zfp516, which activates UCP1 in brown fat. Mice with boosted Zfp516 protein gained 30% less weight on a high-fat diet, suggesting a potential target for obesity and diabetes treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 8, 2015

RNA measurements may yield less insight about gene expression than assumed

A recent study of over 4,000 genes found that most RNA expression differences do not affect protein abundance, suggesting a previously unknown buffering mechanism regulates gene expression. This discovery highlights the importance of further analysis in studies relying on RNA measurements to characterize gene function.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Unpacking brain damage in ALS

Researchers uncover that C9orf72 gene mutation generates toxic PR protein causing brain damage in ALS, leading to motor neuron death. This discovery may lead to new treatments by preventing or breaking down PR aggregates.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNeuron·DateDec 17, 2014

Duality in the human genome

Scientists at Max Planck Institute find millions of gene forms, 85% genes without predominant form, and 4,000 disease genes. The dual nature of human genomes reveals individual diversity in interactions between genes.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 28, 2014
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.

Re-learning how to read a genome

A recent study suggests that genes and regulatory elements share a common architecture in their reading processes, with the main differences occurring after the initial step. This unified model could provide insight into how genes evolve and shed light on the evolutionary origins of new genes.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 10, 2014

A new angle on infertility

A single mutation in the beta-catenin gene can lead to abnormalities in sexual organ morphology, making natural reproduction impossible. The study found that this mutation affects specific tissues, causing malformations that prevent successful reproduction.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 7, 2014
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.

Efficient genetic editing

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a method to efficiently deliver genome-editing proteins into cells, bypassing the need for DNA delivery. The new system uses commercially-available cationic lipids to introduce proteins into cells, offering hope for treating genetic diseases, including deafness.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 31, 2014

Changes in scores of genes contribute to autism risk

Researchers discovered over 70 additional likely ASD genes, with small differences in as many as 1,000 genes contributing to autism risk. The study found three pathways required for healthy development linked to greater autism risk, including chromatin remodeling.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 29, 2014

Metabolic genetics research paves way to treating diabetes and obesity

Research at ASHG 2014 Annual Meeting uses genetic analysis to break down complex conditions like Type 2 Diabetes and obesity into their underlying metabolic proteins. This approach enables the development of new drugs that directly target these processes, with potential treatments on the horizon.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 19, 2014

Scientists create new protein-based material with some nerve

Researchers at UC Berkeley developed a novel protein-based material inspired by nerve cells, showing extreme sensitivity to environment. This discovery could lead to innovative biological sensors, flow valves, and controlled drug release systems.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 14, 2014
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.

Dosage of HIV drug may be ineffective for half of African-Americans

A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine suggests that nearly half of African-Americans may not receive effective doses of the HIV drug maraviroc due to their genetic makeup. Researchers developed a simple genetic test to determine individual dosage needs, which could help improve treatment outcomes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalDrug Metabolism and Disposition·DateAug 27, 2014

Artificial cells act like the real thing

Researchers design a network-like cell system that reproduces dynamic behavior of protein synthesis, allowing for control over genetic content and protein production. The system enables the study of gene network design and emerging protein dynamics, potentially paving the way for controlling protein synthesis for various applications.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

New tools advance bio-logic

Researchers at Rice University and the University of Kansas Medical Center have developed modular genetic circuits that can handle multiple chemical inputs simultaneously. These new tools allow scientists to design synthetic cells for specific tasks, such as biofuel production, environmental remediation, and disease treatment.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateAug 4, 2014

A CNIO team reduces the size of the human genome to 19,000 genes

A CNIO team updates the number of human protein-coding genes to 19,000, with almost all having ancestors prior to primate evolution. The study suggests that differences between humans and primates are small, and complexity lies in gene regulation and non-coding regions.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJul 3, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Many bodies prompt stem cells to change

Researchers use mathematical tool to analyze gene networks and determine transition pathways between steady states, providing insight into how stem cells differentiate. The study builds on previous theories, incorporating the role of protein binding to DNA in gene expression.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2014

Insights into the geometry of genetic coding

Researchers from RIKEN and the University of Tokyo identified a surprising mechanism for accurate protein synthesis through crystallographic studies. The enzyme alanyl-tRNA synthetase precisely identifies proper tRNA molecules using a geometric feature, allowing cells to accurately translate genetic code into essential proteins.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature·DateJun 11, 2014
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Faster, higher, stronger: A protein that enables powerful initial immune response

Researchers at The Wistar Institute discovered that the protein Foxp1 plays a critical role in antibody responses, enabling rapid and effective immune system activation. Manipulating Foxp1 activity could provide a useful tool for boosting antibody responses to treat infectious diseases or suppressing them to treat autoimmune disorders.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateJun 9, 2014

Doing more means changing less when it comes to gene response, new study shows

A recent study published in Nature Communications discovered a correlation between the number of biological functions a gene has and its response to environmental changes. The research found that genes with more biological functions exhibit less protein expression change in response to temperature, challenging the long-held assumption ...

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 2014
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Virus rounds up enzymes, disarms plant

Researchers discovered how a plant-virus protein suppresses a key plant defense mechanism that remembers viral genetic information. The enzyme cluster formation caused by TGBp1 disrupts the recording of viral genetic information, reducing plant resistance to infection.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMay 30, 2014

Filling in the gaps on the protein map

Researchers from TUM have created an almost complete inventory of the human proteome by cataloging over 18,000 proteins. The study reveals unique protein profiles for every organ, which are essential for its function, and identifies hundreds of new protein fragments with novel biological properties.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateMay 28, 2014
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.

Novel genetic mechanism protects plants from toxic zinc

Researchers discovered a novel gene, ZIF2, that produces a protein capable of sequestering zinc inside plant cells, protecting against toxicity. The discovery opens new avenues for increasing plant tolerance to zinc and has potential applications in crop biofortification and soil remediation.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMay 15, 2014

Researchers find a new gene expression mechanism of PRRS virus

Researchers at Kansas State University have identified a new gene expression mechanism in the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus. The discovery provides a potential avenue for developing new antiviral strategies.

SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 12, 2014
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.

Researchers pinpoint protein crucial for development of biological rhythms in mice

Johns Hopkins researchers pinpoint the protein essential to the formation of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which coordinates sleep-wake cycles and other circadian rhythms. Disabling this protein in test animals led to disrupted SCN function, resulting in irregular sleep patterns and poor communication with the body's master clock.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 24, 2014

Discovery could lead to novel therapies for Fragile X syndrome

Researchers discovered how Fragile X mental retardation protein affects brain cell protein production, leading to the development of potential therapies for the genetic disorder. The study identified a critical binding site on the ribosome that could be targeted by drugs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 17, 2014
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.