Zinc Fingers
Articles tagged with Zinc Fingers
How proteins bind to RNA: the dual mechanism of zinc fingers and disordered regions
Researchers discovered that disordered regions enhance specific RNA interactions in FUS protein-RNA complexes, revealing a breakthrough strategy for nucleic acid binding. The study suggests that intrinsically disordered regions actively contribute to the RNA-binding mechanism.
U of T researchers discover DNA-binding C2H2 zinc finger proteins also regulate RNA processing
Researchers at U of T have discovered that C2H2 zinc finger proteins, which primarily bind to DNA, also regulate RNA processing through various mechanisms. These proteins modify mRNA, controlling its length and altering it after transcription.
Researchers use machine-learning modeling tools to improve zinc-finger nuclease editing technology
A Japanese research team used machine-learning-driven modular assembly systems to create a more efficient gene editing tool. The study demonstrated an improvement in genome editing efficiency by 5%, showcasing the effectiveness of engineering zinc-finger nucleases through structural modeling.
A molecular ticket to ride: St. Jude scientists capture the cellular train that enables transport in cilia
The study reveals new details about the intraflagellar transport (IFT) complexes, including previously unknown zinc-binding sites in IFT-A. The high-resolution structures of IFT-A and Tubby-related protein 3 (TULP3) can now be used to investigate developmental diseases involving cilia.
New AI tool makes speedy gene-editing possible
Researchers at NYU Langone Health and the University of Toronto have developed a new AI tool called ZFDesign, which enables customizable protein editing for treating genetic diseases. The tool promises to accelerate gene therapy development on a large scale, offering a potentially safer alternative to CRISPR.
New zinc finger model shows promise for gene therapy
Researchers developed a novel technology to engineer proteins targeting specific DNA sequences, offering a new approach to gene therapies. The system generates engineered zinc fingers that bind to any given sequence of DNA, potentially treating diseases caused by genetic mutations.
New insights into how KLF4 influences gene expression
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that KLF4 forms droplets in the cell nucleus that recruit other transcription factors to mediate gene expression. This process involves biomolecular condensation, where KLF4 interacts with chromatin regions to form a separate liquid phase.
Investigational gene regulation therapy could protect against Alzheimer's
A new gene regulation therapy using zinc finger proteins has shown high efficacy in reducing Tau protein levels in the brain, potentially protecting against Alzheimer's disease. The treatment reduces Tau production by 50-80% and prevents nerve damage without obvious side effects.
With gene therapy, scientists develop opioid-free solution for chronic pain
Researchers at UC San Diego developed a gene therapy that temporarily represses a gene involved in sensing pain, increasing pain tolerance and providing months of relief. The therapy could be used for various chronic pain conditions, including lower back pain and rare neuropathic disorders.
What causes rats without a Y chromosome to become male?
Researchers found that rats without a Y chromosome develop as males due to the expression of different zinc finger protein genes. These genes compensate for the absence of SRY and stimulate male sexual differentiation.
Clues for drugging the 'undruggable'
Researchers have identified a new way to target and degrade a class of proteins called zinc finger transcription factors, which play critical roles in health and disease. By modifying thalidomide analogs, scientists can selectively degrade specific zinc fingers, offering a promising lead for developing new cancer treatments.
The structure-based design of zinc finger nucleases can facilitate genomic editing
A novel computational assisted design strategy was introduced to lower the complexity of ZFN production. The FoldX force field-based approach predicts protein-DNA binding energy, reducing failure rates and increasing efficiency in producing customized ZFNs.
MGH researchers develop faster method of engineering zinc-finger nucleases
A new approach called context-dependent assembly enables the rapid generation of powerful zinc-finger nucleases, which can efficiently correct gene mutations in humans. This innovation allows researchers to design ZFNs for specific genes with ease, overcoming limitations of previous methods.
U of Minnesota researcher helps develop new technique for modifying plant genes
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a new genome engineering tool to make model crop plants herbicide-resistant without significant DNA changes. This approach has the potential to provide sustainable solutions for producing food, fuel and fiber while minimizing concerns about genetically modified organisms.
Zinc finger proteins put personalized HIV therapy within reach
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have successfully modified T cell receptors using zinc fingers to develop a new type of AIDS treatment. The approach involves introducing mutations into the CCR5 gene, rendering it non-functional and preventing HIV entry into immune system cells.