A team of researchers from SMART and MIT discovered aminovaleramididine synthetase (AvaS), a PLP-dependent enzyme involved in tRNA modification, expanding our understanding of how RNA regulates protein production in bacteria. The discovery sheds light on how bacteria use RNA modification to control protein production and offers new ave...
A multidisciplinary study has identified a novel biofilm regulatory protein called Biofilm Architecture Regulator (BatR) and its role in Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. The discovery may lead to new targets for anti-infective treatments, including those for people with cystic fibrosis.
Researchers at the University of Warwick and Monash University have uncovered a molecular basis for combinatorial biosynthesis, a strategy to create multiple versions of powerful cancer therapies. By understanding how bacterial enzymes interact, they can design new therapies with improved potency and selectivity.
Researchers use cryo-electron microscopy to reveal the 3D structure of Mfa pili in P. gingivalis, understanding its role in attaching to host tissues and other microbes. This information can aid in developing therapeutic strategies to block attachment and infection.
Researchers from The University of Osaka have developed a method to reconstruct ancestral rhodopsins that can be produced and experimentally tested in bacteria. This innovation utilizes an insertions-deletions aware sequence reconstruction approach, enabling scientists to study the evolution of functional proteins.
Researchers identified five immunomodulatory proteins in Borrelia recurrentis that prevent activation of the human complement system, allowing the pathogen to survive in the human body. These Chi proteins also convert plasminogen into active plasmin, giving Borrelia recurrentis a significant advantage in spreading after infection.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have discovered a novel mechanism for sensing cold temperatures in a bacterial protein called SthK. This finding suggests that similar mechanisms may exist in other organisms, including humans, and could provide new insights into disorders related to faulty temperature regulation.
Researchers at the John Innes Centre discovered a three-gene control hub that enables bacteria to share genes linked to antibiotic resistance. The study found that this mechanism is controlled by a bacterial immune system, which has been repurposed to release gene transfer agents.
Researchers at the University of Chicago have discovered a light-sensitive signaling cascade in Pseudomonas aeruginosa that suppresses biofilm formation and virulence. The study, published in Nature Communications, identifies a small protein called DimA as the key trigger for this process.
A new study found that proteins containing a widespread structural motif are more likely to misfold in E. coli. Essential proteins with the motif are more likely to be rescued by chaperones, suggesting an evolutionary mechanism to repair them.
Researchers from Ateneo de Manila University have identified key proteins produced by Helicobacter pylori that can trigger a strong immune response. By analyzing these proteins using immunoinformatics, the team has pinpointed potential vaccine targets to prevent stomach ulcers and cancer.
Researchers have discovered a novel tubular structure within the symbiotic bacterium Profftella armatura found in the Asian citrus psyllid, challenging conventional views of bacteria. The discovery may lead to breakthroughs in pest control and the study of life's evolution.
Researchers at RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science identified ancient protein SCORE to help plants defend against various pathogens. By engineering synthetic SCORE variants, plants can be made resistant to multiple pathogen types.
Scientists identified a unique protein in bacteria that can trap parts of the membrane, causing damage to other bacteria. This discovery reveals a new 'superfamily' of lipid-trapping proteins, which could have implications for antibacterial development and synthetic biology.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have created mirror-image molecules that both directly attack bacterial membranes and stimulate the immune system. The dual-action peptides have shown promise in treating infections by reducing bacterial counts and speeding healing, while also promoting sustained immune response.
Researchers engineered E. coli cells to control Min protein expression levels, demonstrating stable oscillations across a wide range of concentrations. The study reveals the potential of integrating quantitative cell physiology and biophysical modelling to understand cellular organization.
Researchers discovered that CsrA gathers in droplet-like structures inside cells to control bacterial gene activation. These compartments help bacteria adapt to environments and switch between harmless and virulent states.
A pioneering study has identified interleukin-6 (IL-6) as a powerful diagnostic biomarker for the early detection of sepsis in high-risk patient groups. IL-6 outperformed traditional biomarkers in distinguishing bacterial from non-bacterial infections and stratifying sepsis severity.
Research reveals that certain types of nasal bacteria can affect protein levels in the respiratory tract, increasing vulnerability to COVID-19. The study identified three common bacteria linked to higher expression levels and increased risk, while another type may offer protection.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers has identified a protein called QRICH1 as a potential target for fine-tuning treatments for cancer and autoimmune diseases. The protein regulates T-cell response, and drugs could be designed to control its activity.
A new study maps how specific lactic acid bacteria can reduce off-flavours and degrade anti-nutrients in plant-based dairy alternatives. Fermentation with these bacterial strains increases nutrient bioavailability and enhances product nutritional profiles.
A promising new target for a Lyme disease vaccine has emerged: the Lyme bacterial protein CspZ. Genetic engineering revealed hidden regions that trigger a strong immune response. The modified protein promotes continuous production of protective antibodies, reducing the need for booster shots.
Researchers developed new AI models, InstaNovo and InstaNovo+, to vastly improve accuracy and discovery in protein science. These models excel in tasks such as de novo peptide sequencing, identifying microorganisms, and discovering novel peptides, with implications for personalized medicine, cancer immunology, and beyond.
Preet Chaudhary and Michael Selsted, USC innovators, recognized by the National Academy of Inventors for their work on harnessing the power of the immune system. Their research aims to develop new treatments for diseases such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and sepsis.
Researchers have discovered a protein called MdfA that enables bacteria to shut down into dormant spores under extreme conditions. This process allows bacteria to survive in uninhabitable places and evade hospital cleaning, making them potentially deadly superbugs.
Ancient bacteria can respire carbon dioxide and hydrogen into acetic acid to produce ATP. A new mechanism involving sodium ions is activated when acetic acid is produced, driving a molecular turbine that generates energy.
A new bacterial protein, BeeR, has been identified and its structure is being used to develop protein nanoparticles for targeted cancer drug delivery. The protein forms a hollow tube with a cavity capable of containing drug molecules.
Researchers have developed a new method to deliver antibiotics directly into the bladder tissue, eliminating over 90% of bacteria from the bladder. The nanogel-based drug delivery system shows promise in treating UTIs and could potentially lead to an eventual cure.
Scientists at NTU Singapore have developed a solar-powered method to transform sewage sludge into green hydrogen and single-cell protein, reducing environmental damage and creating renewable energy and sustainable food. The three-step process recovers 91.4% of organic carbon and converts 63% into single-cell protein without producing h...
A new study from Weizmann Institute of Science reveals an immune mechanism involving proteasome products, which can kill bacteria and offer a promising treatment for infections. The researchers discovered that certain peptides produced by the proteasome have antibacterial properties and can be used to develop personalized treatments.
Researchers discovered that sulfur bacteria from the Desulfobacteraceae family work together like a team to break down diverse organic compounds. By analyzing six strains, they found similar molecular strategies and a highly energy-efficient central metabolism pathway, enabling them to thrive in oxygen-free environments.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a method to convert gut bacteria into mini protein factories that produce and release sustained flows of targeted proteins within the lower intestine. This approach eliminates a major roadblock in delivering drugs to this part of the body, offering potential treatment for chronic diseases.
Researchers at University of Gothenburg have identified a critical mechanism to slow down Crohn's disease progression by repairing the protective barrier of the gut. By reinforcing the gut's natural defenses, new drug targets may be developed to treat the disease.
Researchers have mapped the full sequence of protein-protein interactions during iron extraction by Staphylococcus aureus, opening possibilities for developing new treatments. The study used TR-XSS technique to observe the dynamics of IsdB-Hb complex formation and found that iron is extracted only when both Hb chains are bound to IsdB.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a way to convert gut bacteria into miniature protein factories that produce and release targeted proteins inside the lower intestine. This breakthrough could potentially treat chronic diseases.
Researchers have identified a protein shuttling mechanism in bacteria that enables them to pump out a wide spectrum of antibiotics. This complex of proteins, known as MacAB-TolC, forms a conduit that drains out not only antibiotics but also virulence factors.
Biomedical engineers at Duke University have developed a new technique that traps together cellular machinery to increase protein production rates. This approach uses synthetic disordered proteins to form compartments called biological condensates, which enhance the rate of protein production by bringing together biomolecular machinery...
Researchers at UCSF have discovered how a unique type of virus called a jumbo phage protects itself inside bacteria. The shield works via a set of secret handshakes that allow only useful proteins to pass through, giving the phage an advantage over regular phages when fighting infections.
Researchers at Queensland University of Technology have developed a novel biosensor that can selectively detect rare earth elements. The biosensor is based on molecular nanomachines engineered by the team, which produce easily detectable signals when binding to lanthanides.
Researchers investigated ozonated water's impact on SARS-CoV-2 in saliva, discovering that protein concentrations like amylase and mucin decrease ozone stability and effectiveness. This study provides insights into the applicability of ozonated water for disinfection in real-world settings.
The dengue virus uses its envelope protein to capture human plasmin, enhancing the permeability of the mosquito midgut. This interaction is crucial for viral infection, and understanding it could lead to innovative approaches to tackle vector-borne viruses.
A new Weizmann Institute study identified all proteins in a stool sample – those from the microbiome, human body, and food – revealing secrets of the intestines and their impact on human disease. The method, dubbed IPHOMED, decodes microbiome activity by showing which proteins come from bacterial strains and amounts.
A new study from DTU National Food Institute finds that temperature and light intensity play a crucial role in the yield of various nutrients produced by the microalga Nannochloropsis oceanica. The research suggests a two-stage cultivation process to optimize nutrient production, paving the way for sustainable food production.
The foundation has awarded eight recipients of the 2025 Damon Runyon-Rachleff Innovation Award, including five early-career researchers with initial grants of $400,000 over two years. The awardees aim to develop novel cancer therapies using innovative approaches such as engineered skin bacteria and small molecule-boosted drug delivery.
Researchers discovered a mechanism involving protein aggregation that allows bacteria to enter a dormant state, making them resistant to antibiotics. The study also found that protein aggregates can promote bacterial survival in stressful environments.
Researchers have discovered a complex mechanism that allows bacteria to build resistance to antibiotics, involving a KorB-KorA regulatory system. This finding offers a fresh insight into long-range gene silencing in bacteria and provides a potential target for novel therapeutics.
Researchers have developed a novel bioprocess that transforms carbon dioxide and electricity into single-cell protein, surpassing traditional sources like fish and soybean meal. The process produces a nutrient-rich food source with essential amino acids, offering a promising solution to global food security and climate challenges.
Scientists at the University of Florida have developed a genetically edited citrus tree that produces a protein killing baby Asian citrus psyllids, which transmit the greening disease. The approach has shown promise in controlling the spread of HLB, but adult psyllids remain a challenge.
Researchers have developed a new way to grow organoids using Invasin, a protein produced by bacteria, mimicking the original organ with its variety of cell types. This study provides an affordable, standardized and animal-free alternative to currently used methods.
A recent study revises our understanding of the universal genetic code's evolution, suggesting that early life preferred smaller amino acids over larger ones. The researchers found that amino acids with aromatic ring structures were incorporated into the code later than previously thought, offering clues about other extinct genetic codes.
Scientists have developed a novel enzyme, SUPer RNA EcoGII Methyltransferase (SUPREM), which can selectively modify RNA and has high methylation activity. This tool can be used to investigate RNA modifications in various diseases, providing new insights into their role in cell health.
Researchers have shed new light on gene expression by visualizing ribosomes in unprecedented detail. The study reveals a molecular mechanism for mRNA delivery to the ribosome, advancing our understanding of gene expression at the molecular level.
A new study discovered how TRIM25, a cellular superhero, finds and binds to viral RNA to activate an immune response. The researchers found that this binding is critical for TRIM25's antiviral activity and its ability to target regions of viral RNA.
A new study has identified novel strains of microbes that have adapted to use limited resources in cities, including those found in Hong Kong's subways and skin. These microbes can metabolize manufactured products, posing health risks if they are pathogenic.
Scientists have developed MINFLUX microscopy to measure distances within biomolecules, down to one nanometer, and with Ångström precision. This allows for the detection of different conformations of individual proteins and the observation of their interactions.
Scientists at Umeå University discovered how Listeria bacteria transport calcium differently from human cells, helping it survive in harsh conditions. The findings have led to the development of new strategies for combating bacterial infections and ensuring food safety.
A team of researchers discovered a mechanism that determines the spiral shape of Rhodospirillum bacteria, revealing a novel link between cell shape and fitness. The study found that an outer membrane porin-lipoprotein complex modulates elongasome movement to establish cell curvature in R. rubrum.
For the first time, researchers have demonstrated how mechanical forces affect gene expression by showing that RNAP polymerase remains on the DNA template and can be pulled to start a subsequent cycle of transcription. This force-directed recycling mechanism can change the relative abundance of adjacent genes.
Researchers have developed an antibody that can identify Campylobacter jejuni and inhibit its growth, reducing pathogenicity. The antibody targets a multiprotein complex essential for the bacteria's energy production, making it a potential target for therapy and vaccination.
Researchers developed a compact 'gene scissor' tool, TnpB, which shows a 4.4-fold increase in efficiency of modifying DNA, making it more effective as a gene editing tool. The tool can be used to treat patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, reducing cholesterol levels by nearly 80%.