Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Membrane-coat proteins: Bacteria have them too

Scientists at EMBL discovered membrane-coat proteins in bacteria from the PVC superphylum, which could aid in understanding eukaryotic cell evolution and structure. These findings provide molecular evidence that coat proteins shape eukaryotic endomembrane systems in prokaryotes.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 20, 2010

$1 million from NIH continues cell growth regulation studies

Researchers at Florida Institute of Technology are awarded a four-year, $1.024 million NIH grant to continue their studies on cell growth regulation and its implications for human health. The funding will support the development of novel inhibitors that could be used to combat antibiotic-resistant bacterial diseases and treat cancer.

SourceFlorida Institute of Technology·DateJan 11, 2010
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.

A single atom controls motility required for bacterial infection

Researchers at UNC have discovered a single calcium atom controls bacterial motility required for infection. By blocking this site, the bacteria can't move, stopping its ability to establish infections like meningitis. The finding identifies a key step in bacterial infection and could lead to new drug targets.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 4, 2010

Spider web glue spins society toward new biobased adhesives

Researchers have identified two new glycoproteins in spider web glue that can be used to develop a new generation of biobased adhesives. These proteins are produced from opposite strands of the same DNA sequence, making them a promising material for large-scale production and various applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateDec 22, 2009

Bacteria provide new insights into human decision making

Scientists applied physics techniques to study bacteria's survival strategies, gaining insights into human decision making. The study found that bacteria's game theory decision making process is more advanced than the Prisoner's Dilemma, enabling them to weigh pros and cons in complex environments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2009

U-M researchers discover a way to strengthen proteins

Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a way to stabilize proteins by linking their stability to antibiotic resistance in bacteria. This method enables easy selection for stabilizing mutations, rendering proteins more resistant to unfolding and increasing their practical utility.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 10, 2009
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.

'Shoot-'em-up' video game increases teenagers' science knowledge

The 'Immune Attack' video game increased teenagers' understanding of cell biology and molecular science, according to a study. Players navigated the microscopic world of immune system proteins and cells to save a patient with bacterial infection, measurably improving their knowledge.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 8, 2009

It takes 2 to infect

Structural biologists reveal how internalin B dimer activates human receptor Met, allowing Listeria to infect cells. The discovery may lead to therapeutics for improved wound healing and treatment of listeriosis.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateNov 30, 2009

Researchers discover biological basis of 'bacterial immune system'

A team of scientists has discovered how bacteria defend themselves from viruses and other invaders, unlocking opportunities for targeted antibiotics, gene function studies, and stable bacterial cultures. The CRISPR-Cas system, a dynamic duo of RNA and proteins, recognizes and neutralizes invader RNAs.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalCell·DateNov 25, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A sticky solution for identifying effective probiotics

Scientists have crystallized a protein that enables beneficial bacteria to bind to the gut lining, interacting with cells and exerting their activity. The discovery opens new avenues of research into gut health and highlights the importance of molecular design in selecting probiotics.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 24, 2009

Sweet as can be: How E. coli gets ahead

Researchers discovered that E. coli has a protein that recognizes the rarer furanose form of galactose, allowing it to exploit this additional nutrient source. This adaptation enables E. coli to grow faster and persist in the gut at the expense of other species.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 12, 2009
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.

Spider web glue spins society toward new biobased adhesives

Researchers have identified two new glycoproteins in spider web glue, which can be produced through opposite strands of the same DNA sequence. This discovery paves the way for large-scale production of biobased glues for various applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateOct 21, 2009

Genomes of 2 popular research strains of E. coli sequenced

The genomes of two popular E. coli laboratory strains, K-12 and B, have been sequenced for the first time, revealing their genetic similarities and differences. The study provides valuable information on the evolutionary mechanisms that produced these differences and will guide future research in basic molecular biology and genetics.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateOct 20, 2009

Important defense against stomach ulcer bacterium identified

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have identified a protein called MUC1 as an important part of the body's defense against Helicobacter pylori. Genetic variations in MUC1 molecules may contribute to why some people are more ill than others with stomach ulcers and stomach cancer.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 12, 2009
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.

Researchers discover RNA repair system in bacteria

Bacteria have a novel RNA repair system that adds a methyl group to damaged RNA, making it impossible to cleave the site again. This discovery has implications for protecting cells against ribotoxins and understanding RNA interference in eukaryotes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 12, 2009

Understanding a cell's split personality aids synthetic circuits

Researchers at Duke University discovered that some bacteria exhibit bistability, allowing individual cells to respond differently to external commands. This phenomenon enhances the efficiency of synthetic circuits, which could produce proteins, chemicals, or deliver targeted drugs.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 4, 2009
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.

Weill Cornell researchers discover new anti-tuberculosis compounds

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College have identified new anti-tuberculosis compounds that inhibit the disease-causing bacteria's mechanism for surviving dormant in infected cells. The findings could lead to drugs that destroy TB in its dormant stage, potentially revolutionizing treatment.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 2009

Evolution still scientifically stable

Researchers discovered molecular evidence supporting Darwin's theory of evolution, finding that complex machines evolved through a process of combination and modification of existing proteins. The study provides a blueprint for understanding the evolution of cellular machinery, contradicting Intelligent Design explanations.

SourceMonash University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 2009

How manuka honey helps fight infection

Manuka honey kills MRSA by destroying key bacterial proteins, including FabI essential for fatty acid biosynthesis. The study suggests manuka honey could be used as a first-line treatment for resistant bacteria infections.

SourceMicrobiology Society·DateSep 6, 2009

Making bacteria make useful proteins

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a system that turns harmless bacterium Caulobacter crescentus into a protein production factory, making useful proteins for vaccines and therapeutic purposes. The technology could be used to manufacture HIV-blocking agents cheaply and with minimal expertise.

SourceMicrobiology Society·DateSep 6, 2009

Princeton team learns why some drugs pack such a punch

A Princeton-led team has discovered how some antibiotics kill bacteria by jamming the translocator, a protein-producing machine. The researchers also found that a specific protein called YccA protects the translocator from destruction, similar to a human protein of interest in cancer research.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateAug 20, 2009
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New images capture cell's ribosomes at work

Scientists have captured nanoscale movements of ribosomes, revealing a complex four-step ratcheting mechanism that interacts with mRNA and tRNA. This breakthrough could lead to more effective antibiotics and new treatments against devastating diseases like hepatitis C.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateAug 20, 2009

Genetically engineered bacteria are sweet success against IBD

Scientists have developed a therapy using genetically engineered Bacteroides ovatus that activates a human growth factor to treat bowel disorders like inflammatory bowel disease. The treatment reduces rectal bleeding, accelerates gut lining healing, and prevents disease onset.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalGut·DateAug 20, 2009

How meningitis bacteria attack the brain

Researchers have identified a key protein, NanA, that allows pneumococcus bacteria to penetrate the brain, leading to meningitis. Removing or modifying this protein can prevent bacterial entry, offering potential new avenues for developing more effective vaccines.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 18, 2009

Spontaneous assembly

A team of scientists used PALM microscopy to show that bacterial membrane proteins can spontaneously form clusters without being actively distributed. The researchers found that random lateral protein diffusion and protein-protein interactions generate complex, ordered patterns in the chemotaxis network.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 8, 2009
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.

Plant protein 'doorkeepers' block invading microbes, study finds

Researchers identified a complex of proteins in Arabidopsis that play important roles in recognizing and blocking out invading bacteria. The study provides insights into plants' immune systems and may help protect agricultural crops from diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 28, 2009
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.

Estrogen linked to lowered immunity in fish

Research by USGS scientists links estrogen exposure to reduced immune response in largemouth bass, potentially making them more vulnerable to diseases. The study reveals that estrogen blocks production of hepcidin, a hormone that regulates iron and has antimicrobial properties.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalFish & Shellfish Immunology·DateJun 3, 2009

Newly discovered reactions from an old drug may lead to new antibiotics

Researchers found that interrupting selenoprotein production can halt growth of bacteria such as Clostridium difficile and Treponema denticola. The study uses auranofin, an FDA-approved gold salt compound, to block bacterial growth by altering selenium metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateJun 1, 2009

Bacteria with a built-in thermometer

Bacteria of the Yersinia genus possess a protein thermometer called RovA, which measures temperature and metabolic activity to control infection. RovA activates genes for the infection process in suitable environments, while adapting to life within the host.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMay 20, 2009

Plant Min protein sits tight and rescues E. coli

A plant MinD protein has been found to rescue the oscillating cell division of E. coli by localizing to its polar regions without oscillation. This finding suggests that the conserved Min proteins between bacteria and plants have different functions.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Microbiology·DateMay 19, 2009

Pliable proteins keep photosynthesis on the light path

Researchers found that zinc-coordinated reaction centers have similar physical and chemical properties to magnesium-containing reaction centers. This discovery enables a deeper understanding of photosynthesis structure, function, and evolution.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2009
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.

JCI online early table of contents: May 11, 2009

Researchers identified LXR proteins as a new target in the fight against tuberculosis, providing substantial protection against infection. Additionally, studies revealed that immune cells can destroy AAV-transduced liver cells through CTL recognition, suggesting a potential therapeutic intervention to improve gene therapy success.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 11, 2009

Expression of infrared fluorescence engineered in mammals

Scientists at the University of California, San Diego, have developed a new class of infrared-fluorescent proteins (IFPs) that can be expressed in mammalian cells. These proteins are suitable for whole-body imaging in small animals and may provide a prototype for future studies in animal models.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 2009

Details of bacterial 'injection' system revealed

Scientists have decoded the structure of a needlelike protein complex on Shigella bacteria, essential for infection, revealing new insights into the mechanism of bacterial injection systems that could lead to new drugs.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateApr 26, 2009

Orientation of antenna protein in photosynthetic bacteria described

The study reveals the precise orientation of the Fenna-Matthews-Olson (FMO) antenna protein on the membrane, allowing for efficient energy transfer. The 'taco shell' protein plays a crucial role in connecting the peripheral chlorosome antenna complex to the reaction center.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2009
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Genes that make bacteria make up their minds

Researchers have identified the DegU protein as crucial for bacterial decision-making in biofilms. This protein enables individual bacteria to switch between different physiological processes, such as movement and biofilm production, in response to environmental conditions.

SourceMicrobiology Society·DateMar 29, 2009

Plastic protein protects bacteria from stomach acid's unfolding power

Researchers at the University of Michigan discovered a tiny protein called HdeA that protects disease-causing bacteria from stomach acid. This protein unfolds and becomes more flexible in response to acid, but unlike other proteins, it activates when unfolded, allowing it to bind and adapt to damaged proteins.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 23, 2009
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.

University researchers to develop coatings that kill superbugs

Researchers at the University of Bath are part of a €3 million Europe-wide collaboration to pioneer new, safer anti-bacterial plastics and coatings. The team has developed compounds effective against MRSA and other hospital bacterial infections, with the goal of incorporating them into various materials.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateMar 19, 2009

Microscope reveals how bacteria 'breathe' toxic metals

Researchers have discovered how Shewanella bacteria 'breathe' toxic metals, converting them into non-toxic forms. This process could potentially clean up contaminated nuclear waste sites by utilizing the bacteria's ability to extract energy from metal oxides.

SourceOhio State University·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMar 16, 2009

Cells get two chances, not just one, to fix their mistakes

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that cells have a second chance to correct errors in protein production, which could lead to new insights into neurodegenerative disorders and the development of targeted antibiotics. This discovery gives scientists a better understanding of the mechanism behind protein synthesis mistakes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 12, 2009
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.

Unfolding 'nature's origami'

Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered that proteins fold incorrectly many times before forming the correct structure, with amino acids central to function causing misfolding. The study, which looked at the Im7 protein, has huge implications for understanding protein sequences and disease balance.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMar 2, 2009

Exacerbations in COPD: One thing leads to another

New research shows individual COPD exacerbations increase repeat likelihood, driving disease progression. Patients may be 'brittle' during a subsequent eight-week period, requiring close monitoring and follow-up to prevent further exacerbations.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2009

Meningitis bacteria dress up as human cells to evade our immune system

Researchers discovered how meningitis bacteria use a protein to disguise themselves as human cells, evading the immune system. This finding could lead to improved vaccines against meningitis B, which accounts for most UK cases. The bacterial protein can be modified to generate a stronger immune response.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 2009

Self-regulating molecular 'transformers' control intracellular protein delivery

Scientists at Caltech have discovered self-regulating molecular 'transformers' that control the delivery of proteins to their correct locations within cells. The research could lead to novel treatments for diseases resulting from flaws in protein delivery and the development of new types of antibiotics.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2009

Tailor-made recombinant proteins in mammals

Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory create a novel technique to precisely modify recombinant proteins by introducing aldehyde tags. This breakthrough enables the labeling of therapeutic proteins in mammalian cells, paving the way for targeted treatments and improved pharmaceuticals.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2009
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.