Add BrightSurf on Google Email

What can polymers teach us about curing Alzheimer's disease?

A team from Tokyo Metropolitan University has identified a crucial precursor structure in the formation of tau protein fibrils, mirroring the crystallization of polymers. Dissolving these clusters prevents fibril formation, suggesting a new paradigm for treating neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalNeuroscience Research·DateNov 15, 2025

First synthetic ‘mini prion’ shows how protein misfolding multiplies

Researchers develop a simplified model of tau protein that forms disease-like fibrils, shedding light on the fundamental interactions underlying neurodegenerative diseases. The 'mini prion' can recreate the critical hallmarks of tauopathies, such as Alzheimer's disease.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2025
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Opening for a new type of drug for Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers from the University of Gothenburg have made a breakthrough in understanding the role of protein tau in Alzheimer's disease. By identifying specific amino acid modifications that occur before thread-like fibrils form, scientists hope to develop complementary drugs to combat the disease.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2025

International collaboration uncovers structure of Huntington’s disease protein

An international team has presented the first detailed picture of Huntington's disease protein clumps, known as fibrils. These elongated shapes differ in important ways from those in other diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, offering new insights into their role in the disease.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2025

Previous cryo-EM structures of synucleinopathy patient-derived α-synuclein fibrils revealed a ‘mystery density’ at the core of the protofilaments

Researchers have identified polyphosphate as a universal biomolecule that binds to the lysine-rich pocket of α-synuclein protofilaments. This binding contributes to the stability of the fibers, which are associated with synucleinopathy patient-derived fibrils.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 31, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Finding a missing piece for neurodegenerative disease research

A new study led by the University of Michigan suggests that polyphosphate may play a crucial role in neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers discovered that polyphosphate is present in fibrils found in patients' brains, which could help explain their devastating effects.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 31, 2024

Superspreader fibrils caught in the act

Scientists have successfully imaged superspreader fibrils in the brain tissue of Alzheimer's patients, shedding light on their role in spreading the disease. The study, published in Science Advances, uses advanced imaging techniques to visualize the fibrils' formation and spread.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 28, 2024

Promising ‘first’ in Alzheimer’s drug development

Researchers have developed a promising new drug, RI-AG03, that successfully targets and blocks both major aggregation-promoting 'hotspots' of the Tau protein. The peptide-based approach shows significant potential in preventing the build-up of Tau proteins and neurodegeneration, addressing a critical gap in current treatments.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateOct 3, 2024

Promising ‘first’ in Alzheimer’s drug development

Researchers have developed a peptide inhibitor called RI-AG03 that effectively prevents Tau protein aggregation in lab and fruit fly studies. The breakthrough targets both major aggregation-promoting 'hotspots' of the Tau protein, potentially paving the way for more effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceLancaster University·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2024
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.

Therapeutic target identified to neutralise toxic forms of Parkinson's-associated protein

A region in alpha-synuclein protein aggregates has been identified as a potential therapeutic target to prevent conversion into toxic amyloid fibrils, which accumulate in the brains of people suffering from Parkinson's disease. The discovery opens the door to developing new therapeutic strategies for inactivating these toxic forms.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 6, 2024

Imaging technique shows new details of peptide structures

A new imaging technique developed by researchers at Washington University in St. Louis has allowed scientists to visualize the differences between synthetic peptides and amyloid beta fibril assemblies. The study provides valuable information on the heterogeneity of these assemblies, which is crucial for understanding protein toxicity a...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 26, 2024

Type 2 diabetes alters the behavior of discs in the vertebral column

A new study finds that Type 2 diabetes causes intervertebral discs to become stiffer and change shape earlier than normal. This leads to a compromised ability to withstand pressure, highlighting the need for preventative and therapeutic strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2024

Protein modifications key influencers in neurodegenerative diseases

Post-translational modifications on alpha-synuclein slow amyloid aggregation and protect neurons, potentially slowing disease progression. The study's findings suggest that targeting these modifications could lead to new treatments for Parkinson's disease.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateFeb 12, 2024
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.

Novel test holds promise for detecting Parkinson’s disease early

Researchers developed a novel test that detects single ⍺-synuclein fibrils in patient samples to identify patients with Parkinson's disease earlier. This breakthrough has the potential to create early applicable molecular diagnostics, improve clinical trials, and facilitate drug screening for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2024

A secret passage for mutant protein to invade the brain

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that mutant α-synuclein protein propagates through the brain's lymphatic system in its monomeric state before aggregating, shedding light on Parkinson's disease progression. The study suggests targeting early events may limit disease progression.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 7, 2023

A novel biosensor for detecting neurogenerative disease proteins

EPFL researchers have created a novel biosensor, ImmunoSEIRA, to detect misfolded protein biomarkers linked to Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. The sensor employs AI-powered neural networks for disease stage quantification and features gold nanorod arrays with antibodies for specific protein detection.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 12, 2023

ClearTau: A new tool for studying neurodegenerative diseases

ClearTau overcomes limitations of previous methods by producing Tau fibrils efficiently and consistently. This allows researchers to study the development of tauopathies and develop disease-specific therapeutics.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 4, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Senescence and extracellular vesicles: novel partners in vascular amyloidosis

Research by Whitehead et al. reveals that cellular senescence triggers amyloidosis through changes in small extracellular vesicles and extracellular matrix composition. The study provides novel insights into the formation of aortic medial amyloid and offers potential therapeutic targets for mitigating its effects.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 29, 2023

PITT pathway: Pitt scientists discover how cells repair longevity-promoting ‘recycling system’

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have identified a universal mechanism for lysosomal repair, known as the PITT pathway, which helps maintain cellular longevity. The study reveals that damaged lysosomes are quickly repaired through the PITT pathway, but defects in this process can contribute to age-related diseases such as Al...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature·DateSep 7, 2022

Possible discovery of mechanism behind mysterious COVID-19 symptoms

Scientists found a connection between the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the production of misfolded proteins called amyloids, which can cause complex symptoms and damage in organs such as the heart and kidneys. The researchers' discovery may help explain why COVID-19 often affects multiple parts of the body.

SourceLinköping University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022
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.

Unexpected protein could play role in common brain disorder

Researchers at UCLA have discovered that amyloid fibrils in the brains of patients with frontotemporal degeneration are composed of the protein TMEM106B, not TDP-43 as expected. This finding may lead to new focus on TMEM106B in FTLD and similar brain diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature·DateApr 19, 2022

Towards a better understanding of foot-and-mouth disease

Biologists at the University of Leeds created high-resolution images of the foot-and-mouth disease virus, revealing fibril structures that play a key role in replication. These findings could lead to new antiviral treatments for diseases caused by the virus.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJan 17, 2022

Docking peptides, slow to lock, open possible path to treat Alzheimer’s

Researchers discovered that amyloid beta peptides, which form gummy plaques in Alzheimer's disease, go through several intermediate stages of frustration as they dock and lock to growing fibrils. This suggests that drugs might be developed to stabilize the fibril tips and block further aggregation by targeting the 'Achilles' heel' of f...

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2021
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.

Filter membrane renders viruses harmless

A new water filter membrane made from natural raw materials has been developed to render viruses harmless. The membrane combines protein nanofibrils with iron oxyhydroxide nanoparticles to eliminate a wide range of water-borne viruses, including those causing gastrointestinal infections, with great efficiency.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 3, 2021

Scientists find a way to detect the spectral signals of amyloid fibrils

Researchers at St. Petersburg State University have created a new theory and experimental methods to separate spectral signals from amyloid fibrils, overcoming obstacles faced by previous studies. This breakthrough may aid in the development of new drugs for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMay 26, 2021

Understanding the growth of disease-causing protein fibres

Researchers from University of Bath and ISIS Neutron and Muon Source invent technique to directly measure amyloid fibril growth rate in solution. This breakthrough is crucial for understanding the diseases associated with amyloid fibrils, which are deposits of proteins linked to Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalRSC Chemical Biology·DateApr 15, 2021

Chinese solar telescope reveals acceleration of magnetic reconnection

Researchers using the New Vacuum Solar Telescope observed a significant acceleration of magnetic reconnection due to propagating disturbances caused by filament eruptions. The study, published in The Astrophysical Journal, found that these disturbances led to shorter and brighter current sheets with increased reconnection rates.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMar 12, 2021
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.

Development of plaques in Alzheimer's disease resolved

A team of researchers from Ruhr-Universität Bochum and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam have determined the development stages of Aβ fibrils, which form the basis of Alzheimer's disease plaques. The study provides new insights into the formation of oligomers, potentially harmful structures that contribute to the toxic effect of Aβ.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·DateDec 21, 2020

The intricate protein architecture linked to disease

Researchers at the University of Leeds have visualised the structure of amylin fibrils, a key player in type 2 diabetes, and discovered an intricate architecture that makes some sequences more prone to aggregation. This finding suggests a potential explanation for the rapid onset of disease in individuals with early-onset type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 14, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New study shows how infrared lasers destroy harmful protein aggregates in Alzheimer's

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science used infrared laser irradiation to destroy amyloid fibrils, which are typical of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The study combines experimental and simulation results, showing that the process begins at the core of the fibril, where resonance breaks intermolecular hydrogen bonds.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateAug 4, 2020

New indication of a link between Alzheimer's and diabetes

Scientists have developed a high-resolution model of protein strings typical for diabetes, revealing a strong similarity to those found in Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest an increased risk of contracting diabetes in Alzheimer's patients and vice versa.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJun 15, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Computational techniques explore 'the dark side of amyloid aggregation in the brain'

UMass Amherst scientists used computational techniques to study amyloid fibril growth and brain pathology, revealing that earlier forms of the protein are toxic. The research provides a comprehensive understanding of the process, highlighting the importance of energy landscapes in disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2020

Alzheimer's and an unusual molecular chaperone

Researchers from University of Konstanz discover that a molecular chaperone helps form Alzheimer fibrils by exposing a vulnerable area on the protein tau, preventing longer, more toxic fibril formation. The findings suggest a possible defense mechanism against Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 13, 2020

Gold nanoparticles uncover amyloid fibrils

Researchers have made a groundbreaking finding by using gold nanoparticles to label and visualize amyloid fibrils in their natural state. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding the mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease and developing new treatments.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 12, 2020

Beauty sleep could be real, say body clock biologists

Researchers found that a body clock mechanism boosts collagen production when we're most active, replenishing sacrificial fibrils at night. This discovery sheds light on the extracellular matrix and its role in maintaining body structure, with implications for understanding aging and wound healing.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 15, 2020
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.

Team's fabricated corneal tissue allows closer look at how eyes heal

A team of researchers has developed a technique for fabricating tiny strands of collagen called fibrils to facilitate further research on the eye's repair process. The study, funded in part by a $1.8 million NIH grant, aims to improve our understanding of how corneal keratocytes respond to injury and leave scar tissue.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalBiomedical Microdevices·DateJan 9, 2020

New insulin compound could improve therapy for diabetes patients

Scientists have developed a non-fibrillating form of human insulin called glycoinsulin, which demonstrates the same glucose-lowering effects as native insulin without fibril formation. This discovery presents a promising solution for patients relying on insulin pumps and could improve the shelf life of insulin products.

SourceThe Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 9, 2020

Unique polymer fibers: Light, strong, and tough

Researchers have developed unique polymer fibers with high tensile strength and toughness, making them suitable for industrial applications such as textiles, medical technology, and aerospace engineering.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2019
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.

Chemists discover structure of glucagon fibrils

Researchers at MIT used NMR spectroscopy to determine the structure of glucagon fibrils, finding a novel antiparallel beta sheet conformation and steric zippers that make the protein stable. This discovery may lead to shelf-stable versions of the hormone, which is used to control diabetes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJun 24, 2019
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.

Breaking down pathological protein aggregates

Scientists at ETH Zurich found that a cellular mechanism called SCF detects and targets alpha-synuclein fibrils for breakdown. This mechanism could be used to develop therapies for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's. Gene therapy and stem cell transplantation may also offer new options.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 6, 2019

Identifying the molecular structure of one of Alzheimer's stickier culprits

A team of researchers has mapped the molecular structure and dynamics of an aggressive protein modification linked to Alzheimer's disease. The study found that this modification accelerates disease progression, causing toxic protein fragments to aggregate into sticky plaques that disrupt brain cell communication.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2019

Collagen fibres grow like a sunflower

Researchers at Universite Paris-sud studied how collagen fibrils form complex tissues. They found that the fibers grow in a unique, parabolic profile, with a constant diameter throughout growth, similar to a sunflower's florets.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMay 13, 2019

Technique uses well-known dye to watch amyloid plaques in the brain

A team of researchers has demonstrated a novel approach for nanoscale imaging of amyloid structures using Thioflavin T, allowing for precise visualization of proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease. The technique enables the observation of amyloid fibrils assembling and disassembling in response to drugs.

SourceOptica·DateMar 26, 2019
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.

How do protein tangles get so long in Alzheimer's?

Researchers at Ohio State University have found that tau protein aggregates in Alzheimer's disease can grow by joining end-to-end, forming longer filaments. This discovery helps explain the formation of toxic aggregates and may inform the development of new drug candidates.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 11, 2019