Amino Acids
Articles tagged with Amino Acids
Shedding light on how hydrogen cyanide formed on early Earth
A new chemical pathway has been discovered that can convert amino acids into hydrogen cyanide without requiring methane. Manganese dioxide is the key mineral involved in this reaction, which occurs under a wide range of conditions resembling those of early Earth.
Scientists pave the way for fast, cost-effective custom enzyme development
Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a new method called SMART that accelerates enzyme evolution and reduces costs by accelerating the selection period from weeks to days. The system uses mRNA display, next-generation sequencing, and bioinformatics to identify superior enzyme variants.
Proteins cluster in cells for faster performance
Researchers at the University of Groningen discovered that protein clustering in cells leads to reduced movement and improved efficiency in amino acid production. This finding has practical implications for designing efficient cell factories and increasing substance production inside cells.
New details on proteins that help animals sense environmental temperature
Researchers found that specific amino acids in the TRPM8 protein of salamanders that prefer cooler environments lead to diminished cold sensitivity. This discovery provides insight into the mechanisms behind temperature-sensing channels in tailed amphibians.
New tool shines light on hidden protein mystery
Rice scientists develop simple method to study pyroglutamate, unlocking new insights into how proteins function and form. The technique uses blueish light to initiate chemistry that allows researchers to find out the roles of this ubiquitous modification.
BSO recapitulates anti-obesity effects of sulfur amino acid restriction without bone loss
Researchers found that D, L-buthionine-(S, R)-sulfoximine (BSO) replicates the anti-obesity effects of sulfur amino acid restriction without causing bone loss in male mice. The study suggests BSO as a promising tool for dissecting the beneficial versus deleterious axes of sulfur amino acid biology.
A new ecological model highlights how fluctuating environments push microbes to work together
Researchers develop mathematical model to capture microbial cooperation and community stability, predicting the outcome of experiments with E. coli strains. The model's results show that auxotrophs contribute to stable communities by trading essential nutrients and limiting growth.
Smarter tissue and organ repair thanks to made in Ottawa next-gen hydrogel
Researchers from the University of Ottawa have developed a groundbreaking biomaterial that combines strength, adaptability, and biological compatibility for soft tissue repair. The hydrogel is made from synthetic peptides and can be precisely tailored through chemical design, making it an attractive alternative to existing biomaterials.
Study suggests bamboo has ‘superfood’ potential
A recent review of bamboo consumption found promising health benefits, including improved metabolic health, reduced inflammation, and antioxidant activity. However, caution is advised due to potential risks associated with raw or improperly prepared bamboo.
Chinese scientists reveal how isoflavone 6-hydroxylase mediates soybean resistance to Phytophthora sojae
Researchers discovered the biosynthetic pathway of glycitein, a key soybean isoflavonoid, and its role in plant immunity. They found that GmIF6H1 enzyme catalyzes the production of glycitein, which acts synergistically with glyceollins to defend soybeans against infection by Phytophthora sojae.
Supplement trio shows promise in reversing autism-linked behaviors in mice
Researchers discovered a low-dose mixture of zinc, serine, and branch-chain amino acids can alleviate behavioral deficits in mouse models of autism by promoting neuronal communication and improving social behaviors. The combination was found to be effective at low doses, whereas individual supplements had no effect.
All life copies DNA unambiguously into proteins. Archaea may be the exception.
Researchers discovered that one microorganism can live with a bit of ambiguity in its genetic code, synthesizing two different proteins seemingly at random. This finding contradicts a long-held dogma and has implications for future disease therapies, including treating diseases caused by premature stop codons.
High tyrosine levels linked to shorter lifespan in men
A new study found that high tyrosine levels are associated with a shorter lifespan in men, while phenylalanine showed no such link. The researchers suggest that dietary adjustments, such as protein restriction, could help reduce tyrosine levels and support healthier aging.
Graz University of Technology researchers open up new avenues of understanding proteins
Researchers at Graz University of Technology have developed a new approach to understand protein function and stability, identifying amino acids crucial for both with high accuracy. The FSA method combines machine-learning-generated sequences with natural sequences, revealing functional and structural significance of amino acids.
UT Health San Antonio study finds amino acid supplement may boost exercise benefits for older adults
A new study suggests that supplementing with BCAAs alongside an exercise program may help reduce fatigue, improve strength, and ease symptoms of depression for older adults. The research found notable improvements in participants who combined a BCAA supplement with an eight-week exercise program.
Scientists develop an efficient method of producing proteins from E. coli
Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a new technology that improves protein production efficiency in E. coli by reducing ribosome stalling. By identifying short translational-enhancing peptides, they created an AI prediction model to accurately predict translation enhancement strength for all 160,000 possible tetrapeptides.
Lighting up life: Rice scientists develop glowing sensors to track cellular changes as they happen
Researchers at Rice University have engineered living cells to use a 21st amino acid that illuminates protein changes in real time, providing a new perspective on the inner workings of life. This breakthrough addresses a long-standing challenge in biology by allowing scientists to track subtle protein changes within living systems.
Uncovering the biology of growing old
A large study in pet dogs has uncovered molecular clues that could shed light on how aging unfolds in pets and people alike. The researchers found that a type of metabolite called post-translationally modified amino acids (ptmAAs) appeared strongly linked with aging across dogs of all breeds, sizes, and sexes.
Understanding solute selectivity: how aquaporin 10.2 filters urea and boric acid
Researchers discovered bulky amino acids reduce pore size, blocking transport of certain molecules in aquaporin 10.2. This provides a framework for predicting functions of uncharacterized aquaglyceroporins.
New study reveals why nature picked today’s proteins
A new study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem suggests that the stability of alpha amino acid backbones led to their selection as the foundation for proteins. The research proposes an assembly-driven model for the origins of life, offering fresh insight into how chemistry shaped biology.
Rice scientists develop ‘molecular magnifying glass’ to help identify diseases earlier
Researchers at Rice University have developed a 'molecular magnifying glass' that allows them to visualize subtle environmental changes in proteins, which can indicate the earliest stages of diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and cancer. This tool provides real-time monitoring of protein microenvironment changes in living cells.
Pork protein improves recovery, mood and inflammation in military cadets following combat fitness test
A clinical trial found that pork-based meals supported better recovery, mood and anabolic status in military cadets compared to plant-based meals. Cadets who consumed lean pork-based meals showed reduced muscle soreness and inflammation, while improving testosterone levels.
Origin of life breakthrough: Chemists show how RNA might have started to make proteins on early Earth
Researchers at UCL successfully chemically linked amino acids to RNA under conditions that could have occurred on early Earth, a significant step towards understanding the origin of protein synthesis. The study demonstrates how RNA might have first come to control protein synthesis.
How amino acids are transported in plants
A research team at Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf has discovered a specialized transporter for basic amino acids in plants. The RETICULATA1 protein enables the exchange of essential amino acids within the plant, which is crucial for its development and nutrient distribution.
Connecting the dots between laminins and myelin formation by oligodendrocytes
Laminin-411 protein and its derived peptide A4G47 exhibit pro-myelinating activity in oligodendrocytes, promoting myelin sheath formation. This discovery advances understanding of myelin sheath formation and potential applications for treating demyelinating diseases.
The evolution of life may have its origins in outer space
Complex organic molecules, precursors to life's building blocks, have been found in a planet-forming disc around the outbursting protostar V883 Orionis. This discovery supports the idea that life's seeds are assembled in space and are widespread.
Stealth genetic switch in mosquitoes halts malaria spread
Researchers developed a CRISPR-based gene-editing system that changes a single molecule within mosquitoes, halting malaria-parasite transmission. The new system is designed to genetically spread the malaria resistance trait until entire populations of the insects no longer transfer the disease-causing parasites.
A recipe for success: beefing up the taste of cultured meat with amino acids
Researchers at the Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, found that increasing levels of free amino acids in the culture medium can increase intracellular free amino acids and influence flavor compounds in cultured meat. Glutamic acid was the most prominent amino acid, while alanine was higher in conventional beef.
Amino acids as catalysts in the emergence of RNA
Researchers found that amino acids can actively promote RNA polymerization under mild, prebiotic conditions, increasing formation by up to 100-fold. This process is driven by acid-base catalysis, enabling the shuttle of protons in the reaction. The study suggests a mutual dependence between RNA and amino acids, reshaping our understand...
Including pork in plant-forward diets makes meals more appealing and just as healthy, study finds
A new study suggests that including pork in plant-forward diets makes meals more appealing and just as healthy, offering a higher protein quality score compared to plant-based proteins. The study found that meals with lean pork delivered significantly better results for satisfaction, satiety, and willingness to adopt post-trial.
BSO compound mimics diet-induced fat loss without cutting food intake
A new study published in Aging (Aging-US) Volume 17, Issue 4 has found that the drug buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) produces similar reductions in fat mass and weight gain as the sulfur amino acid-restricted diet. BSO may offer a practical alternative to difficult-to-maintain diets for treating obesity.
Scientists create a ‘brilliantly luminous’ nanoscale chemical tool
Researchers developed fluorescent polyionic nanoclays that can be customized for medical imaging, sensor technology, and environmental protection. These tiny clay-based materials exhibit high brightness and versatility, enabling precise tuning of optical properties.
Precision engineering of peptides and proteins
Researchers have developed a palladium-mediated reaction to precisely modify peptides and proteins, overcoming challenges in bioconjugation. The method targets dehydroalanine-containing peptides and proteins, enabling efficient synthesis of structurally unique peptides.
Breakthrough observation of real-time protein translocation by SecYEG-SecA complex
A team of researchers from Japan directly visualized protein translocation across membranes for the first time, providing insights into the SecYEG-SecA complex dynamics and its role in facilitating protein movement. The study estimated a protein translocation rate of 2.2 amino acid residues per second.
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.
Efforts to find alien life could be boosted by simple test that gets microbes moving
Scientists have developed a simple test that induces chemotactic motility in microbes, which could be a strong indicator of life. The test uses L-serine to attract microorganisms and has the potential to detect life on Mars and beyond.
A new therapeutic target for a lethal form of heart failure: ALPK2
Researchers have identified ALPK2 as a potential therapeutic target for treating heart failure with preserved ejection function (HFpEF). The enzyme is believed to prevent stiff heart conditions through regulating the TPM1 gene. This discovery offers new hope for developing treatment options targeting ALPK2.
NASA’s asteroid Bennu sample reveals mix of life’s ingredients
The Bennu samples contain amino acids and nucleobases, building blocks for proteins, as well as ammonia, which can react to form complex molecules under the right conditions. These findings suggest that the conditions necessary for life were widespread across the early solar system, increasing the odds of life existing elsewhere.
Biodegradable nylon precursor produced through artificial photosynthesis
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have synthesized a biodegradable nylon precursor through artificial photosynthesis, producing an eco-friendly alternative plastic. The breakthrough utilizes L-alanine and ammonia to create raw materials for a nylon-type biodegradable plastic.
Metabolome and RNA-seq reveal discrepant metabolism and secretory metabolism profile in skeletal muscle between obese and lean pigs at different ages
Researchers identified distinct metabolic profiles in skeletal muscle of Taoyuan Black pig compared to Duroc pig, with correlations to intramuscular fat content and lipid metabolism. The study provides insights into the muscle-adipose axis and potential targets for nutritional regulation.
Study sheds light on the origin of the genetic code
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.
Unveiling unknown chemicals in human serum samples
A study by Chiba University researchers has identified 106 compounds in pregnant women's serum samples, including phthalates, nitrogenous compounds, and parabens, which may impact biological pathways. The study proposes a non-targeted approach for detecting foreign chemicals and evaluating their potential health effects.
Boosting the nutritional value of black soldier fly larvae with biotechnology
Researchers from NARO and University of Tokyo successfully enhanced essential amino acids in BSF larvae through biotechnological approaches, boosting histidine and methionine levels by over 2.5 times. This development is expected to contribute to a stable food supply and promote sustainable food production.
Understanding the influence of specific gene mutations on starch properties in barley
Researchers found specific gene mutations in barley affect starch synthesis, forming elongated starch granules with altered properties. Mutations disrupt enzymes, altering glucose chain formation and branching.
Lachnospiraceae could be key to successful fecal transplants
A new study reveals that fecal microbiota transplants can increase Lachnospiraceae bacteria, which outcompete C. diff for resources and alter bile acids to create an environment favorable for other good bacteria to thrive.
Scripps Research scientists expand the genetic alphabet to create new proteins
Researchers create a novel paradigm for adding non-canonical amino acids to proteins by using four RNA nucleotides instead of the traditional three. This approach allows for efficient and targeted incorporation of new building blocks into specific sites in target proteins, enabling the creation of tailored proteins with unique functions.
Exploring peptide clumping for improved drug and material solutions
Researchers investigated peptide clumping behavior using molecular dynamics simulations and AI techniques. They discovered that aromatic amino acids enhance aggregation, while hydrophilic ones inhibit it, offering insights into peptide structure and function.
TTUHSC’s Guan receives NIH grant to continue cell transport research
Guan's lab will apply accumulated experience and methods to study SLC6A14, a sodium-coupled epithelial amino acid co-transporter involved in cancer and several chronic diseases. CryoEM will be used to determine the structure of SLC6A14, providing insight into its substrate specificity and inhibitory mechanisms.
Proteins and fats can drive insulin production for some, paving way for tailored nutrition
Researchers found that individual responses to proteins and fats can drive insulin production, challenging the long-held belief that fats have negligible effects on insulin release. This study has implications for tailored dietary guidance to manage blood sugar and insulin levels in individuals with diabetes or those at risk.
Blood test can help predict risk of obstructive sleep apnea
Researchers found a correlation between high homocysteine levels and the severity of obstructive sleep apnea. The study suggests that measuring homocysteine could help clinicians predict the risk of developing severe apnea, enabling early intervention and prevention.
A simple, fast, and versatile method for selective bromination of indole alkaloids
A team of researchers from Chiba University has developed a novel one-step process for indole C5-selective bromination of MTIAs, achieving selective modification at the notoriously challenging indole C5 position. The method operates under mild reaction conditions and accommodates various functional groups.
Unlocking the tea leaf's secret: decoding the amino acid blueprint of tea plant
A recent study decoded the amino acid blueprint of tea plants, revealing nitrogen assimilation's pivotal role in root tissues. This discovery offers a pathway to improve tea cultivation practices and potentially elevate the quality of tea beverages.
Computing takes the guesswork out of chemistry
A team of researchers from Osaka University used machine learning to identify a highly effective boron-based catalyst for chemical transformations of amino acids and peptides. The new catalyst generates only water as a coproduct and promotes high-yield reactions with minimal environmental impact. By leveraging computational methods, th...
An enzyme makes mushrooms “magical”
Researchers discovered a crucial amino acid exchange that enables PsiM to carry out double methylation during evolution. The enzyme plays a key role in psilocybin production, with implications for biotechnological production of the active ingredient.
Fast folding for synthetic peptides and microproteins
Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University developed a new method that enables the efficient production of cysteine-rich peptides and microproteins in their naturally folded 3D structure. The approach uses organic solvents to mimic nature's oxidative folding process, resulting in speeds of over 100,000 times faster than aqueous...
Use of branched chain amino acids to treat concussion
A new study found significant reductions in total symptom score and faster return to physical activity among concussed adolescents and young adults treated with branched chain amino acid supplementation. The study's findings provide important preliminary data for a larger trial of BCAA therapy.
Boston College researchers use electrocatalysis for site-specific protein modification
A new tool using electrocatalysis enables precise modification of site-specifically incorporated 5-hydroxytryptophan residues on many different proteins, including full-length therapeutic antibodies. The eCLIC method has potential applications in developing novel biotherapeutics and protein-based research tools.
How leafcutter ants cultivate a fungal garden to degrade plants and provide insights into future biofuels
Researchers have developed a novel imaging method to study the intricate relationships within a fungal garden cultivated by leafcutter ants. The technique revealed crucial metabolites and enzymes driving plant degradation, highlighting the fungus as the primary degrader of plant materials.
The role of malate decarboxylate CsNADP-ME2 in mediating the balance of carbon and amino acids
The study reveals the role of malate decarboxylase CsNADP-ME2 in balancing carbon and amino acids in cucumber fruit. Overexpression of CsNADP-ME2 increases starch, sucrose, and glucose content, while down-regulation leads to malate accumulation and reduced sugar abundance.