Articles tagged with Amino Acids
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers at University of Groningen created a new enzyme with an unnatural amino acid as its active centre, increasing catalysis by almost three orders of magnitude. The enzyme links organic molecules by forming a hydrazone structure, a reaction used in medical biotechnology.
The Anzick site in Montana has been dated to between 12,725 and 12,900 years ago, based on specific amino acid radiocarbon dating of human remains. This confirms the contemporaneity of human remains and Clovis artifacts, resolving long-standing dating issues and providing new insights into early human habitation in North America.
A study reanalyzes ages of human remains found at the Anzick site in Montana, resolving a previously discovered discrepancy between Clovis artifacts and human remains. The analysis suggests that Anzick may be the only known example of burial in the Clovis culture.
Osaka University researchers have developed a practical and environmentally innocuous method for functionalizing multiply substituted amines. Their reductive alkylation approach uses hydrogen directly, generating only water as a byproduct and efficiently synthesizing a wide variety of amines, including amino acids.
Researchers at University of Würzburg develop new technology to redesign enzyme surfaces, increasing efficiency and selectivity in biochemical reactions. The modified enzymes can convert table sugar into a fructose polymer, with potential applications in medicine and the food industry.
A team of researchers has developed a model that simulates protein evolution, revealing how evolving protein components can give rise to dynamic and efficient molecular machines. The model shows that flexibility allows proteins to bind effectively to other molecules.
Researchers have devised a way to rapidly synthesize and screen millions of novel proteins that could be used as drugs against Ebola and other viruses. These 'xenoproteins' offer advantages over naturally occurring proteins, including increased stability and potential for better immune response.
Researchers at ASRC have developed nanomaterials with the ability to mimic some behaviors normally associated with living matter. The materials can be directed to conduct electrical signals and exhibit dynamic properties, such as self-assembling and disassembling in response to chemical signals.
Researchers develop SyMAPS technique to study self-assembling virus shells, which can be used for disease detection, drug delivery and vaccinations. The technique allows testing of nearly 2,600 versions of the protein, providing insight into how mutations change the scaffolding.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified 164 long-lasting brain proteins in mice that outlast neighboring proteins by weeks and months. These stable proteins may play a crucial role in governing long-term memory and learning, as well as loss of memory, in all mammals, including humans.
A new study published in PNAS found that extreme-altitude birds on the Himalayan Plateau and Altiplano plateau evolved similar traits to capture oxygen, despite different molecular blueprints. The study identified multiple ways for closely related species to produce the same functional outcome.
Researchers believe asteroids can reveal what molecules originally existed in our solar system, helping scientists reconstruct the pathway that led to life on Earth. The study of asteroid and meteorite samples provides strong evidence that certain compounds were present before life formed.
Researchers at UNC and Auckland University propose a new 'peptide-RNA' theory, suggesting genetic instructions (nucleic acids) and small proteins (peptides) interacted to form life. The theory contradicts the widely-held 'RNA-world' hypothesis, which states nucleic acids gave rise to life.
Scientists at the University of York discovered that amino nitriles in interstellar ice can trigger the formation of DNA's backbone molecule, 2-deoxy-D-ribose. This research throws doubt on the theory that amino acids formed before DNA.
Researchers at Georgia Tech formed hundreds of possible precursor molecules in the lab and found that depsipeptides formed quickly and abundantly under conditions common on prebiotic Earth. These molecules could have served as a chemical stepping stone, accelerating the birth of long peptides that make up proteins.
Research from the University of Illinois found that soybean meal produced in different countries has varying levels of digestible protein and amino acids. The study suggests that US, Indian, and Brazilian soybean meals have higher concentrations of these nutrients compared to Argentine and Chinese alternatives.
Computational biologists discover that protein variations have a significant impact on cell functions, even in healthy individuals. The study's findings could lead to advances in personalized medicine and better understanding of individual responses to environmental influences.
A study by Osaka University reveals that a single heterodimer of two T1r members can detect a wide range of sweet and savory flavors in humans. The researchers found that the structure of the heterodimer is similar regardless of the amino acid bound, but with varying affinity for each ligand.
Rice University scientists have developed a new technique to label proteins in cells using bio-orthogonal tags, allowing for high spatial and temporal control. The technique uses an engineered switch that only charges tRNA with the tag when prompted, providing a snapshot of total protein synthesis in the cell.
Researchers at University of Illinois conducted a study to calculate protein scores for eight sources of protein derived from both plants and animals. The digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS) method was used, which showed all dairy proteins met Food and Agriculture Organization standards as 'excellent/high' quality sources.
Researchers analyze amino acid stability under various extraterrestrial conditions, including temperature, pH, and radiation, to identify potential building blocks of alien life. The study aims to find structural characteristics that lead to higher stability in these conditions.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln researchers engineer an on/off switch into a weakened form of HIV to enhance vaccine safety and effectiveness. The team demonstrates that flipping the switch allows weakened HIV to replicate at a level likely to generate immunity in a host, while also allowing for controlled replication.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding the production of bilirubin, a substance responsible for yellowing of the skin in jaundiced patients. By studying the biliverdin reductase enzyme, they discovered that two molecules of biliverdin are used to produce bilirubin.
Researchers at Osaka University used electron cryomicroscopy to study flagellar motors, revealing that small changes in amino acids can significantly impact function. The discovery provides insight into constructing synthetic nanomachines with similar properties.
A new study from Carnegie Institution reveals that plant proteins undergo extensive modification by sugars, similar to animals, but also unique to plants. This process impacts various cellular functions and developmental tasks, such as flower development and responses to specific plant hormones.
University of California Riverside researchers identify amino acid taste receptor Ir76b playing key role in insect identification of umami taste. The discovery sheds light on insect food choice and potential targets for controlling insect populations.
Scientists have developed a new instrument capable of detecting life with unprecedented sensitivity, potentially uncovering signs of life on Mars and other planetary bodies. The method uses capillary electrophoresis to analyze soil or ice samples for specific amino acids that could serve as indicators of biological activity.
Researchers identified a new genetic cause of syndromic autism linked to the SLC7A5 gene, which transports amino acids into the brain. The study found that treating neurological abnormalities in mice with this gene mutation improved behavioral symptoms.
Researchers developed a method to alter plant enzymes, producing new natural compounds with disease-resistance properties and potentially useful as anti-foaming agents or natural sweeteners. This breakthrough could revolutionize the production of complex compounds in the lab.
The Penn Dental team has created a genetic engineering method to improve plant-based medicines by optimizing codons in DNA sequences. This technique resulted in increased protein expression levels, with hemophilia clotting factor five to six times higher and poliovirus protein roughly 26 times higher than native sequences.
A team of neuroscientists studied fruit flies' behavior when deprived of specific nutrients, discovering that their brain mechanisms influence food choices and exploration patterns. The findings suggest individual variability in metabolism and feeding behavior may be linked to physiological and neural characteristics.
Scientists have discovered how ataluren works to treat genetic disorders by allowing the cell's machinery to 'run' over premature stop signs. The drug inserts amino acids similar to those in non-mutated genes, enabling proteins to function normally.
A study has identified D-amino acids as potential biomarkers for predicting chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. Elevated levels of D-Serine and D-Asparagine in CKD patients are associated with a higher risk of end-stage kidney disease, highlighting the potential for improved treatment and novel therapy options.
Research shows that pelleting and extrusion increase digestible and metabolizable energy in diets for pigs, regardless of fiber content. Pelleting alone or combining with extrusion provides greater increases in amino acid digestibility, improving energy utilization.
Researchers create synthetic ring teeth proteins with varying repeats to achieve programmable materials with improved strength and flexibility. These self-healing polymers can be tailored for specific properties, such as elasticity and plasticity, making them suitable for various applications in textiles, cosmetics, and medicine.
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have devised a new molecule-building method that allows chemists to construct complex molecules starting from carboxylic acids. The method enables the easy synthesis of biologically active compounds, including drugs like Lipitor and Lyrica.
Scientists develop method to produce polymers mimicking proteins' versatility and structure, using triazine-based polymer TZP. The resulting material has non-covalent bonds and side chains arranged in specific positions.
A team of researchers from Purdue University has determined the structure of the Zika virus, revealing insights critical to developing effective antiviral treatments and vaccines. The study identified unique regions in the virus structure that could explain differences in transmission and disease manifestation.
Researchers developed steric trapping method to analyze membrane proteins' folding, showing promise for treating diseases at early stages. The study's findings could lead to medicinal advances in understanding protein structure and function.
Researchers found that fish from different species associate with each other when they share the same food, suggesting a role for chemical cues in group bonding. This study suggests that shared dietary preferences may be a key factor in promoting social learning and information transfer among fish.
A team of Penn researchers discovered a new mechanism linking amino acids to insulin resistance in type 2 diabetics. The study found that high levels of certain amino acids can cause fat accumulation in muscles, leading to insulin resistance.
Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered that high-protein canola meal is a valuable ingredient in swine diets, offering similar digestible energy and amino acid profiles to soybean meal. The study found improved digestibility of crude protein and amino acids in high-protein canola meal compared to conventional canola meal.
Researchers at TSRI have devised a new method for building potential drug molecules and organic compounds more efficiently and selectively. Amino acids can act as catalytic directing groups, streamlining the process and reducing reagent usage.
Scientists at the Max Planck Institute found that cooperating bacteria form cell clusters to exclude non-cooperating bacteria from their community. This mechanism stabilizes long-term partnerships without requiring complex recognition of potential partners.
Researchers identified 30 genes influencing ageing process across three species, finding that blocking these genes extended lifespan by at least five percent. The bcat-1 gene, which degrades branched-chain amino acids, was found to be particularly influential in extending nematode lifespan.
Biologists at SDSU discovered that fruit flies with two muscle protein mutations have nearly three-quarters of the myosin protein function restored, compared to those with a single mutation. This finding suggests a new view of human heart disease and potential treatments.
A University of Texas at Arlington researcher will receive a grant from NASA to further the search for amino acids, which are considered the building blocks of life. The platform aims to detect and separate ions with high precision, using extremely small volumes of samples, in order to identify potential signs of life beyond Earth.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology find that mixing amino and hydroxy acids with wet-dry cycles can create polypeptides, key components of life. The process, which could have occurred in a drying puddle, supports the theory that life began on dry land.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine identified a potent seizure inhibitor in mice using D-leucine, an amino acid found in many foods and certain bacteria. The amino acid interrupts prolonged seizures effectively without sedative side effects, paving the way for new treatments for drug-resistant epilepsy.
Researchers from UNC School of Medicine provide direct experimental evidence for the rapid synthesis of two classes of proteins necessary to create life on Earth. They found that a single ancient gene probably used its two opposite strands of DNA to code for different catalysts that both activated amino acids.
Researchers developed new cell-penetrating peptides with sugar molecules that dissolve easily in water, entering cells more efficiently than standard CPPs and having low toxicity. The team aims to use these CPPs as the basis for safe and efficient drug-delivery methods.
Tianbo Liu finds that molecules with electrical charge self-recognize left-handed and right-handed pairs to form large assemblies, simplifying the mystery of homochirality. This discovery emphasizes nature's simplicity in creating life.
Scientists have created a novel biocontainment method by making genetically modified E. coli dependent on a synthetic amino acid, which can only be obtained from laboratory cultures. This approach aims to prevent the bacteria from surviving in open environments and potentially causing ecological harm or contamination.
Researchers at Whitehead Institute have discovered a trio of poorly understood growth regulators called the Sestrins that play a crucial role in regulating mTORC1 signaling. The study found that the Sestrins work cooperatively to inhibit mTORC1 signaling by interacting with GATOR2, suggesting new potential targets for drug development.
Researchers from Max Planck Institute and Cornell University detect iso-propyl cyanide, a branched carbon molecule, in a giant gas cloud called Sagittarius B2. The discovery opens a new frontier in the complexity of molecules found in regions of star formation.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed a breakthrough technique to generate synthetic amino acids and designer proteins, which can be used to develop innovative new protein drugs for cancer and Alzheimer's disease treatment. The discovery opens up new avenues for drug discovery with potentially highly potent drugs an...
A new study confirms that achalasia is an autoimmune disease, with a specific genetic variant linked to the condition. The researchers identified 33 genetic variants associated with achalasia, all located in the MHC region of chromosome 6.
Researchers analyzed Stanley Miller's old samples and replicated his 1958 experiment, finding peptides formed under basic conditions. This discovery suggests a new path to the formation of proteins and enzymes necessary for life.
Researchers analyzed amino acids in shell beads to determine their origin, revealing a locally sourced alternative to the Mediterranean thorny oyster. The study uses a multidisciplinary approach, combining techniques from archaeology, chemistry, and physics.
Research suggests that high-altitude weight loss is linked to the release of ketones and amino acids, which protect cellular components from low oxygen damage. This adaptation may also benefit critically ill patients by preserving muscle mass.