Articles tagged with Chemical Biology
Researchers from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution successfully anticipated and chronicled a seafloor eruption along the global mid-ocean ridge, providing a rare opportunity to observe what happens in the immediate aftermath of an event. The study has added substantially to our understanding of how mid-ocean ridges work.
The University of Manchester will develop innovative new counter-terrorism technologies using £multi-million pounds in funding from the Home Office. The project aims to improve detection, identification and decontamination of chemical, biological and radiological materials.
Researchers witness steps in biological nitrogen fixation process, enabling microbes to convert atmospheric nitrogen to nutrients. The study suggests the biological process does not follow the same pathway as the chemical method.
Scientists at Harvard University have developed a computer model that can fully map and predict how small proteins fold into three-dimensional shapes. The model tracks protein folding for up to 10 microseconds, significantly longer than previous methods.
Breakthroughs in protein interaction studies, antibiotic development, and signaling G Proteins are highlighted in ACS Chemical Biology. Researchers have also found a small molecule that controls thyroid hormone receptor activity.
Researchers at MIT have developed a novel micropump that enables the creation of fully portable 'lab on a chip' devices. This innovation promises to revolutionize biology and chemistry by allowing for rapid and efficient testing in any setting, with potential applications in military use, medical diagnoses, and first responders.
A team of researchers is developing nanoscale surfaces that actively reassemble in the presence of DNA, which could lead to more efficient separation tools for genomics and proteomics. The new approach mimics nature's lipid bilayers and can be dynamically modified using temperature, light, or electric fields.
Researchers at Salk Institute and MRC discovered how slime molds synthesise the chemical signal DIF-1 using a unique type III PKS domain arrangement. This discovery informs the development of more efficient methods for producing modified polyketides for human use, highlighting the complexity of natural chemicals in biological systems.
Researchers have developed autonomous liquid microlenses that can adapt their focal length without external control. These smart lenses use hydrogels responding to physical, chemical or biological stimuli to enable new sensing methods in lab-on-a-chip environments and medical diagnostics.
Researchers have developed a new material that uses light to control the attachment of proteins to membranes, allowing for easier cleaning and potential applications in water treatment, drug release, and biosensors. The patented process involves attaching spiropyran molecules to poly(ether sulfone) and exposing them to UV light.
Engineers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a suite of sensors that can quickly detect chemical, biological, nuclear, and explosive materials. The sensors use millimeter/terahertz technology to identify unique spectral patterns - or fingerprints - that uniquely identify explosives and chemicals.
Researchers have created a biochemical metal detector to measure tiny amounts of zinc inside living cells. The technique can detect free zinc concentrations even in healthy cells, shedding light on zinc's role in health and disease.
Scientists at Georgia Tech have developed reusable hydrogel microlenses that can detect trace amounts of biological or chemical agents in a matter of seconds. These tiny lenses use antibody-antigen binding to change their focus when exposed to the target substance, enabling rapid detection and identification.
The NYAS China Conference showcased groundbreaking research on chemical biology, infectious diseases, genomic medicine, and neuroscience. Experts discussed innovative approaches to drug development, disease treatment, and brain growth, highlighting the importance of global collaboration.
ICWater is a computer-based tool that integrates multiple information sources and data from incident commanders to help predict contaminant reach times for drinking water intakes. The tool is currently used by water utilities and response teams in the US, with an operational version set to be deployed nationally by summer 2006.
Ohio State University researchers have developed a process to uncoil long strands of DNA and form precise patterns, potentially enabling the creation of biologically-based electronic circuits. The technique involves using a tiny rubber comb to pull DNA strands from water and arrange them into complex structures.
T-rays use terahertz (THz) region of the electromagnetic spectrum to sense and image objects, providing spectroscopic information about composition. Advances enable nanoscale detection and long-range imaging up to 100 meters, with potential applications in national security, genetics, and protein folding research.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are using stream fish to assess water quality, finding that different species respond to pollution in unique ways. This study aims to improve the accuracy of water quality assessments by incorporating fish movement patterns and diversity.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has received an NIH grant to establish a center for cheminformatics research, which will utilize computational techniques to predict chemical compound behavior. The RECCR aims to strengthen collaboration between researchers in various disciplines and advance biotechnology and life sciences research.
Tomio Joins Blackwell Publishing to Advance Chemical Biology & Drug Design, Focusing on Smart Chemistry and Innovative Drug Development. Tomio brings extensive experience in small-molecule drug discovery and multidisciplinary research at ARIAD Pharmaceuticals.
Researchers at the University of Oregon have discovered a new method to determine the orientation of surfactant molecules on water, providing insight into their role in environmental challenges. The study, led by Geri Richmond, has broad implications for understanding how these molecules function in practical applications.
A two-year, $1.5 million project will provide fundamental information about sediment translocation in Venice lagoon, using a multidisciplinary approach to analyze geochemical, physical, microbial, toxicological, and ecological science. The research aims to assess the effects of sediment movement on the lagoon's ecosystem.
Researchers developed a tool that combines atomic force microscopy (AFM) with scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) to monitor both topography and biochemical activity simultaneously. The technology promises to be valuable for various biomedical and biotechnological applications, including studying cystic fibrosis.
Researchers at the University of Florida have created a new type of high-frequency circuit using widespread complementary metal oxide semiconductor technology. The 105 GHz circuit has potential applications in bioterrorism detection, as its frequency closely matches that of tiny pathogens and chemical bonds.
Researchers have isolated a new enzyme, Orf2, that can modify a wide range of small aromatic molecules by adding a prenyl group. This modification can significantly impact the molecule's biological properties and could be used to create biologically active compounds for drug development.
The National Children's Study aims to track 100,000 children's health from birth to 21, but faces $2.7 billion funding gap over 25 years. The study will examine environmental factors contributing to childhood chronic disease, with potential economic benefits of reducing disease burden by 1% annually.
The research aims to determine a biological sample's origin by identifying markers, such as metal and protein changes. The Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate funds the project.
Researchers have identified materials with high charge mobility, crucial for flexible displays and electronic devices. By studying single crystal structures, scientists can now assess intrinsic electronic properties without external factors affecting results.
A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism reveals a significant association between serum hyaluronan (HA) levels and osteoarthritis severity. The research, conducted on over 3,000 volunteers, suggests that HA levels may serve as a biomarker for diagnosing osteoarthritis.
Researchers propose a 'systems engineering approach' to protect public spaces from chemical and biological terror attacks. This involves central command centers, response strategies tailored to facilities, and sterilizing chambers built into air-circulation systems.
Researchers found that chiral compounds, including organophosphates and synthetic pyrethroids, pose previously uncalculated toxic risks due to their biologically different behaviors. Using just the active isomer can achieve similar pest control with reduced chemical use and environmental benefits.
Researchers have developed a new stand-alone detector that can identify three types of biological agents: bacteria, viruses, and toxins. The Autonomous Pathogen Detection System continuously monitors the air like a biological smoke detector, providing information required before public-health action can be taken.
Scientists on a research cruise off the Alaskan coast have identified previously undiscovered deep-sea habitats and sparked debate about the causes of a devastating 1946 tsunami. The expedition used cutting-edge technology to map the seafloor, collect sediment samples, and probe the region with an ROV.
Researchers are developing new technologies to extract hemicelluloses from wood chips, which can be converted into fuel ethanol, industrial polymers, and composite products. The goal is to create an integrated forest products biorefinery that increases paper production while reducing costs.
Researchers create nanotubes with antimicrobial properties that can detect and kill biological agents. The nanostructures can change color in response to UV light and have been shown to be effective against E. coli bacteria.
Researchers found that prostacyclin (PGI) protects against atherosclerosis, while thromboxane A2 (TXA2) promotes its development. TP antagonists and molecules with PG-like activity may aid in atherosclerosis prevention, aligning with previous work on low-dose aspirin therapy.
The new database will allow researchers to submit a single chemical inventory once a year, reducing the need for frequent updates. It will also screen for hazardous chemicals and explosives, providing critical information in emergency situations and helping prevent laboratory accidents.
A new research program will focus on improving evidence acquisition and analysis for weapons of mass destruction in marine environments. The program aims to develop sensors and technologies to detect signs of WMDs, enhancing coastal security and national infrastructure protection.
The project aims to enhance the prospects of PCF sensors for diverse applications, including environmental monitoring and medical diagnosis. The researchers will fabricate PCFs via a modified sol-gel method and conduct surface-functionalization studies using various techniques.
A new study by Northwestern University researchers shows that social networks can efficiently lead to global organization, even with imperfect information transmission due to noise or error. The model is adaptable and robust, capable of responding to external conditions, and people tend to adjust their opinions based on the majority
The Advanced Carbon Nanotechnology Research Program aims to explore carbon nanostructures for biological and chemical sensors, energy-conversion devices, and electron emission devices. The research will train graduate students and establish interactions with industry and government laboratories.
A study by UCSD and Brazilian biologists found that bees can use scent markings from other species to find food. This ability allows aggressive stingless bee species to take over food sources previously discovered by competitors, providing a clear evolutionary advantage in scarce floral resources.
The US National Science Foundation (NSF) is funding sensor research to monitor environmental factors, structural integrity, and health threats. Sensor networks will enable early detection of climate change, earthquakes, and biological hazards.
Researchers have developed a portable cooling system that weighs just several pounds and can detect chemical and biological toxins using miniature sensors. These devices use microchannels to enhance heat transfer or chemical reactions, enabling better process control and overall miniaturization of systems.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a four-channel microphysiometer to monitor cell metabolism in near real time. The device can chart variations in oxygen, glucose, and lactic acid levels, providing crucial clues about the impact of unknown biological agents on cells.
The U of T team has developed a technique to capture the atomic-level melting process of aluminum, revealing the solid's arrangement as it changes into a liquid. The researchers observed the transformation in real-time using laser and electron pulse technology, shedding light on the fundamental processes governing chemistry and biology.
Researchers mapped out circulation patterns using Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs) to enhance understanding of the Bay-RIS system. The study provides detailed spatial images of circulation, showing that water predominantly enters the Bay through the East Passage and is supplied by the southeast during summer.
Researchers at UCSD create tiny silicon chips, 'smart dust,' that can detect chemical or biological compounds and report information to the outside world. The dual-sided particles can collect at a target and self-assemble into a larger reflector for remote sensing applications.
Researchers at Duke University have successfully redesigned sensor proteins that can detect a range of molecules, including explosives like TNT and neurotransmitters. This breakthrough could lead to new technologies for monitoring diabetes and locating underwater robots.
Researchers from Ames Laboratory aim to create efficient and selective nanocatalysts using mesoporous materials with controlled nanopores. The goal is to improve the selectivity of current mesoporous materials, which often require costly separation techniques.
Scientists will conduct live agent testing of masks at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, simulating mustard blistering and nerve gas sarin exposure. The tests aim to establish a maximum penetration rate and fit testing methods for gas masks worn by first responders.
Scientists at UC Riverside have modified an existing full-scale chemical scrubber to a biological trickling filter, achieving treatment rates comparable to chemical scrubbers. The conversion resulted in annual savings of $30,000 per year, with potential for widespread adoption and significant cost benefits.
Cornell researchers have developed a highly efficient chemical route to produce the biodegradable polymer poly(beta-hydroxybutyrate), which has potential applications in various industries. The discovery is a significant breakthrough in creating sustainable materials, with the potential to replace traditional plastics.
A Pacific Northwest chemist has developed increasingly selective methods to separate and analyze biological mixtures using capillary liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. The techniques enable researchers to predict the effect of complex perturbations on biological systems, such as drug side effects and virus exposure.
The Lancet reports a severe decline in Iraq's healthcare infrastructure, exacerbated by the Gulf War and 12 years of economic sanctions. The US military's preparation for chemical and biological warfare has also contributed to the humanitarian disaster.
A team of researchers at Texas A&M University has developed a vacuum system that can detect anthrax and other biological agents in mail sorting machines. The device, which is being developed by the McDivitt laboratory, uses a detector to identify and quantify both biological and chemical agents.
Paul Chirik has been recognized with the NSF's Early Career Award for his innovative work in synthetic chemistry. His research focuses on using transition metal complexes to expand the scope of chemical reactions, leading to the discovery of a new method for activating atmospheric nitrogen.
Craighead's research focuses on developing chip-based chemical and biochemical analysis systems with high-speed capabilities. He aims to create rapid medical diagnosis or environmental monitoring tools using microfluidic systems and engineered nanostructures.
The laser technique, called LIBS, can detect various explosives and identify close relatives of anthrax in instant detection. A portable LIBS system could continuously monitor air for signs of chemical or biological agents, alerting officials to potentially hazardous substances.
The Purdue team has developed a new type of antenna that can detect a single molecule using electromagnetic radiation. This innovation could lead to detectors millions of times more sensitive than current technology, with potential applications in medical diagnostics and homeland security.