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Self-excising designer proteins report isoform expression

Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München developed a new bioengineered reporter system called EXSISERS, enabling non-invasive observation of fundamental cellular processes. The system detects specific protein isoforms being translated, with potential applications in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.

An mRNA vaccine for cancer immunotherapy

Researchers have developed a hydrogel that slowly releases mRNA nanoparticles, activating T cells and stimulating antibody production in mice with melanoma. The treatment causes tumors to shrink and prevents metastasis, demonstrating great potential for long-lasting cancer immunotherapy.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 17, 2021

Synthetic protein quality control system in bacteria

Researchers at Seoul National University developed a synthetic protein quality control system in bacteria to increase the efficiency of protein production. This technology enhances full-length translation, leading to up to 250% increase in protein yield and over two-fold increase in target metabolite production levels.

SourceSeoul National University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateFeb 8, 2021

The underestimated mutation potential of retrogenes

A new study reveals that retrogenes, which are inserted into the genome via reverse transcription of mRNA molecules, can have a profound impact on genetic diversity. These retrogenes can act as regulatory mutations, negatively influencing the original gene's mRNA and causing harm to organisms.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2021

The line of succession

A specific region of messenger RNAs plays a crucial role in brain cell function. The study reveals an unusual EXAR (EXon-Activated Rescue) mechanism that secures this process, using ELAV and FNE proteins to determine neuronal transcript signatures.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 19, 2020

New method allows precise gene control by light

A novel optical switch enables precise control over the lifespan of genetic copies by attaching aptamers to molecular markers. This method can be used to specifically switch off practically every mRNA molecule in a cell in a controlled manner, opening up new avenues for investigating dynamic processes in living cells.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 25, 2020

More than just genetic code

A team of scientists has made a breakthrough in understanding the complex process of photosynthesis by discovering that mRNAs transport proteins to thylakoid membranes. This finding opens up new avenues for research into photobiotechnology.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Plants·DateSep 8, 2020

Start here to make a protein

The structure of the mRNA initiation complex provides new insights into cancer and disease processes. The discovery proposes a model for how mRNA is pulled through the ribosome for scanning, revealing that start codons need to be sufficiently far from the front end of the mRNA.

Un-natural mRNAs modified with sulfur atoms boost efficient protein synthesis

Researchers have developed modified mRNAs with sulfur atoms that accelerate protein synthesis by at least 20 times, paving the way for efficient protein production and mRNA therapeutics. This breakthrough has significant implications for medical treatments, including vaccine therapy and protein replacement therapy.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 16, 2020

New genetic editing powers discovered in squid

Researchers have found that squid edit their genetic instructions outside the nucleus, in the axon, allowing for localized protein function adjustments. This discovery has implications for understanding neurological disorders and potentially harnessing natural RNA editing processes for therapeutic benefits.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMar 23, 2020

New RNA molecules may play a role in aging

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University used a new sequencing method to identify a sea of previously invisible RNA molecules that may play a role in aging processes. The study found that these cyclic-phosphate containing RNAs (cP-RNAs) are abundantly expressed throughout the body and change in number as tissues age.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateNov 13, 2019