Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Uncovering the structural and regulatory mechanisms underlying translation arrest

Two previously unknown ribosome-arresting peptides (RAPs), PepNL and NanCL, were identified in E. coli, inducing translation arrest through a unique mini-hairpin conformation in the exit tunnel of the ribosome. This discovery provides valuable insights into deciphering the hidden genetic codes within polypeptide sequences.

SourceOkayama University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2025

Influence of side-chain molecular features on aqueous coacervation of multifunctional homopolypeptides

Researchers explore how side-chain modifications affect coacervation properties of homopolypeptides. They find that varying side-chain lengths and hydrophobicity impact coacervation, while charge reversal affects properties. These findings provide insights into the structure-property relationships of coacervate-forming proteins.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalPolymer Science & Technology·DateNov 8, 2024

Safe, sustainable photo-on-demand synthesis of polypeptide precursors: Promising ‘building blocks’ for new functional materials

A research group at Kobe University has successfully synthesized α-amino acid N-Carboxyanhydrides (NCAs), a crucial precursor for artificial polypeptides, using the photo-on-demand phosgenation method. This new synthesis method eliminates the use of toxic phosgene and is considered safe, inexpensive, and simple.

SourceKobe University·JournalACS Omega·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

Fingerprints in birefringence

Researchers discovered that supercharged polypeptide fluids can form ordered phases in response to physical forces, resembling fingerprint patterns. The persisted order was detected using polarized optical microscopy, opening possibilities for biometric fingerprint detection.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 18, 2018

Was the primordial soup a hearty pre-protein stew?

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.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 5, 2017

Autophagy protects insulin-secreting cells of the pancreas

Researchers found that a functional autophagy system prevents the accumulation of toxic islet amyloid polypeptide, which can lead to diabetes. In animal models, autophagy-deficient beta cells developed overt diabetes, highlighting the protective role of autophagy in pancreatic beta cell function.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 18, 2014

Breakthrough for more efficient drug development

A tiny polypeptide has been developed that can bind to target-seeking molecules, enhancing their properties and improving the efficiency of drug development. The concept presents a new approach to drug development, potentially allowing for rapid development of new drugs with reduced costs and time.

SourceUppsala University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJan 18, 2011

Rice program takes on protein puzzle

Rice University researchers have developed a computer program that accurately simulates protein folding dramatically faster than previous methods. The new technique allows scientists to study the roots of diseases caused by proteins that fold incorrectly, which is crucial for understanding diseases such as Alzheimer's and cystic fibrosis.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJul 7, 2010

Coming soon -- Protein synthesis without amino acids?

Chinese researchers report a convenient method for synthesizing short protein chains using inexpensive starting materials and a simple cobalt complex catalyst. The new technique, similar to olefin polymerization, could be ideal for industrial production and may lead to the creation of polypeptides that were previously inaccessible.

SourceWiley·DateJul 19, 2007