Proteins

The liver’s immune cells might be the key to curing hepatitis B

DeepAFM: A deep learning method to decode protein motion

This anti-CRISPR stops the protein assembly line in bacteria

How does the body stop bleeding?

Researchers at University of Leeds discover how platelet myosin is normally kept inactive, but genetic mutations push it out of balance leading to disease. This breakthrough sheds light on the role of platelet myosin in blood clotting and shedding new hope for treating bleeding disorders.

How changes to proteins can alter drug interactions for new precision therapies

Researchers discovered over 400 proteins with modified states affecting drug binding, including KRAS and NPC2. PTMs may influence therapy selection and combination, offering new opportunities for targeted treatments. The study could reshape cancer treatment and lead to more effective therapies.

Revealing the unusual ability of a protein involved in lung and thyroid cancer

Researchers have discovered that the CCDC6-RET protein can activate itself, accelerating its function and making it a promising target for cancer therapy. The study also reveals a new mechanism of action, where the protein can utilize both ATP and ADP as energy sources.

Rice Biotech Launch Pad receives award for research to advance cell-based therapy for Type 1 diabetes

Researchers at Rice Biotech Launch Pad are developing an encapsulation platform to protect transplanted pancreatic islet cells from immune attack. The approach aims to reduce scarring and inflammation, making it possible for people with Type 1 diabetes to manage their condition without long-term immunosuppression.

No brain required: This is how the single-celled stentor learns

Researchers at UCSF discovered that single-celled organism Stentor learns through modifying existing proteins with calcium signaling, which is similar to the mechanism used by animal neurons. This finding suggests that learning may be a fundamental feature of life and could have evolved before the emergence of brains.

Drugging the undruggable: Scientists achieve million-fold leap in targeting elusive cancer proteins

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a new method to target intrinsically disordered proteins, which are difficult to treat with medication. The approach has shown promise in slowing prostate cancer growth and could lead to new treatments for various diseases.

New experimental drug may restore movement after stroke

Researchers discovered that strokes cause a chain reaction within the brain, leading to neuronal cell death. They found that blocking collagen production can prevent this damage and even restore motor function in paralyzed monkeys. The new drug KDS12025 reduces hydrogen peroxide levels and prevents the entire process from being triggered.

One protein, two roles

Researchers found that Adgrl2 plays a crucial role in building both brain synapses and blood vessels, with different cell types producing distinct versions of the protein. Removing Adgrl2 from endothelial cells caused blood vessels to become leaky and lose their integrity.

Visualizing non-classical nucleation of intrinsically disordered proteins/regions: from oligomers, clusters to dense phase

Researchers used LP-TEM to visualize the dynamic processes occurring during early stages of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in intrinsically disordered proteins/regions. The study provides compelling evidence supporting a non-classical nucleation mechanism and proposes a multi-step process for LLPS, which is common in IDPs/IDRs.

Freeze-dried platelet product slows swelling and bleeding in TBI

A new freeze-dried blood product called Thrombosomes has shown promise in treating traumatic brain injuries by reducing swelling and bleeding. The product, derived from platelets with trehalose preservation, has been tested on mice and found to be effective in stabilizing damaged blood vessels.

Study finds each protein in the epigenome produces a different pattern of gene expression

A new study found that every type of epigenome protein produces a distinct pattern of gene expression, surpassing the on/off switch functionality. This discovery has significant implications for cellular engineering, enabling more dynamic control over cellular behavior and potential applications in biomanufacturing and bioproduction.

Protein engineering method may lead to more exact treatments

Researchers developed a machine-learning model to predict protease behavior, enabling more precise and effective treatments. The ProSSpeC calculator suggests engineered synthetic proteases that outperform widely used enzymes.

Anti-amyloid Alzheimer’s drugs show no clinically meaningful effect

A new Cochrane review of 17 clinical trials found that anti-amyloid Alzheimer's drugs have no significant impact on cognitive decline or dementia severity, but may increase the risk of brain swelling and bleeding. The evidence suggests that these drugs are unlikely to provide clear benefit to patients.

Scientists uncover new method to generate protein datasets for training AI

Researchers at Rice University have created a new approach called Sequence Display that generates large-scale sequence-activity datasets for rapid protein evolution. This method enables the creation of accurate machine learning models to predict protein function optimization, overcoming the bottleneck of insufficient experimental data.

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.

Composition of neuronal motor proteins regulates their cargo-specificity

Researchers discovered multiple molecular subtypes of kinesin-2 with distinct compositions and functions, including a KIF3B/B/KAP3 complex that preferentially associates with TRIM46 and facilitates its transport to the AIS. This study provides insights into how neurons regulate cargo delivery with specificity.

Improving vaccine design for Ebola, HIV and more

Researchers at Scripps Research create a nanodisc platform that preserves key parts of viral surface proteins, allowing for better understanding of antibody interactions. This approach can be applied to other viruses with similar membrane-embedded proteins, such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2.

Alzheimer’s-linked protein tau play a role in cell division

A new study by POSTECH researchers found that the protein tau interacts with DNA during cell division, forming condensates that capture microtubules. This interaction affects chromosome alignment and can lead to cellular abnormalities even in healthy cells.

New AI technology to speed drug development

Scientists at the University of Virginia Health System have developed a suite of AI-powered tools, called YuelDesign, YuelPocket and YuelBond, to transform how new drugs are created. These tools can design drug molecules tailored to fit their protein targets exactly, even accounting for protein flexibility.

AI-based monitoring reveals protein deficiencies in people taking GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss

A real-world study found that adults taking GLP-1 RAs for weight loss have significantly lower total energy and protein intake. The use of an AI-powered nutritional tracking app revealed that 88% of users were under national protein guidelines, with many skipping meals to reduce protein intake.

Chinese Medical Journal review illuminates the multifaceted role of LRRK2 in health and disease

The review highlights LRRK2's diverse cellular functions and pathogenic mechanisms in various diseases, including Parkinson's disease and inflammatory disorders. Therapeutic strategies targeting LRRK2, such as kinase inhibitors and emerging approaches like PROTACs and gene therapy, show promise for correcting cellular imbalances and re...

Identifying the limits of protein evolution

A large-scale computational study found that point-of-origin effects significantly influence protein diversification, with relatively small divergence seen from ancestral proteins. The research reinforces existing theories on initial protein formation and highlights the limitations of modern AI protein design methods.

OHSU study uncovers internal cell ‘trade winds’ that drive movement and repair

Researchers at OHSU have discovered a previously unknown system of internal 'trade winds' that help cells rapidly move essential proteins to the front of the cell. This breakthrough reveals that cells don't rely on random diffusion but instead create targeted streams of fluid to push proteins forward.

Your post-gym protein shake may get a taste upgrade

Researchers at the University of Reading developed a new method to produce whey protein with improved texture characteristics, reducing bitter and peppery notes. The findings suggest that manufacturing changes can improve the taste and texture of protein drinks, making them more appealing to those relying on them.

Flexible assembly: alternative pathways in proteasome biogenesis deciphered

A new study has deciphered the step-by-step assembly of eukaryotic proteasomes, revealing two alternative pathways and a flexible biogenesis process. The findings have far-reaching implications for understanding cellular protein quality control, ageing, and diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

The truth of timekeeping lies within: key developments in understanding circadian rhythms

Researchers at The University of Osaka discovered that the cyanobacterial circadian clock is controlled by factors intrinsic to one protein, which remains stable under different conditions. This finding offers significant insight into how living organisms measure time.

How flexible protein regions retain their function

Researchers discovered that intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) retain function through interplay of linear motifs and chemical characteristics, not just conserved sequence blueprints. The study found that short binding motifs and overall chemical context are crucial for protein function.

Molecular garbage on tumors makes easy target for antibody drugs

Researchers at UCSF have discovered a new therapeutic target, SRC, present on up to half of all tumors, which can be targeted with antibody drugs. The enzyme, normally hidden inside cells, is exposed on the surface of tumor cells due to an overactive disposal system, making it an easy target for cancer-killing antibodies.

A new reagent makes living brains transparent for deeper, non-invasive imaging

Researchers at Kyushu University develop a new tissue-clearing reagent, SeeDB-Live, enabling repeated, reversible, and real-time imaging of living brains at greater depth and clarity. This breakthrough allows scientists to visualize neural activity in living mice and brain slices, offering new insights into brain dynamics and function.

Research alert: How one receptor can help — or hurt — your blood vessels

A protein receptor, PAR1, plays a critical role in maintaining blood vessel structure. The receptor can trigger protective responses to counteract inflammation, potentially leading to new treatments for conditions like sepsis, heart attack, and stroke

Scientists pinpoint protein shapes that track Alzheimer’s progression

Researchers at Scripps Research have developed a blood-based approach that examines protein shape in the bloodstream, distinguishing cognitively normal individuals from those with Alzheimer's and mild cognitive impairment with high accuracy. The new test could help move diagnosis and intervention to an earlier stage.

New approach to drug development

Researchers from MedUni Vienna have developed a new approach to drug discovery by targeting intracellular signalling proteins, such as β-arrestins, to control disease-relevant signalling pathways. This approach holds promise for personalized therapies, particularly for the treatment of neurological diseases.

Why does the body deem some foods safe and others unsafe?

Researchers have identified three new proteins, called epitopes, that help the body determine 'safe' foods, aiding in food tolerance and allergy understanding. The epitopes were found in seed proteins from corn, wheat, and soybean, and interact with regulatory T cells to inform tolerance-or-rejection decisions.

When light boosts protein evolution

Researchers developed a method called optovolution that uses light to guide the evolution of proteins with dynamic, multi-state, and computational functions. This approach favors variants with better dynamics, allowing for the creation of new variants with improved light sensitivity and responsiveness.

DGIST-KBSI developed “precision analyzer” to uncover identity of “chameleon proteins” causing intractable diseases, such as dementia

A research team developed an innovative analytical technology to precisely examine intrinsically disordered proteins, a key cause of neurodegenerative diseases. The technology enabled accurate identification of protein structures at the atomic level, revealing how temperature and genetic mutations affect protein structure.

The key to attacking “undruggable” proteins: IRB Barcelona reveals a breakthrough drug mechanism

A study published in Science Advances reveals a mechanism to bind to intrinsically disordered proteins, providing a new approach for therapeutic design. The research, led by Dr. Xavier Salvatella, shows that these proteins adopt more organized conformations when clustering, allowing for selective binding by a drug.

Rice-based cheese? Study points to possibility for new rice markets

Researchers at the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture have developed a hypoallergenic alternative cheese using rice proteins. The study analyzed various protein sources from brown rice, white rice, and bran, finding that they can provide qualities needed for plant-based cheesemaking.

Collagen benefits skin but not performance - study

A comprehensive study of collagen supplements found benefits in skin elasticity, hydration, and osteoarthritis symptoms. However, there were no meaningful improvements in sports performance or muscle recovery, dispelling some myths surrounding its use.

Emerging class of antibiotics to tackle global tuberculosis crisis

A team of scientists at the University of Sydney has discovered how three naturally occurring antibiotic compounds disrupt the ClpC1–ClpP1P2 complex, a vital protein degradation machine in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This finding uncovers surprising complexity and provides valuable insight into designing more effective anti-TB treatments.

Trashing cancer’s ‘undruggable’ proteins

Scientists developed a new platform using protein-like polymers to target and degrade cancer-driving proteins like MYC and KRAS. The approach triggers cancer cell death, offering hope for treating aggressive and drug-resistant cancers.

Ribosomes in pairs

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research discovered that stressed animal cells, including neurons, assemble inactive ribosomes into tightly linked pairs, known as disomes. This novel mechanism relies on a specific piece of ribosomal RNA called an expansion segment to form a precise RNA-RNA interaction.

Making AI-based scientific predictions more trustworthy

Researchers developed a free-to-use software tool, PSBench, to verify the accuracy of artificial intelligence-based protein structure predictions. The database includes 1.4 million annotated protein models, verified by experts, and provides reliable information for building more accurate AI systems.

Self-organization of cell-sized chiral rotating actin rings driven by a chiral myosin

Actin filaments and a fast plant motor protein called Chara corallina myosin XI (Cc XI) were combined to observe spontaneous ring formation. The rings rotated continuously in one direction and remained fixed, even as individual filaments moved within them.

Scientists find a mechanism for how exercise protects the brain

Scientists have discovered a mechanism that explains how exercise improves cognition by shoring up the brain's protective barrier. The study found that an exercise-induced liver protein strengthens the blood-brain barrier, reducing inflammation and cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Molecular glue discovery: large scale instead of lucky strike

Researchers developed a new method to discover molecular glues through large-scale chemistry and cell-based screening. They identified compounds that selectively degrade ENL in leukemia cells, demonstrating the potential of this approach for targeting previously undruggable proteins.

Common anti-seizure drug prevents Alzheimer’s plaques from forming

Researchers discovered that levetiracetam prevents the production of toxic amyloid-beta 42 peptides and plaques in neurons. Administering the drug to high-risk individuals may slow cognitive decline and prevent Alzheimer's symptoms if started early, possibly up to 20 years before symptoms appear.

Dual-action molecule design concentrates cancer treatment in tumor cells to allow higher doses

Researchers at The Wistar Institute have developed a new chimeric molecule that targets both Aurora kinase A and HSP90 proteins in cancer cells, improving its pharmacokinetic properties and increasing its exposure in the tumor. This approach could lead to more effective treatment with reduced side effects.

PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer

Researchers at PolyU have identified a key driver of tumour growth in liver cancer and developed a monoclonal antibody that neutralises this protein. The antibody inhibits the growth and proliferation of FABP4-driven cancer stem cells, enhancing immune cell activity.

Consumer food purchases after glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist initiation

After initiating GLP-1 receptor agonists, consumers showed a decrease in ultraprocessed foods and an increase in protein, while purchasing fewer calories, sugars, and saturated fats. These modest changes may have significant population-level effects given increasing GLP-1RA use.

How a single gene shapes gut health and IBD risk

Researchers at UC Riverside find that faulty gene PTPN2 increases susceptibility to harmful bacteria like AIEC, leading to gut inflammation and IBD. The studies suggest that restoring PTPN2 function or using medications like JAK inhibitors may help control harmful bacterial growth.

New AI method revolutionizes the design of enzymes

Researchers have developed a new AI method called Riff-Diff to construct artificial biocatalysts, resulting in enzymes that are significantly faster, more stable and versatile. The technology allows for precise design of protein structures around active centres, making enzyme design more accessible to the wider biotechnology community.

Protein foundation models reshaping the research paradigm of life sciences

Protein Foundation Models (pFMs) leverage vast amounts of sequence and structural data to predict protein structures and functions, enabling novel protein design and analysis. The models have evolved into several mature technical approaches, demonstrating versatility in basic biological research, protein discovery, and biomedical appli...

New nanoparticle technology offers hope for hard-to-treat diseases

Researchers have developed a new class of engineered nanoparticles that can bind to and degrade specific disease-related proteins. This technology has the potential to treat diseases such as dementia and brain cancer by eliminating harmful proteins.

Rice bioengineers explore new gene delivery systems with Keck Foundation support

Researchers at Rice University are exploring biological systems-inspired delivery vehicles to target specific tissues in living organisms, aiming to improve the efficiency of gene-based therapies. The project focuses on optimizing combinations of surface molecules to enable precise and efficient delivery of large DNA payloads.

Researchers unlock signal recognition between legumes and rhizobia

Scientists have elucidated how legume plants and rhizobia recognize each other through flavonoids and NodD protein. The study found that the shape of the NodD binding pocket accommodates specific flavonoid molecules, explaining why rhizobial NodD is only activated by certain types of flavonoids.

Exploring mutations that spontaneously switch on a key brain cell receptor

Studies exploring the role of histamine H3R receptor in the brain found that specific amino acid mutations can increase constitutive activity while compromising stability. The research provides a foundation for a better understanding of brain diseases and the design of safer drugs.

Chemist proposes shared “model proteins” to improve reproducibility in protein science

A chemist proposes a framework for shared model proteins to improve reproducibility and coordination in protein science. The proposal includes five widely used proteins and aims to establish minimal reporting requirements and curated reference datasets.