Researchers solve a long-standing problem in organic chemistry
Scientists at the University of Münster developed a new method to construct complex polyenes, such as retinoic acid, using small molecules as
Small Molecules
Articles tagged with Small Molecules
Chemistry breakthrough could speed up drug development
Scientists at Newcastle University have developed a new method to grow crystals of organic soluble molecules from nanoscale droplets, allowing for rapid screening of hundreds of experiments in minutes. This breakthrough could transform the analysis of small molecules and accelerate the discovery of new pharmaceutical agents.
Researchers report progress on molecular data storage system
Researchers at Brown University have made significant progress in developing a molecular data storage system, storing over 200 kilobytes of data in custom-synthesized small molecules. The team has shown that this approach has potential advantages over traditional methods, including scalability and higher storage capacity.
New opportunity for cancer drug development
Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have successfully designed small molecules that activate Frizzleds, a receptor family linked to various cancers and disorders. This breakthrough opens up new therapeutic strategies for treating different types of cancer.
A replacement for exercise?
Researchers found that Sestrin, a naturally occurring protein, can improve endurance and respiration in flies and mice. It may also help prevent muscle atrophy, potentially leading to new treatments for aging-related muscle wasting.
XenonPy.MDL -- Comprehensive library of pre-trained models for materials properties
The XenonPy.MDL library offers 140,000 pre-trained machine learning models predicting 45 physical properties. Transfer learning significantly improves materials informatics research with limited data.
Overlap allows nanoparticles to enhance light-based detection
Researchers at Rice University have developed a method to amplify the light emitted by molecules using plasmonic nanoparticles. By optimizing the spectral frequency overlap between the molecule and nanoparticle, they can enhance signal detection up to 10 times. This technique has potential applications in analyzing catalysts and improv...
Uncovering drug-like small molecules in the human microbiome
Researchers developed a computational algorithm to identify biologically active small molecules encoded in human microbiome-derived sequencing data. They uncovered novel TII-PKS BGCs with antimicrobial activity against neighboring microbes, as well as anti-cancer effects, in samples from diverse countries.
Researchers develop thermo-responsive protein hydrogel
A NYU Tandon-led team created a biocompatible protein-based drug delivery system that can survive in the body for over two weeks and provide sustained medication release. The thermo-responsive protein hydrogel exhibits properties similar to synthetic hydrogels but is more desirable for use in biomedicine.
AI-guided robotics enable automation of complex synthetic biological molecules
A team of MIT researchers developed an AI-guided robotic platform to streamline the synthesis of small molecule organic compounds. The platform uses artificial intelligence-driven synthesis planning, flow chemistry, and a robotically controlled experimental platform to minimize human intervention.
These sharks glow in the dark thanks to a newly identified kind of marine biofluorescence
Researchers have identified a new family of small-molecule metabolites responsible for the bright green color in certain shark species. This unique biofluorescence mechanism allows sharks to identify each other and potentially fight off microbial infections.
Pairing prediction and production in AI-informed robotic flow synthesis
Researchers present an integrated strategy for computer-augmented chemical synthesis, successfully yielding 15 different medicinally related small molecules. Their AI-informed, robotically controlled platform has the potential to greatly improve the synthesis of complex molecules, reducing manual labor and increasing scalability.
These sharks use unique molecules to glow green
Researchers have identified a previously unknown family of small-molecule metabolites responsible for the bright green color in sharks' skin, which may also aid in identifying other sharks and fighting microbial infections. The discovery opens new questions about the potential functions of biofluorescence in shark biology.
Researchers save images not with a microchip, but with metabolites
Scientists have successfully encoded and decoded digital images using metabolites, demonstrating a potential alternative to microchips for data storage. The study achieves an accuracy rate of 98-99.5%, encoding over 100,000 bits of information into synthetic metabolomes.
Solvent additive-free ternary polymer solar cells with 16.27% efficiency
Researchers from Fujun Zhang's group have reported ternary polymer solar cells with 16.27% efficiency, surpassing binary systems without solvent additives. The addition of a third component enhances photon harvesting and optimizes exciton distribution, paving the way for industrialization of organic photovoltaics.
New chemical tool to block endocytosis in plants identified
A new chemical tool has been identified to block endocytosis in plants, a process essential for nutrient uptake and cellular signaling. The compound, ES9-17, was developed through an international collaboration and retains the ability to bind clathrin, a protein involved in endocytosis.
SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 23, 2019
Molecules that prevent protein misfolding point to new type of therapy for AL amyloidosis
Scientists at Scripps Research have identified small molecules that prevent structural changes to proteins causing the disease. These molecules bind to and stabilize immunoglobulin light chain proteins, preventing misfolding and forming toxic plaques.
SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2019
Integral Molecular's MAbs against CB1 to treat NASH enter new development phase following $1.4 million award
The company has isolated rare inhibitory MAbs against CB1 using its MPS Antibody Discovery platform, offering a therapeutic solution for NASH. With over 10 million people affected in the US, this development could bring new hope to those suffering from liver disease and metabolic disorders.
An antibody-mimicking small molecule protects mice against lethal influenza
Researchers have identified a small molecule that mimics broadly neutralizing antibodies and provides protection against lethal doses of influenza. The discovery paves the way for a new class of 'antibody mimetic' drugs that could be used to neutralize various viral infections.
Reprogramming the wonder drug rapamycin allows creation of new small-molecule drugs
Researchers have developed a strategy to create new small-molecule drugs by reprogramming rapamycin. A library of 45,000 altered molecules was screened to identify a new compound, rapadocin, that inhibits cellular nucleoside uptake without toxicity. Rapadocin targets ENT1 protein and shows promise for treating kidney injury.
New skeletal disease found and explained
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a new skeletal disease linked to an abnormal expression of small RNA molecules. The study reveals that the disease causes skeletal dysplasia, joint pain, and delayed cartilage cell maturation in patients, providing potential diagnostic and therapeutic options.
Simple drug combination creates new neurons from neighboring cells
Researchers at Penn State discovered a simple drug cocktail that converts glial cells into functional new neurons, which can survive for over seven months in a lab culture. The approach has promising implications for treating neurological disorders such as stroke and Alzheimer's disease, with the potential to be used in a pill form.
Scripps research chemist Matthew D. Disney shares the Sackler Prize
Matthew D. Disney's laboratory has proven that RNA can be a small-molecule drug target, offering new ways to tackle incurable diseases. His work has already provided lead medicines for genetic diseases and difficult-to-treat cancers.
Cortexyme announces publication of foundational data for groundbreaking approach to treating Alzheimer's disease in Science Advances
Researchers identify Porphyromonas gingivalis as a key driver of Alzheimer's disease pathology and demonstrate potential for small molecule inhibitors to block the pathogen. The discovery paves the way for Cortexyme's lead compound COR388, which shows promising results in preclinical experiments.
Case Western Reserve's John Tilton, MD, secures 4th Falk Catalyst Award
John Tilton will receive funding to develop a nanoPOD platform to deliver therapies to specific tissues in mice affected by genetic disease. The project aims to address the challenge of delivering nanoscale therapeutics to the right location inside the body.
Small molecules come into focus
Scientists at Harvard University and Brigham and Women's Hospital developed a new immunoassay technique that measures extremely low concentrations of small molecules using single-molecule detection. The method was tested on two important human body molecules, cortisol and PGE2, achieving up to 50 times greater sensitivity than conventi...
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 5, 2018
New technique for identifying small molecules may speed up drug discovery, manufacturing
A UCLA-led team has developed a new method to analyze nanocrystals using electron microscopes, enabling quick identification of small molecule structures. This technique accelerates processes for drug development by allowing scientists to screen more samples faster.
From beaker to solved 3D structure in minutes
A joint UCLA/Caltech team has developed a new technique to determine the 3D structures of small molecules, such as hormones and medications, in under 30 minutes. The method uses micro-electron diffraction and relies on the presence of tiny crystals within the samples.
Powerful method probes small-molecule structures
Researchers have developed a faster and simpler technique to analyze the structures of small molecules, reducing the time needed for X-ray crystallography. This new method, microcrystal-electron diffraction (MicroED), allows scientists to study small-molecule structures at high resolution in under 30 minutes.
A molecular sensor for in-situ analysis of complex biological fluids
A KAIST research team developed a molecular sensor that selectively concentrates charged small molecules, amplifying Raman signals and allowing for direct detection without pretreatment. This technology can be used to detect residual drugs or biomarkers in blood or urine, saving time and cost.
Attacking RNA with small-molecule drugs
Researchers at Yale University have made significant breakthroughs in targeting RNA with small-molecule drugs, identifying unique pockets within self-splicing ribozymes found in fungi. This discovery opens up new avenues for treating fungal infections and drug-resistant bacteria.
Halting Parkinson's disease-related neurodegeneration
Researchers identified SynuClean-D as a potential therapeutic for neurodegeneration, which disrupts amyloid fibrils and inhibits alpha-synuclein aggregation. The compound reversed degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in animal models, offering hope for halting Parkinson's disease-related neurodegeneration.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018
Fluorescence-activating beta-barrel protein made from scratch for first time
Researchers at the University of Washington School of Medicine have successfully created a novel, de novo-designed beta-barrel protein that can bind to specific small molecules. The achievement paves the way for custom-designed proteins with precise affinity and functionality.
Miniaturized HTS assay identifies selective modulators of GPR119 to treat type 2 diabetes
Researchers developed a novel HTS assay and miniaturized it to identify small molecule modulators of GPR119, a promising target for treating type 2 diabetes. The study screened over 500,000 compounds and identified 200 modulators, paving the way for new treatments.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAssay and Drug Development Technologies·DateSep 11, 2018
UCLA-led team develops novel system to track brain chemicals
Researchers at UCLA have developed a new method for tracking brain chemicals, including neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. The system uses tiny artificial receptors paired with semiconductor devices that can function in living tissue.
New small molecules pave the way for treating autoinflammatory disease
Scientists have identified two small-molecule compounds that specifically target the STING protein, which plays a key role in triggering an immune response. These compounds effectively blocked STING-mediated cellular activation and demonstrated therapeutic potential in mouse models of autoinflammatory disease.
David vs. Goliath: How a small molecule can defeat asthma attacks
Researchers develop novel small molecule, PM-43I, that specifically targets STAT6 pathway, reversing preexisting allergic airway disease in mice. This breakthrough approach offers unique advantages over monoclonal antibodies, with potential benefits for patients who may not need steroid treatments.
Characterizing 'keyhole' is first step to fighting obesity at cellular level
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have characterized a complex receptor type that activates hunger suppression when activated. The discovery provides a crucial milestone in developing small-molecule therapeutics to treat obesity.
Graphene finds new application as non-toxic, anti-static hair dye
A Northwestern University team has developed a new hair dye using graphene that is non-toxic and non-damaging to hair. The dye works as well as commercial permanent dyes without chemically altering hairs, and it also offers anti-static properties.
Mass production of new class of semiconductors closer to reality
Scientists at the University of Waterloo have created a new class of semiconductors by controlling the orientation and size of single-walled carbon nanotubes. This breakthrough could lead to more powerful devices with improved battery life, as they consume less power.
Life's building blocks observed in spacelike environment
Researchers create simulated space environments where small organic molecules form under radiation, potentially offering an alternative explanation for the origin of life. The study used advanced techniques to analyze icy films containing methane and oxygen, producing a variety of complex organic molecules.
Public resource boosts drug discovery and offers insights into protein function
The new Connectivity Map includes over 1.3 million gene expression profiles from multiple cell lines treated with chemical or genetic perturbations, enabling the study of small molecule and gene function. This expanded resource accelerates drug discovery efforts by predicting how small molecules work and discovering compounds with spec...
Metabolites altered in chronic kidney disease
A new study reveals that chronic kidney disease patients have abnormal metabolites in their cells' energy centers, supporting the view of CKD as a state of mitochondrial dysfunction. Researchers hope to identify novel therapeutic targets for CKD using metabolomics.
More mouths can be fed by boosting number of plant pores
Scientists at ITbM, Nagoya University have synthesized a new bioactive small molecule that increases stomata numbers on flowering plants without stunting their growth. The team's discovery could help elucidate the stomatal development mechanism in plants and increase crop plant productivity.
SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalChemical Communications·DateSep 20, 2017
Complex life evolved out of the chance coupling of small molecules
Researchers at Wits University discover that complex life emerged through the random joining of simple RNA molecules, enabling self-replication and kickstarting life. The process, which occurred billions of years ago, involved the ligation of small molecules to form larger, more complex ones.
Storming the cellular barricades to fight fungi
Researchers have created antibody-recruiting molecules targeting fungi (ARM-Fs) that can attach to fungal cell walls and recruit human antibodies to combat infections. These small molecules offer a new strategy for treating fungal diseases affecting thousands of people each year.
Biochemists link synthetic compound to hunger-hormone production
Researchers have identified a synthetic triterpenoid as a potential disruptor of the hunger-signaling pathway by blocking an enzyme involved in ghrelin production. The study's findings suggest that this compound could be developed into a treatment for conditions like diabetes and obesity.
The world's most powerful X-ray laser beam creates 'molecular black hole'
Scientists used the world's most powerful X-ray laser to create a 'molecular black hole' that pulled in surrounding electrons, stripping away more than 50 electrons from a single atom. The results provide fundamental insights into how to better plan and interpret experiments using intense X-rays.
International scientific teams find potential approach against parasites
Research teams identified two cyclic peptides that can shut down an enzyme long thought to be undruggable for fighting disease-causing parasites and bacteria. The finding could lead to the development of new antimicrobial drugs.
SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2017
New drug strategy: Target ribosome to halt protein production
Researchers have discovered a chemical compound that selectively stalls the ribosome, halting the production of specific proteins while leaving general protein production untouched. This discovery suggests a new approach to finding drugs that target undesired proteins before they are made.
Like elephants, large working proteins have small handlers
Researchers have developed a mathematical foundation to explain the role of small molecules in promoting proper protein folding. This understanding has important implications for developing future therapies based on pharmacological chaperones to treat misfolding diseases.
Fluorescence dyes from the pressure cooker
Scientists at TU Wien create a novel method for synthesizing perylene bisimide dyes without toxic solvents, enabling easy access to these materials. The hydrothermal synthesis is highly efficient and environmentally friendly, overcoming the challenges of working with apolar compounds.
University of Oregon lab creates new class of hydrogen sulfide donor molecules
Scientists have designed a new class of molecular donors that can release therapeutic levels of hydrogen sulfide, a gas with protective effects on cells. This breakthrough could lead to treatments for conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, where oxidative stress causes cellular damage.
Potential drug appears to ease effects of Prader-Willi syndrome
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified a potential treatment for Prader-Willi syndrome using G9a inhibitors. The study suggests that these small molecules can activate the maternal copy of the gene responsible for the disorder, leading to improved growth and lifespan in mice with Prader-Willi syndrome.
TSRI scientists devise new approaches to personalized medicines
Researchers at TSRI have designed precision medicines that target disease-causing RNAs with high selectivity and potency. The study demonstrates the ability to track RNA movement in diseased cells using imaging techniques.
Selecting good 'drug-like' properties to optimize small molecule blood-brain barrier penetration
Researchers review physicochemical properties necessary to penetrate the BBB and conclude a list of properties that can increase the chances of small molecule penetration into the brain. The study emphasizes the importance of retaining the pharmacophore and working it into a structure that emphasizes the presented properties.
University of Utah spin-off awarded grant to develop new antibiotics
Curza Global, a pharmaceutical startup company, has received a Phase I SBIR grant to develop new antibacterials against Gram-negative infections. The two-year project will focus on structure-based drug design and medicinal chemistry to create potent antimicrobials with high selectivity for bacterial ribosomes.
New TSRI method opens door to development of many new medicines
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute developed a powerful new method to find drug candidates that bind to specific proteins. The technique can be applied to thousands of distinct proteins and has successfully identified selective inhibitors for two caspase enzymes, which play key roles in multiple diseases.
Scripps Florida awarded $2.5 million to advance development of RNA-based therapeutics
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have received a grant to design precision drug candidates targeting disease-associated RNAs, aiming to develop patient-specific therapies for neurological diseases and cancer.
First small molecule targeted therapy to mitigate hearing loss in Usher syndrome type 3
A new study reports the first small molecule targeted therapy for progressive hearing loss in a mouse model of USH3, which causes devastating symptoms. The discovery holds promise for real-world translation and could prevent both sensory deficiencies in USH3 patients.