Articles tagged with Small Molecules
A team of scientists from the University of Colorado has created a tiny RNA molecule that can catalyze protein synthesis, a crucial reaction for the building blocks of life. This breakthrough supports the 'RNA World' hypothesis, proposing that life on Earth evolved from early forms of RNA.
Researchers at Emerald BioStructures have developed new allosteric small molecule modulators of phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) with improved safety and efficacy. These discoveries validate the company's structure-based drug design capabilities for addressing previously undruggable targets in inflammatory diseases and cognitive impairments.
James A. Wells, a UCSF professor and director of the small molecule discovery center, has made groundbreaking contributions to protein engineering and discovery. He integrates multiple disciplines to design molecules that selectively activate or inhibit cellular processes.
Researchers at UCLA have successfully reconstituted the enzyme responsible for producing lovastatin, a widely used cholesterol-lowering medication. By understanding how this large enzyme works, they hope to retune its assembly line to produce other natural compounds with similar benefits.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a method to control the assembly of nanoparticles into complex arrays using small molecules, enabling precise spatial distribution over multiple length scales. The technique uses block copolymers as a platform and can be directed by external stimuli such as light or heat.
Researchers at UCSF have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the Schistosoma mansoni blood fluke genome and identifying potential drug targets. The discoveries may lead to new therapies for schistosomiasis, a tropical disease that affects over 200 million people worldwide.
Research presented at the American Society for Cell Biology conference reveals a modular longevity network linking diet and metabolic genes to human cellular aging. Novel anti-aging small molecules have been identified, which can be used as research tools or potential pharmaceutical agents for age-related disorders.
Researchers have identified two small molecule compounds, BIX and BayK, that can replace conventional reprogramming genes, enabling the selective reprogramming of general cells into pluripotent stem cells. This breakthrough technology offers a more precise control over the process and has distinct advantages over genetic manipulation.
Scientists from three universities will establish a new center to develop state-of-the-art chemical libraries, increasing the efficiency of compound synthesis. The center aims to identify new compounds for future drug development and basic biomedical research.
The study provides clues about the function of phosphodiesterase 6 (PDE6) enzyme, essential to vision. PDE6 undergoes a large conformational change after binding with small messenger molecule cGMP, affecting its ability to transmit signals to the brain.
A study led by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has found that acetylated resveratrol can protect cells from radiation damage in mouse models. The researchers hope to develop a small molecule radioprotector that can be easily administered in emergency situations.
Researchers have developed a new class of polymer-based semiconductors that distribute themselves evenly at the top and bottom of the film, enabling large-scale manufacturing. This breakthrough could lead to practical, high-performance electronic devices such as flexible displays and photovoltaic cells.
The NIH has funded a network of nine centers to use high-tech screening methods to identify small molecules as probes to investigate cell functions and develop new therapies. The goal is to increase the pace of development and use of chemical probes, which have become invaluable tools for exploring biologic processes.
The Broad Institute will develop molecular tools to probe human biology and disease using small molecules. The six-year NIH grant supports high-throughput screening of molecular libraries to identify compounds with interesting biological functions.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has awarded Burnham Institute for Medical Research a six-year, $97.9 million grant to establish one of four comprehensive small-molecule screening and discovery centers in the US. The new facility at Lake Nona will enable the center to screen more than 2 million chemical compounds per day.
A long-term study shows that resveratrol improves bone health, reduces cataracts and cardiovascular dysfunction, and enhances balance and motor coordination in middle-aged mice. The study also found that resveratrol induces gene expression patterns similar to those induced by dietary restriction.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered a small molecule that selectively targets and dismantles misfolded protein fibers connected to Alzheimer's disease and prion diseases. This breakthrough has implications for treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill have created silica nanoparticles that store and release nitric oxide to kill bacteria effectively. This approach avoids the issue of controlling NO release with small molecules, which can be toxic to healthy cells.
Researchers developed DNA sensors that can detect odors in the vapor phase with high specificity. The study demonstrated a previously unreported property of single-stranded DNA molecules, showing they can respond to odor pulses in a sequence-selective manner on solid surfaces.
The team created a method for attaching small molecules to surfaces, capturing large biomolecules and identifying specific interactions. The technique is suitable for studying neurotransmission in the living brain and has potential applications in understanding neurological diseases.
Researchers found that Secretoneurin (SN) increases production in brain cells following ischemia, improving survival of primary brain cell cultures. In animal models, SN treatment reduced cerebral tissue death, improved motor performance, and enhanced brain function.
David Spiegel, a Yale chemist, has received a $1.5 million NIH Director's New Innovator Award to develop a 'rational' approach for using antibodies to target various cells and diseases. He aims to design DNP-compounds that recognize pathogens and attract anti-DNP antibodies, destroying diseased cells.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered that microRNA molecules, specifically miR-203, are significantly upregulated in psoriasis and may be involved in regulating keratinocytes. This study suggests that microRNA therapies could become more effective than traditional medicines targeting individual proteins.
Researchers at Temple University's Sbarro Institute have discovered a small molecule derived from the spacer domain of the tumor-suppressor gene Rb2/p130. The molecule, named Spa310, has been shown to inhibit tumor growth and reduce cell cycle activity in mice with cancer.
Researchers identified two small molecules with remarkable efficacy against botulinum neurotoxin A in animal models. The compounds showed surprisingly little activity in cell-based assays, highlighting the importance of animal-based studies. No significant side effects were observed with either molecule.
Scientists create 'chemically programmed antibody' by linking small molecules and antibodies, enhancing therapeutic efficacy against breast cancer metastasis. The approach has potential for treating multiple types of cancers, increasing effectiveness of existing therapies.
Researchers have developed a triple threat polymer that can capture and release fragrance molecules, demonstrating unique properties. The material's complex surface structure allows it to act as a host for guest molecules, enabling controlled release.
Scientists have confirmed experiments that chemical chaperones can partially correct the genetic defect responsible for most cases of Gaucher's disease. This could lead to a cost reduction of at least 100-fold compared to current enzyme replacement therapy.
Researchers have developed a new method called colorimetric screening to detect molecules that can facilitate the formation of a special form of DNA called a triple helix. This method uses gold nanoparticles and DNA to distinguish between strong, medium and weak binders to DNA.
Researchers at Virginia Tech create sub-micron fibers from natural compounds, exhibiting porous nonwoven structure. Potential applications include drug delivery and patches for horses, showcasing the synergy of electrospinning and self-organizing molecules.
Researchers have identified three small molecules that can inhibit the enzyme CDK5, which contributes to the development of Alzheimer's disease. The discovery is promising news for the development of new treatments for the disease.
The NIH is funding a high-throughput screening center network at Scripps Research Institute and Scripps Florida to identify proof-of-concept molecules for studying human health and developing new treatments. The three-year grant aims to accelerate the application of chemical biology to understand physiology and pathophysiology.
The NIH has established a nationwide network of molecular libraries screening centers, enabling academic researchers to explore novel ideas and progress on treating human diseases. The network will utilize the PubChem database to facilitate high-throughput assays and identify potential targets for new therapies.
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.
Researchers developed a new approach to block protein interactions, leading to reduced amyloid aggregation and toxicity in Alzheimer's disease. The 'Trojan horse' technique uses small molecules to target protein chaperones, preventing the formation of toxic aggregates.
Scientists have developed a method to re-engineer nuclear receptors, allowing them to bind to specific small molecules. The technique enables the detection of common drugs, chemical weapons, and other important molecules. By hijacking cellular machinery, researchers can create new sensing mechanisms.
Scientists at Virginia Tech have developed a new class of inhibitors that target the Pin1 enzyme, which regulates cell division in cancer cells. The researchers found that one of the inhibitors was 23 times more effective than a similar compound, offering promise for treating various types of cancer including breast and prostate cancer.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed a technique to produce organic molecules by attaching them to single DNA strands, which can then be used as a sequence-programmable assembly line for chemical synthesis. This method enables the selection and amplification of molecules with desired functional properties.
A new small molecule drug, CX-3543, effectively reduces cMyc mRNA expression in colorectal tumor animal models, inhibiting growth of prostate and pancreatic tumors. Sun exposure is linked to a 53% reduced risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, with higher childhood outdoor time showing the greatest benefit.
Researchers discovered that globular proteins can utilize their barrel structure to transport small molecules like ammonia, improving chemical reactions. This process, known as substrate channeling, allows for efficient delivery of reactants and enhances reaction rates.
Researchers create a hybrid compound combining an antibody with a traditional anticancer drug, effectively steering the hybrid towards cancer cells. The approach shows promise in preclinical studies and could be used to design hybrids against multiple cancers.
Researchers have developed a new way to create molecular sieves with aligned tunnel-like pores, enabling more efficient filtration and potential applications in water purification and optical components. The discovery opens doors to producing uniform fibers and even sheet-like materials with controlled properties.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have developed a new treatment for Gaucher disease by using small molecules to partially correct the genetic defect that underlies most cases of the disease. The therapy targets the most common mutation and could be more convenient and less costly than current enzyme replacement therapy.
The NIGMS initiative supports two Centers of Excellence in Chemical Methodologies and Library Development, focusing on high-throughput technologies to generate customized libraries. Researchers at Boston University and University of Pittsburgh will develop novel methods for synthesizing complex molecules and peptide mimetics.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed a self-assembly technique that mimics natural processes to build designer polymers from modular parts. This method enables the rapid synthesis and modification of complex materials with predictable physical and chemical properties.
Researchers at TSRI develop a method for controlling chemical reactions by encapsulating molecules in nanocapsules, enabling self-regulatory amplification and exponential growth. This discovery offers a new approach to controlling reactivity without the need for autocatalysts.