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Immune system turns on the body in narcolepsy

A new study identifies autoantibodies targeting Trib2 protein in narcolepsy patients with cataplexy, supporting the theory that narcolepsy is an autoimmune disorder. Elevated levels of these antibodies were found in narcolepsy patients, furthering research on the underlying causes of the condition.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 15, 2010

Grooving down the helix

Researchers discovered that proteins locate genetic information in DNA by sliding down the double helix, like traveling along a screw. This finding validates a recent theory and could lead to new ways to alter DNA-binding protein behavior.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateDec 3, 2009

How proteins talk to each other

Scientists at Burnham Institute identified novel cleavage sites for the caspase-3 enzyme, revealing that it targets α-helices as well as unstructured loops. This discovery challenges current dogma and offers new insights into protein signaling pathways.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 21, 2009

Self-regulating molecular 'transformers' control intracellular protein delivery

Scientists at Caltech have discovered self-regulating molecular 'transformers' that control the delivery of proteins to their correct locations within cells. The research could lead to novel treatments for diseases resulting from flaws in protein delivery and the development of new types of antibiotics.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2009

Measuring molecules to improve drug design

CSIRO's DAC microscopy method measures proteins in solution, allowing accurate dimensions of membrane receptors to be taken. This will help drug companies design more effective pharmaceuticals by understanding the complex structures of these molecules.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalJournal of Microscopy·DateFeb 5, 2009

JCI online early table of contents: Jan. 19, 2009

A recent study by Oregon Health and Science University and the University of Colorado School of Medicine found that fetal heath is affected by mother's diet, with high-fat diets increasing the risk of developing NAFLD and obesity-related diseases in offspring. Researchers suggest a healthy maternal diet is crucial for preventing these ...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 19, 2009

JCI online early table of contents: March 6, 2008

New DNA vaccine technology targets DCs for enhanced immune response; studies in mice show improved protection against viruses and potential applications for cystic fibrosis modeling. Genetic manipulation creates large animal models of CF, providing new avenues for disease research.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 6, 2008

The beat goes on with AKAP18

A study published in EMBO reports reveals that AKAP18, a crucial regulator of protein kinase A, may help the heart beat faster in response to adrenaline or noradrenaline. This could lead to improved survival rates for patients with heart failure and heritable heart disease.

SourceEMBO·JournalEMBO Reports·DateSep 27, 2007

Opening the O-box

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have made a breakthrough in understanding gene regulation by opening the O-box, a previously inaccessible region of genes. This discovery has significant implications for the development of new therapies and treatments.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 29, 2005

Heart-stopping antibodies

Autoantibodies disrupt calcium ion fluctuations, leading to toxic build-up and cell death in heart cells. Researchers are searching for the binding target of these antibodies to develop a new way to identify women at risk for congenital heart block.

SourceJournal of Experimental Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 3, 2005

Chemical genetics identifies SARS inhibitors

Chemical genetics was used to identify novel small-molecule inhibitors of severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus. The study revealed four compounds that effectively inhibited the replication of the virus, providing new hope for the treatment of SARS.

SourceCell Press·JournalChemistry & Biology·DateSep 17, 2004

Harnessing DNA-based technology for drug discovery

Researchers have developed a genetic code that enables the evolution of synthetic molecules, revolutionizing drug discovery. By creating a library of nonbiological origin compounds, scientists can identify novel drugs and disrupt cellular processes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 6, 2004

2001 Louisa Gross Horwitz prize awarded to ubiquitin system researchers Avram Hershko and Alexander Varshavsky

The Louisa Gross Horwitz Prize recognizes the groundbreaking work of Dr. Avram Hershko and Dr. Alexander Varshavsky on the ubiquitin system, which regulates protein balance in cells. Their research has far-reaching implications for understanding cellular processes and diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.