Add BrightSurf on Google Email

DGIST’s discovery of proteins that affect brain signaling opens precision treatment possibilities

The DGIST research team has identified a molecular mechanism that coordinates the operation of NMDA glutamate receptors, key to regulating excitatory synapse function in the brain. This discovery provides clues for developing treatments for brain diseases such as autism spectrum disorders.

How targeted nutrients can fight cancer

Researchers discovered a new way to effectively treat melanoma using nutrients to reactivate suppressed metabolic pathways in cancer cells. The innovative treatment, involving tyrosine nanomicelles, showed promising results in mice and lab-derived human cells, inhibiting tumour growth and reducing glycolysis.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

Sensitivity to fairness and the gut microbiome

Taking pro- and prebiotics affects levels of altruistic punishment in ultimatum game players. Participants who took supplements were more likely to reject unfair offers, with those having a high Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio seeing the greatest changes.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMay 14, 2024

IU researchers discover “Humpty-Dumpty” water-based mechanism of human sex reversal at edge of developmental ambiguity

Researchers discovered a molecular 'clamping' mechanism within a male-specific protein-DNA complex that exploits a water molecule to stabilize the complex and enable sex reversal. The study sheds light on Swyer Syndrome, a condition where children with XY chromosomes develop female bodies.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology·DateDec 22, 2022

Making the oxygen we breathe, a photosynthesis mechanism exposed

Researchers at Georgia Tech have elucidated the role of a small metal catalyst and an amino acid in the release of oxygen from water in photosystem II, a complex protein structure found in plants and algae. The discovery sheds light on the intricate chemistry of photosynthesis and has potential applications in improving crop productivi...

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018

Taking aim at tumors

Binghamton University researchers are studying the role of tubulin tyrosine ligase (TTL) in cancer cells, which may lead to more effective treatments. The team has developed a new labeling technique to observe TTL's behavior in live cells, potentially allowing clinicians to personalize cancer therapies.

UF researchers develop improved gene therapy agent

Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a new version of the adeno-associated virus used in gene therapy that works more efficiently than current vectors. By replacing an amino acid on the surface of the virus, they were able to improve its ability to deliver genes into cells and reduce the risk of triggering an immune ...

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 19, 2008