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Functioning of antibodies in autoimmune encephalitis deciphered

New study reveals how GABA A receptor antibodies inhibit neurotransmitter binding, leading to hyperexcitability and symptoms like twitching and seizures. The findings pave the way for developing effective therapies and further investigations into other diseases.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2022

New dimensions of cryo-electron microscopy uncover ‘multiverse’ of cancer targets for enabling drug discovery

A research team led by Professor Youdong Mao has developed a new method using time-resolved cryo-electron microscopy and machine learning-based 4D reconstruction to visualize the USP14-proteasome system in atomic detail. This reveals a 'multiverse' of parallel reality pathways, allowing for targeted inhibition of cancer cells.

SourcePeking University-College of Engineering·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2022

"Growing end" of inflammation discovered

Researchers find NLRP3 protein forms filament that grows in one direction, allowing for targeted treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. The discovery could potentially stop inflammation at the 'growing end', bringing relief to those suffering from conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Structure of key protein for cell division puzzles researchers

Researchers from Max Planck Institute have determined the 3D structural details of the human CCAN complex, highlighting its unique features and implications for interactions with centromere protein A. This discovery raises fundamental questions about creating artificial chromosomes.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2022

Nanotechnology enables visualization of RNA structures at near-atomic resolution

Researchers have developed a new approach to studying RNA molecules using nanotechnology and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), enabling the analysis of RNA subunits with unprecedented resolution. This breakthrough has significant implications for fundamental research, drug development, and RNA therapeutics.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 2, 2022

New technology solves mystery of respiration in Tetrahymena

Researchers used new techniques to uncover the Tetrahymena electron transport chain, revealing gaps in our knowledge of a major branch of life. The study highlights the power of structural biology and shows potential as a discovery tool for biodiversity research.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

A scaffold with a twist: Cryo-EM reveals the building blocks of poxvirus

The study reveals the structure of D13 and its role in assembling into a protein scaffold, which is critical for virus replication. The researchers discovered two ways the proteins interact to form a spherical honeycomb lattice, with a small helix structure playing a key role in assembly.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

Molecular ‘blueprint’ illuminates how plants perceive light

Researchers at Van Andel Institute have discovered a new, detailed molecular structure of PhyB, a vital photoreceptor in plants, which allows them to sense light and regulate their lifecycles. The findings may lead to breakthroughs in agricultural and bioengineering practices.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2022

Cryo-EM reveals how ‘911’ molecule helps fix damaged DNA

Scientists at Van Andel Institute and Rockefeller University have revealed the structure of the 911 DNA checkpoint clamp, which loads onto DNA to repair damage. The novel finding shows that the 911 clamp is loaded onto DNA from the opposite end, a surprise in the field of DNA replication.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2022

Promising antibody cocktail takes on Ebola virus—and its deadly cousin

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have developed two human antibodies that target Ebola virus and Sudan virus, showing promise for a powerful antiviral therapy. The antibodies, 1C3 and 1C11, can block three glycoprotein sites on the virus at once and target the fusion machinery used by the viruses to infect host cells.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

How bacteria cope with stress

Researchers discovered that bacteria suppress membrane protein transport in response to stress, using alarm hormones to regulate the process. This allows the microorganisms to slow down their cellular processes and recover when conditions become more favorable.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2022

Blueprint for proteins: How mRNA gets its final shape

A team of scientists from Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg and the Max Planck Institute discovered the essential final step in mRNA production. The process involves 16 proteins that precisely control the structure of mRNA, which determines protein function and disease risk.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalGenes & Development·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Nebulin no longer nebulous! Scientists obtain first high-resolution 3D image of muscle protein

Researchers from the Max Planck Institute have obtained the first high-resolution 3D image of the muscle protein nebulin using electron cryo-tomography. The structure reveals that each nebulin repeat binds with an actin subunit, acting as a ruler to dictate filament length and interacting with neighboring actin subunits to stabilize it.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2022
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Scientists show how artificial intelligence can help to study protein complexes

Researchers have developed an AI-based method to analyze cryo-electron microscopy data, enabling the simultaneous examination of multiple protein complexes in cells. This breakthrough can lead to a better understanding of protein functions and potentially create new treatments for diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalStructure·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2022

Molecular cage gives cryo-EM researchers new insights into a cancer protein

Scientists at Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have created a molecular cage to study the structure of KIX, a protein used by AML cancer cells. The technique has successfully imaged KIX with cryo-EM, revealing new insights into its function and potential targets for therapy.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalACS Central Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2022

Bacteria’s hidden weapon: Toxins locked inside a capsule secured by a cork

Researchers have gained a deeper understanding of how bacteria use the type VI secretion system to develop toxins for battle. The discovery reveals that toxins are encapsulated in a capsule secured by a cork-like plug, which can be released upon mechanical force.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

Exeter biologists investigate smallest propeller on earth

Researchers have discovered a new type of tiny propeller used by archaea, with implications for human health and technology. The study found that the filament is made up of thousands of copies of two alternating proteins, enabling it to move and propel the cell at high speeds.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 7, 2022
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

First 3D structure of regulator protein revealed

Scientists at the University of Münster and Max Planck Institute have clarified the molecular basis for cellular degradation processes by elucidating the 3D structure of Mon1/Ccz1. The complex determines which vesicles deliver their content to the lysosome, a key step in protein regulation.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Parkinson’s protein blueprint could help fast-track new treatments

Researchers have solved a decade-long mystery about the PINK1 protein, which plays a critical role in early onset Parkinson's disease. The discovery provides an unprecedented view of the protein and its activation process, paving the way for developing therapeutic agents that could slow or stop the progression of Parkinson's disease.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2021

Researchers examine neurotoxin from a black widow

Scientists have uncovered the structure of a Black Widow neurotoxin using cryo-electron microscopy, which could lead to the development of an antidote and new pesticides. The findings are a major breakthrough in understanding the molecular mechanism of the toxin.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2021

Spanish scientists determine the mode of action of essential proteins involved in cancer and Alzheimer´s disease

Researchers have discovered that specific regions of HAT family proteins determine which amino acids they bind to, leading to unique functions in cell growth and diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. This knowledge will enable efforts to develop compounds targeting these proteins for therapy.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 29, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Advanced microscopes help scientists understand how cells break down proteins

Researchers from the University of Chicago used cryo-electron microscopy to study protein degradation in yeast, describing the structure of a key enzyme involved in ubiquitination. The study provides new insights into the process and its potential role in human diseases such as aging and neurodegeneration.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 17, 2021

Ordered from afar: How germs’ toxins become dangerous

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute have uncovered how ExoY toxin becomes activated in human cells by binding to actin filaments, leading to devastating enzymatic activity. This discovery sheds light on a crucial molecular mechanism that underlies the pathogenicity of various toxins.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Improvements in microscopy home in on biology’s elusive details

Researchers at Arizona State University have refined cryogenic electron microscopy to produce more accurate structures of biological samples. The new method uses a statistical approach to model transitory structures, which can play a vital role in biological processes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalMatter·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2021

From Alpha to Epsilon: Consortium study illuminates surfaces of Spike most resistant to antibody escape

A global collaboration has identified three groups of antibodies resistant to mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, which could target vulnerable sites on the protein. The study provides a framework for selecting durable antibody cocktails for COVID-19 treatment and will guide the development of more effective antibody therapies.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

New technique boosts cryo-electron microscopy clarity, safety

Researchers have developed a new method for preparing cryo-electron microscopy samples using liquid nitrogen, which cools at rates roughly 50 times slower than ethane. This results in sharper images with reduced beam-induced motion and simplified workflows.

SourceCornell University·JournalIUCrJ·DateSep 21, 2021

‘Bacterial arch-enemy’ paves the way for new gene editing

Researchers have mapped the structure of CRISPR-Cas12j3 from bacteriophages, a discovery that reveals how it works and solves packaging problems for genome editing. The new system has vast potential for precise genome editing with improved efficiencies and alternative targeting mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

New Data sheds light on genesis of our body's powerhouses

Researchers reveal the molecular mechanism of membrane-tethered protein synthesis in human mitochondria, shedding light on its dynamic structure and function. The discovery could explain how mitochondrial disorders such as deafness and cancer develop.

SourceDiamond Light Source·JournalScience·DateFeb 18, 2021

Minimizing the movement problem in single-particle cryo-EM

Researchers developed a novel grid to minimize sample movement in single-particle cryo-EM, resulting in higher image quality and increased data throughput. The new support film, dubbed 'hexAuFoil,' reduces particle displacement and enables the collection of clearer protein structures.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 8, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

New study shines light on mysterious giant viruses

A team of Michigan State University scientists developed a reliable model to study giant viruses, identifying key proteins that orchestrate infection and release their genome. The study revealed three environmental conditions that induce stargate opening, allowing researchers to mimic stages of infection with high frequency.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCell·DateMay 8, 2020
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Sophisticated molecular machines in action

Frankfurt researchers successfully decrypted all stages of the transport mechanism of ABC transporters, a crucial protein complex responsible for resistance to antibiotics and chemotherapy. The team used cryo-electron microscopy to obtain high-resolution images of the transporter in motion.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature·DateJul 22, 2019

OHSU one of three centers selected to study cells at atomic level

The new Pacific Northwest Center for Cryo-EM will provide state-of-the-art technology and training to researchers nationwide. The facility will enable scientists to see molecules in breathtaking detail, with resolution near atomic levels, revolutionizing the understanding of disease at the molecular level.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateMay 15, 2018

'Scaffolding' method allows biochemists to see proteins in remarkable detail

UCLA biochemists have developed a new technique called cryo-electron microscopy that allows them to view large biomolecules like viruses in extraordinary detail. Using this method, they have successfully imaged the smallest protein ever seen by this technique, paving the way for better understanding of disease-causing proteins.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 12, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

The nanoscopic structure that locks up our genes

New research reveals heterochromatin is less dense than previously thought and features a velcro-like protein called HP1 that allows genes to be locked down. The study's findings have implications for understanding higher-order structures like nucleosome strings.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 11, 2018
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Scientist pioneers technology new to MSU, maps giant virus

A team of MSU scientists mapped a giant Samba virus using DIY cryo-electron microscopy technology, revealing its structure and biological mechanisms. The breakthrough could lead to new treatments for diseases caused by similar viruses.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalViruses·DateMar 28, 2017

Next-gen steel under the microscope

Researchers localized and visualized hydrogen in steels and alloys at atomic resolution, overcoming a major engineering challenge. This discovery enables the development of new alloys with greater endurance.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScience·DateMar 16, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Human aichi virus atomic structure identified by IBP and STRUBI scientists

The discovery of the human aichi virus atomic structure is crucial for understanding its entry into host cells and evolution. The research reveals unique structural features, including a polyproline helix that acts as a recognition motif for binding to the enteric receptor.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Microbiology·DateSep 6, 2016

Cracking the Zika mystery

A recent study by Duke-NUS Medical School scientists has revealed the Zika virus structure and identified potential sites to target with therapeutics. The findings suggest that destabilizing the virus's structure may help reduce disease severity or limit transmission.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalNature·DateApr 19, 2016

High-performance microscope displays pores in the cell nucleus with greater precision

Researchers have developed a new method to display the spatial structure of nuclear pores in high resolution. This has led to a better understanding of how certain molecules are transported into or out of the nucleus. The discovery sheds light on various diseases, including cancer, that involve defective transport through nuclear pores.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 26, 2015
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Under the electron microscope -- a 3-D image of an individual protein

Scientists have developed a new technique that allows them to create detailed 3D images of individual proteins using cryo-electron microscopy. This breakthrough enables researchers to study the flexibility and movement of proteins, which is crucial for understanding their function and developing new drugs.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 24, 2012

UCLA researchers use new microscope to 'see' atoms for first time

Researchers at UCLA have imaged a virus structure at an atomic resolution of 3.3 angstroms using cryo-electron microscopy, allowing them to study the virus's functionality in its native environment. This breakthrough demonstrates the potential of Cryo-EM for producing high-resolution images of biological samples.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCell·DateMay 3, 2010

UT Southwestern gets new cryo-electron microscope

The new cryo-electron microscope allows for unprecedented high-resolution imaging of individual molecules and cellular structures, enabling scientists to study complex diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and Alzheimer's disease

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·DateAug 27, 2003
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

UT Southwestern to get powerful electron microscope

UT Southwestern Medical Center has acquired a custom-crafted cryo-electron microscope to propel its cell-research capabilities. The new technology enables the analysis of sub-cell structures at sites in the cell where processes take place, providing valuable insights into cellular biology and disease mechanisms.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·DateSep 12, 2001