Biology Biochemistry

New light-powered DNA detection enables more accessible, affordable genetic analysis

Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University, demonstrates a novel approach for nanoscopic profiling of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) using high-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM) videography. This pioneering method provides an unprecedented level of detail in characterizing sEV subpopulations, offering new insights into their biological roles and potential applications in disease diagnostics.

Researchers at Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University and colleagues have achieved a major breakthrough in understanding sperm DNA packaging. Using high-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM), they captured the real-time process of protamine (PRM)-induced DNA condensation, providing critical insights into fertility, genome stability, and future applications in medicine. Their findings are published in "Nucleic Acids Research".

New research in model mice suggests low-dose opioids may help improve social interactions in people with autism spectrum disorder.

Researchers at National Taiwan University discovered how light stabilizes a key stress-response protein, offering insights into improving crop resilience to harsh environments.

Constructed strain achieves record-high yield from methanol, advancing eco-friendly biomanufacturing

What’s Your Body Really Worth? New AI Model Reveals Your True Biological Age from 5 Drops of Blood

Filipino researchers found that traditional "tapuy" rice wine making yields a potential superfood rich in anti-aging compounds and antioxidants.

Cryo-electron microscopy reveals molecular structure of twin motors that power mycoplasma’s ability to glide

Advancement in veterinary regenerative medicine can help domestic and endangered wild cats alike

Replacing chemical phosphorus and nitrogen with sustainable sources

Japanese collaborators detected all five nucleobases — building blocks of DNA and RNA — in samples returned from asteroid Bennu by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission.

A newly designed model system simulates how viruses exit cells, offering potential advancements in targeted drug delivery and biotechnology.

Zebrafish arrestins take turns inactivating key protein depending on intensity of light

Cell wall proteins exhibit emulsifying action, offer possible alternative to emulsifiers derived from milk, other known allergens

Scientists unearth a clue to the molecular mechanisms involved in N2O reduction by deep-sea hydrothermal vent bacteria.

Controlling memories in mice means forgetting a light zap, but in humans it could mean letting go of deeply traumatic events.

Combination enhances microorganisms’ growth environment, uptake of ammonium and phosphate ions

Scientists develop new approach to analyze 3D structure of lab-made photosynthetic antenna

How multiple DNA binding proteins compete for the DNA substrate leads to different biochemical outcomes. Using single-molecule experiments, this work demonstrates that the regulatory protein Mei5-Sae3 complex stabilizes Dmc1 recombinases on RPA-coated DNA, leading to efficient RPA displacement and Dmc1 assembly, which in turn stimulates recombination progression.

Light-induced immunoassay coated with novel coronavirus spike proteins found highly sensitive even with weak light like a laser pointer

A better understanding of how cells regulate their membranes could lead to new treatments for diseases such as epilepsy and anemia.

Mutant microalgae produce wax esters for biofuel feedstock with improved cold flow

Zika virus vaccine targets brain cancer, 120-year quest to farm lobsters, Arctic nightlife bursts with sound, Eating a robot, Molecular orientation is key & New treatment for ALS and dementia. Read all in the latest Editor's Choice.

Researchers have identified 14 genes that thale cress express more when responding to five specific stressors, as well as eight genes that the plant suppresses.

The lipids in some herbal teas have been identified in detail for the first time, preparing the ground for investigating their contribution to the health benefits of the teas.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) are neurodegenerative diseases that commonly occur in middle-aged people. FTD is second only to Alzheimer's disease in terms of dementia prevalence. Both ALS and FTD arise from neuronal degeneration through mechanisms that remain unclear. Dr. Yun-Ru (Ruby) Chen's team in the Genomics Research Center (GRC), Academia Sinica recently discovered a new pathological mechanism for neuronal degeneration using synthetic peptides. They also discovered that a disaccharide can increase neuronal survival and reduce degeneration. The result provides therapeutic strategies for future treatment of these neurodegenerative diseases. The study was published in the top international journal "Science Advances" on February 23, 2024.

A novel method for studying genes in testicular cells of living animals could lead to breakthroughs in male contraception and fertility treatments.

A new user-friendly tool helps researchers explore how gene activity is influenced by chemical modifications, providing insights into disease and paths to new treatments.

Applied Microbiology International has announced it will be launching a new series of educational online content called The Microbiologist Masterclass.