Adrian Brown is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

The identification of carbon dioxide mediated protein post-translational modifications

20 Jul 2018  |  www.nature.com  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The article discusses the identification and analysis of carbon dioxide mediated protein post-translational modifications (PTMs), specifically carbamylation, which can modulate protein functionality. The study outlines the historical context of carbamylation, its physiological significance in hemoglobin and RuBisCO, and the development of a methodology for trapping carbamates under physiologically relevant conditions. The research demonstrates that carbamates can be selectively derivatised and stabilised for analysis, and the method can identify CO2-binding sites in proteins, suggesting that CO2-mediated protein binding at exchangeable sites exists beyond hemoglobin. This has implications for understanding cellular responses to CO2.

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Molecular Biology Biochemistry

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Amit Chaudhary is a print and broadcast journalist based in Melbourne, Australia with more than 16 years of experience in broadcast, digital and print journalism.
Before moving to Australia, he worked with India's largest media organisations Network18 and Star news as broadcast journalist for more ...

High-throughput selection of glucose-binding proteins from massive datasets: Integrating molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations

20 Mar 2024  |  www.biorxiv.org  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The study presents a high-throughput method for selecting glucose-binding proteins from large datasets by integrating molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. The approach aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of identifying potential glucose-binding proteins, which could have significant implications for various biomedical applications.

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Molecular Biology Protein Engineering Bioinformatics

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Wen is a documentary filmmaker and journalist based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. She has over ten years experience working as a producer, director, writer, videographer and editor in various formats: TV broadcast, digital platform and feature documentaries. She has worked on documentaries for Netflix,...

Conformational Dynamics and Ligand Binding of the Human Voltage-Gated Proton Channel

27 Oct 2023  |  www.biorxiv.org  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The study investigates the conformational dynamics and ligand binding mechanisms of the human voltage-gated proton channel. It provides detailed insights into the structural changes and interactions that occur during the channel's operation, contributing to a deeper understanding of its function and potential therapeutic targets.

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Molecular Biology Science Biochemistry

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Freelance VIDEO JOURNALIST & FILMMAKER based in Rome, with personal 4K video equipment, digital editing workstation and wireless audio recording system.

Since 2008 I've been freelancing for international broadcasters and private companies, producing, filming and editing more than 200 ...

Complementary oligonucleotides regulate induced fit ligand binding in duplexed aptamers

01 Jan 2017  |  pubs.rsc.org  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

Duplexed aptamers (DAs) engineered by hybridizing an aptamer-complementary element (ACE) to an aptamer can actively bind a ligand from the duplex state through an ACE-regulated induced fit mechanism. Using an ATP DNA aptamer and a solution-based equilibrium assay, DAs exhibited affinities significantly higher than predicted by conformational selection alone. Different ACEs regulated the level of induced fit binding and cooperative allostery of the DA. A non-equilibrium surface-based assay validated these findings, indicating that ACEs regulate ATP DA ligand binding dynamics, opening new avenues for the study and design of ligand-responsive nucleic acids.

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Molecular Biology Science Biochemistry

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Stephan Dietrich is a freelancing journalist and author based in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Molecular identity of proprioceptor subtypes innervating different muscle groups in mice

15 Nov 2022  |  Nature  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The study identifies and validates molecular signatures for proprioceptor subtypes innervating different muscle groups in mice, revealing that these distinctions emerge during embryonic development. The research highlights the role of ephrin-A/EphA signaling in controlling proprioceptor muscle targeting and suggests that molecular profiles of proprioceptor muscle subtypes are part of developmental programs that arise before receptor identity consolidates. The findings provide a foundation for understanding the mechanisms controlling proprioceptor identity and the physiological roles of proprioceptor subtypes in motor control and body position sense.

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Developmental Biology Molecular Biology Neuroscience

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Salvatore Esposito is a videographer, video editor and photographer based in London, United Kingdom.

Experienced videographer, video editor, and graphic designer with a proven track record in film production. Proficient in color correction and passionate about design. Effective communicator and ...

Allelic Variations in Vernalization (Vrn) Genes in Triticum spp.

17 Feb 2024  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The article reviews the current knowledge of allelic variations in Vrn genes, which play a crucial role in wheat's transition from vegetative to reproductive growth. It examines the functional and structural aspects of Vrn alleles across different ploidy levels and highlights the complexity of their structural forms and nomenclature issues. The review emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues for harmonizing research efforts and enhancing understanding of Vrn gene function and evolution. It also discusses the potential of genomic and transcriptome sequences, bioinformatics, and computational biology in manipulating flowering time to improve wheat productivity.

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Molecular Biology Genetics Plant Breeding Agricultural Science

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I have 15 years of experience at a daily newspaper in the Chicagoland market. I've written and reported thousands of articles. I've also made numerous television and radio guest appearances.

Structure–function analysis of the SHOC2–MRAS–PP1C holophosphatase complex

13 Jul 2022  |  Nature  |  English  |  Structural Biology

The article provides an in-depth structural and functional analysis of the SHOC2–MRAS–PP1C holophosphatase complex using cryo-EM, molecular dynamics simulations, and various biochemical assays. It details the interactions between SHOC2, MRAS, and PP1C, highlighting the importance of specific residues and their mutations on the stability and function of the complex. The study also explores the druggability of the complex and proposes a model for its assembly and function in cellular signaling pathways.

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Molecular Dynamics Structural Biology Protein Complexes

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xiaoyan Gao is a journalist based in Rowland Heights, United States of America. Postdoctorate in Law, Postdoctorate in Sociology, author of more than 80 papers and research reports and journalism works

Identification and Pharmacological Characterization of Two Serotonin Type 7 Receptor Isoforms from Mythimna separata

15 Jan 2023  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The article discusses the cloning of the 5-HT7 receptor gene from Mythimna separata, a significant pest in China, and the discovery of two distinct transcripts produced by alternative splicing. This is the first report of alternative splicing in insects leading to multiple 5-HT7 isoforms. The study explores the pharmacological characteristics and expression profiles of these isoforms in various tissues of the insect's larvae and adults. The findings suggest that the 5-HT7 receptor plays a role in insect behavior and physiological functions, and could be a target for novel pesticides. The article also compares the cloned receptors with those from other insects and vertebrates, noting the conservation of certain sequence motifs essential for ligand binding and signal transduction. The research provides a foundation for understanding serotonin's role in insects and for developing pest control methods.

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Molecular Biology Genetics Entomology Pharmacology

Aldrin Gomes
is a Toronto-based multimedia journalist. He started his media journey with Seneca College in 2019.
From covering weekly news to producing several ENGs & podcasts during his time at Seneca, his eagerness to become a journalist grew. He worked with Seneca Journalism, The Buttonwood ...

Western blotting (immunoblotting): history, theory, uses, protocol and problems

27 Apr 2024  |  BioTechniques  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

Western blotting, also known as immunoblotting, is a widely used technique in molecular biology and proteomics for detecting and semiquantifying target proteins. Despite criticisms regarding reliability due to poorly characterized antibodies, validated antibodies and appropriate experimental procedures can yield successful applications. The history of western blotting dates back to 1979, with significant contributions from various researchers. Recent advances include capillary electrophoresis and single-cell western blots. Western blotting remains popular due to its lower costs and complexity compared to other techniques like mass spectrometry. The article provides an in-depth discussion of the western blotting process, including sample preparation, gel electrophoresis, protein transfer, membrane blocking, antibody incubation, and signal detection. It also addresses common problems and troubleshooting tips, emphasizing the importance of antibody validation and the shift towards total protein normalization over housekeeping proteins.

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Molecular Biology Western Blotting Immunoblotting Proteomics Scientific Techniques

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Shalini Gupta is a journalist based in Pondicherry, India. She has written features and news stories on education, life sciences, biotechnology and health for magazines and newspapers. She is open to assignments that explore the intersection between health, life sciences, business and their socio ...

Autoinhibition of dimeric NINJ1 prevents plasma membrane rupture

30 Oct 2024  |  Nature  |  English  |  Cell Biology

Lytic cell death, which results in plasma membrane rupture (PMR), is mediated by the effector membrane protein NINJ1. The study reveals that NINJ1 is autoinhibited in its inactive state by forming a face-to-face homodimer, preventing PMR and ensuring cell survival. Using cryogenic electron microscopy, researchers identified the structure of inactive NINJ1 bound to a nanobody, Nb538. The inactive dimer sequesters the PMR-inducing hydrophilic face and occludes the binding site for activated NINJ1 molecules. Mutagenesis studies indicate that destabilizing these dimers leads to cell death, while stabilizing them inhibits NINJ1 activity. The findings highlight the role of dimeric NINJ1 in preventing unprovoked PMR and cell death.

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Molecular Biology Cell Biology

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Lu Han is a journalist based in Doha, Qatar.

A Novel Rabbit Anti-Myoglobin Monoclonal Antibody’s Potential Application in Rhabdomyolysis Associated Acute Kidney Injury

25 Apr 2023  |  www.mdpi.com  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The study presents the development of a novel recombinant rabbit anti-myoglobin monoclonal antibody and its potential application in diagnosing and treating rhabdomyolysis-associated acute kidney injury (RM-AKI). The antibody demonstrated high affinity, broad species reactivity, and good tissue specificity. It was effective in detecting myoglobin deposition in kidney tissues in a mouse model of RM-AKI, suggesting its usefulness in medical diagnostics and possibly as a treatment for RM-related diseases.

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Molecular Biology Medical Research Antibody Development Rhabdomyolysis Acute Kidney Injury

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Professional Experience:  

Working  in Sai Media and Advertising Services 
&  Associated with International Media for  providing News & Contents.  - Working since Jan.2016 to till this date in Jharkhand.
Associated with short film making,research 
Worked with  [ Freelancer ]  LionBridge  ...

Caldesmon controls stress fiber force-balance through dynamic cross-linking of myosin II and actin-tropomyosin filaments

20 Oct 2022  |  Nature  |  English  |  Cell Biology

Caldesmon is identified as a dynamic component of contractile stress fibers in non-muscle cells, localizing to myosin II-containing fibers and displaying rapid dynamics. The study reveals that Caldesmon is an extended molecule that cross-links myosin II filaments to tropomyosin-actin filaments. Caldesmon knockout cells exhibit defects in cell morphology, migration, and stress fiber organization, but not in stress fiber assembly or maintenance. Contrary to previous beliefs, Caldesmon does not act as a negative regulator of stress fiber contractility. Instead, it maintains the regular distribution of myosin II along stress fibers, preventing abnormal lateral sliding of myosin filaments.

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Molecular Biology Cell Biology Biochemistry

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I am a journalist based in Vancouver, Canada. I write, shoot, edit and script.
Currently at the CBC (Canada). Formerly at The AP, The Globe and Mail, Globo TV (Brazil).
Work has appeared on The New York Times, Yahoo, USA Today, Al Jazeera etc.
Won a Canadian journalism award for work on the ...

Molecular Biology of Pediatric and Adult Ovarian Germ Cell Tumors: A Review

30 May 2023  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The review discusses the molecular biology of pediatric and adult ovarian germ cell tumors (OGCTs), including the etiopathogenesis, molecular landscape, and implications for treatment resistance. It highlights the rarity and complexity of OGCTs, the need for further research, and the importance of international collaborations and clinical trials. The review also covers the genetic, cytogenetic, and epigenetic alterations in OGCTs, the development of in vitro and in vivo models, and the molecular mechanisms associated with chemoresistance.

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Molecular Biology Ovarian Germ Cell Tumors Pediatric Cancer Adult Cancer Chemoresistance DNA Methylation MicroRNAs Cancer Research

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Ioana Moldovan is a freelance photojournalist, documentary photographer, writer and published author based in Bucharest, Romania.

Her work has been published by The New York Times, BBC, Der Spiegel, GEO Magazin, Libération, de Volkskrant, Society Magazine, NPR, ESPN, Al Jazeera English, Huffington ...

Dynamics of Bioactive Compounds under the Influence of Yellow, Blue, and Violet Light Filters on Hippophae rhamnoides L. (Sea Buckthorn) Fruits

06 Dec 2023  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The study investigates the impact of yellow, blue, and violet light filters on the accumulation of phenolic compounds and vitamin C in sea buckthorn fruits. Using HPLC-DAD-ESI+ and EPR spectroscopy, the research found that the violet filter was most effective in enhancing the content of these bioactive compounds. The findings suggest that light color intensities and canopy levels significantly influence the antioxidant activity and vitamin C content, providing insights for improving future production strategies in sea buckthorn cultivation.

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Molecular Biology Plant Physiology Biochemistry

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Ronan Murphy is an Irish football journalist, focusing on the Bundesliga, European and international soccer. He is a regular Bundesliga and Champions League pundit on the Sony Sports Network and is Head of Social for the Realtimes Network, running social media for sites such as FootballTransfers, ...

Molecular mechanism of VE-cadherin in regulating endothelial cell behaviour during angiogenesis

27 Apr 2024  |  Frontiers  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The article reviews the molecular mechanisms by which VE-cadherin, a protein crucial for endothelial cell-cell adhesion, regulates endothelial cell behavior during angiogenesis. It discusses the role of VE-cadherin in various processes such as EC survival, proliferation, migration, vascular lumen formation, and vascular disease. The review highlights the importance of understanding the structural underpinnings of VE-cadherin-mediated cell adhesion to develop treatments that control angiogenesis and vascular permeability. It also points out the need for further research to fully elucidate the specific functions and mechanisms of VE-cadherin in endothelial cell behavior and vascular remodeling.

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Cell Biology Molecular Biology Angiogenesis

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A journalist focused on exclusive interviews and documentaries.

Esra Öztürk is a seasoned journalist renowned for her expertise in international relations and current affairs, with a particular emphasis on the Turkish foreign policy from regional affairs to defense industry. She holds a degree ...

Phylogeographic and Morphological Analysis of Botrylloides niger Herdman, 1886 from the Northeastern Mediterranean Sea

03 Mar 2023  |  www.mdpi.com  |  English  |  Marine Biology

The study investigates the phylogeographic and morphological characteristics of the invasive marine species Botrylloides niger in the Northeastern Mediterranean Sea. Researchers collected 238 samples from eight locations, identifying 14 morphotypes and four mitochondrial DNA haplotypes. The study used DNA barcoding with mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase I and additional markers to confirm species identification. Seasonal monitoring revealed the absence of colonies in winter and spring, with new colonies established in summer. The findings contribute to understanding the diversity and spread of this invasive species within the Mediterranean and globally.

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Molecular Analysis Marine Biology Phylogeography Invasive Species Biodiversity

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Lei Qin writes investigative reports. She covers finance, economy and tech with a base in California, United States of America.

Genome-Wide Identification of GYF-Domain Encoding Genes in Three Brassica Species and Their Expression Responding to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in Brassica napus

15 Jan 2023  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The study identifies and analyzes GYF-domain encoding genes in Brassica napus and its parental species, Brassica rapa and Brassica oleracea. A total of 61 GYF genes were identified, and their gene structure, motif, cis-acting elements, duplication, chromosome localization, and phylogenetic relationships were examined. The study also investigates the expression patterns of these genes in response to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum infection, identifying several genes that are significantly upregulated or downregulated. The findings provide insights into the evolutionary characteristics of GYF genes and their potential roles in plant-pathogen interactions and disease resistance in Brassica species.

Tags:

Molecular Biology Genetics Plant Pathology

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Alison Roberts is a journalist based in Lisbon, Portugal. Currently freelance correspondent for BBC News, she also contributes to National Public Radio (US), CBC (Canada) and other English-language services, as well as Portugal's national news agency Lusa. Edited Time Out Guides since 1999 and ...

Muhammad

The plant-like protein phosphatase PPKL regulates parasite replication and morphology in Toxoplasma gondii

18 Mar 2024  |  BioMed Central  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The study investigates the role of the protein phosphatase PPKL in the replication and morphology of the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Using gene editing and protein depletion techniques, researchers found that PPKL is essential for parasite growth both in vitro and in vivo. Depletion of PPKL resulted in enlarged parasite bodies, defects in parasite budding, and elongated cytoskeleton fibers. The study also explored the effect of PPKL on parasite motility and egress, identifying a strong defect in these processes upon PPKL depletion. Proximity proteomics of PPKL identified potential interacting proteins, suggesting a link between PPKL and diverse metabolic processes. The findings were robust across different T. gondii strains and have implications for understanding the molecular mechanisms of parasite replication and morphology.

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Cell Biology Molecular Biology Parasitology

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Luís Silva is a photographer/jornalist based in Faro, Portugal.

An intrinsic purine metabolite AICAR blocks lung tumour growth by targeting oncoprotein mucin 1

01 Oct 2023  |  Nature  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The study investigates the effects of the purine metabolite AICAR on lung cancer, demonstrating its ability to block tumour growth by targeting the oncoprotein mucin 1 (MUC1). AICAR induces cytotoxicity and apoptosis in EGFR-mutant lung cancer cells, reduces MUC1-CT expression, and disrupts the JAK1-MUC1 interaction. The research highlights the potential of AICAR in combination with JAK inhibitors (VX-509) and EGFR inhibitors (osimertinib) to enhance treatment efficacy. The findings suggest that AICAR could be a promising therapeutic agent for lung cancer, particularly in cases with EGFR mutations.

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Molecular Biology Cancer Research Lung Cancer

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Phuong Tran is a journalist.

The Distinctive Permutated Domain Structure of Periplasmic α-Amylase (MalS) from Glycoside Hydrolase Family 13 Subfamily 19

09 May 2023  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The study presents the crystal structure of periplasmic α-amylase MalS from E. coli, revealing unique structural features such as circularly permutated domains and a possible CBM69. The enzyme's domain architecture shows a complete circular permutation of C-A-B-A-C in domain order. MalS has a substrate binding pocket suitable for six glucose units and two Ca2+ binding sites contributing to thermostability. The study also found that MalS exhibits a high binding affinity for polysaccharides like glycogen and amylopectin. The N domain, predicted to be CBM69 by AlphaFold2, might have a binding site for polysaccharides. This structural analysis provides new insights into the structure-evolution relationship in GH13 subfamily 19 enzymes and the molecular basis for understanding the catalytic function and substrate binding of MalS.

Tags:

Molecular Biology Biochemistry Enzyme Structure

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Dr. WU, Qiang is an independent researcher of Chinese politics based in Beijing, China, 
conducting strategic analysis and consultancy about China's late authoritarianism & geopolitical risks

Silencing of the MP Gene via dsRNA Affects Root Development and Growth in the Invasive Weed Mikania micrantha

26 Nov 2024  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

The study explores the use of RNA interference (RNAi) to target the MONOPTEROS (MP) gene in the invasive weed Mikania micrantha, aiming to inhibit its root development and growth. The research identifies the MP gene in M. micrantha and demonstrates that silencing this gene via dsRNA leads to significant reductions in root growth and plant biomass. The findings suggest that RNAi-based herbicides could offer a species-specific and environmentally friendly method for controlling this invasive species, without affecting non-target plants like rice and tomato. The study highlights the potential of RNAi technology in developing new biocontrol strategies for invasive weeds.

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Molecular Biology Invasive Species Agricultural Biotechnology

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YAO YU is a journalist based in New York, United States of America.

Rewired m6A epitranscriptomic networks link mutant p53 to neoplastic transformation

15 Mar 2023  |  Nature  |  English  |  Molecular Biology

A study investigates how mutant p53 triggers glioma initiation, focusing on the role of m6A mRNA modifications in glioblastoma stem cells and astrocytoma. The research identifies that mutant p53 regulates m6A machinery in astrocytes, contributing to decreased global m6A mRNA levels. YTHDF2, an m6A reader, is found to be upregulated in astrocytes with mutant p53, influencing mRNA degradation. The study further explores the oncogenic role of YTHDF2 in glioma development and its association with poor clinical outcomes in glioma patients. Additionally, the research uncovers that mutant p53 transcriptionally regulates YTHDF2 expression, with SVIL and MLL1 playing roles in this regulation. The findings suggest that mutant p53-induced YTHDF2 expression is a general phenomenon among astrocytes and astrocyte-derived malignancies, and that YTHDF2-mediated mRNA degradation contributes to mutant p53-associated malignancy.

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Molecular Biology Cancer Research Genetics

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Stephanie Zhang is a journalist based in Melbourne, Australia.

View Stephanie's previous work on their website: ****

RanGTP induces an effector gradient of XCTK2 and importin α/β for spindle microtubule cross-linking

08 Jun 2019  |  www.biorxiv.org  |  English  |  Cell Biology

High RanGTP around chromatin is crucial for spindle assembly during meiosis and mitosis by counteracting the inhibitory effects of importin α/β. The study investigates how the Ran gradient regulates Kinesin-14 function to control spindle organization, revealing that Xenopus Kinesin-14, XCTK2, and importin α/β form an effector gradient highest at the poles and inverse to the RanGTP gradient. Importin α/β inhibit XCTK2's microtubule cross-linking and sliding by reducing the microtubule affinity of the XCTK2 tail domain, allowing RanGTP to target XCTK2 to the spindle. This mechanism is essential for promoting Kinesin-14 parallel microtubule cross-linking at spindle poles to cluster centrosomes in cancer cells, demonstrating that RanGTP regulation in the spindle generates effector gradients that finely tune spindle assembly factors' activities.

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Molecular Biology Cell Biology

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