Three-dimensional structure of the genome replication machine discovered
Researchers have discovered how the enzyme DNA polymerase delta works to duplicate the genome that cells hand down from one generation to the next.
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Breakthrough in sex-chromosome regulation
Researchers have uncovered a chromosome-wide mechanism that keeps the gene expression of sex chromosomes in balance in our cells. The findings shed light on molecular reasons for early miscarriage and could be important for the emerging field of regenerative medicine.
Read moreSupercomputing, neutrons unite to unravel structures of intrinsically disordered protein
Scientists have created the most accurate 3D model yet of an intrinsically disordered protein, revealing the ensemble of its atomic-level structures.
Read moreNew mechanism controlling DNA repair identified
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), is the macromolecule that holds all hereditary and genetic information. Continuously under assault, alterations and damage to DNA can lead to many different health issues, including cancer. DNA is highly regulated within cells, where multiple mechanisms are at play to repair and protect its integrity. Scientists are still investigating these mechanisms to fully comprehend how these DNA repair processes are managed. Researchers recently identified a new mechanism that controls DNA repair.
Read moreStep forward in falling research
New research shows there is more at play than just a sinking feeling when you stumble during movement or trip in a hole in the ground.
Read moreAristocratic family trees became scientific model
Before the French Revolution, family trees were reserved for the feudal upper classes, who used them to consolidate their social status. While feudalism broke down and family trees lost their old roles, the trees gained new functions as scientific models.
Read moreDid long ago tsunamis lead to mysterious, tropical fungal outbreak in Pacific northwest?
The Great Alaskan Earthquake of 1964 and the tsunamis it spawned may have washed a tropical fungus ashore, leading to a subsequent outbreak of often-fatal infections among people in coastal regions of the Pacific Northwest, according to a new article.
Read moreSkin-cells-turned-to-heart-cells help unravel genetic underpinnings of cardiac function
A small genetic study identified a protein linked to many genetic variants that affect heart function. Researchers are expanding the model to other organ systems and at larger scales to create a broader understanding of genes and proteins involved.
Read moreDelivery system can make RNA vaccines more powerful
MIT chemical engineers have developed a new type of lipid nanoparticle that can be used to deliver RNA vaccines. The particles also trigger the release of powerful immune signaling proteins that boost the vaccines' effectiveness.
Read moreMolecular basis of vision revealed
Researchers have solved the three-dimensional structure of a protein complex involved in vertebrate vision at atomic resolution, a finding that has broad implications for our understanding of biological signaling processes and the design of over a third of the drugs on the market today.
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