Tag

Peptide

All articles tagged with #peptide

science-and-technology2 years ago•2 min saved

"Fruit Fly Compound Unlocks Potential for New Antibiotics and Enhanced Immune Defenses"

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered that a natural peptide from fruit flies, called drosocin, can bind to bacterial ribosomes and inhibit protein production, leading to bacterial cell self-destruction. This finding could pave the way for the development of new antibiotics by understanding the mechanism of action of drosocin and potentially engineering similar peptides. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, provides insights into how drosocin works and its potential as a source for novel antibiotics.

via SciTechDaily|

#antibiotics #bacterial-infections #fruit-flies

health2 years ago•2 min saved

"MIT Scientists Develop Promising Peptide for Reversing Alzheimer's Disease"

Scientists at MIT have discovered a peptide that can reverse the effects of Alzheimer's Disease by interfering with the hyperactive enzyme CDK5, which is typically found in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. Early tests on mice showed "remarkable" reductions in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammatory responses, as well as rescuing behavior deficits. The peptide is also showing strong results in mending the brain's tau protein, which is a main characteristic of AD. Future plans for the peptide include testing its effects on other neurodegenerative illnesses.

via New York Post |

#alzheimers-disease #breakthrough #health

science2 years ago•3 min saved

Nickelback and the Chemical Origins of Life on Earth

Scientists have identified a protein called nickelback that may have played a crucial role in the origin of life on Earth. The protein's backbone consists of a chain of amino acids and two nitrogen atoms bonded to a pair of nickel atoms. The team believes that the change from prebiotic chemistry to living, biological systems was sparked by a few small precursor proteins that performed key steps in an ancient metabolic reaction. The discovery could also give astronomers another clue in the search for life on other planets where these essential chemical ingredients are just beginning to form.

via ScienceAlert|

#biosignatures #chemical-reactions #nickelback