Nanosensors target enzymes to monitor and study cancer
By analyzing enzyme activity at the organism, tissue, and cellular scales, new sensors could provide new tools to clinicians and cancer researchers.
A “door” into the mitochondrial membrane
Study finds the protein MTCH2 is responsible for shuttling various other proteins into the membrane of mitochondria. The finding could have implications for cancer treatments and MTCH2-linked conditions.
Probing how proteins pair up inside cells
MIT biologists drilled down into how proteins recognize and bind to one another, informing drug treatments for cancer.
Study reveals a protein’s key contribution to heterogeneity of neurons
Tomosyn’s tight regulation of neurotransmitter release distinguishes functions of two neuron classes at the fly neuromuscular junction.
Cellular environments shape molecular architecture
Researchers glean a more complete picture of a structure called the nuclear pore complex by studying it directly inside cells.
Playing with proteins
At the MIT Edgerton Center, educators are quietly transforming the way biology is taught in schools.
The power of two
Graduate student Ellen Zhong helped biologists and mathematicians reach across departmental lines to address a longstanding problem in electron microscopy.
There’s a symphony in the antibody protein the body makes to neutralize the coronavirus
Professor Markus Buehler composed it, and a South Korean orchestra performed it; it’s the latest in a series of artistic collaborations sparked by Buehler’s exploration of the structure of SARS-CoV-2.
3 Questions: Lindsay Case on how cells organize and sense the world
Case’s new lab investigates why cancer arises when disruptions in cellular organization change how cells sense mechanical forces.
Truncated immune system receptors may regulate cellular activity
Unexpected findings in chemokine receptors once believed to be non-functional open up new fields of scientific inquiry.
Alzheimer’s risk gene disrupts endocytosis, but another disease-linked gene could help
Astrocytes with the APOE4 gene variant show deficits of a key cellular function, but overexpressing the gene PICALM overcame the defect.
New technology enables fast protein synthesis
Automated tabletop machine could accelerate the development of novel drugs to treat cancer and other diseases.
SMART researchers receive grant to develop rapid tests for Covid-19
Using engineered binder proteins to detect viral proteins or antibodies rather than RNA, new tests may overcome current challenges in testing for SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Study finds “volume dial” for turning neural communication up or down
The protein Synaptotagmin 7 limits supply of neurotransmitter-containing vesicles for release at synapses.
3 Questions: Hadley Sikes on searching for a Covid-19 protein test
Chemical engineer aims to create a test that can work in 10 minutes and doesn’t require specialized instruments or laboratory infrastructure.