Two pathways diverged in a chemical synthesis, and one molecule took them both. Chemists at the University of Tokyo have studied how molecular building blocks can either form a spherical […]
Genomics, Proteomics, Bioinformatics
DNA Is Only One Among Millions Of Possible Genetic Molecules
Biology encodes information in DNA and RNA, which are complex molecules finely tuned to their functions. But are they the only way to store hereditary molecular information? Some scientists believe […]
Using Metagenomics To Better Understand Hydrothermal Communities
Researchers supported in part by the NASA Astrobiology Program have used genome-resolved metagenotics and metatranscriptomics to better understand microbial communities in the subseafloor near hydrothermal vents. These techniques provide details […]
Researchers Uncover Novel Virus Type That May Shed Light On Viral Evolution
Viruses are non-living creatures, consisting of genetic material encased in a protein coat. Once the virus infects a living organism, it can replicate itself and continue on. But what happens […]
Tardigrade Damage Suppressor Protein Binds To Nucleosomes And Protects DNA From Hydroxyl Radicals
Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are animals that can survive extreme conditions. The tardigrade Ramazzottius varieornatus contains a unique nuclear protein termed Dsup, for damage suppressor, which can increase […]
How Tardigrades Survive The Extremes
Diminutive animals known as tardigrades appear to us as plump, squeezable toys, earning them irresistible nicknames such as “water bears” and “moss piglets.” But don’t let their squishy appearance fool […]
Otherworldly Worms With Three Sexes Discovered In Mono Lake
Caltech scientists have discovered a new species of worm thriving in the extreme environment of Mono Lake. This new species, temporarily dubbed Auanema sp., has three different sexes, can survive […]
When Did Life Likely Emerge on Earth In An RNA-First Process?
The widespread presence of ribonucleic acid (RNA) catalysts and cofactors in Earth’s biosphere today suggests that RNA was the first biopolymer to support Darwinian evolution. However, most “path-hypotheses” to generate […]
Reverse Engineering Cellular Microtubules
Imagine standing in a lumberyard and being asked to build a house — without blueprints or instructions of any kind. The materials are all in front of you, but that […]
Semi-synthetic Bacteria Churn Out Unnatural Proteins
Synthetic biologists seek to create new life with forms and functions not seen in nature. Although scientists are a long way from making a completely artificial life form, they have […]
