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The article explores the structure and classification of viruses, elucidating their diverse shapes, genetic compositions, and replication mechanisms. Topics include viral morphology, ranging from helical to icosahedral symmetry, and the components comprising a virus, such as nucleoid, capsid, envelope, and associated enzymes.

The article presents a quiz on biomolecules, covering topics such as carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, nucleotides, and DNA.

"Our bandwidth for profiling molecules is orders of magnitude faster", says Michigan State University food scientist Emily Mayhew, who co-led the study. In the new study, the researchers trained a neural network with 5,000 known odorants to emphasize 256 chemical features according to how much they affect a molecule's odor. Principal Odor Map Scientists assembled a data set of about 5,000 molecules, each described by various odor "labels" and structural features, resulting in a principal odor map encompassing 256 dimensions. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the growing significance of multifunctional ingredients in cosmetics, evidenced by a recent survey indicating simpler formulations, potentially driven by a preference for minimalism and the introduction of versatile materials. Topics include the impact of ingredient simplification, the emergence of multifunctional ingredients like Conagen's retinol derivatives, and the expansion of actives and functional materials for more effective, and sustainable cosmetic formulations.

Perkinsus olseni is an industrially significant protozoan parasite of Manila clam, Ruditapes philippinarum. So far, various media, based on Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium and Ham's F-12 nutrient mixture with supplementation of fetal bovine serum (FBS), have been developed to proliferate the parasitizing trophozoite stage of P. olseni. The present study showed that P. olseni did not proliferate in FBS-deficient Perkinsus broth medium (PBMΔF), but proliferated well in PBMΔF supplemented with tissue extract of host Manila clams, indicating that FBS and Manila clam tissue contained molecule(s) required for P. olseni proliferation. Preliminary characterization suggested that the host-derived molecule(s) was a heat-stable molecule(s) with a molecular weight of less than 3 kDa, and finally a single molecule required for the proliferation was purified by high-performance liquid chromatography processes. High-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance analyses identified this molecule as glycine betaine (=trimethylglycine), and the requirement of this molecule for P. olsseni proliferation was confirmed by an assay using chemically synthesized, standard glycine betaine. Although glycine betaine was required for the proliferation of all examined Perkinsus species, supplementation of glycine betaine precursors, such as choline and betaine aldehyde, enhanced the proliferation of 4 Perkinsus species (P. marinus, P. chesapeaki, P. mediterraneus and P. honshuensis), but not of 2 others (P. olseni and P. beihaiensis). Thus, it was concluded that the ability to biosynthesise glycine betaine from its precursors varied among Perkinsus species, and that P. olseni and P. beihaiensis lack the ability required to biosynthesize glycine betaine for proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, titled "GREAT CAESAR'S GHOST!" by Nick D'Alto, explores the concept of the endless recycling of air. It discusses how molecules in the air constantly come apart and reassemble, with examples such as plants using carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, and animals, including humans, breathing in that oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. The article also presents an experiment formulated by Enrico Fermi, which uses the idea of Caesar's last breath to demonstrate the concept of air recycling. It concludes by highlighting the importance of keeping the air healthy for everyone. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the interaction networks of Type 2 Nuclear Receptors (T2NRs) and Retinoid X Receptor (RXR) in live cells, focusing on chromatin binding and heterodimerization. Through single molecule tracking and proximity-assisted photoactivation, researchers found that higher expression of retinoic acid receptor (RAR) increased heterodimerization and chromatin binding in U2OS cells, challenging previous assumptions about the limiting factor in these interactions. The study provides new insights into gene regulation mechanisms and implications for drug development targeting nuclear receptors. [Extracted from the article]

The patent titled "Methods and compositions for RNA-directed target DNA modification and for RNA-directed modulation of transcription" discusses the development of a technology that allows for precise targeting of nuclease activity to specific locations within a target DNA without the need to design a new protein for each target sequence. The technology involves a DNA-targeting RNA and modifying polypeptides that enable site-specific modification of target DNA and gene expression modulation. The patent, assigned to the University of California, aims to address limitations of existing genetic manipulation tools by providing a more precise and efficient method for genetic modification. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses research conducted at the Institute of Physics Chinese Academy of Sciences on the nanoscale architectures and dynamics of protein assembly using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Proteins play a crucial role in biological processes by forming complexes through precise folding and interactions. The study highlights the importance of understanding protein assembly for biomaterial design and biomedical research, with potential applications in medicine, energy, and nanotechnology. The research emphasizes the significance of AFM in investigating protein structures, interactions, and assembly dynamics across different spatial and temporal scales. [Extracted from the article]

A patent was issued to Roche Sequencing Solutions Inc. for methods of identifying multiple epitopes in cells. The invention focuses on detecting, identifying, and quantifying target molecules in single cells of a complex cell population while retaining cell-specific information. The methods involve associating tags with target molecules in cells without the need for individual cell separation, allowing for accurate and sensitive detection and quantification of target molecules in every cell. This innovation has implications for understanding gene expression patterns, genetic disorders, and therapeutic targets. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin Madison have discovered a sequential binding mechanism for the human U1 snRNP, which plays a crucial role in splice site recognition. The study found that drugs like risdiplam and branaplam can alter how the U1 snRNP recognizes specific 5' splice sites, leading to enhanced splicing. This research sheds light on the complex interactions involved in 5' splice site modulation and highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting the U1 snRNP for medical interventions. [Extracted from the article]

A patent was issued for methods and systems for processing polynucleotides by inventors from various locations in California. The patent, assigned to 10X Genomics Inc., focuses on analyzing genomic and proteomic information from individual cells or small cell populations, including cancer cells, fetal cells, and immune cells. The patent outlines a method for characterizing cells by synthesizing nucleic acid molecules with barcode sequences and subjecting them to sequencing for identification. This technology aims to advance biomedical research and diagnostics by providing detailed analysis of individual cells and their genetic makeup. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Cagliari explored the differences in how males and females perceive single molecules from the headspace of roasted coffee beans. The research found qualitative and quantitative variations between genders, with females generally performing better than males in odor perception. These findings suggest that both individual olfactory function and sex can influence how humans perceive single compounds and complex odors. For more information, the full article can be accessed for free at the publisher's website. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a sampling device and sample storage device suitable for single molecules, developed by inventors from Jinan, China. The patent aims to address issues related to the analysis of macromolecules in body fluids, particularly in blood composition. The device includes a sample collector, sample storage device, and controller to improve the accuracy of sampling and storage of single-molecule samples. The patent was assigned to Shandong Provincial Hospital in Jinan, People's Republic of China. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the challenges in using single-cell mitochondrial DNA variants to reconstruct cellular phylogenies, particularly in light of a recent report by Weng et al. The authors caution against relying on minimal evidence in variant calling workflows, as shared variants between cells may be artifacts that lead to the construction of false phylogenies. This preprint has not yet been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into the complexities of analyzing mitochondrial DNA mutations in single cells. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the crucial role of Hsp70 chaperones in controlling protein quality within cells, highlighting their ability to manipulate protein structures. A team from the University of Geneva, in collaboration with EPFL, used cutting-edge nanopore single-molecule technology to confirm the Entropic Pulling mechanism proposed in 2006, which explains how Hsp70 chaperones generate the force needed to manipulate proteins. This research not only provides a direct experimental confirmation of the mechanism but also establishes nanopore technology as a powerful tool for exploring molecular mechanisms of protein action. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Method For Characterization Of Cancer" has been published online by inventors from Germany and the UK. The application aims to provide diagnostic techniques for cancer that are flexible, efficient, and can be initiated immediately upon receipt of biological samples. The method combines targeted nanopore sequencing and a classification algorithm to classify cancer types based on biological states of nucleotide sequences. This approach offers advantages such as low-cost sequencing, high mobility for testing, and rapid processing of samples with real-time results. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application from Columbia University in New York describes a new method for DNA sequencing using cleavable fluorescent nucleotide reversible terminators. The current DNA sequencing methods have limitations, and this new method aims to overcome them by directly detecting a reporter group attached to the nucleotide incorporated into a growing DNA strand. The method involves incorporating nucleotide analogues into the DNA strand using DNA polymerase, and the inventors also provide a kit for performing this method. Additionally, the patent application describes a method for simultaneously sequencing multiple different nucleic acid templates. [Extracted from the article]

10X Genomics Inc. has been issued patent number 12098423 for methods and systems for processing polynucleotides. The patent, filed on January 7, 2020, and published online on September 24, 2024, was granted to inventors Benjamin Hindson, Christopher Hindson, Mirna Jarosz, Kevin Ness, Serge Saxonov, and Michael Schnall-Levin. The patent describes methods, compositions, devices, and kits for generating beads with covalently attached polynucleotides, as well as methods for polynucleotide barcoding. The invention has applications in various biomedical contexts, including diagnostics, prognostics, biotechnology, and forensic biology. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been submitted for a composition that allows for the analysis of both protein and nucleic acid from the same cell. The invention aims to accurately and sensitively detect, identify, and quantify target molecules in individual cells of a complex cell population while retaining cell-specific information. The composition involves the use of barcoded nucleic acid molecules and cell-origination barcodes to differentiate between cells and their target molecules. This technology has potential applications in clinical and diagnostic analyses, as well as in the discovery of new therapeutic and diagnostic targets. [Extracted from the article]

A new study from the Cardiology Department explores the role of apolipoprotein B (apoB) in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). The study suggests that apoB, which is found in all apoB-containing lipoproteins, is a preferred measurement for estimating ASCVD risk. However, in individuals with elevated lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), apoB may underestimate risk. To address this, the researchers propose a novel metric called risk-weighted apoB, which takes into account both apoB and Lp(a) levels. The study concludes that risk-weighted apoB provides a more accurate estimation of atherogenic risk in individuals with high Lp(a) levels. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application by inventor Anita Goel has been made available online, detailing a single-molecule platform for drug discovery. The invention aims to improve the detection and analysis of drug candidates that interfere with target enzymes involved in disease pathways, such as DNA polymerases, RNA polymerases, and reverse transcriptases. The methods and apparatuses described in the patent application utilize single molecule manipulation and detection technologies to identify potential interference mechanisms of drug candidates. This platform has potential applications in the development of anticancer and antiviral agents. [Extracted from the article]

10X Genomics Inc. has been issued a patent for methods and systems for processing polynucleotides. The patent describes techniques for analyzing genomic and proteomic information from individual cells or small populations of cells, including cancer cells, fetal cells, and immune cells. These methods involve labeling cells with nucleic acid barcodes and using sequencing to identify the labeled cells or specific nucleic acid sequences. The patent provides detailed descriptions of the methods and systems involved, which have applications in diagnostics, prognostics, biotechnology, and forensic biology. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research in Karnataka, India, explored the potential of Terminalia elliptica, a medicinal plant, in targeting proteins associated with cancer metastasis. The study utilized computational analysis to identify bioactive compounds in Terminalia elliptica that could inhibit the signaling pathways involved in metastasis. The researchers found that certain compounds in Terminalia elliptica showed promising binding affinity and interaction with the proteins Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), and Metastasis-Associated Protein 1 (MTA1). This discovery offers a novel therapeutic approach for cancer treatment and management. [Extracted from the article]

Enanta said the data cleared the bar set by its other candidate, opening up opportunities to test the molecules as single agents and in combination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The USPTO has published a patent application titled "Compositions And Methods For Screening Solid Tumors" by Quest Diagnostics Investments LLC. The application, filed by James Prentice, Kevin Qu, Heather Sanders, and Frederic Waldman, describes methods and compositions for detecting mutations in cancer-related genes in tumor samples. These methods aim to improve the detection of genetic alterations in heterogeneous tumors, helping predict patient responsiveness to specific therapies. The application specifically focuses on predicting lack of responsiveness to anti-HER-2 therapy in breast cancer patients by identifying specific mutations. The patent application provides detailed information on the techniques and primers used in the method. [Extracted from the article]

This patent application presents a method for analyzing cell-free DNA fragments to gather information about their terminal ends. The analysis can be used to detect and monitor cancer, other diseases, and for noninvasive prenatal testing. The application includes definitions of terms related to tissues, organs, biological samples, sequence reads, ending positions, sequence motifs, and the length of overhang between DNA strands. Additionally, the method involves ligating hairpin adapters to nucleic acid molecules, performing rolling circle amplification, and sequencing the concatemers to identify specific sequence identifiers. The application suggests that this method can be used to analyze biological samples from pregnant individuals to identify characteristics of the fetus. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Guangxi University in China has explored the use of microRNAs (miRNAs) as potential diagnostic biomarkers for pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). The study utilized a highly sensitive method called Single Molecule Array (Simoa) to detect miRNAs in the serum of PTB patients. The researchers identified a combination of five miRNAs that could distinguish PTB patients from healthy individuals, with three miRNAs being upregulated and two being downregulated in PTB patients. The study suggests that Simoa technology has the potential to be a non-invasive tool for early PTB diagnosis. [Extracted from the article]

New research from the University of Lorraine in Nancy, France has investigated the adsorption behavior of two specific amines, dodecylammonium chloride (DDA) and 3dodecyloxypropylammonium chloride (EA), on kaolinite surfaces. The study combined macroscopic analysis and infrared (IR) spectra with molecular modeling to understand the adsorption process at both the macroscopic and molecular levels. The research found that the chain length of the amines did not influence the mode of adsorption or adsorption energies for a single molecule, but intermolecular interactions did stabilize longer-chain molecules. The presence of an oxygen atom within the chain significantly affected the adsorption energies. The study also explored the influence of pH on adsorption behavior, revealing variations in adsorption with different pH levels. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been submitted for a method of digital counting of individual molecules using stochastic attachment of diverse labels. The method aims to accurately identify genetic variation and expression patterns in large sets of genes, which can be applied to understanding the relationship between an organism's genetic makeup and its health or disease. The technique involves labeling target molecules with unique identifiers, allowing for precise counting and analysis. The method has been demonstrated by labeling fragments of the human genome and detecting them using a microarray readout system or DNA sequencing. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Mansoura University in Egypt has explored the potential of using a new set of compounds called 2-thioquinazolin-4(3H)-ones as anti-cancer agents. These compounds were found to have dual inhibitory activity against EGFR and VEGFR-2 kinases, which are important targets in cancer therapy. The synthesized compounds showed comparable potency to the standard drug sorafenib in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. Further investigations revealed that one of the most potent compounds, called compound 4, was able to induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells. Molecular docking and dynamic simulations were also performed to understand the binding mode and interaction of these compounds with the target enzymes. This research provides valuable insights into the development of potential anti-cancer drugs. [Extracted from the article]

Inventor Garry P. Nolan has submitted a patent application for methods of identifying multiple epitopes in cells. The invention aims to accurately detect and quantify target molecules in complex cell populations while retaining cell-specific information. The methods involve binding tags to target molecules, which contain codes representing the target identity and the identity of the cell. These methods have the potential to aid in the discovery of new therapeutic and diagnostic targets. The patent application provides detailed information on the specific techniques and compositions used in the methods, including barcoding cells or cell organelles using assayable oligonucleotide subunits. These methods can be applied to fixed and permeabilized cells. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to Roche Sequencing Solutions Inc. for methods of identifying multiple epitopes in cells. The patent describes the need for accurate and sensitive detection, identification, and quantification of target molecules in every cell of a complex cell population while retaining cell-specific information. The methods involve binding tags to target molecules in cells, where the tags represent the identity of the target and the identity of the cell. The invention aims to provide a way to analyze gene expression and specific variants of whole proteins in single cells without the need for individual cell separation or isolation. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the structures of small molecules binding to models of an RNA CAG repeat expansion, which is associated with microsatellite diseases such as Huntington's disease, myotonic dystrophy type 1, and spinocerebellar ataxias. The study focuses on a small molecule called 1, which has been found to bind to the RNA and rescue aberrant pre-mRNA splicing. The researchers used nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to analyze the structures of the RNA in complex with three different small molecules. The study also includes molecular dynamics simulations to understand the changes in the RNA upon ligand binding. The research provides insights into how bioactive compounds may potentially rescue disease-associated cellular phenotypes. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been submitted for a method of detecting and isolating specific cells by binding labeled molecules. The invention aims to address the limitations of current techniques for detecting T-cell specificity, which are limited by the number of available fluorescence labels. The proposed method involves using detection molecules with binding molecules, linkers, and labels, which can be combined with a sample containing cells or entities of interest. The detection molecules can then be isolated and their identity determined, allowing for the detection of multiple different cell populations in a single sample. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to 10X Genomics Inc. for methods of internally controlled in situ assays using padlock probes. The patent describes methods and compositions for analyzing a region of interest in a biological sample, such as a cell or tissue. These methods involve contacting a target nucleic acid with a control padlock probe and a detection complex, generating amplification products, and detecting the presence or absence of these products to determine the presence or absence of the region of interest. The patent provides improved methods for analyzing nucleic acids and addressing the challenges of analyzing short sequences on individual transcripts. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Federal University Vicosa in Brazil examined the competition between two binding modes, intercalation and groove binding, of the antimalarial drug chloroquine with DNA. The researchers used single molecule force spectroscopy assays to determine the changes in mechanical parameters and the physical chemistry of the drug-DNA interactions. The presence of HEPES in the buffer, combined with NaCl, was found to modulate the interaction. This research provides insights into the role of driving forces in the balance between different binding modes. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on a patent application for recombinant Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) polymerases designed to enhance single molecule sequencing techniques. Topics include the role of DNA polymerases in various biotechnological applications, the challenges associated with sequencing and labeling DNA, and the potential improvements offered by these novel polymerases for more efficient and accurate sequencing.

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the integration of interleukin 2 (IL2) function during earlier antigen-dependent T cell synapses. The study demonstrates a synergistic effect between the T cell receptor (TCR) and IL2 receptor signaling in CD8+ T cells. The researchers found that TCR and IL2 signaling overlapped in space and time, enhancing each other when simultaneously triggered. This research may have implications for the development of immunotherapeutics that promote antigen-specific CD8+ T cell expansion. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on a patent for a method to detect single molecules on microparticles. Topics include the challenges of traditional digital immunoassays, such as complexity and time consumption, the need for highly-sensitive multiplex immunoassays, and the use of macroconjugates and tags to improve detection sensitivity and reduce interference.

Renagade Therapeutics Management Inc. has been issued a patent for engineered retrons and their use in genome editing. Retrons are DNA sequences that produce a unique satellite DNA called msDNA, which can be used as donor DNA templates for precise genome editing. The patent discusses the challenges of delivering donor DNA templates and proposes recombinant retrons with genetic modifications to improve their functionality. The patent also describes a gene editing system that utilizes delivery vehicles containing RNA cargo to modify genes in cells, including mRNA molecules encoding a programmable nuclease and a reverse transcriptase. This system can be used in various applications, such as gene therapy. The patent was filed by Brian Goodman and is assigned to Renagade Therapeutics Management Inc. [Extracted from the article]

The article provides information on the patent application "Single Molecule Assays for Ultrasensitive Detection of Analytes," filed by the inventors including Rushdy Ahmad, Tyler Dougand, and Richard Novak on March 27, 2024 and was made available online on August 8, 2024. It mentions the patent's assignee, background information supplied by the inventors, and the claims supplied by the inventors.

A patent has been issued to 10X Genomics Inc. for methods and systems for molecular composition generation. The patent describes a method for generating a plurality of molecules by combinatorially generating molecules coupled to supports, where the supports contain different types of molecules. The method can be used to generate large sets of molecules, such as nucleic acid molecules, and can be useful in various applications, including nucleic acid sequencing. The patent also includes claims for generating barcoded nucleic acid molecules and sequencing them. This information may be of interest to researchers in the fields of genetics, genomics, and biotechnology. [Extracted from the article]

A recent preprint abstract challenges the current understanding of using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variants to reconstruct cellular phylogenies. The study found that shared mtDNA variants between cells are disproportionately detected in a single molecule per cell and are enriched at the edges of mtDNA molecules, suggesting that they may be artifacts. The authors caution against using mtDNA variant calling workflows that rely on minimal evidence, as these artifacts can lead to the construction of false phylogenies. It is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

The patent application titled "System And Methods For Insertion And Editing Of Large Nucleic Acid Fragments" introduces a new method called Grand Editing, which allows for the targeted insertion of larger DNA fragments using a gene editor called Prime editing. The inventors have developed a pair of guide RNAs that serve as a template for inserting a large exogenous sequence into the target genomic locus. This method has potential applications in gene therapy and fundamental research. The patent application provides detailed information on the method and its various embodiments, making it a valuable resource for those interested in genome editing and its potential applications in biotechnology and gene therapy. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses a potential new treatment for pancreatic cancer. The study focuses on a targeted cytotoxic agent called ME3BP-7, which is effective against pancreatic cancer cells that overexpress the Monocarboxylate Transporter 1 (MCT1). Previous attempts to inhibit MCT1 with biochemical inhibitors have been unsuccessful in clinical trials. However, the researchers describe a microencapsulated formulation of ME3BP-7 that shows promise in reducing pancreatic cancer growth and metastasis in multiple models. This research has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Wyss Institute at Harvard University, MIT, and the University of Toronto have developed a method to enhance the sensitivity of mass cytometry and image mass cytometry (IMC) using DNA nanotechnology. The method, called Amplification by Cyclic Extension (ACE), amplifies protein signals produced by antibody-bound metal isotopes, allowing for the simultaneous detection of more than 30 different proteins with high sensitivity. ACE also enables the identification of cell types and tissue compartments in histological sections and the study of complex biological tissue changes. The findings, reported in Nature Biotechnology, provide new opportunities for investigating single cells and understanding normal and pathological biological processes. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Linked Amplification Tethered With Exponential Radiance" has been filed by inventors Long Cai, Chee Huat Eng, and Lincoln Ombelets. The application describes a method called LANTERN for imaging-based transcriptomic profiling at single molecule sensitivity. The method uses probes to quantify gene expression levels in biological samples, aiming to provide a more efficient and cost-effective approach to transcriptomic profiling. The patent application was made available online on July 18, 2024. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich in Germany have developed an engineered fusion protein that enables the large-scale production of functional human phagocytes. The protein, called DD-MLL-ENL, was able to sustain the ex vivo proliferation of hematopoietic precursors and their differentiation into phagocytes. The phagocytes exhibited similar characteristics to naïve monocytes and demonstrated the ability to migrate, produce reactive oxygen species, and engulf particles. This research has potential applications in producing functional immune cells for experimental cell-based approaches. [Extracted from the article]