Pharmaceuticals

First total synthesis of illicium sesquiterpene merrillianin opens doors for future drug development

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An avenue that scientists are currently exploring for the development of novel pharmaceuticals involves the synthesis of bioactive compounds found in Chinese herbal medicine. This collaborative effort, combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific methods, focuses on pharmaceutically relevant compounds found in medicinal plants for large-scale synthesis. An important compound in this context is merrillianin, a … Read more

Novel plant protein fold identified for cyclic peptide formation in U-M study

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University of Michigan researchers are celebrating their discovery of a new plant biochemistry and its unusual ability to form cyclic peptides—molecules that hold promise in pharmaceuticals as they can bind to challenging drug targets. Cyclic peptides are an emerging and promising area of drug research. The new study, led by U-M College of Pharmacy researchers … Read more

Precisely placed nanoparticles enhance selectivity in catalytic reactions

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Researchers from the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), Harvard Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, and Utrecht University have reported on a previously elusive way to improve the selectivity of catalytic reactions, adding a new method of increasing the efficacy of catalysts for a potentially wide range of applications … Read more

Green Chemistry

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Green chemistry, also known as sustainable chemistry, is a rapidly growing field that focuses on designing chemical products and processes that minimize the use and generation of hazardous substances. It aims to reduce the environmental impact of chemical manufacturing and promote the efficient use of resources, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly … Read more

Organic Chemistry

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Organic chemistry is the branch of chemistry that deals with the study of carbon-containing compounds. It is a vast and diverse field with applications ranging from pharmaceuticals and materials science to agriculture and environmental science. The study of organic chemistry dates back centuries, with significant advancements made in understanding the structure, properties, and reactions of … Read more

Wastewater turns self-cleaning: New catalyst eliminates harmful pollutants

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Natural water bodies face a concerning threat from emerging contaminants (ECs) like endocrine disruptors, pharmaceuticals, and synthetic dyes, posing a significant risk to public water safety. Although current wastewater treatment technologies are somewhat effective, their limitations in efficiently removing these contaminants, often hydrophobic and present at low concentrations, are evident. In a recent study published … Read more

Antimicrobial resistance

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Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a complex and growing global health concern that poses a serious threat to the effective prevention and treatment of bacterial, viral, parasitic, and fungal infections. It occurs when microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, evolve and develop resistance to the antimicrobial drugs designed to eliminate them. This phenomenon undermines … Read more

What is the difference between a dominant and a recessive gene?

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The study of genetics is a fascinating exploration into the inheritance of traits from one generation to the next. At the heart of this intricate web of heredity lies the distinction between dominant and recessive genes, two crucial concepts that shape the genetic landscape. Genes are segments of DNA that encode instructions for building and … Read more

Sun-powered chemistry: Visible light turns simple ingredients into complex molecules

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Heterocyclic compounds, intricate organic molecules featuring a ring structure comprising multiple elements, are increasingly coveted in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry due to their versatility and potent physiological activities. However, conventional synthesis methods often involve high temperatures, pressures, or precious metal catalysts, contributing to economic and environmental concerns. A groundbreaking study by a collaborative team … Read more

Why is biodiversity important?

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Biodiversity, the rich tapestry of life on Earth, is a critical component of our planet’s health and resilience. It encompasses the variety of species, ecosystems, and genetic diversity within them. The importance of biodiversity extends far beyond its intrinsic value; it plays a crucial role in sustaining ecosystems, supporting human well-being, and maintaining the delicate … Read more

Cell membrane

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The cell membrane, often referred to as the plasma membrane, stands as a critical component in the realm of biology, serving as a protective barrier that encapsulates the internal environment of cells. Its intricate structure and dynamic functions are integral to the survival and functionality of living organisms. This semi-permeable boundary is a mosaic of … Read more

Simultaneous production of biofuel and valuable pigments from plant fiber

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We often look to the smallest lifeforms for help solving the biggest problems: Microbes help make foods and beverages, cure diseases, treat waste and even clean up pollution. Yeast and bacteria can also convert plant sugars into biofuels and chemicals traditionally derived from fossil fuels—a key component of most plans to slow climate change. Now … Read more

What is biophysics?

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Biophysics is an interdisciplinary field that merges principles from physics and biology to investigate the physical mechanisms underlying biological processes. This dynamic branch of science employs quantitative and analytical approaches to unravel the mysteries of life, exploring how physical forces, energy, and structure govern the behavior of biological systems. Biophysics spans a wide range of … Read more

Biology

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Biology is the scientific study of life and living organisms. It explores a vast range of topics, including the structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution of living organisms. This discipline delves into various levels of biological organization, from molecules and cells to organisms and ecosystems. Through methods like observation, experimentation, and analysis, biologists seek … Read more

What is medical science?

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Medical science, also known as medicine, is a multidisciplinary field of study and practice that encompasses the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders affecting the human body. It integrates knowledge from various scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, genetics, and psychology, to advance our understanding of health and illness. Medical science is … Read more

Chemistry

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Chemistry, often referred to as the central science, is a branch of natural science that explores the properties, composition, structure, reactions, and changes of matter. It is a discipline that delves into the microscopic realm of atoms and molecules, seeking to understand the fundamental principles that govern the behavior of substances and their transformations. Chemistry … Read more

MIT develops AI model to rapidly predict structures of elusive transition states

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In the intricate dance of chemical reactions, molecules undergo a subtle transformation until they reach a critical juncture known as the transition state—a fleeting moment that marks a point of no return for the reaction. Ironically, this elusive state is challenging to observe experimentally due to its ephemeral nature. Traditionally, the structures of these transition … Read more

Bacillus subtilis

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Bacillus subtilis is a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that has garnered significant attention and application in various fields due to its versatility, resilience, and beneficial characteristics. This bacterium holds immense importance in both scientific research and industrial processes, playing a pivotal role in areas ranging from biotechnology to agriculture. First discovered in 1835 by Christian Gottfried … Read more

Plasmid

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A plasmid is a small, circular, double-stranded DNA molecule that is separate from the chromosomal DNA and is found in the cytoplasm of bacteria and other microorganisms. It plays a crucial role in genetic engineering, as it can be manipulated to carry and express foreign genes. The study of plasmids has significantly contributed to our … Read more

Endocrine system

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The endocrine system is a complex and vital network of glands and hormones that play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes within the human body. This intricate system works in tandem with the nervous system to maintain homeostasis, ensuring the body’s internal environment remains stable despite external fluctuations. From controlling metabolism and growth … Read more