MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
One of the world's leading research institutes, our scientists are working to advance understanding of biological processes at the molecular level - providing the knowledge needed to solve key problems in human health.
In an international collaboration led by Leo James’ group, researchers have discovered that HIV-1 builds its capsid using a metabolite called IP6 that it captures from cells with a net-like protein lattice. Disabling this capture mechanism prevents capsid construction and renders HIV-1 non-infectious.
Researchers in Andrew McKenzie’s group, in the LMB’s PNAC Division, have used high-throughput CRISPR screening to identify a role for alpha V beta 3 integrin in IL-13 production which contributes to unwanted inflammation during an asthma or allergic immune response.
One of the universal events in the lifecycle of every cell is the initiation of genome duplication. Julian Sale’s group in the LMB’s PNAC Division have used high-resolution maps of human replication origins to demonstrate the mutagenic properties of DNA replication origins.
Jason Chin’s group refactor the genetic code to create genetically isolated organisms which cannot exchange genetic information with naturally-occurring organisms in the environment.
New research by the Hegde group and collaborators has used a combination of biochemical and structural approaches to reveal the key factors and steps cells use to embed multipass proteins, such as GPCRs and transporters, into the membrane.
Modified polymerase enzyme produces xeno-nucleic acids efficiently and accurately, opening up possibilities in academic science, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.