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.
Mitochondrial ribosomes are different from those in the cytoplasm of human cells and little is known about their quality control. Venki Ramakrishnan’s group has discovered a novel pathway to rescue stalled mitoribosomes and determined structures of the rescue factors.
Rebecca Taylor’s group has identified a signalling molecule that connects detection of a stressful environment by the nervous system with molecular defence mechanisms in other tissues and leads to changes in feeding behaviour and reproduction.
GPCRs are the target of approximately 34% of approved drugs, reflecting their key role in cell function. Madan Babu’s group has uncovered how different receptor isoforms, existing in different combinations, could generate tissue-specific responses to the same signal or drug.
The importance of our brain is reflected in the measures evolved to protect it, including the skull and meninges. However, its immune defence has been less well understood. Menna Clatworthy’s group has now identified immune cells derived from the gut defending the meninges.
Looking at the precise 3D arrangement of atoms within a protein helps us to understand how it can perform its functions. Radu Aricescu’s and Sjors Scheres’ groups have now been able to resolve individual atoms for the first time in a three-dimensional cryo-EM image.
COVID-19 is primarily associated with respiratory effects, but there have been reports of neurological symptoms. Using brain organoids, Madeline Lancaster’s group has found that the virus can disrupt the blood-CSF barrier, which may lead to long-term complications.