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.
A connection between stress detection and lifestyle decisions in worms
A new layer of complexity in GPCR signalling could explain differences in receptor function and drug response
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 brain’s immune defence comes from your gut
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.
Atomic advance for cryo-EM
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.
SARS-CoV-2 disrupts the brain barrier in human organoids
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.
Freezing molecules completely still for cryo-EM
Specimen movement reduces the quality of structural data produced by cryo-EM. Chris Russo’s group presents a physical theory for the causes of this movement, and creates a new specimen support that eliminates it.