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.
Scientists in Chris Tate’s group in the LMB’s Structural Studies Division have used electron cryo-microscopy to determine the structure of the serotonin receptor coupled to the heterotrimeric G protein Go, providing insights into how receptors bind specific G proteins.
Communication between cells throughout our bodies is vital for our health.
Work from Harvey McMahon’s group in the LMB’s Neurobiology Division has uncovered how a protein, FCHSD2, controls actin polymerisation during endocytosis. Importantly the scientists discovered that FCHSD2 does its job from the area surrounding the site of endocytosis – making it the first description of an endocytic protein which localises to the flat region around endocytic events.
Researchers at the LMB have solved the elusive 3D structure of activated Parkin, an enzyme implicated in early-onset Parkinson’s disease. Led by David Komander’s group in the LMB’s PNAC Division, in collaboration with the LMB’s Biological Mass Spectrometry facility, this new work reveals insights into previously unstudied parts of this important protein and helps explain why families with certain mutations in Parkin suffer from early-onset Parkinson’s disease.
Work by Joe Yeeles’ group in the LMB’s PNAC Division has for the first time revealed the earliest responses when the eukaryotic DNA replication machinery, the replisome, collides with DNA damage.
Every time a cell divides, its DNA must be replicated so that each daughter cell inherits a complete copy of the genome.
Scientists in Leo James’ group in the LMB’s PNAC Division, in collaboration with Till Böcking’s group at the University of New South Wales, Australia and Adolfo Saiardi’s group at the MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, have uncovered how the HIV virus stabilises its capsid by binding to an abundant cellular polyanion, IP6.
In our day-to-day lives we execute spatially targeted movements with ease and seemingly without much thought. These movements may include reaching for your morning cup of coffee, checking your mirrors on your drive into work, or catching a cricket ball.