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.
Insight on Research
DNA replication initiation shapes the evolution and expression of the human genome
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.
Refactoring the genetic code to create organisms protected by a genetic firewall
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.
Pathway for making multipass membrane proteins elucidated
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.
Engineered polymerase enzyme presents new opportunity for quick and efficient modified nucleic acid synthesis
Modified polymerase enzyme produces xeno-nucleic acids efficiently and accurately, opening up possibilities in academic science, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
Identification of pathway that enables resistance to tuberculosis
Lalita Ramakrishnan’s group, LMB Cell Biology Division and University of Cambridge Molecular Immunity Unit, has determined that increased metabolism, prompted through mTOR kinase, is a crucial resistance factor against macrophage necrosis during TB infection.