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.

Home > LMB’s Pat Edwards interviewed for the Long and Short magazine

LMB’s Pat Edwards interviewed for the Long and Short magazine

Signposts for organelle identity – new Rab GTPase effectors found

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Cells contain specialised membrane-bound compartments called organelles, which are vital to the cell as they allow it to separate different biochemical reactions that otherwise might interfere with each other. To function correctly, these intracellular compartments need to recruit proteins from the cytoplasm, and since every organelle has a specific role, each one needs a particular […]

Synthetic enzymes hint at life without DNA or RNA

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Enzymes that don’t exist in nature have been made from genetic material that doesn’t exist in nature either, called XNA, or xeno nucleic acid. New Scientist reports how the breakthrough from Philipp Holliger’s group at the LMB reinforces the possibility that life could evolve without DNA or RNA, the two self-replicating molecules considered indispensible for […]

Structure of human dynein shows the powerstroke mechanism

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Dyneins are a family of motor proteins that move along microtubules powered by chemical energy from ATP. Andrew Carter and his group in the LMB’s Structural Studies Division have solved the structure of a dynein protein bound to a chemical that mimics the shape of ATP, and have shown for the first time how the […]

Major synthetic life breakthrough as LMB scientists make the first artificial enzymes

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For the first time ever, researchers have made synthetic enzymes – the vital ingredients needed for life – from artificial genetic material that does not exist outside the laboratory. This milestone from Philipp Holliger’s group at the LMB could soon lead to new ways of developing drugs and medical treatments, as reported in the Independent.

SELPEPCON – an exciting technology platform developed by the LMB’s Mike Gait

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A technology platform to deliver cargoes using arrays of cell penetrating peptides was developed by the LMB’s Mike Gait, to help treat muscular degenerative diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Further developments on this SELPEPCON technology, which was patented by the MRC and is licenced to Cambridge Research Biochemicals, are highlighted here.