Researchers at Princeton University have discovered the 3D structure of an enzyme that cuts to ribbons the genetic material of viruses and helps defend against bacteria. The discovery of the structure of this enzyme could enable new strategies for fighting infectious agents and possibly prostate cancer and obesity. It is a first-responder in the immune system.
Crystallographic picture of the 3D Structure:
According to Alexei Korennykh, an assistant professor of molecular biology and leader of the team that made the discovery, this structure had not been possible to discover before because of the lack of human RNase L structure. The RNase L structure is related to the human heredity of carrying genetic mutations. RNase L is also related to insulin. This leads researchers to believe that the structure may help people possibly fight obesity.
This discovery has been possible through a study that depicted various forms of RNA and the RNase L structure. To prove the discovery of the new structure, senior research specialist Gena Whitney and graduate student Alisha Chitrakar conducted additional studies of RNase L in human cells, confirming the 3D structure.
NOS Themes:
· Science is Collaborative: The discovery was made by a group researchers that attend Princeton, and by a professor from the University of California-San Francisco School .
· Role of Credibility: The discovery is verified by senior research specialist Gena Whitney and
the online journal Science.
· Science is based on evidence: The scientists collected data through studies that had been conducted, and from the crystallographic images.
Links:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/02/140228210604.htm
http://www.news-medical.net/news/20140303/3D-structure-of-enzyme-helps-defend-against-bacteria.aspx
I really liked how specific you were with your facts, and I learned a lot in your appropriate-length summary. It is so interesting that the discovery of this structure could possibly enable new strategies to fight prostate cancer and obesity.
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