What are Fats?
Fats, also known as triglycerides, are a type of lipid and an important energy storage molecule in many organisms. They are composed of glycerol and […]
Biochemistry
Bacteriophages
Bacteriophages, often referred to as phages, are viruses that specifically infect and replicate within bacteria. The term “bacteriophage” originates from the Greek words “bakterion,” meaning […]
Beta-lactoglobulin
Beta-lactoglobulin (BLG) is a major whey protein found in the milk of mammals, particularly in cow’s milk. It belongs to the lipocalin protein family and […]
What is Cholecystokinin (CCK)?
Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a digestive hormone produced primarily in the small intestine (specifically the duodenum and jejunum). It plays several important roles in digestion and […]
Polyketide Synthesis
Polyketide synthesis is a fascinating process, mainly occurring in microorganisms like bacteria and fungi, which produces a diverse group of secondary metabolites known as polyketides. […]
The Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) Receptor
Introduction to TRPV1 The Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptor, also known as the capsaicin receptor, is a member of the TRP (transient receptor […]
What is the difference between mRNA translation in prokaryotes versus eukaryotes?
mRNA translation, the process by which messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules are decoded by ribosomes to produce proteins, exhibits differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes due to […]
How do Cells Stick Together? Adhesion Proteins Of Course
Adhesion proteins play a fundamental role in various biological processes by facilitating cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions. These proteins are crucial for maintaining tissue […]
Decoding Protein Function: Genetic Active Site Search (GASS) as a Tool for Identifying Binding Sites
Understanding the function of proteins is paramount in elucidating biological processes and developing targeted therapeutics. An essential aspect of protein function is the identification of […]
Revolutionizing Protein Structure Prediction with AlphaFold2
Understanding the three-dimensional (3D) structure of proteins is crucial for deciphering their functions and developing targeted therapies for various diseases. Historically, predicting protein structures has […]
Gut Taste Receptors – Getting Fat With Them
Gut taste receptors—also known as chemosensory receptors—play a surprisingly important role in regulating satiation, satisfaction, and appetite. Though we normally associate taste with the tongue […]
N-Glycan Biosynthesis
N-glycosylation is one of the most prevalent and complex post-translational modifications of proteins in eukaryotic cells, critically influencing protein folding, stability, trafficking, and cell-cell interactions. […]
Evolutionary and Developmental Shaping of the Genomic Organisation of the Hox Genes
The organisation of genes within the genome is not random but often reflects deep evolutionary pressures and developmental requirements. Among the most striking examples of […]
Monoclonal Antibodies in Biotechnology
Monoclonal antibodies are highly specialised protein molecules that has found wide-ranging application in biotechnology and an analytical biochemistry. Of all the advances that have been […]
The Role of DNA Topisomerases
Topoisomerases are enzymes that play a crucial role in the maintenance and regulation of DNA structure and topology within cells. They are responsible for altering […]
The Power of the Proteasome
The proteasome is a crucial protein complex in cells that breaks down and recycles damaged or unneeded proteins. It’s a core part of the ubiquitin-proteasome […]
Mammalian Cell Expression – Why Is It So Useful in Biotechnology?
Mammalian cell expression refers to the process of introducing and expressing foreign genes or proteins in mammalian cells. Mammalian cells, such as human embryonic kidney […]
Ceramides Are Interesting!
Ceramides are a vital component of the skin’s barrier function and play a crucial role in maintaining healthy and hydrated skin. These lipid molecules, also […]
What is Milk Lipoprotein Lipase?
Milk lipoprotein lipase (LPL) is an enzyme that is present in the milk of lactating animals, including humans. It plays a crucial role in the […]
Size-Exclusion Chromatography
Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), also known as gel filtration chromatography, is a widely used analytical technique in the field of biochemistry, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical sciences. It […]