Research Keyword: X-ray crystallography

Exploring the potential of a bioassembler for protein crystallization in space

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Scientists successfully grew high-quality protein crystals in space using an innovative magnetic bioassembler device. By taking advantage of the weightless environment aboard the International Space Station, they were able to grow protein crystals with excellent structural quality that matched or exceeded Earth-based methods. This breakthrough demonstrates that space-based protein crystallization could help scientists better understand protein structures and potentially accelerate drug development.

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4-Hydroxy-N,N-diisopropyltryptammonium hydrofumarate: Crystal Structure of a Synthetic Psychedelic

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Scientists have determined the three-dimensional crystal structure of 4-HO-DiPT, a synthetic compound related to psilocin found in magic mushrooms. This is the first crystal structure of this specific compound and provides important structural information for understanding how it works. A related version of this compound is currently being tested in clinical trials for treating postpartum depression and other mood disorders.

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Bis(4-acetoxy-N-ethyl-N-n-propyltryptammonium) fumarate–fumaric acid (1/1)

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Researchers determined the precise chemical structure of a synthetic compound related to psilocybin (the active ingredient in psychedelic mushrooms) using X-ray crystallography. The compound, 4-AcO-EPT, is designed to be converted in the body to a psychoactive substance with potential therapeutic benefits for depression and anxiety. The study resolved conflicting reports about the compound’s exact composition and molecular arrangement, showing it exists as a specific combination of three molecular components. This work demonstrates why chemists need to study actual crystal structures rather than relying solely on chemical calculations.

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The glycolipid flocculosin-A from the fungus Anthracocystis flocculosa, or how to deal with cotton-wool-like crystals

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Scientists successfully determined the three-dimensional structure of flocculosin-A, a powerful antifungal compound produced by a fungus called Anthracocystis flocculosa. The main challenge was that the compound naturally forms very thin, needle-like crystals unsuitable for analysis. By using a special cooling and heating cycle, researchers were able to grow better crystals and use X-ray diffraction to reveal the compound’s complete molecular structure, which contains a sugar backbone connected to two fatty acid chains with specific arrangements.

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Intrinsic determinants of prion protein neurotoxicity in Drosophila: from sequence to (dys)function

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Prion diseases are deadly brain conditions caused by misfolded proteins. This study used computer simulations and fruit fly experiments to understand how tiny changes in prion protein structure affect its ability to cause disease. Researchers found that proteins with flexible loops are more toxic, while those with more rigid structures cause less damage, suggesting new ways to develop treatments by stabilizing the protein’s structure.

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Ergostane-type steroids from mushrooms of Pleurotus genus

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Oyster mushrooms and king trumpet mushrooms contain special compounds called ergostane-type steroids that have interesting chemical structures. These compounds can fight inflammation and may help with cancer. Scientists have discovered that some of these compounds have unique rearranged structures that don’t exist in other organisms. These mushroom-derived compounds show promise for developing new medicines.

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