The use of immunodetection assays including the widely used enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in applications such as point-of-care detection is often limited by the need for protein immobilization and multiple binding and washing steps. Here, we describe an experimental and analytical framework for the development of simple and modular “mix-and-read” enzymatic complementation assays based on split luciferase that enable sensitive detection and quantification of analytes in solution. In this assay, two engineered protein binders targeting nonoverlapping epitopes on the target analyte were each fused to nonactive fragments of luciferase to create biosensor probes. Binding proteins to two model targets, lysozyme and Sso6904, were isolated from a combinatorial library of Sso7d mutants using yeast surface display.

After doubts grew, blockbuster Nature paper is withdrawn over objections of study team.

face_with_colon_three circa 2021.

Most of the colors we see around us are produced by the reflection of light from pigments. Yet there is another type of color called “structural color,” produced when light is reflected off the special microstructure of a surface. Structural color is what makes the surface of soap bubbles iridescent and the body of a jewel beetle appear to glitter. While pigmented colors have the disadvantage of fading due to ultraviolet rays, structural colors retain their appearance as long as the microstructure remains intact. Associate Professor Michinari Kohri of Chiba University is working to artificially reproduce these structural colors. Taking a hint from the structural colors of peacock and turkey feathers, he has succeeded in reproducing the microstructure that gives rise to the colors and is now working on the development of special ink that will not fade.

Scientists might have just discovered a pinch of ocean inside the Earth.

A rare diamond found in the mines of Botswana has provided more details about the region between the Earth’s upper and lower mantle. Also called the transition zone or the 660 km discontinuity, the region is likely to be rich in water, according to a recent study.

Finding large amounts of water underground on a planet whose 71 percent surface is water may not sound like a big revelation. Yet it is. Liquid water on the Earth’s surface may seem like a lot but it is merely a puddle when compared to the water content under the crust.

A Texas Water Development Board plan shows the state population is supposed to increase more than 70% by 2070, which is expected to strain our water supply.

IVF using frozen embryos is linked to a higher risk of preeclampsia compared with using fresh embryos or conceiving naturally, new research finds.

Summary: Researchers say laughter may have been preserved by natural selection to assist with human survival.

Source: The Conversation.

A woman in labor is having a terrible time and suddenly shouts out: “Shouldn’t! Wouldn’t! Couldn’t! Didn’t! Can’t!”