Plants: Researchers discover “watchdogs” for protein blueprints

Plants have a sophisticated mechanism for monitoring the production of new proteins. The "U1 snRNP" complex ensures that the protein blueprints are fully completed. This is important because cells tend to halt the process prematurely. This type of quality control, so-called telescripting, was previously known to exist only in animal cells. A research team led by the MLU has now shown that a similar process also occurs in plants.

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From chaos to order: proteins can re-structure themselves to create important substances

The protein 'MIPS' changes its internal structure when it becomes active. Its disordered active centre becomes a defined structure with special functions. The protein plays a key role in the production of inositol, which is also known as vitamin B8, and fulfils important tasks in the body. Researchers at MLU and the National Hellenic Research Centre in Greece have succeeded for the first time in observing the protein as it re-structures. As the team reports in the scientific journal 'Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences' (PNAS) this process appears to occur in many similar proteins.

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Improved safety and performance: researchers develop gel filling for lithium-ion batteries

A new type of gel, developed by chemists at the MLU, could help to make lithium-ion batteries safer and more powerful. The gel is designed to prevent the highly flammable electrolyte fluid from leaking. Initial lab studies show that it also improves the performance and service life of the batteries.

Brain research: Study shows what your favourite film genres reveal about your brain

Crime films, action films, comedies, or documentaries? A person's favourite film genre reveals a lot about how their brain works. This is the finding of a new study led by the MLU that compared data on film preferences with recordings of the brain activity of around 260 people. Fans of action films and comedies reacted very strongly to negative emotional stimuli, while participants who favoured documentaries or crime films and thrillers had a significantly weaker reaction.

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How does organic farming benefit honeybees?

Organic farming and flower strips promote the health of honey bees. In their vicinity, colonies grow stronger and are generally healthier. This is most likely because the insects have a diverse and continuous food supply there and are less exposed to pesticides. These are the findings of a new study by Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg (MLU) and the University of Göttingen, published in the "Journal of Applied Ecology". The team analysed data from 32 bee colonies at 16 locations in Germany with different proportions of organic fields, flower strips and semi-natural habitats.

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