Biological Sciences

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Study Reveals 'Bellhops' in Cell Walls Can Double as Hormones

Researchers have discovered that some common messenger molecules in human cells double as hormones when joined to a protein that interacts with DNA.

Research Pinpoints Role of 'Helper' Atoms in Oxygen Release

Experiments at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory solve a long-standing mystery in the role calcium atoms serve in a chemical reaction that releases oxygen into the air we breathe.

Scientists Map Protein in Living Bacterial Cells

Scientists have for the first time mapped the atomic structure of a protein within a living cell. The technique, which peered into cells with an X-ray laser, could allow scientists to explore some components of living cells as never before.

Researcher Wins X-ray Science Award for SSRL Work Aiding Chemistry Studies

A postdoctoral researcher, whose work at SLAC's synchrotron was key in adapting an X-ray technique to probe chemical bonds in new ways, will receive an annual scientific award.

X-ray Laser Measures Leaping Electrons

In an experiment at SLAC's X-ray laser, scientists split molecules into two fragments using pulses of infrared light, and then used X-ray pulses to observe the transfer of electrons.

X-ray Laser Gives Buckyballs a Big Kick

Scientists at SLAC have been blowing up "buckyballs" – soccer-ball-shaped carbon molecules – with an X-ray laser to understand how they fly apart. The results, they say, will help them interpret X-ray images of tiny viruses, individual proteins and other important biomolecules.

Scientists Use X-rays to Look at How DNA Protects Itself from UV Light

DNA’s molecular building blocks absorb ultraviolet light so strongly that sunlight should deactivate them – yet it doesn’t. A new SLAC study reveals details of a “relaxation response” that protects these molecules and the genetic information they encode.