Structural Molecular Biology

RSS Feed RSS Feed


April 29, 2022
News Feature
How a soil microbe could rev up artificial photosynthesis
Researchers discover that a spot of molecular glue and a timely twist help a bacterial enzyme convert carbon dioxide into carbon compounds 20 times faster than plant enzymes do during photosynthesis. The results stand to accelerate progress toward converting carbon dioxide into a variety of products.
An illustration shows the pocket in an enzyme called ECR where the carbon fixing reaction takes place.
March 7, 2022
News Feature
Q&A: From particle beams to cancer treatment – fundamental research that affects everyday life
SLAC’s Matt Garrett and Susan Simpkins talk about tech transfer that brings innovations from the national lab to the people, including advances for medical devices and self-driving vehicles.
Tech Transfer
December 16, 2021
News Brief
Room-temperature crystallography aids new study of photosynthetic bacteria
Recently developed methods now in use at SLAC’s X-ray synchrotron helped a team of chemists better understand how certain bacteria turn light into chemical energy.
A diagram of a protein molecule with white spirals and multicolored webs indicating key parts of the molecule.
August 11, 2021
News Feature
A fast, accurate system for quickly solving stubborn RNA structures from pond scum, the SARS-CoV-2 virus and more
SLAC and Stanford scientists used it to zoom in on an iconic RNA catalyst and a piece of viral RNA that’s a potential target for COVID-19 treatments.
A high-res 3D ribbon diagram showing the structure of part of an RNA molecule
June 3, 2021
News Feature
SLAC’s Panofsky fellows talk about what makes their research so exciting
From the invisible world of elementary particles to the mysteries of the cosmos, recipients of this prestigious award for early career scientists explore nature at every level.
Panofsky fellows
April 22, 2021
News Feature
Scientists uncover surprising behavior of a fatty acid enzyme with potential biofuel applications
Derived from microscopic algae, the rare, light-driven enzyme converts fatty acids into starting ingredients for solvents and fuels.
Illustration of molecular structure of an enzyme that is powered by sunlight
March 26, 2021
News Feature
New collaboration aims to bring cutting-edge X-ray methods to more biological researchers
SSRL and LCLS scientists will help visiting research teams solve their experimental challenges, then apply what they’ve learned to help others work more efficiently.
Diagram of a complex molecule
January 19, 2021
News Feature
Researchers discover long-sought mechanism behind worst cases of a common blood disorder
G6PD deficiency affects about 400M people worldwide and can pose serious health risks. Uncovering the causes of the most severe cases could finally lead to treatments.
December 18, 2020
News Feature
Scientists get the most realistic view yet of a coronavirus spike’s protein structure
The study, done on a mild-mannered relative of the virus that causes COVID-19, paves the way for seeing more clearly how spike proteins initiate infections, with an eye to preventing and treating them.
Illustration of a coronavirus spike
November 4, 2020
News Brief
SLAC, Stanford to host national service center for cryo-ET sample preparation
The center complements other NIH centers at SLAC and elsewhere that broaden access to this cutting-edge technology for biomedical research.
Cryo-EM images of yeast cells with contents highlighted

Pages