2022-10-20

Structures and Mechanisms of the actin ATP hydrolysis

Significance A variety of cellular functions are driven by actin, which undergoes cyclic transitions between the monomeric G-form and the filamentous F-form. To gain insights into actin dynamics, the mechanism by which the energy is supplied by the ATP hydrolysis reaction in the F-form actin must be elucidated. This has been hampered by the lack of actin filament structures at atomic resolutions. Here, we have crystallized actin molecules trapped in the F-form without forming filaments, and based upon these structures we determined the reaction path by quantum mechanics calculations. The results are consistent with previous biochemical data. Remarkably, the hydrolysis reaction mechanism is essentially identical to those of motor proteins, while the process of Pi release is distinct.
2022-10-20

Global case fatality rate from COVID-19 has decreased by 96.8% during 2.5 years of the pandemic

We appreciate the commendable work by Wang et al.1 in evaluating the incidence and case fatality rate (CFR) of SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron variants.
2022-10-12

Comparison of the blood pressure management between sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists

The cardiovascular and renal protective effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is) and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1Ras) are enhanced by low/controlled blood pressure (BP).
2022-09-26

Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors do not Increase Short-term Risk of Hypertension in Cancer Patients: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are becoming widely used for novel cancer treatments. Immune-related adverse events, including cardiac toxicity, are frequently observed following immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) use. However, little is known regarding the association between ICIs initiation and hypertension in cancer patients.