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Leaky expression of PRMT1 in Escherichia coli and redox regulation of its histone methyltransferase activity

Kim et al. | Oct 07, 2026

Leaky expression of PRMT1 in <i>Escherichia coli</i> and redox regulation of its histone methyltransferase activity

This study characterizes recombinant human Protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) expressed in Escherichia. coli and reveals that the enzyme exhibits leaky expression even without isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) induction. Through in vitro histone methyltransferase assays, we demonstrate that PRMT1 activity toward histone H4R3 is enhanced by dithiothreitol (DTT) in a dose-dependent manner but remains unresponsive to β-mercaptoethanol. These findings highlight the critical role of redox conditions in regulating PRMT1 catalytic function and provide a practical framework for future biochemical and kinetic studies.

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The effect of economic downturns on the frequency of mass shootings

Bhupathi et al. | Jul 11, 2025

The effect of economic downturns on the frequency of mass shootings

Researching gun violence and mass shootings in the U.S. is difficult due to the lack of consistent data collection. Some studies have linked mass shootings to personal financial stress, but little formal research exists on the impact of broader economic conditions. This study hypothesized an inverse relationship between mass shootings and economic performance, using the S&P 500 and unemployment rate as indicators.

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Development of novel biodegradable bioplastics for packaging film using mango peels

Wang et al. | Apr 06, 2025

Development of novel biodegradable bioplastics for packaging film using mango peels
Image credit: JACQUELINE BRANDWAYN

Here the authors explored the development of biodegradable bioplastic films derived from mango peels as a sustainable solution to plastic pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from fruit waste. They optimized the film's mechanical properties and water resistance through adjusting processing conditions and incorporating plasticizers and a hydrophobic coating, ultimately demonstrating its potential as a bacteriostatic and biodegradable alternative to conventional plastic food wrap.

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The effect of music on teenagers in combatting stress and improving performance

Josyula et al. | Nov 16, 2024

The effect of music on teenagers in combatting stress and improving performance
Image credit: Stefany Andrade

Here, the researchers investigated how exposure to active versus passive music affects a teenager's ability to perform a challenging task, namely a Sudoku puzzle, under stressful conditions. Following testing 75 high school teenagers split into two group, the researchers found that singing in a choir (active music) yielded a greater improvement in performance compared to passive listening for brief time periods.

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Synthesis of sodium alginate composite bioplastic films

Kim et al. | Sep 17, 2024

Synthesis of sodium alginate composite bioplastic films

The authors looked at the development of biodegradable bioplastic and its features compared to PET packaging films. They were able to develop a biodegradable plastic with sodium alginate that dissolved in water and degrade in microbial conditions while also being transparent and flexible similar to current plastic films.

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