Noninvasive real-time breath test for controlling hormonal background of the human body: detection of serotonin and melatonin with quantum point-contact sensors.

Significant progress in development of noninvasive diagnostic tools based on breath analysis can be expected if one employs a real-time detection method based on finding a spectral breath profile which would contain some energy characteristics of the analyzed gas mixture. Using the fundamental energy parameters of a quantum system, it is possible to determine with a high accuracy its quantitative and qualitative composition. Among the most efficient tools to measure energy characteristics of quantum systems are sensors based on Yanson point contacts.

Activation of the cold-receptor TRPM8 by low levels of menthol in tobacco products.

Activation of the cold-receptor TRPM8 by menthol or other tobacco additives can suppress natural defense reactions such as coughing that usually would become effective as involuntary resistance against the inhalation of fumes. In Europe menthol is only regulated as flavor, but can be used as additive as long as no characteristic mint-like aroma will become noticeable in the end-product tobacco. The question needs to be addressed of whether such comparatively minor contents would be sufficient to trigger a measurable activation of TRPM8.

The Q-rich/PST domain of the AHR regulates both ligand-induced nuclear transport and nucleocytoplasmic shuttling.

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) shuttles continuously between cytoplasm and nucleus, unless ligand-binding triggers association with the AHR nuclear translocator (ARNT) and subsequent binding to cognate DNA motifs. We have now identified Val 647 as mandatory residue for export from the nucleus and AHR-function. This residue prevents inactivation of the receptor as a consequence of nuclear sequestration via constitutive import.