Argonaute2 regulates the pancreatic β-cell secretome.

Argonaute2 (Ago2) is an established component of the microRNA-induced silencing complex. Similar to miR-375 loss-of-function studies, inhibition of Ago2 in the pancreatic β-cell resulted in enhanced insulin release underlining the relationship between these two genes. Moreover, as the most abundant microRNA in pancreatic endocrine cells, miR-375 was also observed to be enriched in Ago2-associated complexes.

Silver nanoparticle-catalyzed Diels-Alder cycloadditions of 2'-hydroxychalcones.

Metal nanoparticles are currently being employed as catalysts for a number of classical chemical transformations. In contrast, identification of novel reactions of nanoparticles, especially toward the synthesis of complex natural products and derivatives, is highly underdeveloped and represents a bourgeoning area in chemical synthesis. Herein, we report silica-supported silver nanoparticles as solid, recyclable catalysts for Diels-Alder cycloadditions of 2'-hydroxychalcones and dienes in high yield and turnover number.

Electrochemical evidence for multiple peroxidatic heme states of the diheme cytochrome c peroxidase of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

The enzyme cytochrome c peroxidase from Pseudomonas aeruginosa and its catalytic mechanism were investigated using protein film voltammetry. Monolayers of the diheme bacterial enzyme were immobilized on both pyrolytic graphite edge and alkanethiol-modified Au electrodes. The redox couple associated with the low potential heme could be detected on both electrode surfaces at a reduction potential of -234 mV vs SHE.