A small-molecule activator of kinesin-1 drives remodeling of the microtubule network.

The microtubule motor kinesin-1 interacts via its cargo-binding domain with both microtubules and organelles, and hence plays an important role in controlling organelle transport and microtubule dynamics. In the absence of cargo, kinesin-1 is found in an autoinhibited conformation. The molecular basis of how cargo engagement affects the balance between kinesin-1's active and inactive conformations and roles in microtubule dynamics and organelle transport is not well understood.

Molecular basis of Streptococcus mutans sortase A inhibition by the flavonoid natural product trans-chalcone.

Sortase A (SrtA) from Gram positive pathogens is an attractive target for inhibitors due to its role in the attachment of surface proteins to the cell wall. We found that the plant natural product trans-chalcone inhibits Streptococcus mutans SrtA in vitro and also inhibited S. mutans biofilm formation.