Computational Biology Tools for Identifying Specific Ligand Binding Residues for Novel Agrochemical and Drug Design.

The term "agrochemicals" is used in its generic form to represent a spectrum of pesticides, such as insecticides, fungicides or bactericides. They contain active components designed for optimized pest management and control, therefore allowing for economically sound and labor efficient agricultural production. A "drug" on the other side is a term that is used for compounds designed for controlling human diseases.

Overexpression of UCP1 in tobacco induces mitochondrial biogenesis and amplifies a broad stress response.

Background: Uncoupling protein one (UCP1) is a mitochondrial inner membrane protein capable of uncoupling the electrochemical gradient from adenosine-5'-triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, dissipating energy as heat. UCP1 plays a central role in nonshivering thermogenesis in the brown adipose tissue (BAT) of hibernating animals and small rodents. A UCP1 ortholog also occurs in plants, and aside from its role in uncoupling respiration from ATP synthesis, thereby wasting energy, it plays a beneficial role in the plant response to several abiotic stresses, possibly by decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and regulating cellular redox homeostasis.

New mutation in the myocilin gene segregates with juvenile-onset open-angle glaucoma in a Brazilian family.

Mutations in the myocilin gene (MYOC) account for most cases of autosomal dominant juvenile-onset open-angle glaucoma (JOAG), an earlier and more severe form of POAG. We accessed seven members of a Brazilian JOAG family by clinical and molecular investigation. Four out of seven family members were diagnosed with JOAG.