Sensing Cytosolic DNA Lowers Blood Pressure by Direct cGAMP-Dependent PKGI Activation.

Background: The major cytosolic DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) has emerged as a key mediator of inflammation that underlies cardiovascular disease. On interaction with double-stranded DNA, cGAS generates the second messenger 2',3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) that directly binds to and activates the stimulator of interferon genes, which in turn leads to enhanced expression of genes encoding interferons and proinflammatory cytokines. Here, we show that cGAMP generated by cGAS also directly activates PKGI (cGMP-dependent protein kinase 1), a mechanism that underlies crosstalk between inflammation and blood pressure regulation.

Spatial variations in aromatic hydrocarbon emission in a dust-rich galaxy.

Dust grains absorb half of the radiation emitted by stars throughout the history of the universe, re-emitting this energy at infrared wavelengths. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are large organic molecules that trace millimetre-size dust grains and regulate the cooling of interstellar gas within galaxies. Observations of PAH features in very distant galaxies have been difficult owing to the limited sensitivity and wavelength coverage of previous infrared telescopes.

IDH3γ functions as a redox switch regulating mitochondrial energy metabolism and contractility in the heart.

Redox signaling and cardiac function are tightly linked. However, it is largely unknown which protein targets are affected by hydrogen peroxide (HO) in cardiomyocytes that underly impaired inotropic effects during oxidative stress. Here, we combine a chemogenetic mouse model (HyPer-DAO mice) and a redox-proteomics approach to identify redox sensitive proteins.

Lampenflora in a Show Cave in the Great Basin Is Distinct from Communities on Naturally Lit Rock Surfaces in Nearby Wild Caves.

In show caves, artificial lighting is intended to illuminate striking cave formations for visitors. However, artificial lighting also promotes the growth of novel and diverse biofilm communities, termed lampenflora, that obtain their energy from these artificial light sources. Lampenflora, which generally consist of cyanobacteria, algae, diatoms, and bryophytes, discolor formations and introduce novel ecological interactions in cave ecosystems.