Single-molecule tracking of perfringolysin O assembly and membrane insertion uncoupling.

We exploit single-molecule tracking and optical single channel recording in droplet interface bilayers to resolve the assembly pathway and pore formation of the archetypical cholesterol-dependent cytolysin nanopore, Perfringolysin O. We follow the stoichiometry and diffusion of Perfringolysin O complexes during assembly with 60 ms temporal resolution and 20 nm spatial precision. Our results suggest individual nascent complexes can insert into the lipid membrane where they continue active assembly.

Pandemic-proof recruitment and engagement in a fully decentralized trial in atrial fibrillation patients (DeTAP).

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic curtailed clinical trial activity. Decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) can expand trial access and reduce exposure risk but their feasibility remains uncertain. We evaluated DCT feasibility for atrial fibrillation (AF) patients on oral anticoagulation (OAC).

Fluorescence imaging of MACPF/CDC proteins: new techniques and their application.

Structural and biochemical investigations have helped illuminate many of the important details of MACPF/CDC pore formation. However, conventional techniques are limited in their ability to tackle many of the remaining key questions, and new biophysical techniques might provide the means to improve our understanding. Here we attempt to identify the properties of MACPF/CDC proteins that warrant further study, and explore how new developments in fluorescence imaging are able to probe these properties.

Expression of flavonoid 3',5'-hydroxylase and acetolactate synthase genes in transgenic carnation: assessing the safety of a nonfood plant.

For 16 years, genetically modified flowers of carnation ( Dianthus caryophyllus ) have been sold to the floristry industry. The transgenic carnation carries a herbicide tolerance gene (a mutant gene encoding acetolactate synthase (ALS)) and has been modified to produce delphinidin-based anthocyanins in flowers, which conventionally bred carnation cannot produce. The modified flower color has been achieved by introduction of a gene encoding flavonoid 3',5'-hydroxylase (F3'5'H).