Eva Nogales studies the molecular function of macromolecular assemblies by direct visualization of their architecture, functional states, and regulatory interactions. Nogales and her team focus their efforts on two areas of eukaryotic biology in particular: regulatory mechanisms underlying gene expression and cytoskeleton self-assembly during cell division. To gain a molecular understanding of their systems of interest, the team uses cutting-edge cryo-electron microscopy methods and image analysis as well as biochemical and biophysical assays.
The large viruses known as jumbo phages employ a curious counter-defense strategy to protect their DNA while attacking bacteria. Now, scientists have identified the key protein involved and solved its structure. Scientists solved the structure of a large human protein complex and uncovered some unexpected differences between people and yeast. The structure could guide the development of drugs to treat diseases that arise when this complex malfunctions. Never-before-seen images of mouse immune system proteins and bacterial bits reveal an inspection strategy that identifies pathogens. HHMI scientists are among 84 newly elected members. Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) scientists have created a portrait of a DNA-snipping protein called Cas9, a powerful research tool used in many labs for genome editing. Scientists have a new view of the cellular machinery that assembles directly on DNA and readies it for transcription into RNA, the first step in protein production.