Advancing Luciferase Activity and Stability beyond Directed Evolution and Rational Design through Expert Guided Deep Learning.

Engineered luciferases have transformed biological imaging and sensing, yet optimizing NanoLuc luciferase (NLuc) remains challenging due to the inherent stability-activity trade-off and its limited sequence homology with characterized proteins. We report a hybrid approach that synergistically integrates computational deep learning with structure-guided rational design to develop enhanced NLuc variants that improve thermostability and thereby activity at elevated temperatures. By systematically analyzing libraries of engineered variants, we established that modifications to termini and loops distal from the catalytic center, combined with preservation of allosterically coupled networks, effectively enhance thermal resilience while maintaining enzymatic function.

Magnetic nanoparticles tethered with Zn-DPA for the removal of bacteria from red blood cell suspension.

Bacterial infections continue to drive the need for more effective and rapid methods for bacterial analysis. To address this, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have emerged as promising tools, especially when their surfaces are modified with bacteria binders. The bis-zinc-dipicolylamine (Zn-DPA) complex is known for its broad affinity to bacteria.

Key-Informant Perspectives On Pharmacy-Based Methadone Treatment For Opioid Use Disorder In The US.

Access to medications for opioid use disorder (OUD) in the pharmacy is internationally accepted; however, in the US, methadone treatment for OUD can only be provided by opioid treatment programs (OTPs). Under current US law, OTPs and pharmacies can partner to offer methadone in the pharmacy through "medication units." Changes to federal law could permit pharmacies to fill methadone prescriptions for OUD.

Efficacy of different "boiling" methods for bacterial DNA extraction.

Sanger sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene remains an effective method to identify bacterial isolates but first requires an effective and inexpensive DNA extraction method. We tested the efficacy of five different low-cost DNA extraction methods on nine bacterial isolates to identify a standard method.

Xylazine Awareness and Suspected Presence in the Illicit Drug Supply Among People Who Used Stimulants in an Overdose Hotspot, 2023.

Background: Xylazine is harmful to humans and detected in the United States fentanyl supply and sometimes in stimulants. Awareness of xylazine among people who use stimulants (PWUS) is underexplored.

Methods: In 2023, 59 PWUS in Brockton, Massachusetts, were surveyed about their past 30-day substance use and xylazine awareness.