Dr. Bubis studies proteins and their interactions, particularly those related to infections and health conditions such as neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer. He investigates proteins from parasites like *Trypanosoma equiperdum*—responsible for infections in horses—and others involved in cellular signaling. His research also aims to develop fluorescent compounds that help researchers track proteins more easily, enhancing our understanding of proteins’ roles in health and disease. By improving mass spectrometry techniques, he is able to identify more protein interactions and discover how proteins behave under different circumstances, which has implications for drug development and disease treatment.
Key findings
Identified a novel compound that can glow under certain conditions, enhancing protein labeling for biological studies with a fluorescence intensity of 0.098 in chloroform.
Demonstrated that the Orbitrap Astral mass spectrometry can detect over 40% more unique protein interactions compared to traditional methods, which is crucial for understanding diseases.
Showed that a specific protein from *Trypanosoma equiperdum* can inhibit enzyme activity, offering pathways for new treatment strategies against parasitic infections.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Bubis study infections caused by parasites?
Yes, Dr. Bubis focuses on proteins from parasites like *Trypanosoma equiperdum*, aiming to understand their functions to develop treatments.
What kind of conditions are relevant to Dr. Bubis's research?
His research is relevant to conditions such as neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer, as well as blood clotting issues.
What techniques does Dr. Bubis use in his research?
He utilizes advanced mass spectrometry and biochemical characterization techniques to analyze protein interactions and functions.
How could Dr. Bubis's findings help patients?
His research could lead to new treatments for various infections and diseases by improving our understanding of protein functions and interactions.
Is Dr. Bubis involved in education?
Yes, he proposes laboratory courses to enhance students’ understanding of protein analysis, making learning more practical and cost-effective.
Publications in plain English
Synthesis, Photophysical Characterization, and DFT Analysis of (E)-1-(4-aminophenyl)-3-(1-benzyl-pyrrol-2-yl) Prop-2-en-1-one, a Novel Aminochalcone that can be Used as a Fluorescent Probe for Protein Labeling.
2026
Journal of fluorescence
Martínez P, Flores A, Bonilla K, Urdaneta N, Benaím G +2 more
Plain English Researchers created a new compound called (E)-1-(4-aminophenyl)-3-(1-benzyl-pyrrol-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one, which can glow under certain conditions and be used to label proteins. They found that it fluoresces better in different solvents, showing brightness levels of 0.012 in methanol, 0.061 in acetonitrile, and 0.098 in chloroform. This discovery is important because it offers a reliable tool for scientists to track proteins in biological studies.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists working in biochemistry and molecular biology.
Spontaneous Subdural Hematomas as Initial Presentation of Acquired Coagulopathy: A Case Report.
2025
Cureus
Badillo-Velez NC, Rodriguez Y, Nabizadeh-Eraghi P, Bubis J
Plain English This study looks at a case of a 64-year-old woman who had severe headaches and neck pain, leading to the discovery of her blood not clotting properly. The tests showed that her blood took longer to clot than normal, which is known as an issue with coagulopathy. This finding is important because it helps doctors recognize and treat bleeding problems in patients who may also have autoimmune disorders.
Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients with blood clotting issues, particularly those with autoimmune diseases.
N3A motifs in RIβ mediate allosteric crosstalk between cAMP and ATP in PKA activation.
2025
Protein science : a publication of the Protein Society
Wu J, Bruystens JGH, Sahoo P, Bubis J, Maillard RA +2 more
Plain English Researchers studied a component of a protein involved in brain function, known as RIβ, which is important for understanding conditions like neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer. They found that when RIβ interacts with certain proteins or undergoes changes (like oxidation), it alters its structure, affecting how it is activated by molecules that regulate cell signaling, specifically cAMP and ATP. This research helps clarify a potential first step in how cAMP activates this important protein, which could be relevant for developing treatments for brain-related diseases.
Who this helps: This helps patients with neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer by providing insights that could lead to new therapies.
Breaking barriers in crosslinking mass spectrometry with enhanced throughput and sensitivity using Orbitrap Astral.
2025
Nature communications
Müller F, Birklbauer MJ, Bubis J, Stejskal K, Dorfer V +1 more
Plain English This study looks at two different mass spectrometry instruments, Orbitrap Astral and Orbitrap Eclipse, to see how well they can analyze protein interactions. The researchers found that the Orbitrap Astral detected over 40% more unique pairs of protein links and improved detection of low-abundance proteins, thanks to its higher sensitivity. These results matter because better identification of protein interactions can lead to a deeper understanding of biological processes and diseases.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying protein interactions and drug development.
Analysis of a Novel Peptide That Is Capable of Inhibiting the Enzymatic Activity of the Protein Kinase A Catalytic Subunit-Like Protein from Trypanosoma equiperdum.
2023
The protein journal
Araujo NA, Bubis J
Plain English This study examined a 26-residue peptide from a parasite called Trypanosoma equiperdum, which can block the activity of a specific enzyme (PKA) that is similar to one found in mammals. The researchers found that this peptide works differently than a known mammalian inhibitor, potentially leading to new ways to create treatments. The study also highlighted that the structure of this peptide is similar to others found in different species but has distinct differences that could be important for developing new drugs.
Who this helps: This could benefit researchers looking for new treatments for parasitic infections.
Cloning, expression, solubilization, and purification of a functionally active recombinant cAMP-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit-like protein PKAC1 from Trypanosoma equiperdum.
2022
Protein expression and purification
Guevara A, Lugo C, Montilla AJ, Calabokis M, Ferreira J +2 more
Plain English This study focused on a specific protein, PKAC1, from a parasite called Trypanosoma equiperdum, which is known to affect horses. Researchers were able to clone and produce this protein in bacteria, but found that most of it was not soluble. After testing different methods, they successfully purified a functional version of the protein that can trigger certain reactions in the body, which is important for understanding how this parasite might be treated or studied further.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on treatments for infections caused by Trypanosoma equiperdum.
Purification of a Src family tyrosine protein kinase from bovine retinas.
2021
Zeitschrift fur Naturforschung. C, Journal of biosciences
Perdomo D, Bubis J
Plain English This study focused on a specific type of protein called Src family tyrosine kinases found in the retinas of cows. Researchers isolated and purified a particular Src kinase that weighs about 62 kDa and found that, while this protein exists in retinal cells and shows some similarities to other known tyrosine kinases, it does not phosphorylate a protein called transducin, which is important for vision. Understanding these proteins better could lead to insights into how vision works and what goes wrong in eye diseases.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying eye health and potential treatments for vision-related disorders.
Proposal of a laboratory course dedicated to the generation of protein molecular weight standards for sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.
2021
Biochemistry and molecular biology education : a bimonthly publication of the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Bubis J
Plain English This study introduces a laboratory course designed to teach students how to create their own protein size markers for a technique called SDS-PAGE, which helps determine the size of proteins in a sample. Researchers produced different sets of these markers, including unstained and fluorescent options, that can be used repeatedly in student training instead of buying commercial products. This matters because it not only cuts costs but also enhances hands-on learning for students about protein analysis.
Who this helps: This benefits students and educators in biology and biochemistry programs.
Reversible phosphorylation of a protein from Trypanosoma equiperdum that exhibits homology with the regulatory subunits of mammalian cAMP-dependent protein kinases.
2021
Biochimie
Escalona JL, Bubis J
Plain English This study looked at two specific proteins from a parasite called Trypanosoma equiperdum and how they respond to glucose levels. When the parasite was deprived of glucose, one protein (TeqR-like) became modified through phosphorylation, increasing its size from 55 kDa to 57 kDa, and this change was reversible when glucose was reintroduced. These findings are important because they show how these proteins function and interact, which could help develop new treatments for diseases caused by this parasite.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on treatments for parasitic infections.
Biochemical characterization of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase regulatory subunit-like protein from Trypanosoma equiperdum, detection of its inhibitory activity, and identification of potential interacting proteins.
2020
Biochimie
Araujo NA, Rincón M, Vonasek E, Calabokis M, Bubis J
Plain English This study focused on a protein from the *Trypanosoma equiperdum* parasite that seems to play a role in inhibiting certain enzymes involved in signaling within cells. Researchers found that the protein, called TeqR-like, can inhibit another protein related to *Trypanosoma* and identified its specific blocking strength, which was measured at 1.17 micromolar. This discovery is important because it helps scientists understand how this parasite functions and could lead to new treatments for infections caused by it.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare professionals working with parasitic infections.
Cross-linking of bovine rhodopsin with sulfosuccinimidyl 4-(N maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylate affects its functionality.
2020
The Biochemical journal
Medina R, Perdomo D, Möller C, Bubis J
Plain English This study looked at how a chemical called sulfo-SMCC affects the function of a protein called rhodopsin, which is essential for vision. The researchers found that while most of the rhodopsin remained unchanged, about 2% more activity was measured in its ability to bind to another protein involved in vision after treatment. However, the treatment also prevented another important process from happening, meaning that the cross-linking might stop rhodopsin from working properly in response to light.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying vision and potential treatments for vision-related disorders.
Dominant IgM synthesis against the soluble form of the prevailing variant surface glycoprotein from TeAp-N/D1throughout the experimental acute infections of horses with non-tsetse transmittedparasites.
2020
Journal of immunoassay & immunochemistry
Uzcanga GL, Bubis J
Plain English This study looked at how two horses responded to infections by non-tsetse transmitted parasites. Researchers found that both horses produced antibodies against a specific protein called p64, with a significant increase in a type of antibody called IgM that highlighted their immune reaction. Specifically, there was a peak in IgM production that aligned with the highest levels of another antibody type called IgG, suggesting this could help in diagnosing and managing these types of infections in horses.
Who this helps: This research benefits veterinarians and horse owners dealing with these infections.
Light or tyrosine phosphorylation recruits retinal rod outer segment proteins to lipid rafts.
2020
Biochimie
Perdomo D, Bubis J
Plain English This study looked at how specific proteins in the retina interact with areas of the cell membrane called lipid rafts, which are important for cell signaling. The researchers found that proteins like transducin (T) and a version of arrestin (p44) moved to these rafts when the retina was exposed to light. They discovered that T was always phosphorylated (a chemical change) when in the light, which helps it stay in the lipid rafts instead of moving away, showcasing how light changes protein behavior in retinal cells.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors understand visual processing better, which can lead to new treatments for vision-related disorders.
Glucose deprivation activates a cAMP-independent protein kinase from Trypanosoma equiperdum.
2019
Parasitology
Guevara A, Lugo C, Montilla AJ, Araujo NA, Calabokis M +1 more
Plain English This study looked at a specific enzyme from the Trypanosoma equiperdum parasite, which becomes active when the parasite is deprived of glucose. Researchers found that this enzyme has a weight of about 39 to 52 kDa, works best at a temperature of 37°C, and has specific reactions to certain chemicals, with "Km values" indicating how readily it responds to ATP and the peptide Kemptide. Understanding this enzyme is important because it can provide insights into how this parasite survives in low-nutrient environments, which could lead to new treatments.
Who this helps: This helps researchers looking for new ways to treat infections caused by Trypanosoma equiperdum.
Sequence Analysis of the cAMP-Dependent Protein Kinase Regulatory Subunit-Like Protein From Trypanosoma brucei.
2019
Acta parasitologica
Araujo NA, Bubis J
Plain English The study looked at a protein from the Trypanosoma brucei parasite, which causes sleeping sickness. Researchers analyzed different parts of this protein to understand its structure and how it might function, finding that one area resembles a well-ordered structure found in similar proteins from mammals. This matters because understanding the structure of this protein could lead to new insights into how this parasite operates and potentially how to treat infections it causes.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on treatments for Trypanosoma brucei infections.
The gene product of a Trypanosoma equiperdum ortholog of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase regulatory subunit is a monomeric protein that is not capable of binding cyclic nucleotides.
2018
Biochimie
Bubis J, Martínez JC, Calabokis M, Ferreira J, Sanz-Rodríguez CE +4 more
Plain English This study looked at a specific protein from the Trypanosoma equiperdum parasite, which is related to a known protein that helps regulate certain cellular processes. Researchers found that this protein does not bind to cyclic nucleotides, which are important molecules in many biological functions, and measured it to be about 57,000 Da in size. Understanding how this protein works could help in developing treatments for diseases caused by this parasite, as it plays a role in the parasite's biology and potentially its ability to survive in hosts.
Who this helps: Patients with diseases caused by the Trypanosoma equiperdum parasite.
The inositol-1,2-cyclic phosphate moiety of the cross-reacting determinant, carbohydrate chains, and proteinaceous components are all responsible for the cross-reactivity of trypanosome variant surface glycoproteins.
2018
Journal of immunoassay & immunochemistry
Escalona JL, Uzcanga GL, Carrasquel LM, Bubis J
Plain English The study focused on how certain proteins from different trypanosome parasites can confuse the immune system by appearing similar. Researchers looked at four different strains of these parasites and found that both carbohydrate structures and specific protein parts cause the immune system to react to them in a similar way. This is important because it helps us understand how these parasites evade detection, which could lead to better treatments in the future.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on treatments for trypanosome infections.
Phosphorylation-induced conformational changes of photoactivated rhodopsin probed by fluorescent labeling at Cysand Cys.
2018
Biochimie
Rodríguez S, Silva ML, Benaím G, Bubis J
Plain English Researchers studied how light exposure and phosphorylation (a chemical modification) affect the shape of a protein called rhodopsin found in cows. They discovered that when rhodopsin is exposed to light and phosphorylated, its fluorescent signal dropped by about 90%, indicating significant changes in its structure. This is important because understanding these changes can help us learn more about how our eyes detect light and process vision.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on eye-related treatments and conditions.
High immunological response against a Trypanosoma equiperdum protein that exhibits homology with the regulatory subunits of mammalian cAMP-dependent protein kinases.
2018
Journal of immunoassay & immunochemistry
Mendoza E, Bubis J, Pérez-Rojas Y, Montilla AJ, Spencer LM +2 more
Plain English Researchers studied a protein from the parasite Trypanosoma equiperdum that is similar to proteins found in mammals. They found that mice developed strong immune responses to this protein, with a high amount of specific antibodies detected, indicating effective immune recognition. In experiments, two healthy horses infected with either T. equiperdum or another type of trypanosome showed a similar immune response, confirming that this protein can trigger antibody production in different hosts.
Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and horse owners by providing insights into the immune response to trypanosome infections.
Identification of potential protein partners that bind to the variant surface glycoprotein in Trypanosoma equiperdum.
2017
Parasitology
Carrasquel LM, Escalona JL, Acosta-Serrano A, Guo Y, Bubis J
Plain English This study focused on a protein found in the parasite Trypanosoma equiperdum, which helps the parasite avoid detection by the host's immune system. Researchers identified several potential partner proteins that could interact with this surface protein, finding two key candidates that weigh about 80 kDa and 55 kDa. This is important because understanding these interactions can lead to new strategies for targeting the parasite and treating infections it causes.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on treatments for infections caused by T. equiperdum and related parasites.
Interaction of tubulin and protein kinase CK2 in Trypanosoma equiperdum.
2017
Zeitschrift fur Naturforschung. C, Journal of biosciences
Boscán BE, Uzcanga GL, Calabokis M, Camargo R, Aponte F +1 more
Plain English This study examined the interaction between two proteins, tubulin and a protein called CK2, in the parasite Trypanosoma equiperdum. Researchers found that tubulin can be modified by CK2 through a process called phosphorylation, and this modification was affected by certain blockers that inhibit CK2. Specifically, they demonstrated that tubulin and CK2 are closely linked in this parasite, which may help us understand how the parasite operates and could inform treatments.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying parasitic infections and potential therapies.
Growth arrest and morphological changes triggered by emodin on Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes cultivated in axenic medium.
2017
Biochimie
De Lima AR, Noris-Suárez K, Bretaña A, Contreras VT, Navarro MC +2 more
Plain English The study examined the effects of a compound called emodin on the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, which causes Chagas disease. Researchers found that emodin stopped the parasite from dividing, causing it to grow without completing cell division, and it resulted in visible changes to the parasites' structures, like the appearance of bumps and folds on their surfaces. These findings matter because they highlight a potential way to disrupt the life cycle of a dangerous parasite, which could lead to new treatments for Chagas disease.
Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from Chagas disease.
Serodiagnosis of bovine trypanosomosis caused by non-tsetse transmitted Trypanosoma (Duttonella) vivax parasites using the soluble form of a Trypanozoon variant surface glycoprotein antigen.
2016
Veterinary parasitology
Uzcanga GL, Pérez-Rojas Y, Camargo R, Izquier A, Noda JA +5 more
Plain English This study focused on improving the diagnosis of bovine trypanosomosis, a disease caused by Trypanosoma (Duttonella) vivax parasites. Researchers tested a specific protein called p64 from these parasites and found that about 70-80% of infected cows had antibodies against it. The tests showed a sensitivity of 71.6% and a remarkable specificity of 98.8%, indicating that p64 could be a reliable marker for identifying infections.
Who this helps: This helps farmers and veterinarians identify infected cattle quickly and effectively.
Immunological identification of a cAMP-dependent protein kinase regulatory subunit-like protein from the Trypanosoma equiperdum TeAp-N/D1 isolate.
2016
Journal of immunoassay & immunochemistry
Calabokis M, González Y, Merchán A, Escalona JL, Araujo NA +5 more
Plain English This study looked at a specific protein related to cAMP-dependent protein kinase in a type of parasite called Trypanosoma equiperdum, which affects livestock. Researchers created special antibodies to identify a similar protein in the parasite and discovered a protein that matches certain characteristics of the pig heart version, but it doesn’t function the same way in the parasite. This finding is important because it helps scientists understand how the protein works in parasites, which could inform future treatments for infections caused by similar organisms.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying parasitic infections and may aid in developing new treatments for affected animals.
Fluram-Kemptide-Lys8 Non-radioactive Assay for Protein Kinase A.
2016
The protein journal
Araujo NA, Guevara A, Lorenzo MA, Calabokis M, Bubis J
Plain English This research focused on improving a method for measuring the activity of a specific enzyme called protein kinase A (PKA), which plays a key role in various cellular processes. The study developed a new non-radioactive assay that allows for the easy detection of PKA activity using specially designed peptides, achieving reliable results with a detection limit of 260 picomoles and a linear measurement range from 700 to 1150 picomoles. This advancement is important because it provides a more efficient and safer way to study PKA, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of diseases involving this enzyme.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors studying diseases related to PKA.
Correlation of transducin photoaffinity labeling with the specific formation of intermolecular disulfide linkages in its α-subunit.
2015
Biochimie
Perdomo D, Möller C, Bubis J
Plain English This study looked at how transducin, a protein important for vision, interacts with light-activated rhodopsin and a special molecule called 8-N3GTP. Researchers found that only a small amount (0.02) of 8-N3GTP attached to transducin and that when two parts of transducin (the α-subunit) link together through specific chemical bonds called disulfides, it can disrupt the normal functions of transducin. This discovery is important because it helps us understand how transducin works and how these connections can affect its activity in the visual process.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists studying vision and related disorders.
Variant surface glycoproteins from Venezuelan trypanosome isolates are recognized by sera from animals infected with either Trypanosoma evansi or Trypanosoma vivax.
2015
Veterinary parasitology
Camargo R, Izquier A, Uzcanga GL, Perrone T, Acosta-Serrano A +5 more
Plain English This study focused on trypanosome parasites, which can infect animals, specifically looking at proteins on their surfaces known as variant surface glycoproteins (VSGs). Researchers found that specific VSGs from two trypanosome strains were recognized by a high percentage of antibodies from infected cattle: 93% for one strain and 74% for another. This is important because it suggests that using multiple VSGs together could improve the diagnosis of these infections in animals.
Who this helps: This benefits veterinarians and livestock farmers dealing with animal infections.
A prospective multicenter study of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria cells in patients with bone marrow failure.
2014
Cytometry. Part B, Clinical cytometry
Raza A, Ravandi F, Rastogi A, Bubis J, Lim SH +5 more
Plain English Researchers studied the presence of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) cells in patients with bone marrow failure, specifically those with aplastic anemia (AA) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Out of 5,398 patients, 199 (3.7%) had PNH cells, with the rates being as high as 18.5% in AA patients. This is important because identifying PNH in these patients can lead to better treatments and management strategies that improve their care.
Who this helps: This helps patients with bone marrow failure, especially those with aplastic anemia.
Partial Purification of Integral Membrane Antigenic Proteins from Trypanosoma evansi That Display Immunological Cross-Reactivity with Trypanosoma vivax.
2014
Journal of parasitology research
Velásquez NP, Camargo RE, Uzcanga GL, Bubis J
Plain English This study focused on two parasites, Trypanosoma evansi and Trypanosoma vivax, which cause diseases in animals in Venezuela. Researchers found that proteins from T. evansi can trigger immune responses similar to those caused by T. vivax, identifying proteins with sizes of 27 kDa, 31 kDa, and 53 kDa that were recognized by antibodies from infected cows. This discovery is important because it may help develop better diagnostic tools for diseases caused by these parasites, making it easier to manage infections in animals.
Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and livestock owners deal with trypanosomosis in cattle.
Binding of rhodopsin and rhodopsin analogues to transducin, rhodopsin kinase and arrestin-1.
2014
World journal of biological chemistry
Araujo NA, Sanz-Rodríguez CE, Bubis J
Plain English This study examined how different forms of rhodopsin, a light-sensitive protein in the eyes, interact with specific proteins called transducin, rhodopsin kinase, and arrestin-1. Researchers found that the reconstituted rhodopsin containing 13-cis-retinal could activate transducin even without light, while rhodopsin with 9-cis-retinal showed only partial activation. The results highlight the unique abilities of these rhodopsin variants and their potential implications for understanding visual processes, with 88% reconstitution for standard rhodopsin, 81% for 9-cis-retinal, and only 24% for 13-cis-retinal.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working on vision-related disorders.
Randomized phase III trial of amrubicin versus topotecan as second-line treatment for patients with small-cell lung cancer.
2014
Journal of clinical oncology : official journal of the American Society of Clinical Oncology
von Pawel J, Jotte R, Spigel DR, O'Brien ME, Socinski MA +14 more
Plain English This study compared two drugs, amrubicin and topotecan, as second-line treatments for small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) in 637 patients. The researchers found that both drugs had similar overall survival rates—7.5 months for amrubicin and 7.8 months for topotecan—but amrubicin showed better results for patients whose cancer had not responded to previous treatments, with a survival of 6.2 months compared to 5.7 months for topotecan. Amrubicin also had a higher overall response rate and caused fewer severe side effects, making it a slightly better option for some patients.
Who this helps: This helps patients with small-cell lung cancer looking for alternative treatment options after their initial therapies.
Comparative analysis of proteases in the injected and dissected venom of cone snail species.
2013
Toxicon : official journal of the International Society on Toxinology
Möller C, Vanderweit N, Bubis J, Marí F
Plain English This study looked at the proteins in the venom of different cone snail species to understand how they help the snails capture prey. The researchers found that all venom samples could break down gelatin, but the specific proteins and their activity levels varied significantly between species and types of venom, especially between injected and dissected samples. This information is important because it reveals how cone snails use different proteins to effectively paralyze their prey, which could inform the development of new medical treatments.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and medical professionals studying pain management and potential new therapies.
A Prospective Multicenter Study of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria Cells in Patients with Bone Marrow Failure.
2013
Cytometry. Part B, Clinical cytometry
Raza A, Ravandi F, Rastogi A, Bubis J, Lim SH +5 more
Plain English This study looked at patients with certain blood disorders—specifically aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, and other bone marrow failure syndromes—to find out how common a condition called paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is among them. They found that about 3.7% of all patients had PNH cells, but this was significantly higher (18.5%) in patients with aplastic anemia. Understanding the prevalence of PNH in these patients can help doctors better manage and treat them, as it is linked to complications like hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells).
Who this helps: Patients with aplastic anemia and similar blood disorders.
Localization and quaternary structure of the PKA RIβ holoenzyme.
2012
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
Ilouz R, Bubis J, Wu J, Yim YY, Deal MS +4 more
Plain English This study looked at a specific part of a protein complex called PKA, focusing on the RIβ version that is found mainly in mitochondria. Researchers found that the structure of the RIβ version differs from similar proteins, which helps in understanding how PKA works differently in various cells. This matters because it opens up new avenues for understanding how PKA affects cell signaling and could lead to targeted therapies in the future.
Who this helps: Patients with conditions related to mitochondrial dysfunction and doctors treating these conditions.
A variant of arrestin-1 binds rod outer segment membranes in a light-independent manner.
2011
Archives of biochemistry and biophysics
Uzcanga GL, Becerra AR, Perdomo D, Bubis J
Plain English This study focused on a specific protein variant of arrestin-1 and how it interacts with membranes in the retina, which is essential for vision. Researchers found that this variant binds to the outer segments of retinal rod cells even without light, while the regular arrestin-1 only binds when light is present. This is important because understanding how different protein variants work can help develop better treatments for vision-related disorders.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on retinal diseases and vision restoration therapies.
Conserved residues in the extracellular loops of short-wavelength cone visual pigments.
2011
Biochemistry
Chen MH, Sandberg DJ, Babu KR, Bubis J, Surya A +6 more
Plain English This study examined a part of a protein in the eye called Xenopus violet cone opsin, which is important for vision in low light. Researchers found that specific changes (mutations) in this protein disrupt its ability to bind to critical molecules needed for vision, and these changes can lead to misfolding, meaning the protein does not work properly. They discovered that certain areas of the protein help it maintain its structure and function, and these differences are key compared to similar proteins in other visual systems.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists, doctors, and potentially patients with vision-related issues.
85-kDa protein of Trypanosoma cruzi purified by affinity chromatography used in the multiple antigen binding assay (MABA) for the diagnosis of T. cruzi infection in a Venezuelan rural community.
2010
Parasitology research
Berrizbeitia M, Ward BJ, Bubis J, Gottschalk M, Aché A +5 more
Plain English This study focused on improving the diagnosis of Chagas' disease, which is caused by a parasite called Trypanosoma cruzi. Researchers tested an 85-kDa protein in a new diagnostic method and found it was very effective, achieving 100% accuracy for detecting the disease in a small community in Venezuela, where they found 6 out of 66 people were infected. This matters because it highlights a reliable way to identify Chagas' disease in areas where it's not expected, potentially preventing further spread.
Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk of Chagas' disease and healthcare providers looking for better diagnostic tools.
The 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase of Leishmania (Leishmania) mexicana: gene characterization and protein structure prediction.
2010
Journal of molecular microbiology and biotechnology
González D, Pérez JL, Serrano ML, Igoillo-Esteve M, Cazzulo JJ +3 more
Plain English This study focused on a specific enzyme called 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGDH) found in the Leishmania parasite, which is responsible for a disease affecting many people. Researchers detailed the gene for this enzyme, found that it produces a protein with 479 amino acids, and showed that it has unique properties compared to similar enzymes in related parasites. These findings indicate that 6PGDH could be a promising target for developing new drugs to treat infections caused by these parasites effectively.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients suffering from Leishmania infections by paving the way for better treatments.
Purification and characterization of transducin from capybara Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris.
2008
Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part B, Biochemistry & molecular biology
Ortiz JO, Rodríguez-Lanetty M, Bubis J
Plain English This study focused on a protein called transducin found in capybaras, which plays a key role in how these animals process light in their eyes. Researchers discovered three specific parts of transducin that work together: an alpha subunit and a beta-gamma complex. They found that capybara transducin acted similarly to other known transducins, which is important for understanding how these animals see.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying vision in animals and could lead to insights into visual disorders in humans.
Anti-VSG antibodies induce an increase in Trypanosoma evansi intracellular Ca2+ concentration.
2008
Parasitology
Mendoza M, Uzcanga GL, Pacheco R, Rojas H, Carrasquel LM +5 more
Plain English This study looked at how antibodies from cows infected with Trypanosoma vivax affect the Trypanosoma evansi parasite. When these antibodies were introduced to T. evansi, the parasites experienced a rise in calcium levels that led to their destruction. Specifically, this calcium increase was linked to both calcium entering the parasites from their surroundings and a release from their internal stores, emphasizing the role of calcium in fighting these parasites.
Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and scientists focused on treating infections caused by Trypanosoma parasites.
Use of 5'-[p-(fluorosulfonyl)benzoyl] guanosine as an affinity probe for the guanine nucleotide-binding site of transducin.
2007
The protein journal
Jaffé M, Bubis J
Plain English This study looked at how a new compound, called FSBG, interacts with a protein called transducin, which plays a crucial role in how we see by processing light signals in the eye. Researchers found that while FSBG doesn't bind as strongly to transducin as other known compounds, it still affects its ability to function when light is present. Specifically, increasing concentrations of FSBG reduced transducin's activity in a measurable way, showing it could modify how this protein works.
Who this helps: This benefits scientists studying vision and potential treatments for visual disorders.
Tight binding between a pool of the heterodimeric alpha/beta tubulin and a protein kinase CK2 in Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes.
2006
Parasitology
De Lima AR, Medina R, Uzcanga GL, Noris Suárez K, Contreras VT +3 more
Plain English This study looked at how a specific protein called tubulin in Trypanosoma cruzi, a parasite that causes Chagas disease, interacts with another protein known as CK2. The researchers found that these two proteins bind tightly together, especially influenced by the presence of certain minerals, and discovered that the tubulin is phosphorylated by CK2, which is important for its function. This research is significant because understanding this interaction could lead to new strategies for treating infections caused by this parasite.
Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working on treatments for Chagas disease.
Purified excreted-secreted antigens from Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes as tools for diagnosis of Chagas' disease.
2006
Journal of clinical microbiology
Berrizbeitia M, Ndao M, Bubis J, Gottschalk M, Aché A +3 more
Plain English This study focused on improving tests for diagnosing late-stage Chagas' disease, which currently lacks a dependable method. Researchers tested 709 blood samples and found that a new testing method using purified proteins from the parasite had a sensitivity of 98.6% and a perfect specificity of 100%. This is important because better tests can help protect the blood supply in areas where Chagas' disease is common, ultimately leading to better patient care.
Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for Chagas' disease and healthcare providers in endemic regions.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis transporter MmpL7 is a potential substrate for kinase PknD.
2006
Biochemical and biophysical research communications
Pérez J, Garcia R, Bach H, de Waard JH, Jacobs WR +3 more
Plain English Researchers studied a protein in the tuberculosis bacteria called PknD and its role in modifying another protein called MmpL7, which is important for the bacteria's ability to cause disease. They found that when they disabled the pknD gene in lab tests, the bacteria produced fewer phosphorylated versions of MmpL7, suggesting that PknD plays a key role in how this transporter functions and helps the bacteria survive. This is significant because targeting these proteins could lead to new treatments for tuberculosis, a serious infection affecting millions each year.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with tuberculosis and healthcare providers looking for better treatment options.
Field evaluation of four novel enzyme immunoassays for Chagas' disease in Venezuela blood banks: comparison of assays using fixed-epimastigotes, fixed-trypomastigotes or trypomastigote excreted-secreted antigens from two Trypanosoma cruzi strains.
2006
Transfusion medicine (Oxford, England)
Berrizbeitia M, Ndao M, Bubis J, Gottschalk M, Aché A +3 more
Plain English This study looked at new blood tests for diagnosing Chagas' disease, using different types of antigens from the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite. Researchers tested these new tests on over 2,000 blood samples from Venezuela and found that they had 100% sensitivity and more than 99% specificity, which means they were able to correctly identify all cases of the disease while making very few mistakes. This is important because it shows these new tests are much better than the current method used in Venezuela, potentially leading to better diagnosis and treatment for those infected.
Who this helps: This helps patients with Chagas' disease by improving diagnosis accuracy.
Oligopeptidase B from Trypanosoma evansi. A parasite peptidase that inactivates atrial natriuretic factor in the bloodstream of infected hosts.
2005
The Journal of biological chemistry
Morty RE, Pellé R, Vadász I, Uzcanga GL, Seeger W +1 more
Plain English This study looked at a specific enzyme, called oligopeptidase B (OpdB), found in the parasite Trypanosoma evansi, which affects animals. Researchers discovered that OpdB can break down a hormone in the blood that normally helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure, resulting in a significant drop in this hormone from 130 to just 8 units in infected rats. This finding is important because it helps explain how this parasite can disrupt hormone levels in infected animals, potentially leading to serious health issues.
Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and researchers working on treatments for infections caused by T. evansi in animals.
Plain English This research focused on a new group of conotoxins, which are proteins found in the venom of certain cone snails, that can potentially affect nerve function. The study identified and described four specific conotoxins from two types of cone snails, revealing that they share a similar helical structure important for their function. One of these conotoxins contains a unique feature that suggests it might block potassium channels, which is similar to mechanisms seen in other venomous creatures, hinting at a shared genetic background in their evolution.
Who this helps: This work benefits researchers studying marine venoms and could lead to new therapies for nerve-related conditions.
Isolation of two antigens from Trypanosoma evansi that are partially responsible for its cross-reactivity with Trypanosoma vivax.
2004
Veterinary parasitology
Camargo RE, Uzcanga GL, Bubis J
Plain English Researchers studied two parasites, Trypanosoma evansi and Trypanosoma vivax, that affect animals in Venezuela. They found two additional proteins from T. evansi, weighing around 51 and 68 kDa, that could trigger an immune response similar to T. vivax. This is important because these proteins could help improve tests for diagnosing infections in animals, making it easier to manage these diseases.
Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and animal owners in diagnosing and treating infections in livestock.
Chemical modification of transducin with dansyl chloride hinders its binding to light-activated rhodopsin.
2004
Journal of biochemistry and molecular biology
Kosoy A, Möller C, Perdomo D, Bubis J
Plain English This study focused on how a chemical called dansyl chloride affects a protein called transducin, which plays a key role in vision by connecting light-sensitive rhodopsin to another protein that helps process light signals. Researchers found that labeling transducin with dansyl chloride significantly reduced its ability to bind to light-activated rhodopsin, while rhodopsin itself remained unaffected. Specifically, about 2-3 molecules of dansyl chloride attached to each molecule of transducin, illustrating that certain areas on transducin are crucial for its function in vision.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying vision and potential treatments for visual impairments.
Identification of casein kinase 1, casein kinase 2, and cAMP-dependent protein kinase-like activities in Trypanosoma evansi.
2004
Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz
Galán-Caridad JM, Calabokis M, Uzcanga G, Aponte F, Bubis J
Plain English This study looked at the presence of specific protein kinases in the parasite Trypanosoma evansi, which could modify other proteins by adding phosphate groups. Researchers found that T. evansi has enzymes that can affect tubulin, a key component of its structure, with up to 100% increase in phosphorylation observed with certain conditions. These findings are important because understanding how these enzymes work could lead to new treatments for diseases caused by this parasite, which is known to affect livestock and humans.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors looking for new ways to fight infections caused by Trypanosoma evansi.
Graciela L Uzcanga Maritza Calabokis Nelson A Araujo Deisy Perdomo José L Escalona Carolina Möller Susan S Taylor Alberto Guevara Alejandro J Montilla Carlos E Sanz-Rodríguez
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Plain-English summaries generated by AI.
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