AI helps find hidden human proteins and reveals what they do
BiologyChemistry
THE AI ANGLE
Screening 3D shapes across predicted proteins to identify structural homologsUsing AI to compare the three-dimensional shapes of over 214 million predicted proteins rather than relying solely on genetic sequences, researchers identified hidden GPCR-like proteins, including TM184C. Subsequent experiments revealed that TM184C regulates autophagy and facilitates intercellular bridges that allow neighboring cells to exchange metabolites, vesicles, and mitochondria. This demonstrates how structural AI screening paired with experimental validation can uncover evolutionarily conserved mechanisms of cellular stress response and intercellular communication.
THE TEACHING ANGLE
Instructors can contrast sequence-based versus 3D structure-based homology searching to discuss how cells utilize physical conduits to balance cooperation and competition during metabolic stress.Read the original at phys.org Generate teaching or study materials
More in Biology
- Can Culta take Japan’s premium fruit model global?AgFunderNews · September 15, 2026
- AI models enable cross-species mapping of cell biologyPhys.org — Biology · September 15, 2026
- Robots and AI uncover unexpected pathway in classic 135-year-old chemical reactionPhys.org — Chemistry · September 15, 2026
- Hear how AI can engineer nature’s comeback at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026TechCrunch · September 14, 2026