Largest Protein Yet Discovered Builds Algal Toxins
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Published: 8 August 2024
UCSD scientists discovered PKZILLA-1, the world’s largest protein, in golden algae. It drives toxin production and reveals new chemical strategies, offering tools for monitoring harmful blooms and developing medicines and materials.
Keywords: PKZILLA-1, golden algae, toxins, proteins, prymnesin, harmful algal blooms, biotechnology
Oyster Virus Detected in San Diego Bay Likely Worsened by Warmer Waters
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Published: 8 August 2024
UCSD scientists found a San Diego herpesvirus variant kills Pacific oysters above 18°C, with fastest deaths at 21–24°C. Rising ocean temps may worsen outbreaks, threatening aquaculture despite strict monitoring.
Keywords: OsHV-1, Pacific oysters, San Diego Bay, aquaculture, herpesvirus, temperature, mortality
New Drug Discovery Technique May Unlock Trove of Marine Compounds
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Published: 8 August 2024
UCSD scientists created SMIRC, a method using resin beads to capture marine compounds directly from the ocean. The technique revealed new molecules, including cabrillostatin with anti-cancer and heart effects, boosting drug discovery.
Keywords: MIRC, marine compounds, drug discovery, cabrillostatin, antibiotics, UCSD, ocean biotechnology
