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Iron is essential for biological systems but can also damage or kill cells, leading to a variety of disease states. A review of mechanisms leading to Fe- and ROS-dependent cell death highlights the vast array of open questions in this complex field.
Bioorthogonal chemistry, facilitated by enzymatic incorporation of chemical reporters in vitro or in cells, permits selective labeling and visualization of proteins, nucleic acids and other biomolecules such as glycans and lipids and facilitates the interrogation of their cellular functions.
Beyond their canonical functions of charging tRNAs with amino acids for protein translation, tRNA synthetases have numerous nontranslational roles that regulate signaling, immunity and development.
Metabolites and cofactors can be converted to unwanted compounds by promiscuous enzymes and spontaneous chemical reactions. The growing list of enzymes that correct or prevent these reactions, akin to those that combat DNA and protein damage, have important roles in maintaining homeostasis and preventing disease.