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Scientists have uncovered new DNA-binding proteins from some of the most extreme environments on Earth and shown that they can improve rapid medical tests for infectious diseases.
The international research team, led by Durham University and working with partners in Iceland, Norway and Poland, analysed genetic material from Icelandic volcanic lakes and deep-sea vents more than two kilometres below the surface of the North Atlantic Ocean.
Nature is the world's largest source of useful enzymes, but many remain undiscovered. By using next-generation DNA sequencing, the researchers were able to search huge databases containing millions of potential proteins.
This approach allowed them to identify previously unknown proteins that bind to single-stranded DNA and remain stable under harsh conditions such as high temperatures, extreme pH or high salt levels.
The newly discovered proteins were carefully studied using a range of laboratory techniques. The team showed that they are unusually robust, with the high thermal stability needed for use in biotechnology and medicine.
The scientists also determined their three-dimensional structures at high resolution, providing detailed insight into how the proteins work and allowing future optimisation through protein design.
One of the new DNA-binding proteins was shown to improve diagnostic tests based on loop-mediated isothermal amplification, known as LAMP. These tests can detect genetic material from viruses, bacteria or parasites without the need for complex laboratory equipment.
The added protein made the tests faster and more sensitive, improving the detection of RNA from viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, as well as DNA from other infectious agents.
The findings highlight the value of exploring extreme environments for new biological tools.
Lead investigator of the study, Professor Ehmke Pohl of Durham University, said: "This work highlights the enormous potential of bioprospecting from extreme habitats. The results are not only important for the bioeconomy, but they also provide the basis for all Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods in protein structure prediction and protein design."
Biotechnology companies are constantly searching for enzymes that can work reliably under demanding conditions, and proteins from hot springs or deep oceans are well suited to this role.
The results will also support wider efforts in protein prediction and design, including the development of artificial intelligence methods that rely on diverse real-world examples.
The team is now continuing the search for further DNA-binding proteins, with new candidates already identified and under investigation. Improved versions of these proteins are being designed, and new LAMP tests are being developed for neglected tropical diseases such as leishmaniasis and Chagas disease, in collaboration with researchers in Durham University's Biosciences Department.
Work is also under way with the Norwegian biotechnology company ArcticZymes to explore commercial applications.
