JERUSALEM, Oct. 20 (Xinhua) -- An international research team has discovered how cells control the flow of material into and out of their nuclei, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem said on Monday.
The finding, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, resolves a long-standing mystery in biology and could advance new treatments for diseases including cancer, Alzheimer's, and ALS, the university reported.
The study focuses on the nuclear pore complex (NPC), a microscopic structure that acts as a gatekeeper between the cell's nucleus, which holds its DNA, and the surrounding fluid, the cytoplasm. Millions of molecules pass through these molecular gates every minute, but only the correct ones are allowed. Until now, scientists have not fully understood how this process achieves such speed and accuracy.
Using detailed computer models, the researchers showed molecules can pass through the NPC only if they are escorted by special helper proteins called transport receptors. These proteins guide the molecules, creating a smooth, quick path.
The model explains how large molecules pass through while smaller ones are blocked, and why the system continues to work even if parts are damaged.
The researchers stated their findings help explain how cells remain healthy and could support the development of future medical tools, such as targeted drug delivery systems and disease sensors. ■
