T. C. Boothby

Disordered proteins interact with the chemical environment to tune their protective function during drying

This study investigates how disordered proteins interact with endogenous cosolutes during drying to enhance desiccation protection across different organisms.

Helicity of a tardigrade disordered protein promotes desiccation tolerance

This study shows that helical structure in a tardigrade IDP is necessary for desiccation tolerance, but not sufficient on its own.

Labile assembly of a tardigrade protein induces biostasis

This study identifies a mechanism by which tardigrade CAHS D proteins form gels to protect cells during desiccation, showing that gelation reduces molecular motion and metabolic activity, with reversible effects.

Water content, transition temperature and fragility influence protection and anhydrobiotic capacity

This study identifies material properties of vitrified systems that correlate with desiccation tolerance in vitro and in organisms, showing that protection depends on distinct properties for different sugars and that organisms combine these properties for survival.

Natural and engineered mediators of desiccation tolerance stabilize Human Blood Clotting Factor VIII in a dry state

This study shows that natural and engineered desiccation-tolerant mediators can stabilize Human Blood Clotting Factor VIII without cold-chain storage.

Tardigrade CAHS Proteins Act as Molecular Swiss Army Knives to Mediate Desiccation Tolerance Through Multiple Mechanisms

This study identifies CAHS D as a tardigrade protein that protects against desiccation through multiple mechanisms involving water coordination and slowed molecular motion.

LITE microscopy: a technique for high numerical aperture, low photobleaching fluorescence imaging

The paper introduces LITE microscopy, a technique that improves resolution and brightness while reducing photodamage in fluorescence imaging.