John S. Klassen

Genetically-encoded discovery and development of peptide-macrocycle imaging agents for PD-L1

This paper develops PD-L1-targeting macrocycle imaging agents using phage-display technology without non-canonical amino acids, achieving single-digit-nanomolar potency and structural characterization.

Site-specific processing of phosphoethanolamine cellulose by the BcsZ cellulase reveals stochastic biofilm cellulose modification

This study identifies how BcsZ cellulase processes phosphoethanolamine-modified cellulose in the periplasm, revealing stochastic pEtN distribution and independent BcsZ function.

The Q226H Mutation in Avian H5N1 Hemagglutinin Mediates a Path towards Structural Adaptation in Humans

The paper shows that the Q226H mutation in H5N1 hemagglutinin allows binding to human-type a2-6 sialic acid receptors, suggesting a path towards human adaptation.

Glycolipid recognition and binding by Siglec-6 hinges on interactions with the cell membrane

This study investigates Siglec-6's binding mechanism to gangliosides, showing it relies on both conserved and membrane-associated residues for effective recognition.

The SARS-CoV-2 spike N-terminal domain engages 9-O-acetylated α2-8-linked sialic acids

This paper identifies 9-O-acetylated sialic acids as a ligand for the SARS-CoV-2 NTD, revealing a dual-receptor functionality in the S1 domain that was rapidly selected against.