M. Selvaraj

Activation of plant immunity through conversion of a helper NLR homodimer into a resistosome

This study shows how the helper NLR NRC2 converts from a homodimer to a higher-order oligomer upon activation by the sensor NLR Rx, revealing the molecular mechanism of plant immune activation.

Young gene HP6/Umbrea is dispensable for viability and fertility

The paper shows that the young gene HP6 is not essential for viability or fertility in Drosophila, challenging the idea that young genes often have essential functions.

Resurrection of plant disease resistance proteins via helper NLR bioengineering

A helper NLR is mutated to evade inhibition by a parasite effector, restoring disease resistance gene activity.

New Vista into Origins of Viruses from a Prototypic ssDNA Phage

The paper characterizes a lipid-containing ssDNA phage, {Phi}CjT23, and suggests it represents a model for the last common ancestor of ssDNA and dsDNA viruses in the Bamfordvirae.

Structural basis underlying specific biochemical activities of non-muscle tropomyosin isoforms

The paper determines cryo-EM structures of actin filaments with two non-muscle tropomyosin isoforms, revealing structural differences that explain their distinct functional roles.

Time-Dependent Increase in Susceptibility and Severity of Secondary Bacterial Infection during SARS-CoV-2 Infection

This study shows that SARS-CoV-2 infection increases susceptibility and severity of secondary bacterial infection in mice, with time-dependent effects on immune responses and lethality.

Structural studies on cell wall biogenesis-I: A method to produce high-quality protoplasts from alga Micrasterias denticulata, an emerging model in plant biology

Effective interferon (IFN)-lambda treatment regimen to control lethal MERS-CoV infection in mice

This study identifies an effective two-dose IFN-lambda regimen that protects mice from lethal MERS-CoV infection by reducing viral load and inflammation.

A new twist on bacterial motility - Two distinct type IV pili revealed by cryoEM

This study identifies two distinct type IV pili in Thermus thermophilus using cryoEM, revealing their structural differences and functional roles in motility and DNA uptake.