Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryoEM) faces challenges such as particle aggregation, preferential orientation, and loss at the air-water interface (AWI), particularly for membrane proteins like the ClC-1 channel. This study demonstrates that particles migrate to the AWI to minimize surface energy, a behavior mitigated by adding surfactants to reduce surface tension. CryoET and single-particle cryoEM experiments with GroEL revealed that surfactants reduce AWI adsorption from >90% to <20% while preserving structural integrity (≤3 Å resolution). Applied to the ClC-1 channel, this approach enabled its first near-atomic structure determination (3.8 Å), resolving ion transport mechanisms. The surfactant-based strategy provides a simple, universal solution to AWI artifacts, expanding cryoEM’s applicability to previously intractable targets.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are frequently recommended for the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers. This review article dwells upon various adverse effects that are associated with the extended use of PPIs and the mechanisms by which the PPIs lead to the progression of these complications, including Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) and pneumonia that develops due to impaired absorption caused by hypochlorhydria; cognitive impairment through decreased clearance of amyloid beta peptide and reduced synthesis of acetylcholine; osteoporosis that progresses due to reduced calcium absorption and disrupted bone remodeling through the effects on TRPM6/7 channels; Chronic kidney disease (CKD) caused by acute interstitial nephritis and vascular calcifications brought by hypomagnesemia; metabolic syndrome and type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. As such, clinicians must exercise carefulness when prescribing PPIs for extended periods. The most important aspect is the careful assessment of the indication prior to commencing the treatment, as well as reassessing the indication throughout its long-term administration.

In February 2025, we are very pleased to interview Professor Robert Peter Gale, Editor-in-Chief of Leukemia. Prof. Gale has dedicated to scientific and clinical research on leukemia and other bone marrow disorders over 50 years. In this interview, Prof. Gale shared his views on AI technology and its impact on the development of hematology.

It’s a debilitating disease that affects more than 500,000 Australians, but new research from the University of South Australia is offering fresh hope to people living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).