Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate to phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) enzymes, including engineered PAL enzymes, and their use in catalyzing chemical reactions.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein comprises peptides designed to include an amino acid sequence that confers such peptides with an ability to induce positive Gaussian curvature (and/or an ability to inhibit negative Gaussian curvature) in mammalian cell membranes. The invention disclosed herein further includes methods of using such peptides, for example as a non-hormonal contraceptive, an antiviral agent, an anti-inflammatory agent, or a therapeutic agent which can, for example, reduce neurotransmitter or hormone secretion in order to treat neuropsychiatric or endocrine disorders.

Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate to biosynthesis of cannabinoids and cannabinoid precursors in recombinant cells and in vitro. Specifically, the disclosure is directed to a prenyltransferase variant, a chimeric prenyltransferase comprising one or more portions of at least two different prenyltransferase proteins, and a fusion polypeptide comprising a CBG-type producing prenyltransferase and farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase.

Abstract: Described in this disclosure are rare earth element (REE)-binding proteins (e.g., lanthanide-binding proteins), host cells expressing the REE-binding proteins, and methods of recovering REEs.

Abstract: Compositions and methods are disclosed that relate to aminoglycoside-linker-peptide (P-L-A) conjugates having unexpectedly advantageous dual-function bactericidal properties. Encompassed compounds are shown to be capable of energy independent bacterial plasma membrane disruption and to exhibit potent toxicity to bacteria including antibiotic-resistant bacteria. These and related embodiments will find uses for treating bacterial infections including overcoming antibiotic resistance.