Scientists Discover Extreme Proteins That Boost Rapid Disease Tests

Proteins found in volcanic lakes and deep-sea vents could lead to faster, more sensitive diagnostic tools.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 3:51am

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Researchers have identified previously unknown DNA-binding proteins in some of the most extreme environments on Earth, including volcanic lakes in Iceland and deep-sea hydrothermal vents in the North Atlantic. These robust proteins have shown the ability to remain stable under extreme conditions like high heat, salt, and harsh chemistry. One of the newly discovered proteins was found to significantly improve rapid LAMP diagnostic tests, making them faster and more sensitive in detecting pathogens like SARS-CoV-2.

Why it matters

The discovery of these resilient proteins from extreme environments could lead to the development of better biotechnology tools and medical diagnostics. Proteins that can function reliably under demanding conditions are highly sought after by companies, and these findings may also contribute to advances in AI-driven protein structure prediction and design.

The details

The international research team, led by Durham University, used next-generation DNA sequencing to scan massive genetic databases and identify the previously unknown DNA-binding proteins. They found that these molecules are exceptionally durable, with strong thermal stability that makes them well-suited for applications in biotechnology and medicine. When one of the new proteins was added to LAMP diagnostic tests, it significantly improved the speed and sensitivity of pathogen detection.

  • The research was published on March 15, 2026.

The players

Durham University

The lead institution behind the research that discovered the extreme proteins.

Professor Ehmke Pohl

The lead investigator of the study from Durham University.

ArcticZymes

A Norwegian biotechnology company that the researchers are collaborating with to explore commercial uses for the newly discovered proteins.

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What they’re saying

“This work highlights the enormous potential of bioprospecting from extreme habitats. The results are not only important for the bioeconomy, but they also provide the basis for all Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods in protein structure prediction and protein design.”

— Professor Ehmke Pohl (Durham University)

What’s next

The researchers are continuing to investigate additional DNA-binding proteins from extreme environments, and several promising candidates have already been identified. Scientists are also developing improved versions of the proteins and designing new LAMP tests aimed at neglected tropical diseases.

The takeaway

The discovery of these resilient proteins from volcanic lakes and deep-sea vents demonstrates the immense value of exploring nature's genetic diversity, even in the most extreme habitats. These findings have the potential to lead to significant advancements in biotechnology, medical diagnostics, and AI-driven protein design.