Structure and Dynamics in Elastin

该项目的目标是利用固体核磁共振技术，对蛋白质弹性蛋白的弹性和动态特性有新的认识。弹性蛋白主要由长的疏水链和富含丙氨酸的交联区组成。弹性蛋白具有复杂的构成，将其分子级结构和动力学与其弹性联系起来的信息有限。这种蛋白质的本质排除了高分辨率结构工具的使用，如X射线结晶学和溶液状态核磁共振。在这个项目中，PI将利用固态核磁共振和相关方法来提供关于天然弹性蛋白动力学和结构的完整和详细的图景。该项目还包括利用样品制备和探头设计方面的创新，首次在类似天然条件下对弹性蛋白纤维进行表征。这是唯一一个以固体核磁共振为重点的研究项目，长期致力于弹性蛋白的分子尺度表征。该项目将为各级学生提供一个极好的培训机会。PI将培训化学、物理和生物学交界处的跨学科研究项目的博士后、研究生和本科生。此外，PI还将为未来的高中教师提供研究经验。

The objective of this project is to obtain new insights into elasticity and dynamic properties of the protein elastin, using solid-state NMR. Elastin is comprised primarily of long hydrophobic chains interspersed with alanine-rich cross linking regions. Elastin has a complex makeup and there is limited information to link its molecular-scale structure and dynamics to its elasticity. The very nature of this protein precludes the use of high-resolution structural tools, such as X-ray crystallography and solution-state NMR. In this project the PI will utilize solid-state NMR and related methods to provide an integrated and detailed picture of the dynamics and structure of native elastin. This project also includes the first characterization of elastin fibers in native like conditions, using innovations in sample preparation and probe design. This is the only solid state NMR-focused research program with a dedicated, long-standing interest in the molecular-scale characterization of elastin. This project will provide an excellent training opportunity to students at all levels. The PI will train postdoctoral, graduate and undergraduate students in an interdisciplinary research project at the interface of chemistry, physics and biology. In addition, the PI will provide research experience to future high school teachers.