Defining the conformational control of nitric oxide synthases by a multipronged approach

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PROJECT SUMMARY The parent award is on deciphering conformational dynamics of nitric oxide synthase proteins through an integrated approach using advanced spectroscopic techniques. Fourier transform infrared (FT IR) spectroscopy is essential to the proposed studies of short-range conformational sampling (Aims 2 and 3) in the parent project. Here, we request funds to purchase a state-of-the-art Bruker VERTEX 80 FT IR spectrometer to enhance our IR research capabilities. Combining high sensitivity, resolution and speed with enhanced expandability and easy-to-use FT IR software, the VERTEX 80 system is the answer for demanding protein IR research. The high-performance research-grade instrument is designed to be top of the line. The superior capabilities of the system will be necessary for our efforts to develop and optimize our workflow and methods for site-specific IR spectroscopic investigation of local protein dynamics. Our findings will greatly benefit other investigators using IR methodologies for large, complex proteins. Therefore, the requested equipment will help the parent project to exert a sustained, powerful influence on the research fields of biophysics and bioinorganic chemistry. Moreover, the administrative supplement will enhance the scientific environment for NIH-funded investigators at the University of New Mexico, both within and outside of the College of Pharmacy. To our knowledge, no comparable instrumentation exists in educational institutions within the region. Dean Godwin has committed substantial financial support to this supplement request since this is a great investment for the College. Taken as a whole, the proposed supplement will increase the parent award’s overall impact within the original scope and bolster research quality and depth at our institution.