Molecular structural studies of protein complexes essential for viral replication and plant nitrogen metabolism

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Protein-protein interactions are critical for many important biological processes. In the two divergent fields of viral replication and the regulation of plant metabolism, we are establishing a molecular structural basis for understanding the complex network of protein-protein and protein-RNA interactions underlying these processes. To achieve this goal, we have developed efficient methods for producing milligram quantities of the central enzymes and regulatory proteins. A suite of biochemical and biophysical methods have also being used to measure binding interactions and enzyme activities. Finally, crystallization screening and X-ray crystallography are used to provide high resolution three-dimensional information on protein complexes. This structural information provides a rational basis for the design of mutagenesis experiments to further probe the importance of specific interactions in both viral replication and plant metabolism. Ultimately, this information also provides the basis for developing novel antiviral therapeutics for important human and animal diseases, as well as for the improvement of plant crops under conditions of nitrogen limitation.