Structure/function studies of novel enzymes and enzyme complexes

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Proteins are critical compounds in all living systems. Enzymes are a type of protein that catalyze the chemical reactions that allow an organism to function. Virtually all life processes are controlled by proteins and to properly understand how proteins work, we use a technique called protein X-ray crystallography to examine their structures at very high magnification. The broad objective of my research is to increase our understanding of how proteins recognize the compounds that they bind. This objective is approached by using different techniques to analyze how well proteins recognize other molecules. We can then compare this information with the structures of these complexes. Our work is aimed at determining the role that structure has in the recognition process. This program emphasizes discovery, studying both model systems for protein-protein interactions, and enzymes of poorly understood functions. Outcomes of this work will include structure-assisted drug design, and a model system for understanding other protein-protein interaction systems. Our lab studies several different protein systems, including dehydrogenases and the thioredoxin system. IDH is a model protein that is involved in the metabolism of inositol. Understanding the function of this enzyme will enable us to understand similar enzymes. The thioredoxin system has an important role in all organisms for combating oxidative damage. The system is being used as a model for studying protein-protein interactions. Our work on this system will have an impact on future studies of protein-protein interactions.