Structure and Dynamics in Elastin

该项目的目的是获得新的见解，弹性蛋白的弹性和动态特性，使用固态核磁共振。弹性蛋白主要由长疏水链组成，其中穿插着富含丙氨酸的交联区。弹性蛋白具有复杂的组成，将其分子尺度结构和动力学与其弹性联系起来的信息有限。这种蛋白质的性质使其无法使用高分辨率结构工具，如x射线晶体学和溶液态核磁共振。在这个项目中，PI将利用固态核磁共振和相关方法来提供天然弹性蛋白的动力学和结构的综合和详细的图片。该项目还包括首次在天然条件下表征弹性蛋白纤维，使用创新的样品制备和探针设计。这是唯一一个专注于弹性蛋白分子尺度表征的固态核磁共振研究项目。该项目将为各级学生提供良好的培训机会。该项目将培养博士后、研究生和本科生进行化学、物理和生物交叉学科的研究项目。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.