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Probing and Manipulating Protein Conformation Changes by Time-Resolved Single-Molecule Spectroscopy and Site-Specific Ultramicroscopy (Hu's DARPA, PNNL Scope #52021)


EMSL Project ID
21792

Abstract

The key goal of our proposed effort is to develop an unprecedented single-molecule spectroscopy technique with high spatial and temporal resolution. This technique will be capable of manipulating and controlling protein conformations. Specifically, we will have three critical tasks: (1) demonstrate ps to fs time-resolved single-molecule spectroscopy that is capable of measuring ultrafast single-molecule fluorescence dynamics; (2) demonstrate AFM metallic-tip correlated topographical characterization and optical ultrafast characterization of the single-molecule dynamics site at sub-nanometer spatial resolution; and (3) demonstrate mechanical manipulation of protein conformations and structures by creating protein complexes and clusters that have new biological functions. The development of technology and methodology for real-time measurement of protein conformation and folding will enable new understanding of the relationship between protein structure and function. Ultimately, we seek to support the national needs in new methods of rational drug design and rapid vaccine development.

Project Details

Project type
Exploratory Research
Start Date
2006-12-04
End Date
2007-03-09
Status
Closed

Team

Principal Investigator

H. Peter Lu
Institution
Bowling Green State University

Team Members

Dehong Hu
Institution
Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory