Investigating Molecular Recognition and Biological Function at Interfaces using Antimicrobial and Biomineralization Peptides
EMSL Project ID
3290a
Abstract
My research plans reflect my fundamental interest in the principles underlying the biological function and the mechanisms of action of peptides active at interfaces. Complementary solid state Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) techniques will be used on site-specific isotopically labeled peptides. Syntheses of these key compounds and the sample preparations will be performed at Pacific Lutheran University (PLU, Tacoma, WA, http://www.plu.edu/), where I am now a faculty, and at a major research university (Department of Chemistry at the UW, University of Washington, Seattle, WA), which hosted me as a postdoctoral scientist. In order to permit progress towards the goals of this proposal, it is hoped that the present request will be successful in providing some time on the EMSL 500 WB NMR spectrometer. I am applying as the ?primary author? but I would like one or two PLU students to be considered access too. In the project outlined here, the mechanisms of action of antimicrobial peptides from mast cells of fish will be studied through the investigation of structure/dynamics/function relationships. These topics will be addressed by a combination of emerging solid state NMR techniques, which I have successfully used myself in my graduate and post-doctoral research. A second project, not described here, pertains to biomineralization peptides involved in protein assemblies and the microstructure of minerals. Understanding molecular recognition at interfaces can provide some important knowledge needed to fight many diseases and design new drugs, including broad-spectrum ones. Beyond this scientific motivation, a paramount goal of this project is also to provide an environment in which undergraduate students can integrate learning and advanced research. Access to the state of the art facility at EMSL would be pivotal to achieving these pursuits, both from research and educational standpoints. Thank you for your consideration.
Project Details
Project type
Capability Research
Start Date
2003-07-30
End Date
2004-04-09
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members