Elucidating the structure of C. elegans TMC1 and TMC2
EMSL Project ID
51573
Abstract
Transmembrane channel-like (TMC) proteins are a unique family of channel-like proteins that are conserved from humans to C. elegans. Vertebrates express eight isoforms, two of which are essential for hearing and balance in vertebrates, TMC1 and TMC2. C. elegans express two TMC isoforms, TMC1 and TMC2, that share approximately 30% sequence homology with the human isoforms. In worms, TMC1/2 play important roles in chemosensation, reproduction, and development. Currently, there is no structural information available for TMC proteins, which limits our understanding of how they function. The objective of this project is to elucidate the structures of native TMC1 and TMC2 from C. elegans using single particle cryo-EM. We have developed methods for isolating TMC1 and TMC2 from transgenic worms that yields monodisperse protein in sufficient quantity to carry out single particle studies. The proposed studies will provide the first look at TMC1/2 architecture and illuminate its role in worm physiology and vertebrate mechanotransduction
Project Details
Start Date
N/A
End Date
2021-03-17
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members