Investigating the mechanism of ATP independent force generation in forisomes
EMSL Project ID
60069
Abstract
Actuation and force generation are fundamental processes in all organisms. The few systems that have evolved are usually highly conserved throughout all kingdoms, and the requirements of ATP as energy source is common. The project will deal with protein crystalloids called forisomes. Forisomes are ATP independent protein actuators that reversibly plug sieve tubes in the phloem in response to injury to prevent the leakage of photoassimilates. Forisomes contract anisotropically in response to divalent cations like Ca2+ or to pH, without requirement for a source of chemical energy such as ATP. The response is fully reversible; significant mechanical forces are exerted in contraction and expansion. Diffusional electrotitration allows electric control of forisome reaction. Forisomes can be isolated in large numbers or generated recombinant, and they remain functional after periods. The properties are based on protein sequences with completely unknown domains which we aim to reveal.
Project Details
Start Date
2021-04-01
End Date
2023-09-30
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator