An evolutionary insight into the structure determination of Physcomitrium patens cellulose synthase 5 trimer in detergent and nanodiscs
EMSL Project ID
60774
Abstract
Plant membrane proteins called cellulose synthases (CesAs) make cellulose, the most abundant plant polymer in the world found in plant cell walls. The cryo-EM structure of poplar PttCesA8 trimer has revealed structural insights, but an evolutionary context of CesA structure in early plant species is needed. The aim of my research proposal is to understand the role of early plant CesA trimer oligomerization in functional cellulose synthesis and assembly. To approach this aim, I seek to characterize the structure of an early plant moss Physcomitrium patens cellulose synthase in detergent and nanodiscs using cryo-Electron Microscopy (cryo-EM). This structural analysis will provide information on residue-level oligomer interactions and global conformation of moss CesA trimers. Further work involves an evolutionary structure comparison with poplar PttCesA8. This work reveals the importance of structural techniques such as cryo-EM for rational design of biofuels and new biomaterials.
Project Details
Start Date
2023-02-27
End Date
N/A
Status
Active
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator