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Computational Protein Design /
Protein-Protein Interactions / Structural Biology
We use a combination of computational
and experimental methods to characterize and design proteins.
What is protein design?
Most ambitiously it is the creation of novel proteins to perform
useful tasks. At a more modest level it might be identifying amino
acid mutations that enhance protein stability, alter binding
specificity, or increase solubility.
How do we design proteins?
We have developed a computer program that identifies low energy
sequences for target structures or interfaces. In essence it is like
solving a jigsaw puzzle. The pieces, in this case amino acids, must
fit together so that there are no overlaps and little empty space.
In addition, specific interactions like hydrogen bonding must be
satisfied.
What are we currently
designing? Our main focus is
the design of protein-protein interfaces. We are developing methods
for enhancing the affinity of existing interactions as well as
creating new interactions from scratch. Potential uses for this
technology include the creation of biosensors, probes to study cell
biology, and therapeutics with enhanced activity.
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