Much of the regulation of biological processes is built on the controlled use of protein/protein interactions. By altering these in response to various cues, changes can be produced in protein conformations (via in cis interactions) or the composition of multiprotein complexes (in trans). Either type can be harnessed to affect signaling through various intracellular pathways.

To characterize novel aspects of such protein structure/function control, we are comparing the structure, dynamics and functions of members of several classes of ligand-regulated protein/protein interaction domains. We combine biophysical (NMR, X- ray crystallography, spectroscopy) and biochemical data, integrating information achieved on isolated protein domains with full length proteins in living cells.

Here you'll find information on how we've put these principles to practice, via studies of photosensors, components of the hypoxia response, and others. Please take a look around and drop us a line if you have any questions or comments --- Kevin Gardner, Sept 2008