Biological & Soft Matter Seminar: STRUCTURE, DYNAMICS AND INTERMOLECULAR INTERACTIONS BETWEEN BIOMOLECULAR ASSEMBLIES

Abstract:

Using time-resolved solution X-ray scattering and advanced analysis tools, developed in our lab, we are investigating the high-resolution structure of tubulin, microtubule [1], flagellar [2], lipid bilayers, and viruses [3-5].  In combination with Monte Carlo simulations, theory and our data analysis software we resolved at high resolution, how tubulin assembles into microtubule, the structure of flagellar filaments and their intermolecular interactions and elastic properties when forming bundles. We then revealed the exact manner by which wtSV40 packages its 5.2kb circular DNA about 20 histone octamers in the virus capsid and the effect of different ions on the structure [3,5]. This structure, known as a mini-chromosome, is highly dynamic and could not be resolved by any microscopy methods [3].  Using time-resolved solution SAXS, stopped-flow, flow-through setups, and maximum entropy optimization methods,  the assembly process of VP1, the major caspid protein of the SV40 virus, with RNA or DNA to form virus-like particles (VLPs) and Hepatitis B capsids were studied in msec temporal resolution. [4]. 

References:

[1] A. Ginsburg, et al. J. Chem. Information and Modeling, 56, 1518, 2016.

[2] D. Louzon, et al. Biophysical J., 112, 2184, 2017. 

[3]. G. Saper et al. NAR, 41, 1569, 2013.

[4]. S. Kler et al. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 134, 8823, 2012.

[5]. R. Asor et al. ACS Nano, 11, 9814, 2017

Seminar Organizer: Nimrod Segall