Membrane Targeting: Methods

摘要: The responsiveness of cells to external signals, or cell signalling, involves highly regulated sequences biochemical reactions at the plasma membrane. When receptor proteins in outer surface membrane are activated by environmental they undergo shape change chemical modification assemble internal into an organised complex on inner surface. Specific protein domains and lipids (fats) that physically attached tether key components this lipid bilayer Scientists have developed cell-based techniques allow them introduce specific membrane-targeting motifs produce study how may alter behaviour. As a result, great deal has been learned about molecular basis targeting lipid-modified proteins. This knowledge holds promise for rational design new compounds prevent defective could lead abnormal signalling development diseases. Key Concepts: Lipid bilayers provide fundamental architecture biological membranes. The two-dimensional membranes provides structural framework organise multiple proteins. Proteins target using globular covalently them. The most common lipid-based interior include cysteine glycine amino acids acyl prenyl groups. G-proteins quintessential examples lipidation. Modern biology can be used artificially attach proteins. Prevention is being pursued as therapeutic strategy. Keywords: fatty acid modification; lipid bilayer; membrane proteins; protein design; chimaeric protein; chemical biology; computational