Elucidation of structure-function relationships in biological systems utilising advanced electron spin resonance (2013-2019)
Abstract
High-resolution electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy can deliver key information on biological function by providing structural information on biomolecules and their complexes, and by characterising how substrates interact with the catalytic active sites in proteins. ESR measurements in conjunction with computer modelling will be applied to provide key structure-function information on two systems: a) the human growth hormone receptor where a general lack of understanding of the activation mechanisms impedes efforts to find improved therapeutics, and b) substrate binding and recognition in a number of cytochrome P450's which includes biosynthetic enzymes involved in steroid pathways.