Complex Metallocluster Structure and Assembly

Metal ions in biology allow for an expanded chemical repertoire; the local protein environment and metal coordination sphere act synergistically to confer unique reactivity. It is therefore not surprising that the reactions catalyzed by metalloenzymes are chemically challenging and essential for life. We use X-ray crystallography and computation to study the structure and mechanism of complex metallocofactors. Findings have applications for the synthesis of biomimetic catalysts and in the design of enzyme inhibitors. In addition to interrogating the mechanisms of metalloenzymes, it is important to investigate the cellular regulation of trace mineral levels required for metallocenter assembly, as well as to study the assembly process itself. This proposal focuses on nickel and iron-sulfur containing proteins and their metallochaperones, as well as the regulation of nickel uptake and iron-sulfur cluster assembly.

PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The proposed research uses X-ray crystallography and computation as the chief tools to investigate nickel, iron-sulfur and corrinoid containing proteins, with a focus on proteins involved in one-carbon metabolism. Goals are to explore the mechanism and assembly of complex metallocofactors, as well as the cellular regulation of nickel uptake and iron-sulfur cluster biogenesis.