Objective
Research objectives and content
Sporulation in Bacillus involves an asymmetric cell division. The mother cell subsequently engulfs the smaller forespore and they collaborate in developing the heat-resistant spore coat.
Two key proteins which direct late events in the mother cell during sporulation are GerE and SpoVM. GerE is a 74 residue DNA-binding protein which acts as an activator and repressor of transcription. SpoVM is required for cortex and coat formation and plays a morphogenic role. I proposed to isolate the gerE gene from B. stearothermophilis and subclone it for overexpression. The recombinant protein will be purified, characterised in DNA binding assays and used in crystallisation experiments. The spoVM protein has been chemically synthesised and crystallisation trials can begin immediately.
Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact)
My background is in protein crystallography and it is my intention to continue working in structural biology. It is important for me to acquire recombinant DNA techniques for the overexpression and mutagenesis of genes encoding proteins of interest. The York laboratory combines expertise and facilities in molecular biology, protein biochemistry and crystallography. This proposal gives me training opportunities in recombinant DNA techniques. These, together with my present experience, will allow me to become an effective independent scientist able to identify and solve problems.
Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)
Not applicable
Funding Scheme
RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)Coordinator
YO1 5DD York - Heslington
United Kingdom