A prime area of study that is essential during and after the era of genomics is structural biology. Biological catalysis is affected by the 3-dimensional structure of a protein molecule. Amino acid compositions and sequence and ultimately 3 -dimensional structures of protein may attribute to specific physical characteristics of proteins. Understanding protein structure and function is essential to the development of new drugs. Structural biology in itself has evolved toward using interdisciplinary approaches and state-of-the-art technology to investigate the structural basis for biological function and dynamics. With structural biology as a general focus, we intend to develop a research program ranging from physical characterization of proteins to genetic manipulation of their corresponding genes.

The objectives of this programmes are
1. To elucidate the relationship between structure and function of selected proteins.
2. To understand the relationship of natural proteins conformation with regards to their work and function.
3. To probe the interactive effects through structural changes and mutation.
4. To integrate the experimental and computational results.
5. To rationally design novel proteins/ligands for specified functions
The approach adopted would include
1. Fundamental Studies to understand the relationship of natural proteins conformation with regards to their work and function

Project Title:

The effect of conformation on protein function

 

2. Modification of protein to probe the interactive effects through structural changes and mutation
3. Integration of Experimental and Computational Data
4. Protein-Ligand de novo design to rationally design novel proteins/ligands for specified functions

This project would contribute to the strengthening of the country's science and technology capacity to enable it to compete with other nations. The scientific community would gain a better understanding of protein structure and function which is essential towards development of the enzyme industry in particular and biotechnology in general. The project will generate trained personnel in the area of protein chemistry, molecular biophysics and protein engineering as well as enhanced molecular catalysis. These experts will enable the exploitation of new knowledge that eventually can be applied to the development of new products through biotechnology.

Period of the project : 3 Years (2001 - 2004)

Achievements

Progress/Achievements for year one

- Nill

Project Status

- On-going