CAREER: Characterization, Inhibition, and Reversal of Protein Aggregation

University Of Delaware, Newark DE

Investigators

Abstract

The objective of this project is to study protein folding by examining protein folding intermediates that are critical branching points for aggregation side reactions as well as mutagenic and physical means for disfavoring these side reactions. The specific project aims are to: (1) measure individual rate constants and develop a mechanistic model for formation of tailspike aggregation and assembly intermediates, (2) identify the rate controlling steps and develop strategies to inhibit and reverse tailspike aggregation, and (3) measure secondary structure and supermolecular morphology of aggregates using circular dichroism and atomic force microscopy.