C-RUI: Proteomic Profiling of Dimorphism in Penicillium Marneffei

Youngstown State University, Youngstown OH

Investigators

Abstract

Penicillium marneffei is a fungus capable of growth either as a multicellular filament (mould) or as a single-celled entity (yeast). The temperature of incubation dictates the particular shape that P. marneffei forms. At 25C (room temperature), the mould phase of the fungus is produced, whereas incubation at 37 (body temperature) causes P. marneffei to grow as a yeast. We hypothesize that there are specific proteins responsible for causing or maintaining growth in either of the two cell types. To test our hypothesis, we will develop a profile of all the proteins produced by the mould and yeast phases of P. marneffei, then determine which proteins are uniquely present or absent. To make the profile, we will employ the technique of two dimensional gel electrophoresis to separate proteins based upon size and electrical charge. Unique proteins will be isolated and subsequently subjected to mass spectrometry, a technique that can help determine the potential identity and function of a protein. By discovering the purpose of these unique proteins, key metabolic pathways important to cellular development in P. marneffei may be detected. Overall, this scientific approach should provide data leading to a better understanding of the underlying basis controlling growth not only in P. marneffei and related fungi, but perhaps in other microbes as well.