3)Structure and function of membrane proteins and protein complexes

♦　　  3D structure of multifunctional human transcriptional coactivator p100 protein

Human p100 protein is a vital regulator of cellular transcription processes. Zhijie Liu’s group solved the detailed 3D structure of this protein and provided important structural insights that partly explained the distinct roles of p100 in transcription and splicing (Nat Struct Mol Biol, 2007).

 

♦　　  Crystal structure of human mitochondrial membrane protein MitoNEET soluble domain　

Determined MitoNEET soluble domain (residues 32–108) at 1.8-Å resolution and provided important information to reveal its biological activity and to aid in the design of more potent antidiabetic drugs (PNAS, 2007).

 

 

♦　　  Human LanCL1 and its complex with glutathione

Reported the crystal structures of human LanCL1, both free of and complexed with glutathione. Described and provided evidence for biological significance of a novel interaction in cellular signaling and differentiation (Genes & Dev, 2009).

 

 

 

 

 

♦　  Determined cocrystal structures of an extended Tudor domain (eTud) of Drosophila Tudor with methylated peptides of Aubergine.

Determined cocrystal structures of an extended Tudor domain (eTud) of Drosophila Tudor with methylated peptides of Aubergine. The structural information provides mechanistic insights into sDMA-dependent Piwi–Tudor interaction, and the recognition of sDMA by Tudor domains in general (Genes & Dev, 2010).