The role of small G proteins in cell signalling ::
The role of two small G proteins, rac and ras, in their signalling pathways is being investigated by probing their molecular interactions with effectors and regulators. We are aiming to understand how such protein-protein interactions are modulated to produce control and the appropriate time frame of responses. They are studied using physical, biochemical and structural approaches, particularly fluorescence and kinetics. In addition we are probing how the activation/deactivation cycle of the small G proteins is brought about by extrinsic protein factors.
The picture shows the fluorescence change of a coumarin-labeled GDI (a modulator of rho family activity) on interaction with rac.GDP (Blue without rac, yellow with rac bound). This can be used as a sensor for rac and for probing the interactions between rac and GDI.
Figure 3 ::
Selected publications ::
- Phillips, RA; Hunter, JL; Eccleston, JF and Webb, MR (2003)
The mechanism of Ras GTPase activation by neurofibromin.
Biochemistry 42, 3956-3965 PubMed abstract - Phillips, RA; Shutes, A; Corrie, JET and Webb, MR (2002)
The role of magnesium in the mechanism of nucleotide exchange on RAC.
Biophysical Journal 82, 450a
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[Page last updated 21 Jun 2006]