PTDC/DTP-FTO/0191/2012
Development of an electrochemical biosensor for evaluating the structure-activity relationship of proteasome and identifying proteasome inhibitors
Challenge
The objective of this project is the characterisation of electrode surfaces modified with proteasome in order to understand the surface morphology and the charge transfer reactions that take place at the interface and the detection by electrochemical methods of proteasome activity and inhibition.
Solution
The assembly of proteasome 26S from its constitutive parts 19S and 20S and the interaction with inhibitors and biomolecular complexes involves structural modifications which in turn alter the correct functioning of the enzyme. The electrochemical and atomic force microscopy investigation introduces new possibilities for explaining the biological processes behind proteasome subunits and the factors that influence their interactions. The electrochemical detection of synthetic peptide degradation catalysed by proteasome facilitiates the evaluation of the strength of interaction with enzyme substrates, kinetics and enzyme efficiency. The inhibiting capacity of ligands with potential anti-cancer properties can be determined.
Objectives, Activities and Results expected / achieved
Project Reference
PTDC/DTP-FTO/0191/2012Funding
