Transmembrane
Protein
Structures.
A transmembrane protein is a type of integral membrane protein that spans the entirety of the cell membrane. Many transmembrane proteins function as gateways to permit the transport of specific substances across the membrane. They frequently undergo conformational changes to move a substance across the membrane.
Membrane proteins which have hydrophobic surfaces, are relatively flexible and are expressed at relatively low levels. This creates difficulties in obtaining enough protein and then growing crystals. Hence, despite the significant functional importance of membrane proteins, determining atomic resolution structures for these proteins is more difficult than globular proteins. As of January 2013 less than 0.1% of protein structures determined were membrane proteins despite being 20–30% of the total proteome. Due to this difficulty and the importance of this class of proteins methods of protein structure prediction based on hydropathy plots, the positive inside rule and other methods have been developed.
At BacB, we use the standard data bases and computational tools, to develop and realize an efficient understanding of the interactions and structures of TPs.
To read more about Transmembrane Proteins, Click here.
Why Bother?
Figure: Less than 0.1% of the protein structures have been realized. (Jan 2013)
Nearly 25% of human genes encode transmembrane proteins that span the entire membrane from one side to the other, helping the membrane perform its roles.
Transmembrane proteins comprise ~30% of the mammalian proteome, mediating metabolism, signaling, transport and many other functions required for cellular life.
Transmembrane protein is the principal executives of the bio membrane’s functions and plays many important roles in cell such as substance transportation, and energy conversion.
To mention just a few :)
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