Understanding pore formation by the complement membrane attack complex. The project aims to improve our understanding of the function of the membrane attack complex (MAC). MAC is a large protein complex used by the human immune system to target invading bacteria and parasites by punching holes in the lipid membranes of target cells. The MAC is part of a superfamily of proteins, the MACPF (membrane attack complex/perforin superfamily)/CDC (cholesterol-dependent cytolysins) superfamily, used by an ....Understanding pore formation by the complement membrane attack complex. The project aims to improve our understanding of the function of the membrane attack complex (MAC). MAC is a large protein complex used by the human immune system to target invading bacteria and parasites by punching holes in the lipid membranes of target cells. The MAC is part of a superfamily of proteins, the MACPF (membrane attack complex/perforin superfamily)/CDC (cholesterol-dependent cytolysins) superfamily, used by animals (in venoms and immunity), fungi (in defence) and pathogenic bacteria (in disease). The aim of this project is to image to the highest possible resolution how the MAC form pores in the context of bacterial cells and explore the way it inserts into cells in real time. Intended project outcomes may lay the foundation for applied future research into improved antibiotic delivery and novel pesticide development.Read moreRead less
How do MACPF/CDC proteins punch giant holes in lipid membranes? This project aims to study the Membrane Attack Complex (MAC)/Perforin-like/Cholesterol Dependent Cytolysins (MACPF/CDC) family which form unusually large holes in membranes. This project aims to define the exact molecular shape of a monomer in comparison with the exact molecular shape of the pore of the MACPF/CDC family. This project will also provide new information about the intermediate steps in pore formation. This will have maj ....How do MACPF/CDC proteins punch giant holes in lipid membranes? This project aims to study the Membrane Attack Complex (MAC)/Perforin-like/Cholesterol Dependent Cytolysins (MACPF/CDC) family which form unusually large holes in membranes. This project aims to define the exact molecular shape of a monomer in comparison with the exact molecular shape of the pore of the MACPF/CDC family. This project will also provide new information about the intermediate steps in pore formation. This will have major benefits to agribusiness and nanotechnology applications.Read moreRead less