Biochemistry CUME 2/9/01
Will deal with the following article:
Peters et al. (2001). Trans-complex formation by proteolipid channels in the terminal phase of membrane fusion. Nature 409, 581-8.
In the last issue of Nature (February 1), a new paper seeks to explain what has been one of the "holy grails" of cellular biochemistry: understanding how phospholipid membranes are fused together in a controlled manner. This is a crucial process in eukaryotic cells (for secretion, compartmental homeostasis, etc.), but the molecular details have remained mysterious until now.
If you wish, you may view this paper from my website.
You should read and understand this article before you take the exam. I would advise you also to read some of the references and general reference sources to have an understanding of the techniques involved as well as the background of the topic. A good start would be the News & Views article that appeared in the same issue (
also available on my website).You may bring these papers and any other journal articles with you (but no general references or textbooks). A general knowledge of biochemistry, biochemical techniques, and experimental design will be required for success.
Kevin Redding
February 9, 2001