학술논문
The influences of conformational dynamics on T cell receptor specificity and cross-reactivity.
Document Type
Theses
Author
Source
Dissertation Abstracts International; Dissertation Abstract International; 75-06B(E).
Subject
Language
English
Abstract
Summary: It has been well-established that protein function is heavily influenced by the dynamic properties of a protein. Conformational diversity of TCRs has been revealed through crystallographic and thermodynamic data, yet the pre-existing flexibility of the receptor at its binding surface has gone relatively unidentified. Here we address the fundamental dynamics of the A6 TCR protein, and consider the potential effects its conformational variability may impose on its recognition strategy. By the means of time-resolved fluorescence anisotropy and molecular dynamics simulations, distinct and measureable flexibilities of the antigen-binding loops of A6 have been determined. Towards the ultimate goal of elucidating the receptor's recognition mechanism, a comprehensive analysis of the data from both structural and energetic perspectives have been critically performed.