The cellular ‘circuitry’ that supplies metals to enzymes is a target for Synthetic Biology. Nearly a half of the enzymes in the protein databank contain metals at their active sites. Most of these enzymes will bind wrong metals more tightly than the ones needed for activity. Cell have ‘circuits’ (metallochaperones, metal-importers, -exporters, -sensors, storage proteins, cofactor-assembly pathways) to assist enzyme metalation. There is opportunity to manipulate these circuits to optimise the activities of enzymes in industrial biotechnology and to design novel bio-metallic cofactors. Key enzymes required for the utilisation of C1-gases have especially diverse (exotic) metal demands: The Ni-containing tetrapyrrole F430 in methyl CoM reductase, Cu or Fe in different methane monoxygenases, Co in vitamin B12 associated with various methyl donors enzymes, Fe and Ni hydrogenases, as just a few exemplars. This joint event has been organised by the Metals in Biology and C1net BBSRC NIBB to explore synergy and the scope for joint research.
Registration If you would like to attend this event please get in touch with Charlotte Harrison (email below) ASAP as there are a limited number of places which includes overnight accommodation: C.Harrison-560@kent.ac.uk
Further information is on the on this flyer: Synthetic Biology Event
This is a joint event between Metals in Biology and C1 Net.