The long-term objective of this project is to determine, at atomic resolution, the crystal structure of Band 3, the anion transport protein of the human erythrocyte membrane. These studies are necessary if we are to understand the mechanism of anion transport at the molecular level.
The specific aims of this two year grant are: (1) to characterize the structure of purified Band 3 in detergent solutions using various hydrodynamic and spectroscopic techniques, and (2) to produce crystals of Band 3 and its major domains that are suitable for X-ray diffraction studies. This research is important for a number of reasons. Firstly, little is known about the structure of membrane proteins. Secondly, the mechanism by which transport proteins move substrates across biological membranes is unknown. Thirdly, diseases such as cystic fibrosis may be the result of a defect in a transport process. Band 3 is an ideal candidate for crystallography since it can be readily purified, its sequence (murine) is known and a great deal of information is available concerning its structure and function.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Type
Small Research Grants (R03)
Project #
1R03DK039860-01
Application #
3426141
Study Section
Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Special Grants Review Committee (DDK)
Project Start
1987-09-20
Project End
1989-08-31
Budget Start
1987-09-20
Budget End
1988-08-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1987
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Toronto
Department
Type
DUNS #
259999779
City
Toronto
State
ON
Country
Canada
Zip Code
M5 1S8