Cell growth protein forms a 'pair' on the cell membrane
Monday, October 15, 2012 - 09:01
in Biology & Nature
Biophysicists have for the first time measured the orientation of the Ras protein bound to the cell membrane. The team combined the use of three biophysical methods -- infrared spectroscopy, computer simulations and fluorescence measurements -- and came to the surprising conclusion that two Ras molecules form a pair to take an upright position on the membrane. It was previously assumed, based on computer simulations, that the protein is located horizontally on the membrane as single molecule. Ras is the central "switch" for cell growth, and malfunction of this protein is an important factor in the development of cancer.