In a significant stride toward understanding the intricacies of the human body at a microscopic level, UC scientists have successfully mapped out the detailed atomic structures of two vital proteins, according to a publication from the University's news outlet. This breakthrough, heralding from the Seegar Lab, allows for a clearer visualization of these proteins and their interactions—a discovery that is seen as a stepping stone to grasping how inflammatory signals are triggered and regulated within our bodies.
At the heart of this research, assistant professor Tom Seegar, PhD, and an Ohio Eminent Scholar, has stood alongside first authors Joe Maciag, PhD, a research scientist, and Connor Slone, a graduate student assistant, both from the Seegar Lab, to demystify the protein structures. Seegar has stated, "If you can see something, you can figure out how it works," emphasizing the importance of their findings in understanding the role of these proteins in health and disease, UC reports.
The Seegar Lab's announcement marks its first major publication, indicating a promising start for the team at the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences within the College of Medicine. The research not only casts light on the physical structure of these proteins but also their dynamic interplay, which is critical to the modulation of their functions.
This exploration into the atomic structure of proteins has widespread implications for medical research, particularly in the field of inflammatory diseases. By understanding how these proteins operate and interact, scientists hope to design targeted therapies that can effectively dial down harmful inflammation, potentially leading to treatments for a plethora of conditions that currently afflict millions, Seegar told UC News.
