Event

Dr. Rachelle Gaudet

Harvard University

Mechanics of an Nramp-Family Transition Metal Transporter

Transition metal ions (like Mn2+, Fe2+ and Co2+) are nutrients crucial to metabolism in all living cells. The natural resistance associated macrophage protein (Nramp) transporters, found across the tree of life, enable cells to take up a range of essential divalent transition metals. Human Nramps are required for the dietary uptake and endosomal recycling of non-heme iron, and in the innate immune response to intracellular pathogens. Nramps are pH dependent and co-transport protons, and thus have been labeled as proton-coupled symporters. Using crystal structures and biochemistry, we found separate ion pathways for protons and metal ions, and other unusual deviations from the canonical symporter mechanism. I will present our on-going work to understand metal ion binding and selectivity, the conformational cycle that accompanies metal transport, and how it compares to other types of transporters in the amino acid-polyamine-organocation (APC) superfamily.

In Person: Lynch Room, Chemistry Building

Zoom option available:

https://upenn.zoom.us/j/94213156499

Meeting ID: 942 1315 6499