Proteolysis is a vigorous process during sporulation in Bacillus subtilis .
Recently we have discovered a 26S proteosome particle, the first seen in a procaryote and are studying its properties. In particular we are searching for a mechanism to explain the requirements for metabolic energy and calcium we have shown are essential for proteolysis. We are trying to elucidate, through gene cloning and protein purification, the role of this calmodulin-like protein in sporulating B. subtilis. Several unique boronic acids have been made in our laboratory, and we are working to attach these to high-pressure chromatographic supports. Selected Publications Hageman, J. H. and R. L. Switzer .