Additionally, valuable experience in protein purification will be obtained. This polymerization depends upon a complicated interplay of multiple interactions between tetramers. Our high resolution crystal structure of this molecule has elucidated details of some of the important interactions. However, a number of key aspects of the polymerization need to be resolved in order to assist the development of effective therapy for sickle-cell disease. In addition, we are collaborating with Dr. Bernhard Erlanger on the analysis of an inhibitor that has shown some promise as a therapeutic agent.
Several projects are available for rotation students.