Study of the interaction of the HSP70 protein with Langmuir films.

• Grant number: 24/19314-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: January 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Physical-Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Marli Leite de Moraes
• Grantee: Ana Júlia Anbar Araujo da Silva
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia (ICT). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus São José dos Campos. São José dos Campos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The objective will be to investigate the interaction of recombinant HSP70-1A protein, an inducible isoform of HSP70 in humans, with phospholipid monolayers as a model for cell membranes. Initially, Langmuir films will be produced containing the phospholipids palmitoyl-oleoyl phosphatidylserine (POPS) and cardiolipin (CL), which are present in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Results from the group indicate that HSP70-1A is a suitable model due to its stability and yield for conducting this study, as the mitochondrial homolog has limitations. The central scientific question will be to determine how the molecular-level interactions of the phospholipids correlate with the protein and what influence membrane fluidity has on the interaction of HSP70, as well as the effects of ATP and ADP nucleotides present in the membrane. To achieve this, surface pressure measurements and Brewster angle microscopy will be employed. In addition to the fundamental study of molecular-level interactions, the system may aid in understanding its role in cellular metabolism, cellular homeostasis, and its potential as a therapeutic target for diseases.