Structural genomics of cyclin dependent kinases and plant defensive proteinases and their natural inhibitors

Resumo

Considering the scientific relevance and the previous experience of the researchers involved in the project we will focus our structural genomics project on two fronts: CDKs and sugar cane proteins. 1) CDKs. Cell cycle progression is tightly controlled by the activity of CDKs. Since deregulation of cyclins and/or alteration or absence of CDK inhibitors (CKIs) have been associated with many cancers, there is strong interest in structural studies of CDKs (Azevedo et al. 1996, 1997). The present project will focus on three CDKs, CDK8, CDK9 and CDK10. 2) Sugar-cane proteins. The potential for using host plant resistance as a tool in pest control has increased with the development of gene transfer techniques. The synthesis of antimetabolic proteins, like Pls, which interfere with the digestive process in insects, is a defense strategy that plants use extensively. Furthermore, the existence of natural proteinases inhibitors in plants is very important for the regulatory activity of these enzymes in plant development and resistance against diseases and infections. (AU)