Research
- Orthogonal Optogenetic Control of Synapse Signaling
Dynamical changes of neuronal connections, synapses, play a vital role in brain function. In particular, two forms of neuronal plasticity called long term potentiation (LTP) and long term depression (LTD) result in molecular reorganizations that, respectively, strengthen or weaken synapses. In the healthy brain, these processes are believed to drive learning and memory function. In contrast, dysregulation of synaptic plasticity has been associated with drug abuse and mental illness. Michael’s aim in this project is to develop a toolset that allows him to optically control the activity of multiple enzymes involved in the subcellular regulation of synapses. Specifically, he will use orthogonal fluorescent proteins that reversibly change their oligomeric state upon absorption of light to create new photoswitchable enzymes. He will employ these novel optogenetic tools to induce spatially and temporally coordinated LTP and LTD in attempt to identify general mechanisms that control synaptic remodeling.
- Biomimetic polymers facilitating biopharmaceutical applications
Therapeutic peptides and proteins are a major frontier in the development of new therapies. This includes treatments for endocrine disorders, cancer, and autoimmune diseases to name a few. These endeavors are challenging due to the inherent instability of the proteins, which makes production and design of stable formulations difficult. In addition to this, tailoring the pharmacokinetic properties of therapeutic proteins adds another level of complexity in the clinical translation. Anton works towards creating a toolbox of synthetic polymers that can address these challenges. Using recent advances in controlled radical polymers, he aims to create polymeric chaperones and excipients to ease production and increase stability of therapeutic proteins. This is done in tandem with developing protein-polymer hybrids, allowing control of the pharmacokinetic properties of the protein.
Publication list
- Comroe, Julius H., and Robert D. Dripps. "Scientific basis for the support of biomedical science." Biomedical scientists and public policy. Springer, Boston, MA, 1978. 15-33.
- Comroe, J. H., & Dripps, R. D. (1978). Scientific basis for the support of biomedical science. In Biomedical scientists and public policy (pp. 15-33). Springer, Boston, MA.
- COMROE, Julius H.; DRIPPS, Robert D. Scientific basis for the support of biomedical science. In: Biomedical scientists and public policy. Springer, Boston, MA, 1978. p. 15-33.
- Chou, Kuo-Chen. "Structural bioinformatics and its impact to biomedical science." Current medicinal chemistry 11.16 (2004): 2105-2134.
- Chou, K. C. (2004). Structural bioinformatics and its impact to biomedical science. Current medicinal chemistry, 11(16), 2105-2134.
- CHOU, Kuo-Chen. Structural bioinformatics and its impact to biomedical science. Current medicinal chemistry, 2004, 11.16: 2105-2134.
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